Hiking to the summit of Karsimbi Volcano, the highest volcano in the Virunga conservation area is a must-do for all travelers on Rwanda safaris in Volcanoes National park. Named after “Amasimbi” translated as snow in Kinyarwanda local language, Mt Karsimbi is capped with snow hence the name “Karsimbi). The dormant volcano stands at 4507 meters above the sea level (17905feet) overlooking the whole of Rwanda region, volcanoes National park, local communities, and other attractions in neighboring Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mt Karsimbi is the most hiked Virunga volcano on Rwanda hiking tours. In most cases, travelers book Mt Karsimbi hiking as an add on activity to mountain gorilla trekking to make a complete package. The slopes of Mt Karsimbi shelter Karisimbi gorilla family which gibe travelers hiking a chance to meet and interact with the endangered species on a good day. Mt Karisimbi is located in Volcanoes National Park on the borders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Our 2 Days Mount Karisimbi volcano hike is a suitable itinerary to explore the famous Mt Karisimbi
Guide to Mt Karisimbi Volcano hiking
African Apes Holidays give you a guide to peaceful and enjoyable Mt Karisimbi hiking. Travelers planning Rwanda safaris to hike Mt Karisimbi are reminded of the following:
Physical fitness is key for everyone hiking Mt Karisimbi. Travelers are advised to do physical exercises when preparing for mt Kairsimbi
- Carry enough drinking water to quench the thirsty that comes with hiking
- Carry enough energy-giving snacks to keep you strong
- Wear closed light hiking shoes/boots to protect your feet from hot rocks which are a time slippery
- A porter is highly recommended
- Walking stick is a must-have
- Carry sleeping bags
- Warm jackets and sweaters are recommended for night coldness
- Gardening gloves protect your hands from getting hurt
Cost of Hiking Mt Karsimbi
Hiking Mt Karsimbi costs $400 per person. This cost is inclusive of the park ranger’s fee, hiking fee, and government taxes. However, the permit fee excludes tips, sleeping bags, and other personal expenses. Booking can be done through African Apes Tours & Travel or directly with the Rwanda Development Board. Permit booking is recommended at least 4 months in advance to ensure timely and proper planning.
Best Time for Mt Karisimbi Hiking
The dry season in June, July, August, December, January, and February is the best time for hiking Mt Karisimbi. During this time, the mountain slopes are less slippery which makes it easier climbing and downhill. However, the volcano can be hiked all year round with no limit.
Other Virunga Volcanoes
Besides Mt Karisimbi, the Virunga Conservation Area comprise more other seven volcanoes. Two of these are active while the rest are dormant. The Virunga volcanoes include:
Mt Nyiragongo Volcano (3470 meters) in Virunga National park in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Mt Nyamuragira (3058 meters) in Virunga National park Democratic Republic of Congo
Mount Mikeno (4437 meters) in Congo
Mount Muhabura (4127 meters) in Rwanda Uganda3058) borders
Mount Sabyinyo (3674 meters) in the borders of Uganda Rwanda and Congo. It can be hiked from either country but best hiked in Uganda
Mount Bisoke (3711 meters) in Rwanda
Mount Gahinga (3474 meters) in Uganda
NOTE: Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira are the only active volcanoes in the whole Virunga Conservation Area. Mt Nyiragongo has a boiling lava lake at the summit while Mount Nyamuragira is out of bounds for the hikers.
Other things to see and do in Volcanoes National park
In addition to Mt Krsimbi hiking, travelers on Rwanda safaris to Volcanoes National Park have many more things to do and see to make a complete package. The top things to do in Volcanoes Park include:
- Mountain gorilla trekking
- Golden monkey trekking
- Dian Fossey graveyard hike
- Bird watching
- Musanze caves
- Ibyiwacu community tours
- Twin lakes
- Hiking Mount Bisoke
- Forest walks
- Kwita Izina (Baby gorilla naming ceremony)
Conclusively, therefore, hiking Mount Karsimbi is an exceptional experience you should not miss on your Rwanda safari. Contact African Apes Tours & Travel, tell us about your travel dates and we shall make you for the very best Mt Karsimbi hiking itinerary
