3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Mount Karisimbi Hiking Tour

This 3-day safari combines gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park with a hike to the summit of Mount Karisimbi, one of the Virunga Mountains. The tour requires physical fitness and offers a rare chance to meet endangered mountain gorillas and climb Rwanda’s highest peak.

3-Day Rwanda Gorillas & Karisimbi Climbing Highlights

• Day 1: Pick up from Kigali & hike Mount Karisimbi
• Day 2: Reach the summit & descend
• Day 3: Gorilla trekking & transfer to Kigali

Detailed 3-Day Rwanda Gorillas & Karisimbi Climbing Itinerary

Day 1: Pick up from Kigali & hike Mount Karisimbi

After breakfast, your driver guide will pick you up from Kigali and transfer you to Volcanoes National Park. On arrival, you will check in at the park headquarters for a briefing and begin your hike by 8:00 a.m.

Mount Karisimbi is one of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga range. The hike is demanding, especially during the rainy season, and requires good fitness. The trek to the summit takes about 6 hours, passing through forested trails with chances to see primates and birds along the way.

At around 3,700 meters, you will stop at the first camping site where you will spend the night.

Day 2: Reach the summit & descend

After an early breakfast, continue the hike for about an hour to reach the summit of Mount Karisimbi. From the top, you will enjoy wide views of the Virunga Mountains, including Mount Muhabura and peaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

After your time at the summit, descend back to the starting point where your driver will be waiting. You will then transfer to your lodge for lunch and relaxation in preparation for gorilla trekking the next day.

Day 3: Gorilla trekking & transfer to Kigali

After breakfast, head to Kinigi for a briefing about gorilla trekking. The ranger guide will explain the rules, and you will be grouped and assigned a gorilla family to track. Proper clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and trousers is recommended.

The trek takes 2–7 hours depending on the location of the gorillas. Once found, you will spend one hour with them, watching their behavior and taking photos.

After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and later drive back to Kigali. You will be dropped off at the airport or hotel, marking the end of your 3 Days Rwanda Gorillas & Karisimbi Hike.

End of Tour.

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