Hiking Safaris In Rwanda

Rwanda, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hilla,” is a small country in East Africa known for its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, abd friendly people. While many tourists come here to see the famous mountain gorillas, Rwanda also offers excellent hiking opportunities. If you enjoy walking through beautiful scenery, exploring nature, and experiencing local culture, hiking safaris in Rwanda are a fantastic choice.

Popular Hiking Destinations

Volcanoes National Park

One of Rwanda’s most famous spots is Volcanoes National Park, home to the mountain gorillas. But besides gorilla trekking, the park offers some exciting hiking trails. One popular route is the Karisimbi volcano hike, which is the highest peak in Rwanda at 4,507 meters (14,787 ft).  The mountain receives snow during some months, a phenomenon due to its location near the equator.  The trek takes about two days and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Another trail is the Bisoke volcano hike, which stans at 3,711 meters (12,175 feet), is situated on the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. It’s a volcano that hasn’t erupted in a long time, and it features a large crater lake at the top that’s about 400 meters across. Mount Bisoke crater lake is the most popular trail for hiking tours in Volcanoes National Park as hikers aim to reach this beautiful crater lake at the peak. The mountain located near the center of the Virunga range, offering incredible views of the surrounding volcanoes.

Hikers often spot gorillas and golden monkeys along the hike. The hike is considered challenging, but even those without much experience can manage it if they are good in shape. Hiking Mount Bisoke takes about 5 to 7 hours (round trip)

Further more, Dian Fossey trail is another highlight of a Rwanda hiking safaris in volcanoes national park. The trail situated in the valley between Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi. It begins at the base of Mount Bisoke and leads to the burial site and the research station called Karisoke, which was founded by the well-known researcher Dian Fossey. She was dedicated her life to studying and advocating for the protection of the mountain gorillas and their habitat in Rwanda and the neighboring countries. The Dian Fossey trail provides a scenic walk with great views of the mountains and unique like orchids. It also offers chance to encounter the mountain gorillas. The Dian Fossey trail offers a less strenuous hike. The hike is relatively easy and takes about 3 to 4 hours round trip.

Mount. Gahinga

Mount Gahinga (3474m/11398ft) is the shortest mountain in Volcanoes National Park. It is the least hiked in the park. For none seasoned hikers this may be a good one to start with before taking on the more challenging mountains in the chain. Hiking Mount Gahinga offers panoramic views of Rwanda and Uganda and it passes through bamboo forests. During your hike, you’ll also have the chance to encounter with the playful golden monkeys along the way. Hiking Mount Gahinga takes about 6 hours to complete the hike.

Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest is a massive rainforest in southwestern Rwanda, famous for its rich biodiversity. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. There are 22 hiking trails in Nyungwe Forest National Park that led to scenic areas, places to look for birds, waterfalls as well as to the tea plantations in the local communities. The most advanced trekkers are invited to challenge themselves along the Congo-Nile Divide Trail; it takes several days to cover the entire 227-kilometer route, which follows the Nile and Congo rivers.

 There are 11 trails that begin from the Uwinka visitor center including Kamiranzovu waterfalls hike, canopy walk and colobus monkey tracking. Imbaraga trail has 4 waterfalls to see, Isumo trail that takes you to the Gisakura tea plantation while huge tree species and medicinal plant species can be found along the Umuyove Trail. Umgote Trail offers a plethora of avian fauna and primates amid rainforests and mountain ridges speckled with flowers.  Hiking trails can also be found at Gisakura and Kitabi Centers.

One of the most popular activities is the Canopy Walk, a suspended bridge high above the trees that gives you a bird’s-eye view of the forest. For those interested in longer hikes, the Gisakura and Cyamudongo trails take you through dense forests, tea plantations, and waterfalls. You might also encounter chimpanzees, monkeys, and numerous bird species along the way. The guided walks can last from one to seven hours, based on your fitness level and desired engagement in the park’s spectacular beauty.

Tips for a Great Hiking Safari

• Dress comfortably in lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes.
• Bring sunblock, insect repellent, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Carry some snacks and plenty of water.
• Carry insect repellent to protect your skin from stinging insects
• Carry garden gloves to protect your palms from the rough surfaces in the jungle.
• Respect wildlife and follow the instructions of your guide.
• Be prepared for changing weather conditions—Rwanda’s climate can vary throughout the day.
• Take your camera or binoculars for better wildlife viewing.
• follow park rules and guidelines for a safe experience
• Hard cash to change into local currency in case you wish to make on-ground purchases, as credit cards are not commonly used in Rwanda. This is because of the lengthy process of obtaining money from them.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for hiking safaris in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, from June to September and then from December to February. During these months, trails are less muddy, and wildlife is easier to spot. The rainy seasons can make hiking more challenging but also make the scenery even greener and more vibrant.

Why Choose Hiking in Rwanda?

Hiking safaris in Rwanda give you a chance to see the country’s lush mountains, vibrant forest, and sparking lakes up close. Unlike traditional safaris that mainly involves game drives in vehicles, hiking allows you too immerse yourself in nature, spot wildlife on foot, and enjoy the fresh air. The country’s well-maintained trails abd friendly guides make it easy and safe for hikers of all levels.

Contact our trusted tour operators for more information about Hiking Safaris in Rwanda and Book with our tours and travel companies such as; Elephant Whispers Safaris who offer the best Hiking tour packages in Rwanda.