An Exhilarating Hike To Mount Bisoke In Rwanda : Mount Bisoke is one of the most beautiful mountains in Rwanda. The hike to the top is a great way to spend a sunny day and take in some of Rwanda’s natural beauty. The hike to the mountain can be strenuous but is well worth the effort once you reach the top. Here are some things you need to know if you decide to make the trip:
What is the weather like on the mountain?
The weather on Mount Bisoke is typically sunny and warm during the day and cold and rainy at night. During the summer, the temperature averages between 75° and 80°F, while during the winter, it ranges from 45° to 55°F. Make sure to dress in layers and bring plenty of water with you for the climb. You can also purchase water from vendors at the bottom of the mountain once you arrive.
What time should I arrive at the mountain?
It is recommended to arrive by at least 8:00 AM to take advantage of the morning light for photography. However, if you are not able to arrive early enough, you will still find great photos when you get there as long as you arrive at sunrise or before.
How difficult is the hike?
Overall difficulty: Moderate to Hard; the entire hike can take up to 4 hours depending on your fitness level and how long it takes you to reach the summit. Although the most difficult part is getting to the summit, it is still a very manageable hike with several resting spots along the way.
Elevation gain: 3,000 ft/1,000 m+ (over two miles) from the base to the top; there are no trails so you will need to be comfortable with off-trail hiking. Length: 9 miles round trip (round trip = total distance you will walk minus distance from the start point to the end of the trail). Keep in mind that the distance to the summit is an additional 0.2 miles each way. The total walking distance is about 12 miles one way.
I recommend starting the hike at the Parc National des Volcans trailhead located about 40 minutes from Kigali. If you are driving, I recommend you give yourself plenty of time to get lost on the windy roads! There are a few places to stop along the way if you start to feel tired including a coffee kiosk where you can grab some breakfast and a restroom that is located about halfway up the mountain. Once you get close to the top, there is a nice overlooking area that offers nice views of the surrounding volcanoes and Lake Kivu, An Exhilarating Hike To Mount Bisoke In Rwanda.
The hike begins on a paved road that will take you to the base of the mountain where you will need to register and pay a small entrance fee before you begin your ascent. You will then continue on the trail through the pine forest until you reach the crater where hikers will be able to walk inside the rim for amazing views of the surrounding volcanoes to thrill while on Rwanda Hiking Safaris .
