Mountain Bisoke elevation is 3711m and this volcano lies on the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mountain Bisoke is a dormant volcano and it has a huge crater lake at the summit with about 400m of diameter and it is found on the Rwandan side. This mountain is one of the popular destinations for hikers.
Mountain Bisoke is relatively challenging to hike but feasible to do even for first-time hikers. In Bisoke Mountain, there are a decent number of mountain gorillas and there is a possibility to encounter them on the way hiking.
Encountering golden monkeys is almost a guarantee as well. Reaching the top of the mountain, the view of the Crater Lake is breathtaking and incredibly rewarding! There is beautiful scenery of Rwanda’s hilly landscape. You are also able to view the summit of Mikeno Mountain in DRC. This hike can take up to 4 hours to go up and will do 2 hours going down.
Climbing Mount Bisoke:
- This hike consists of hiking up Mt Bisoke to the Crater Lake Summit
- The starting elevation is 2700m above sea level
- Group size is at least one person
- Professional tour guide and 4X4 tour vehicle
- Porter service: $10 to carry your backpack. It is recommended to hire a porter, however light your bag may feel. Oxygen gets less and less accessible and the trip gets tiresome super fast.
- Vegetation zones vary depending on the altitude: A little bamboo that ends at 2800m, through Hagenia Hypericum from 2800-3200m, to Sub-alpine on top
Besides climbing Mount Karisimbi Volcano, tourists can also engage in Mount Bisoke Hike. This hike is sometimes referred as the “Crater Lake Hike” because of the famous Crater Lake that is found on its summit. Mount Bisoke is one of the 8 volcanoes that form the extensive Virunga Massif that span in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Mountain is shared by two National Parks that is Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda (with the largest portion) and Virunga National Park in DRC. Of all the 8 volcanoes, Mount Bisoke is the 4th highest, standing at 12,180 feet/3711 meters above sea level. Mount Bisoke is homed in Volcanoes National Park, about 3 hours drive from Kigali town.
Due to its height, it is always not so challenging to climb this Volcano compared to others like Mount Karisimbi, Muhabura and Mikeno. It usually takes just one day (approximately 6 hours) to climb to the summit and back, with 4 hours for ascent and 2 hours for descending. The experienced hikers need just 5 hours (3 hours going up and 2 hours coming back down). Surprisingly even hikers that are not so physically fit can climb it easily. But do not ignore the fact that you should be physically fit. (You just need basic physical fitness). Hiking fee is just $75 per person (include $50 for the guided trip and $25 for the Park entrance fees excluding the cost of hiring the porter).
Before you participate in the climb/hike, make sure to wear strong rainproof hiking boots with enough grip to make it easy for you to climb especially in the rainy season. A rain jacket is also handy because the possibility of raining or not cannot be predicted due to the fact that the area lies within a tropical rainforest and the high altitude. Tourists are also advised to wear long trouser and long sleeved shirts to protect their arms and legs from being scratched by tree branches or grasses. It is also important to carry snacks and drinking water to rejuvenate the lost energy during the hike. Much as the activity is an all year adventure, tourists are however advised to book for it during dry season when the trails are not muddy and slippery. The most important tip for this activity is to be keen and open your eyes because you might encounter some mountain gorillas.
Trekking Mount Bisoke: The Experience and Highlights
Mount Bisoke, with its impressive altitude of 3,711 meters (12,175 feet) and signature crater lake, is one of Rwanda’s most accessible and rewarding hikes. It is an excellent choice for a challenging yet manageable day hike. Despite being a shorter trek compared to Mount Karisimbi, it offers breathtaking scenery, rich biodiversity, and a sense of adventure, making it a favourite among visitors to the Volcanoes National Park.
The Trail Overview
The journey to the summit of Mount Bisoke begins at the Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi. After checking in, climbers are briefed by the park rangers, who accompany all groups for safety and conservation purposes. The trailhead is located a short drive from the headquarters, and the hike itself covers approximately 6 to 7 kilometres (4 to 4.3 miles) one way, with an elevation gain of about 1,000 meters (3,280 feet).
The trek starts in a thick montane forest, where towering trees, dense underbrush, and the occasional mist create an almost mystical atmosphere. The forest is teeming with life, and hikers may encounter golden monkeys, various bird species, and, with some luck, even mountain gorillas. The sounds of birdsong and rustling leaves accompany climbers as they make their way up the trail.
As the trail ascends, the forest transitions into bamboo groves, making the terrain steeper and more challenging. The volcanic soil and frequent rain can make the trail muddy and slippery, especially after a downpour. Hikers should be prepared for sections that require scrambling over roots and rocks.
The final segment of the hike involves a steep climb to the summit, where the forest gradually gives way to afro-alpine vegetation, including giant lobelias and Senecio plants. The summit is often shrouded in mist, adding to the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top.
The Summit and Crater Lake
The highlight of the Mount Bisoke hike is undoubtedly the crater lake at the summit. This large, emerald-green lake, which fills the caldera of the dormant volcano, is approximately 400 meters in diameter. The sight of this tranquil body of water, surrounded by mist and the rugged crater walls, is both surreal and awe-inspiring. On clear days, the views extend far beyond the crater, offering glimpses of the surrounding Virunga Mountains and the distant landscape of neighbouring Congo.
The summit is an excellent spot for resting, taking photographs, and enjoying a packed lunch before starting the descent. However, climbers are advised not to linger for too long at the top due to the high altitude and the possibility of rapidly changing weather.
Challenges of the Climb
- Steep and Muddy Trails: The trail to the summit of Mount Bisoke is known for being muddy, particularly during the rainy seasons. The steep inclines and slippery sections can be physically demanding, even for experienced hikers.
- Unpredictable Weather: The Virunga region is known for its unpredictable weather patterns. Even during the dry season, climbers may encounter sudden rain, fog, or strong winds, reducing visibility and making the trail more challenging.
- Altitude: Although not as high as Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke’s elevation can still cause mild altitude sickness in some hikers. It’s important to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and listen to your body as you ascend.
What to Expect During the Descent
The descent from the summit generally takes less time, around 2 to 3 hours, but it can be just as challenging due to the slippery terrain. Trekking poles are highly recommended for stability, especially on the steep, muddy sections. The descent offers another opportunity to appreciate the lush scenery and spot wildlife that may have been missed on the way up.
Park rangers ensure that all hikers respect the environment and adhere to conservation guidelines, which help protect the delicate ecosystems and the mountain’s resident wildlife.
Why Choose Mount Bisoke?
Mount Bisoke offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and accessibility. Unlike the more arduous multi-day trek required for Mount Karisimbi, Bisoke can be completed within a single day, making it a perfect option for those short on time but still wanting to experience the thrill of climbing a volcano. Its proximity to the park headquarters, combined with the stunning crater lake at the summit, makes Mount Bisoke an ideal introduction to the wonders of the Virunga range.
Therefore, Mount Bisoke is another important tourist activity that tourists can add on their package when they visit Rwanda for gorilla tracking.