Combine Hiking Mount Karisimbi with Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Combine Hiking Mount Karisimbi with Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, combine hiking Mount Karisimbi with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Located on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mount Karisimbi is one of the tallest peaks in the Virunga Mountains, standing at 4,507 meters (14,787 feet) above sea level. Reaching the summit of Karisimbi takes about six hours, making it a moderately challenging hike, but the stunning views and the chance to see various wildlife, including monkeys and perhaps even mountain gorillas, make it well worth the effort.

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, also known as Parc National des Volcans, is located in the northeastern part of Rwanda, near the town of Musanze. It is one of the oldest and most famous parks in Africa and is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, which are the main attraction for visitors. In addition to mountain gorillas, the park is also home to golden monkeys, a variety of birds, and numerous other wildlife species.

Part of the Virunga Conservation Area, Volcanoes National Park is situated near Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and DR Congo’s Virunga National Park. These parks work together to protect the mountain gorillas, whose habitat spans across these three countries. The park has five volcanoes—Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, Mount Karisimbi, and Mount Bisoke—each offering breathtaking views and a range of activities.

Gorilla Trekking: An Unforgettable Experience

To embark on a gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park, you must secure a gorilla permit from the Rwanda Development Board. Gorilla trekking is available daily, and there are ten habituated gorilla families available for trekking. However, only eight visitors per group are allowed to visit a family each day, ensuring an intimate experience with these incredible creatures. The trek starts early in the morning from Kinigi, where you’ll receive a briefing on the rules and guidelines before heading into the forest.

Gorilla trekking can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. With 99% of their DNA shared with humans, the experience of seeing these majestic animals in their natural habitat is nothing short of extraordinary. You’ll have up to one hour to observe the gorillas, take photographs, and marvel at their behavior.

Gorilla trekking permits for Volcanoes National Park are priced at USD $1,500 per person, which includes the cost of the guide, park rangers, and one hour of gorilla viewing.

Additional Activities in Volcanoes National Park

In addition to hiking Mount Karisimbi and gorilla trekking, Volcanoes National Park offers several other exciting activities to make your visit even more memorable:

Dian Fossey Tomb Hike

One of the park’s most famous attractions is the Dian Fossey Tomb hike. This one-hour trek takes you to the tomb of Dian Fossey, the American primatologist who dedicated her life to studying and protecting the mountain gorillas. Fossey was tragically murdered by poachers, and her tomb stands as a tribute to her work and love for gorilla conservation. The hike is a moving experience for anyone interested in gorilla history and conservation.

Iby’Iwacu Cultural Experience

Discover the rich culture of the Rwandan people with a visit to Iby’Iwacu, a cultural village located near the park. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with locals, learn about traditional Rwandan customs, enjoy local dances, and even participate in activities that demonstrate the way of life in the region. This experience offers a fascinating glimpse into Rwandan heritage and is a must-do after your trek.

Bird Watching

For bird enthusiasts, Volcanoes National Park is a paradise. Home to over 300 species of birds, including rare and endemic species, the park offers some of the best birding opportunities in East Africa. Some notable species include the Grauer’s rush warbler, Rwenzori turaco, and the dusky crimson-winged finch. Bird watching is a great way to explore the park further, especially after your gorilla trek.

Golden Monkey Tracking

Golden monkeys are another incredible species that can be tracked in Volcanoes National Park. Unlike gorillas, these primates are not as large but are equally fascinating to observe. Golden monkey trekking typically begins in the morning, with briefings before heading into the forest to search for these charming monkeys.

Accommodation Options in Volcanoes National Park

When visiting Volcanoes National Park, you have a range of accommodation options to choose from, whether you’re looking for luxury, mid-range, or budget options:

• Luxury: Bisate Lodge, Gorilla Nest, and Virunga Lodge offer upscale experiences with stunning views and top-notch amenities.
• Mid-Range: Consider staying at Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, Five Volcanoes Lodge, or Le Bamboo Mountain Gorilla Lodge for a more affordable yet comfortable stay.
• Budget: For budget-conscious travelers, options like Kinigi Guesthouse, Hotel Muhavura, and Gorilla Volcanoes Lodge offer more affordable accommodations.

It’s important to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons when rooms fill up quickly. Staying multiple nights may also qualify you for discounts.

Why Book with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves in creating unforgettable experiences in Volcanoes National Park. Whether you’re combining Mount Karisimbi hiking with gorilla trekking, exploring cultural experiences, or engaging in bird watching, we offer tailor-made packages that suit your needs and budget. Our team of passionate, experienced staff ensures that your adventure is not only memorable but also safe and comfortable.

We are highly rated on platforms like TripAdvisor and SafariBookings, where past guests have shared their positive experiences. Contact us today to plan your dream trip to Volcanoes National Park, combining the excitement of Mount Karisimbi with the unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking!