Rwanda Hiking Safaris

Rwanda Hiking Safaris

Rwanda is a small, landlocked country located in East Africa, covering a total area of 26,338 km². Much of the country is made up of hills and mountain ranges, which has earned it the nickname “the Land of a Thousand Hills.” The highest peak in Rwanda is Mount Karisimbi, standing at 4,507 meters. With its natural beauty and mountainous terrain, Rwanda is considered one of the most scenic countries in East Africa and is ideal for travelers who enjoy mountain hiking.

Rwanda Hiking Safaris Overview

Rwanda hiking safaris do not require technical climbing skills, but a moderate level of physical fitness is necessary. Before joining a hiking trip, participants should assess their health and fitness. Monumental Expeditions and Safaris provides free and detailed information to clients interested in hiking in Rwanda. We offer a range of guided hiking experiences across the country, from a one-day hike to Mount Bisoke to longer, multi-day adventures.

Main Hiking Destinations in Rwanda

Rwanda features four main hiking regions. One of the most popular is Volcanoes National Park, which is best known for gorilla trekking but also offers excellent hiking opportunities. A common hiking activity is the trail to the grave of Dian Fossey, the renowned primatologist. This hike takes approximately two to three hours.

The country shares a portion of the Virunga Mountains, a chain of eight volcanoes that extend across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Rwanda is home to five of these volcanoes: Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhavura. All five are located within Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda’s most visited park, known for its gorilla safaris and hiking trails.

The Virunga Mountains are rich in biodiversity, with beautiful crater lakes, diverse vegetation, and stunning landscapes. The region is home to several wildlife species, including mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, forest elephants, buffaloes, and bird species that are endemic to the Albertine Rift.

While hiking is permitted on four of Rwanda’s volcanoes, Mount Sabyinyo is considered too dangerous due to its steep ridges and deep craters and is currently only accessible from the Ugandan side.

In addition to mountain summits, there are easier trails for beginner hikers, and many visitors enjoy combining hiking with gorilla or golden monkey tracking.

Key Hiking Trails and Mountains

Mount Bisoke (3,711m / 12,175ft)

Mount Bisoke lies along the border with the DRC and features a scenic crater lake at its summit, fully within Rwanda. This is the most popular hike in Volcanoes National Park, offering excellent views and a good chance of seeing golden monkeys or even mountain gorillas.

Lake Ngezi Trail:
An easier alternative to the summit hike, this trail leads to a small crater lake on the side of Mount Bisoke. The round-trip hike takes about 4 to 5 hours.

Main Bisoke Summit Hike:
This hike takes around 6 hours in total—about 4 hours to ascend and 2 hours to descend. While suitable for non-technical climbers, a good level of fitness is needed.

Mount Karisimbi (4,507m / 14,787ft)

This is the highest peak in Rwanda and the fifth-highest in Africa. Due to its altitude and location near the equator, Karisimbi occasionally receives snowfall. It offers a challenging two-day trek with an overnight camp at 3,700m. It is recommended for experienced hikers.

Mount Muhavura (4,127m / 13,540ft)

Located at the edge of the Virunga chain, Mount Muhavura provides spectacular views of the surrounding terrain, including the twin lakes Burera and Ruhondo. The hike takes about 6 to 8 hours round-trip and is considered strenuous due to its elevation.

Mount Gahinga (3,474m / 11,398ft)

This is the shortest volcano in Volcanoes National Park and is suitable for beginner hikers. It is the least visited of the trails but offers a rewarding experience.

Dian Fossey Tomb Trail

This trail runs through the valley between Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi, leading to the burial site and research station of Dian Fossey. Fossey dedicated her life to the study and conservation of mountain gorillas. The trail offers scenic views and a chance to see orchids, mountain plants, and possibly gorillas. The round trip takes about 3 to 4 hours and is relatively easy.

Best Time for Rwanda Hiking Safaris

Hiking can be enjoyed year-round, but the dry seasons—from June to August and December to February—are ideal. During these months, the trails are dry and easier to hike. The wet seasons—March to May and September to November—see more rain, making the trails slippery and more difficult. However, the scenery during the wet season is at its most vibrant and lush, which may appeal to adventurous hikers.

What to Bring for Hiking Safaris

Sturdy hiking boots
Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts (to protect from stinging nettles)
Rain jacket or poncho
Sleeping bag and camping gear (for Mount Karisimbi)

Other Safari Activities in Rwanda

Gorilla Trekking

Volcanoes National Park is home to habituated gorilla groups that visitors can observe during guided treks. Groups are limited to eight people, and the treks vary in length and difficulty depending on the gorillas’ location. The high altitude (above 2,500m) can be tiring, but the experience of watching gorillas in their natural habitat is unforgettable.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Chimp trekking is available in Nyungwe Forest National Park, specifically in the Cyamudongo and Uwinka areas. Tours begin early in the morning, typically around 5:00 a.m. Nyungwe is home to 13 primate species, including around 500 chimpanzees. Other notable primates include the Rwenzori colobus, L’Hoest’s monkey, and the Angola colobus, often seen in large troops.

Rwanda Wildlife Safaris

Rwanda’s parks are rich in biodiversity, hosting species such as mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and more than 600 bird species. Volcanoes National Park is home to 12 primate species and 10 habituated gorilla groups, each visited by a limited number of guests per day. Other animals include forest elephants, buffaloes, bush pigs, duikers, spotted hyenas, and civets.

For more information or to book your Rwanda hiking safari, contact Monumental Expeditions and Safaris for personalized planning and expert guidance.