1 Day Bisoke Hike

1-day Bisoke Hike will usher you to Mount Bisoke, one of the dormant volcanoes found in the Virunga ranges located in northwestern Rwanda in Volcanoes National Park best known for being a home to the mountain gorillas and the golden monkeys. Mount Bisoke is shared by Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo though the largest part of Bisoke is found in Rwanda including its summit. It has 2 crater lakes, one at the top and the other midway known as Lake Ngezi thus the name Bisoke a Swahili word that means soaked with water. This hike is one of the thrilling activities that you should not miss on your safari to Rwanda. Mount Bisoke slopes are covered by bamboo forests and the evergreen vegetation that provides food and shelter to the endangered mountain gorillas, hence their habitat. Hiking Mount Bisoke isn’t a beginner’s activity since it requires a certain level of energy and fitness though it is not restricted from anyone.

Itinerary overview

Transfer from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park, Mount Bisoke hike then transfer to Kigali

Detailed Itinerary

Pick up by a professional English-speaking driver guide from Kigali as early as 4:30 am and with a packed breakfast start your 4 hours journey to Volcanoes National Park through the breathtaking view of the hills of Rwanda. On arrival, you will gather at the park headquarters at Kinigi at 7:00 am for the briefing by the assigned park ranger. During the briefing, you are required to present your hiking permit and passport before the activity commences. After briefing and registration, the driver guide will transfer you to the bottom of Mount Bisoke where the hiking will begin. At this point, hiking sticks will be provided and you are encouraged to hire a porter to assist with your luggage as well as provide you extra support as you navigate the difficult sections. The porter will cost you 15 USD.

The hike to the summit will then begin through the trail and this will take about 6 hours to reach the peak and at least 2 hours to return to the bottom depending on how frequently you take your rests. During the hike, prepare to deal with the thorny plants, stinging insects as well as muddy trails during the dry season. Since the slopes of this mountain is home to various wildlife such as elephants, buffaloes, and primates, you will encounter a number of them along the trail, especially the mountain gorillas. In case you encounter mountain gorillas on this trail, you are allowed 10 minutes to see them though you are advised not to get close to them as some of these might not be habituated and hence be of danger to people. Taking photographs of them is prohibited and is only allowed during gorilla trekking so if you are interested in keeping photographic evidence, I would suggest a gorilla trekking safari. Your arrival at the peak will be rewarded with a beautiful scenic view of the great landscapes and vegetation in the Virunga area including the crater lakes and volcanic mountains. You can opt for a short picnic on the foggy mountaintop around the crater lake. Ensure to carry enough snacks and water for this hike to keep hydrated and energized.

On return to the bottom, your driver guide will be waiting for you so that you begin your return journey to Kigali from where you will proceed to your next destination. This activity costs 75 USD.

Inclusions

• A professional English-speaking driver guide
• 4×4 safari vehicle
• Bottled water
• Hiking permits

Exclusions

• Tips
• Porters
• Visas and International flights
• Drinks and cigarettes
• Extra activities