Mount Karisimbi – The Stunning Mt. Karisimbi Volcano

Seeking a good challenge and adventure? Visiting Mount Karisimbi is the key to unlocking this desire.

Mount Karisimbi, located in the Virunga Mountains on the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a dormant volcano standing at 4,507 meters (14,787 feet) above sea level.

Karisimbi is a stratovolcano, part of the Albertine Rift, and is flanked by Mikeno, Bisoke, and Nyiragongo. It is located in the Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans) in Rwanda and also extends into the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

It’s the highest peak in Rwanda, the fifth highest in East Africa, and the 11th highest on the African continent, and is home to mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, buffalos, exotic plants, and four vegetation belts, from dense forest to barren volcanic core.

The name “Karisimbi” means “snow” in Kinyarwanda, which can be found on the summit during the dry season.

The mountain has a caldera and two craters and offers stunning views, hiking, and climbing opportunities to visitors on Rwanda safaris.

Mount Karisimbi holds cultural and spiritual significance for local communities and is considered a sacred site.

Overall, Mount Karisimbi is an awe-inspiring natural wonder offering adventure, breathtaking scenery, and a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Fascinating Mount Karisimbi History

Mount Karisimbi, formed during the Pleistocene era (900,000-130,000 years ago), has a rich history.

Pre-colonially, the mountain was inhabited by ethnic groups like the Bafumbira and Batwa, who considered it sacred.

European exploration began in 1861 with John Hanning Speke, followed by Count Adolf Von Gotzen in 1894, and mapping by Adolf Friedrich in 1907-1908.

During the colonial era (1890s-1960s), Rwanda was colonized, leading to exploitation and displacement.

Post-colonially (1960s-1990s), the mountain became a contested territory, resulting in conflicts and refugees.

In 1967, Dian Fossey established the Karisoke Research Institute, dedicating 20 years to studying mountain gorillas before she died in 1985.

The mountain faced further challenges in the 1990s-2000s, including the Rwandan Genocide and conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, leading to displacement and environmental degradation.

Tragedy struck again in 2010 with a mudflow that resulted in loss of life, destruction, and damage.

Ongoing efforts aim to protect the mountain’s unique ecosystem and cultural heritage through national parks in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Fun Facts About Mount Karisimbi.

Some of the interesting facts about the mountain Karisimbi are:

1)      Location

Karisimbi volcano, located on the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a fascinating travel destination offering a range of unique features and experiences

2)      Size

Mount Karisimbi, located in the Virunga Mountains, stands at 4,507 meters (14,787 feet) above sea level, roughly half the height of Denali and slightly shorter than Mount Rainier, providing a perspective on its grandeur in comparison to notable USA mountains.

3)      Name

Mount Karisimbi’s name comes from the Kinyarwanda word “amasimbi,” meaning “white shell,” referring to the snow that covers its summit during the dry season.

4)      Highest Peak

Karisimbi is the highest peak in Rwanda, standing at 4,507 meters (14,787 feet) above sea level, and the fifth-highest peak in Africa.

5)      Dormant Volcano

Mount Karisimbi is a dormant volcano, with its last eruption occurring over 100 years ago.

6)      Mount Karisimbi Snow-Capped Peak

Despite being near the equator, Karisimbi’s high altitude means it has a snow-capped peak during the dry season.

7)      Habitat For Gorillas

Karisimbi is home to endangered mountain gorillas, which inhabit the forests on its slopes.

8)      Biodiversity Hotspot

The Virunga Mountains, including the Karisimbi volcano, are a biodiversity hotspot, with many endemic species found nowhere else including various wildlife, including mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, forest elephants, buffaloes, and many birds.

9)      Challenging Hike

The mountain Karisimbi offers a challenging two-day hike to the summit, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

10)  Cultural Significance

Mt Karisimbi holds cultural and spiritual significance for local communities, who consider the mountain a sacred site.

11)  Part Of the Virunga Mountains

Karisimbi is one of the eight major mountains in the Virunga Mountain range/Virunga massif, stretching across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

12)  Volcanoes

Mt Karisimbi is surrounded by other volcanoes, including Mikeno, Nyamulagira, Nyiragongo, Muhabura, and Sabinyo.

13)  Research Station

The Karisoke Research Centre, established by Dian Fossey, who was a famous American primatologist, is located between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke.

These facts highlight the significance and uniqueness of Mt. Karisimbi, making it a fascinating travel destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts.

Where to Find Mount Karisimbi | Karisimbi Location

Mount Karisimbi is located in the Virunga Mountains, on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is situated between the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Volcanoes National Park | Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park, located in northwestern Rwanda, covers 160 sq km of rainforest and features five volcanoes: Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo.

The park borders Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda.

It’s home to mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, among other large mammals, and was the research base for primatologist Dian Fossey.

Established in 1925, it was Africa’s first national park, initially created to protect gorillas from poachers, and later expanded in 1929 to form the larger Albert National Park.

Virunga National Park | DR Congo

Virunga Park established in 1925, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most biologically diverse parks, covering 7,800 square kilometers in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The park features volcanic landscapes, including eight volcanoes, including Karisimbi, active Nyiragongo, and Nyamulagira, among others. It is home to over 200 mountain gorillas, diverse wildlife, and varied vegetation.

Lake Edward and Lake Kivu are among the several lakes and rivers within the park’s boundaries.

Despite facing challenges like poaching and habitat destruction, conservation efforts are underway to protect this incredible ecosystem.

How To Explore Mount Karisimbi | Mount Karisimbi Hike

To explore the natural beauty of Karisimbi volcano, you need to go for a hike

The Mount Karisimbi hike is done in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, and covers a distance of 10-12 km (6-7.5 miles) round trip.

The elevation gain is 700-800 meters (2,300-2,625 feet), and the duration is 6-8 hours, depending on physical condition and acclimatization. The hike is considered moderate to challenging.

What To Expect During the Karisimbi Hike

The initial section of the Mount Karisimbi hike starts at Mount Bisoke and takes you through a lush forest with scenic views, followed by higher elevations with sparse vegetation, giant lobelia, and Senecio plants.

In these habitats, you will have a chance to see golden monkeys, mountain gorillas, and various bird species, and visit Dian Fossey’s grave.

The hiking trail becomes steeper and rockier, requiring scrambling and climbing, and the final push is a steep climb up a rocky ridge with breathtaking views.

At the summit (4,507 meters/14,787 feet above sea level), you can enjoy stunning views of the Virunga Mountains, Visoke, Mikeno volcanoes, and the Ruwenzori Range on a clear day.

The descent follows the same trail, with a stop at Karisimbi caldera.

To undertake this hike, you will need good physical fitness, acclimatization to high altitude, proper hiking gear (sturdy hiking boots, layers, rain gear), and an experienced guide or guided group.

You are strongly recommended to hire a reputable tour operator to arrange permits, equipment, and meals, and to hire porters to help carry luggage.

The hike can be completed in 2 days, and it is essential to register and brief with park Warden and Guides before starting at the foot of Mount Bisoke.

Other Top Tourist Activities Done at Mount Karisimbi Volcano

Besides Hiking and Climbing Mount Karisimbi, there are other tourist activities or things you can do when visiting the Karisimbi volcano such as;

1)      Mountain Gorilla Trekking at Mt Karisimbi

Embark on a thrilling mountain gorilla trek at Karisimbi volcano’s lush forests, a rare and unforgettable safari experience.

This once-in-a-lifetime adventure allows you to spend an hour observing majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

The trek typically lasts 2-6 hours, with a moderate to challenging difficulty level, and is guided by an experienced guide for a group of up to 8 people.

By obtaining a gorilla trekking permit from the Rwanda Development Board, you’ll support conservation efforts and get up close to these incredible creatures, witnessing them forage, play, and interact in their stunning volcanic slope and bamboo forest home.

2)      Golden Monkey Tracking at Karisimbi

You can track the orange-furred golden monkeys, a unique and endangered species when exploring the lush forests, bamboo forests, and volcanic slopes found at the Karisimbi Mountain.

This thrilling experience requires you to obtain a golden monkey tracking permit from the Rwanda Development Board and hire an experienced guide, who will help you track and watch the golden monkeys forage, play, and interact, and learn about their behavior and habitat.

This moderate 2–4-hour trek supports conservation efforts and offers a rare chance to encounter these captivating creatures up close.

3)      Birdwatching |Karisimbi

Mount Karisimbi is home to over 200 bird species that inhabit the mountain’s slopes and surrounding areas, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Some of the bird species you may encounter include:

• Rwenzori Turaco
• Rwenzori Nightjar
• Red-chested Sunbird
• Archers’ Robin-chat
• Kivu Ground Thrush
• White-tailed Crested Flycatcher
• Dusky Crimson Wing
• Red-faced Woodland Warbler
• Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher

4)      Wildlife Viewing at Karisimbi Volcano

This tourist activity offers you a thrilling opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife species, including mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and rare bird species like the Rwenzori turaco and nightjar.

You can also see powerful buffalo, spotted hyenas, bush pigs, and various antelopes like bushbuck and duiker.

To make the most of your wildlife viewing experience, be sure to go with an experienced guide, keep a safe distance from the animals, and respect their habitat and park rules.

5)      Visiting Dian Fossey’s Grave

You can visit and pay tribute/respects to the renowned American primatologist and conservationist Daina Fossey at her final resting place.

6)      Volcanic Exploration on Karisimbi

Discover the beautiful and tranquil volcanic formations at the summit of the Karisimbi volcano such as the Lake Karisimbi Caldera Lake (Branca Lake), a 2 km wide caldera located southeast of the summit of Karisimbi Volcano filled with viscous lava flows and two explosion craters.

You can also get a glimpse of the Muntango pit crater, a 1.2 km wide pit crater located south of the summit, a broad lava plain covering approximately 400 sq km with lava tubes, and over 100 adventive cones, comprising spatter and cinder cones, that dot the Karisimbi volcano.

7)      Cultural Experiences at Mount Karisimbi

Visit local communities and experience their hospitality, learn about traditional crafts, and taste local Rwanda and Congo cuisines such as Umutsima and Isombe.

Engage in community-based tourism initiatives, visit craft villages, and attend the Karisimbi Volcano Festival to learn about Rwandan culture and traditions.

Additionally, you can listen to storytelling, learn about traditional medicine practices, and discover local farming practices to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

8)      Photography Safaris at Karisimbi

This activity offers you a unique opportunity to capture the stunning natural beauty of the volcano and its surroundings.

On your safari, you can photograph majestic mountain gorillas, stunning landscapes, and vibrant flora and fauna, including rare bird species while enjoying optimal photography conditions during sunrise and sunset.

With experienced guides and small group sizes, you’ll get personalized attention and support conservation efforts through responsible tourism for an unforgettable photography experience.

Contact us today to start planning your Karisimbi tour package with adventure activities to ensure a responsible and enjoyable experience.

Beautiful Things to See at Mount Karisimbi

When exploring the majestic Mount Karisimbi, a dormant volcano in the Virunga Mountains, you have a perfect opportunity to see some of these attractions up close:

1)      Mountain Gorillas

Get up close and personal with these gentle giants that are part of the Virunga Mountain gorilla population of approximately 400 individuals, with habituated groups available for trekking and tourism.

These gentle giants are led by dominant silverback males and are known for their intelligence and social behavior. They have an omnivorous diet, feeding on plants and fruits and eating insects.

Unfortunately, they are an endangered species, but conservation efforts are in place to protect them.

They inhabit the bamboo and Hagenia forests at high altitudes, ranging from 3,800 to 4,300 meters.

Visiting Karisimbi offers a unique and unforgettable experience to see these incredible creatures up close.

2)      Golden Monkeys

The golden monkeys at Karisimbi are small, endangered primates with distinctive golden coats and blue faces.

With only about 5,000 individuals in the wild, they are a rare sight to behold.

Habituated groups of these golden monkeys can be trekked and toured, offering a unique experience.

These social animals live in groups of up to 30, feeding on bamboo shoots, leaves, and fruits, and are known for their agility and playful nature as they swing through the trees and bamboo forests.

They inhabit the bamboo forests at high altitudes, making them a treasured sight at Karisimbi, offering a rare and unforgettable experience for visitors.

3)      Other Wildlife Species

Catch a glimpse of the diverse range of wildlife species at the mountain, including buffalo, spotted hyenas, bush pigs, duikers, bushbucks, giant forest hog, black-fronted duikers, and various monkey species like blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, etc., as well as numerous reptiles and amphibians.

4)      Bird Species

Spot a variety of bird species, including:

• Rwenzori turaco.
• Rwenzori nightjar.
• Red-chested sunbird.
• Archers’ Robin-chat.
• Kivu Ground Thrush.
• White-tailed Crested Flycatcher.
• Dusky Crimson Wing.
• Red-faced Woodland Warbler.
• Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher.

5)      Lake Karisimbi Caldera (Branca Lake)

A deep, crystal-clear lake in a stunning volcanic caldera, offering breathtaking views and unique biodiversity.

6)      Volcanic Formations

You can catch a glimpse of the impressive Muntango pit crater, which spans 1.2 km in width and is situated south of the summit.

A vast lava plain, covering an area of approximately 400 square kilometers, featuring lava tubes and numerous adventive cones, including spatter and cinder cones. They are scattered across the Karisimbi volcano.

7)      Stunning Sunrises and Sunsets

Witness the sky turn pink, orange, and purple as the sun rises and sets over the majestic mountains.

8)      Lush Vegetation

Explore the vibrant forests, including bamboo, Hagenia, and Hypericum, which provide a habitat for various wildlife species.

Spot rare and exotic plant species, like the giant lobelia and senecio, which thrive in the mountain’s high-altitude environment.

9)      Waterfalls

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the mountain’s waterfalls, cascading down the mountain slopes.

10)  Snow-Capped Peak

Despite being near the equator, Mount Karisimbi has a snow-capped peak during the dry season which is worth seeing.

11)  Scenic Hiking Trails

Hike through the stunning landscapes on designated trails, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Book your Karisimbi safari tour now and get to see all these beautiful attractions up close.

Rules and Regulations for Visiting Mount Karisimbi

Here are some rules and regulations to keep in mind when visiting Mount Karisimbi:

• You must obtain a permit from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or a licensed tour operator for your activities (gorilla trekking permit, golden monkey tracking permit)
• Mandatory guided tours are encouraged to ensure safety and conservation.
• Check Age limits for the activities you need to partake in for example the minimum age limit for mountain gorilla trekking is 15 years.
• Provision of a valid health certificate and proof of yellow fever vaccination is a must.
• Maintain a safe distance from animals, no feeding or touching while on habituation and trekking safaris.
• Follow designated trails to avoid habitat destruction and getting lost in the forest maze.
• Keep the environment clean and take all trash with you.
• Respect local communities as you learn about their local customs and traditions.
• Attending pre-trek briefings and following guide instructions are a must.
• Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuations.
• Adhere to time limits for trekking and visiting wildlife (one hour permitted for most).
• Limit group size (8 people permitted) to minimize impact on the environment and wildlife.

Before your visit, be sure to confirm the latest information and regulations with the Rwanda Development Board or your tour operator for a safe and enjoyable trip to Mount Karisimbi.

How To Get to Mount Karisimbi | Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Virunga National Park

To get to Mount Karisimbi, there are various options, either through Rwanda, Uganda, or the Congo Route, as described below:

1)      Rwanda Route

• By Air

Fly into Kigali International Airport (KGL), Rwanda’s capital city. From Kigali, take a charter or scheduled flight to Musanze Airport (MVS) or Gisenyi Airport (GYI), both near Volcanoes National Park. Then register at the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters.

• By Road

From Kigali, take the main road north to Musanze (approximately 2 hours). Continue to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters (Kinigi) and register for your trek.

Alternatively, from Gisenyi, take the road to Kibumba and then to the park headquarters.

2)      Border Crossing (from DRC or Uganda)

If coming from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), cross the border at Gisenyi/Goma, then transfer to the Volcanoes National Park or Virunga National Park headquarters to access the mountain.

If coming from Uganda, cross the border at Cyanika or Katuna into Rwanda and get a transfer or self-drive to Musanze and then to Volcanoes National Park headquarters.

3)      Park Entry

Once at the park headquarters, present your permit and register for your trek, then attend a pre-trek briefing and meet your tour guide.

4)      Hike to Mount Karisimbi

• Begin your trek from the park headquarters or a designated starting point, often at the foot of Mount Bisoke.
• Follow your guide through the park’s trails to reach Mount Karisimbi’s base.
• Ascend the mountain, following your guide’s expertise and safety instructions.

Remember to plan your Karisimbi trip with a licensed tour operator or the Rwanda Development Board for a smooth and safe experience.

Where To Stay When on Karisimbi Safaris.

When on a Karisimbi safari tour you can take a rest, or stay a night at any of these comfortable accommodations found near and around Mountain Karisimbi i.e.

Booking a hotel or safari lodge in advance is strongly encouraged to avoid disappointments.

Mount Karisimbi Costs, Fees, and Tariffs

Some of the costs and tariffs you may incur when visiting Mount Karisimbi include;

1)      Park Entrance Fees

The park entrance fee for Volcanoes National Park is $50 for non-residents, $40 for foreign residents, $10 for East African citizens, and $40 for the rest of Africa.

2)      Permit Fees

Activity Permits can be obtained from the park headquarters, the Rwanda Development Board, or through a reliable tour operator, and booking them in advance is recommended to ensure availability.

• Mount Karisimbi Hiking Permit Fees: For foreign non-residents, the cost is $400 per person, which includes a guide fee, accommodation at the mountain’s summit, and a hiking fee.

For foreign residents, the cost is $250 per person, while East African foreign residents pay $300 per person and Rwanda and East African residents pay $200 per person.

• Mountain Gorilla Trekking Permit Fees: The cost of gorilla trekking is $1,500 per person.

However, Rwanda offers discounted gorilla permits at $1,050 in May and November, but you must have visited one of the other national parks in Rwanda and stayed for at least three days in the country.

• Golden Monkey Trekking Permit Fees: The cost of Golden Monkey trekking is $100 for foreign nationals, $65 for foreign residents and Rwandan citizens, and $80 for East African foreign residents.

3)      Additional Costs to Consider:

• Porters: If you need porters to help carry your luggage, you can pay an extra cost of $20 per 15 kg per person for their assistance.
• Transportation: arranged by a local tour operator
• Meals: arranged by a local tour operator
• Other logistics: arranged by a local tour operator

Please note that prices are subject to change, so it’s essential to verify the latest information with the Rwanda Development Board or a trustworthy tour operator to ensure accuracy and plan your trip accordingly.

Best Time to Visit Mt Karisimbi

The best time to visit Mount Karisimbi in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which are from December to March and June to October.

These periods offer:

• Clear views and less rain make the Karisimbi hike more enjoyable.
• Better hiking conditions due to drier trails.
• Breathtaking views from the Karisimbi summit.

Please note that

• Temperatures at the Karisimbi summit can drop to 0°C in the early morning, so warm clothing is necessary.
• The rainy seasons can offer a more lush and green landscape
• The mountain can be hiked throughout the year, but the trails may be muddy and slippery, with fog and showers in the rainy season.

Considering these weather conditions, you are encouraged to plan accordingly for the Karisimbi trip.

What To Wear for Mount Karisimbi Safaris | Clothing

When heading for a safari in Mt Karisimbi, ensure that you wear Proper warm attire such as;

Mount Karisimbi FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How Many Days Does It Take to Hike Mount Karisimbi?

It takes two days to hike Mount Karisimbi for both experienced and inexperienced hikers.

2. What Is the Highest Point of Mount Karisimbi? | How Tall Is Mount Karisimbi?

The highest point of Mount Karisimbi is 4,507 meters above sea level, which is the mountain summit.

3. What Is the Best Time to Hike Mount Karisimbi?

The best time to hike Mount Karisimbi is during the dry season, from December to March and June to October as there are perfect hiking conditions and clear trails.

4. How Much Does It Cost to Hike Mount Karisimbi?

The cost of hiking Mount Karisimbi is $400 per person.

5. What Should I Pack for My Hike to Mount Karisimbi?

Make sure to pack good hiking shoes, warm clothing, a waterproof rain jacket, a hat, and a walking stick to ease on the climb and descent.

6. Can I Hire Porters to Help Me with My Hike?

Yes, you can hire porters to help you carry your backpack, tents, and other hiking gear or equipment.

7. How Long Does It Take to Reach the Summit of Mount Karisimbi?

It takes about 6-7 hours to reach the mountain summit of Karisimbi volcano.

8. What Can I See on My Hike to Mount Karisimbi?

On your hike to Mount Karisimbi, you can see mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and different bird species like the Rwenzori Turaco among others.

Unlock your adventurous spirit by booking a safari tour to Mount Karisimbi and create lifelong memories. Contact us now and let us customize your Karisimbi safari package for you for an unforgettable safari experience!