With an imposing height of 4,507 meters above sea level, not only is Mount Karisimbi the highest in Rwanda, but it is also the highest of the seven volcanoes that dot the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo beautiful. Found inside Volcanoes National Park, within proximity of Mountain Mikeno, Nyiragongo, and Bisoke, this inactive volcano lies partially in Rwanda and Congo.
Its name comes from a Rwandese word that means “White Shell”. This is about the white clouds that usually hover over it during the dry season. Atop the mountain lie two crater lakes, the largest of which is Mutango.
In three words, the climb up mountain Karisimbi is Awe-inspiring, challenging and rewarding.
You step into another world that blossoms with mysterious natural wonders; Hypericumhagenias, swamp forests, open grasslands, bamboo jungles, and mixed forests. It is a magical sight that will make your eyes grow wider in amazement. Expect to also find optical plants in hot yellows, greens, and pinks.
Hiking Mountain Karisimbi is a punchy adventure of two days, along a narrow trail that slithers to a high altitude where you come face to face with the clouds. It is not extreme hiking so no need for carrying lots of technical equipment. Being in shape and having a positive mindset is just enough.
The higher you go, the more your lungs compress with the altitude gain. This shouldn’t worry you though, for as long as you don’t rush, your body will acclimatize thereby saving you from altitude sickness.
Travel Advisory
The best time to hike is usually the short dry season from June to August. It’s a bad idea to try it out in the dry season as each step has to be thought out. The rains hit hard, making the journey quite challenging at times.