3 Days Karisimbi Hike & Lake Kivu

Volcanoes national park is part of the great Virunga volcano conservation region spanning to cover Virunga National Park Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. It was named after the chain of dormant volcanoes making up the Virunga Massif: Karisimbi the highest at 4,507m, Bisoke, Sabinyo, Gahinga and Muhabura. The park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas where Dian Fossey spent 20 years studying and protecting these gentle creatures

Mt Karisimbi

At 4,507m above sea level, Mt Karisimbi is the highest peak in the Virunga Mountains, and the 11th highest mountain in Africa. ‘Karisimbi’, which translates as white shell, refers to the frequently white-capped cloud cover at the summit. It is a strenuous yet rewarding hike, which takes two days, camping along the way. As this is the territory of gorillas, other primates and many bird species, you could be blessed with a chance of meeting them along the way

At 4:30am, you will meet your drive guide and drive to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters. From here it’s a drive of an hour or so to the start of the trail, at around 2,600m above sea level, where you will join your porters, and begin the trek. The climb takes 6 hours which involves navigating through the Bisoke side before reaching the first stopping place at an altitude of 3700km for an overnight camping, a basic mountain camp with small, backpacking-style tents.

Today, wake up early and hike to the summit which is white capped as result of snow which accumulates in the higher elevation from its frequent storms to catch the sunrise at 4507m above sea level. After enjoying the magnificent view, descent back to the camp and proceed down the volcano and re-join your vehicle and guide at the car park and depart for Lake Kivu to arrive in lunch time. After lunch relax at the hotel.

Budget: Paladis Malahide, Palm Garden Resort

Middle-range: Nirvana Height & Spa, Inzozi Lodge, Kivu Paradis

Luxury: Lake Kivu Serena Hotel

Lake Kivu is one of the great lakes of Africa and stretches across the entire western Rwanda. Lake Kivu has very clean and clear water and no crocodiles, hippos or other dangerous animals can be found. Neither does Lake Kivu contain bilharzia, a parasite commonly found in the tropics. After breakfast, you will go for a scenic boat on and around the Lake Kivu up to the Hot spring where you can experience a local massage that relieves fatigue. Return to the lodge for lunch and later check out to drive to Kigali.