Did you know that Mount Karisimbi is the highest among all the Virunga Mountain ranges?
Mount Karisimbi is one of the Virunga Volcanoes, shared by three countries: the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. It is near Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, where this eleventh-highest mountain in the whole of Africa also borders the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mount Bisoke.
Karisimbi is a Kinyarwanda word meaning “White shell,” named so due to the snow on its summit that remains year-round. It is surrounded by other volcanic mountains like Bisoke, Mikeno, and Nyiragongo. It also boasts two crater lakes at the summit, including Mutango, which is larger than the other, as well as a 2-kilometer caldera called Branca.
Situated at an elevation of 4,507 meters above sea level, Karisimbi is the highest mountain in the Virunga region. Many visitors combine gorilla trekking with a hike up Mount Karisimbi because both activities take place in Volcanoes National Park.
If you plan to hike this mountain, you should be physically fit enough because it involves walking through dense forests, thick vegetation, and various landscapes before reaching the summit.
Hiking Mount Karisimbi
The hike to Mount Karisimbi’s summit typically starts with booking a permit, which grants access to the park. Arrive at the park headquarters for a briefing before joining other hikers to start the trek. Hiking this mountain usually takes 2 days, with one night spent at the campsite at 3,700 meters, where everything will be catered for by the tour operator.
During this hike, expect to see various unique attractions that are sure to catch your eye. These include birds, primates like golden monkeys and several colobus monkeys, and occasionally mountain gorillas visible on the slopes.
On the morning of the second day, continue the hike to the summit, a challenging adventure that takes about one hour due to its steepness. Hikers are advised to have a hearty breakfast before embarking on this final ascent.
Upon reaching the summit, you will be treated to breathtaking views that will leave a lasting memory. Enjoy stunning vistas of Nyiragongo, the volcano with a boiling lava lake on its summit, Nyamuragira volcano, Muhavura, and the beautiful scenery and nature of the forests in the Democratic Republic of Congo, among others. After this memorable experience, descend back to the starting point.
Packing List
To successfully hike this mountain, you will need the following equipment:
- Strong jungle shoes
- Cameras for taking photos
- Binoculars for viewing distant sights
- Heavy pants and sweaters for warmth
- Hiking sticks (provided at the briefing point)
- Tent and sleeping bag
- Porters are available for hire to help carry your travel bags.
Best Time to Hike Mount Karisimbi
The best time to hike to the summit of Mount Karisimbi is during the dry seasons: from December to February and June to October. During these times, the trails are dry and less slippery. However, it is possible to hike during the rainy season, though it presents more challenges.
Permits to hike this mountain can be booked through the Rwanda Development Board or recognized local tour operators.
