1 Day | Rwanda
Mount Bisoke, situated within the Virunga massif, sits on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Often enveloped in mist, its summit, while not snow-covered, presents a captivating sight.
Your trek commences at 6:30 AM at Kinigi, the headquarters of Volcanoes National Park (sometimes referred to as Virunga National Park in this context), where registration and a ranger briefing will take place. A short drive of about 30 minutes from Kinigi will bring you to the starting point of your climb.
A key draw of Bisoke is its population of endangered mountain gorillas, a highly sought-after experience in Rwanda. The ascent takes you through a variety of ecosystems, beginning with bamboo forests—a favored habitat for both golden monkeys and mountain gorillas—progressing to Hagenia forests and finally, the distinctive Lobelia vegetation closer to the top. The mountain’s slopes also provide habitat for a rich assortment of birds.
The entire hike typically takes between 5.5 and 6 hours, with the upward climb lasting approximately 3 to 3.5 hours and the descent around 2 to 2.5 hours. These times can vary depending on the group’s speed and physical condition. Due to the altitude, steep inclines, and uneven ground, the hike is considered demanding.
