Hikers heading up a green valley towards the volcanoes
1 dayMusanze & the Volcanoes

1 Day Mount Bisoke Hike

Climb through montane forest to the crater lake at the top of Mount Bisoke, on the border between Rwanda and DR Congo.

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The Trip

Overview

Bisoke is a dormant volcano in the Virunga range with a crater lake at its summit. The trail climbs through dense montane forest, where golden monkeys and forest birds are often seen, up to the rim. On a clear day you look out across the Virunga chain and into DR Congo. It is a full, muddy and very rewarding day on the mountain.

  • Hiking

Highlights

  • Crater lake at the summit of a dormant volcano
  • Hike through dense montane forest
  • Chance to spot golden monkeys and forest birds
  • Views over the Virunga volcanoes and the DR Congo border
  • Porter included to carry your pack
Trail through farmland at the foot of the volcanoes
Silverback gorilla in Volcanoes National Park
1 day

Itinerary

A typical running order. Justin adjusts timings around your group, the weather and park conditions.

  1. 1

    Early pick-up in Kigali

    Drive north to Volcanoes National Park for the ranger briefing.

  2. 2

    Climb through the forest

    A steep ascent through montane forest with rests along the way, watching for golden monkeys and birds.

  3. 3

    Crater lake summit

    Time at the rim for lunch, photos and the view across the Virunga volcanoes and the Rwanda–DR Congo border.

  4. 4

    Descent and return

    Walk back down to the vehicle and drive back to Kigali.

What's Included

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Kigali
  • Private 4x4 vehicle with pop-up roof
  • Professional English- or French-speaking guide
  • Lunch and bottled water
  • All taxes
  • Porter for your pack

Not Included

  • Bisoke hiking permit (we book it and quote it with your trip)
  • International flights and visa
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guides, trackers and porters
  • Drinks and personal purchases
Good to Know

Plan Your Visit

The practical details, so you know what to expect before you enquire.

Duration

1 day

Best time to visit

Year-round. June to September and December to February give drier trails and a clearer summit.

Fitness level

Challenging. Six to seven hours of steep, muddy walking at altitude.

Getting there

Day trip from Kigali, about 2.5 hours each way. We can add a night in Musanze if you prefer.

What to bring

  • Waterproof hiking boots
  • Warm layer for the summit
  • Rain jacket
  • Gloves
  • At least 2 litres of water

Want to Book This Trip?

Every tour is quoted individually for your group size, dates and accommodation style. Send Justin your plans and he will come back with a tailored itinerary and quote.

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Tour Packages

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