Best Of Rwanda Hikes and Trekking Destinations

Boasting of its breathtaking landscapes, conducive climatic conditions and abundant wildlife, Rwanda is indeed a must-visit destination. There are many hiking opportunities to explore on Rwanda safari in various national parks that include Nyungwe Forest National Park, Volcanoes National Park and along the edges of Lake Kivu. Rwanda is also strategically positioned in the Virunga Region, featuring five of the eight Chain Mountains –Gahinga, Muhabura, Sabyinyo, Karisimbi and Bisoke. The highest peak or Virunga volcano in Rwanda rises up to 4507 meters.

The best of Rwanda hikes and treks destinations

Volcanoes National Park for treks & hikes

Volcanoes National Park is most popular not only for tracking mountain gorillas but also for exhilarating hiking experiences. This park was founded in 1925, spanning on the land area only 160 sq.km, & features the most breathtaking sceneries.

Mount Bisoke

If you are looking for the shortest hikes/treks on Volcanoes National Park safari, then consider hiking Bisoke Volcano a must-do on Rwanda tour. The Bisoke hiking trail ushers hikers to Lake Ngezi, a scenic Crater Lake lying on Mount Bisoke’s depression. This is typical of scenic trek, taking about 3 hours to get to 3700 meters.

Mt. Karisimbi

Mt. Karisimbi rises at 4507 meters and it is the tallest of the 8 Virunga Massifs. The snow-capped cloud Karisimbi requires 2 days to hike to & back from the summits of Karisimbi Volcano.

Mt. Kabuye

Rising at 2700 meters, Mt. Kabuye is one of the single-standing mountains in the Land of a Thousand Hills. Trekking to the summits of this mountain doesn’t require you to have a permit. The treks can be done at free cost and even those with fitness challenges can hike it. It is located near Volcanoes National Park in Ruhengeri, Northwestern Rwanda.

Mount Muhabura

Mt. Muhabura offers remarkable hikes for whole day to get to 4127 meters. This volcano rewards trekkers with incredibly scenic treks with opportunity for you to overview the Twin Lakes – Lake Burera and Ruhondo.

Buhanga Sacred Forest

The Buhanga Sacred Forest is a rich forest with unique Rwandan cultures and traditions. Much respect is accorded to Buhanga recognizing it as a place for creation, it being the location where all the Kings of Rwanda were crowned in the past. The existing hiking trails in Buhanga lead you through the volcanic rock-paved paths, massive trunks, ancient ficus trees and more.

Hike the Congo Nile trail

The most popular trekking or hiking trails in Rwanda is the Congo Nile trail. This is superb extensive trail stretching for 227 km and takes hikers at least ten days to have a complete trek. The trail leads hikers via the rural setting, as you explore the remotest communities while they conduct their daily activities.

Karisoke Research Center

The Karisoke Research Center is set between Mt. Bisoke & Karisimbi Volcano. This is the main location where Dian Fossey pioneered her journey to conserve gorillas. It was established in 1967 mainly to assist with her research activities.

Nyungwe Forest National Park trekking trails

Igishigishigi trail

This is where visitors can begin their journey to explore the canopy walkway. The trail is 2.1 km and canopy walkway can last hikers 2-3 hours. Other trails include Umoyove trails, Karamba trail, Kamiranzovu trail, Isumo trail, Rukuzi trail, and Rukuzi trail.