If you ever plan to visit Rwanda, don’t forget to pack your hiking shoes. This east-central African country is praised for its spectacular trails filled with breathtaking scenery, lush vegetation, and unique wildlife.
Whether you’re looking for a laid-back route suitable for the whole family or a challenging multi-day hiking adventure, there is truly something for everyone!
In this article, we prepare you for your upcoming Rwanda safari holiday by detailing the most spectacular local hiking routes.
Volcanoes National Park
Located along the Virunga Mountains, Volcanoes National Park is a must-see destination for hiking enthusiasts. You can look forward to stunning volcanic scenery and wildlife encounters with golden monkeys and a variety of birds.
Some of the park’s most popular hikes include:
[H3] Mount Bisoke
Mount Bisoke is a dormant volcano located on the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This popular hike takes roughly 6 hours and offers spectacular views of the Virunga Mountains and the beautiful crater lake. You also have a decent chance of seeing golden monkeys and even the elusive mountain gorillas.
[H4] Lake Ngezi
If the Mount Bisoke route seems a bit daunting, but you still want to see the crater lake, you could hike the Lake Ngezi trail. This route is easier as it doesn’t include the peak and can be completed in 4-5 hours, depending on your level of physical fitness.
[H3] Mount Karisimbi
If you’re looking to challenge yourself during your Rwanda safari holiday, you can’t go wrong with this 2-day hike up Mount Karisimbi— the fifth-highest mountain in Africa. You’ll reach an elevation of 4507 meters, spend a night camping on the mountain, and make memories to last a lifetime.
Keep in mind that this hike is typically only suitable for seasoned hikers with good stamina, as the route is physically taxing.
[H3] Mount Muhavura
Located between Rwanda and Uganda, Mount Muhavura is an inactive volcano at the end of the volcano chain. This hike offers splendid views of the mountainous landscape, as well as the famous twin lakes, Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo. The peak of Mount Muhavura is home to a breathtaking crater lake, which makes for incredible photographs.
The hike can take anywhere between 6 and 8 hours, thus requiring a decent level of physical fitness.
[H3] Mount Gahinga
Sitting at just 3474 metres, Mount Gahinga is the shortest peak in the park. While it may not be as popular as the other mountains, it is a great option for beginner hikers or for those who don’t want to spend the entire day hiking.
[H3] Dian Fossey Trail
Named after the famous researcher who dedicated her life to mountain gorillas, this trail can be found between Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi. This beautiful trail isn’t very strenuous and takes you to Fossey’s burial place and research station. In addition to lush vegetation and blooming orchids, you may even get to see mountain gorillas along this walk.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Known for its ancient rainforests filled with numerous trails, Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Rwanda’s most prized natural areas. The lush biodiversity, 700-metre suspended canopy walk, flowing waterfalls, and unique vegetation make it a highlight on many visitors’ trip itineraries.
Some of the walks you can look forward to include:
[H3] Igishigishigi Trail
With a length of just over 2 kilometres, this trail is great for beginner hikers. You can look forward to amazing views of the Canopy Walk and colourful wildflowers along the path.
[H3] Karamba Trail
Located near a former gold mine and army camp, the Karamba Trail offers a mellow hike filled with plenty of bird species and beautiful fern trees.
[H3] Umugore Trail
Take in the breathtaking rainforest views that stretch as far as the Kibira National Park in Burundi on a clear day. If you’re lucky, you’ll also spot a few primates.
[H3] Umoyove Trail
Sometimes referred to as the Mahogany Trail, this route takes you past a stunning waterfall and under some of Nyungwe’s tallest trees. If you are interested in chimpanzee trekking, there are side trails off Umoyove that are great for primate viewing.
[H3] Uwinka Trail
If you’re a more experienced hiker, you may be interested in the Uwinka Trail, which takes you through gorgeous ravines and along some rocky terrain.
[H3] Irebero Trail
Tackle two of the park’s highest peaks and soak up the magnificent views of Lake Kivi in the distance when you choose the Irebero Trail.
[H3] Imbaraga Trail
This is another trail that is better suited to professional hikers as it’s just under 10 kilometres of challenging terrain. However, you’ll be treated to visiting four waterfalls!
[H3] Bigugu Trail
Undoubtedly one of the most popular hikes in Nyungwe Forest, the Bigugu Trail takes you up the highest peak in the park.
[H3] Isumo Trail
This diverse trail leads you through plenty of diverse landscapes, including ravines, tea plantations, and waterfalls.
[H3] Kamiranzovu Trail
Explore an ancient swamp, breathtaking waterfalls, and the park’s largest wetland when you decide to conquer this trail.
Congo Nile Trail
This long-distance trail along Lake Kivu offers spectacular scenery, including coffee plantations, local villages, and hidden beaches. While this popular hiking trail is typically done on foot, it can also be completed on a mountain bike or a kayak for those who are looking for something a little different.
It usually takes five or more days to complete this trail, but you can always do smaller sections of it if a multi-day trail feels a bit intimidating for you.
Some of the things you can look forward to include:
- Lake Kivu: For the most part, the trail hugs the shores of Lake Kivu, meaning you’ll get to enjoy the peace and beauty of the lake.
- Local villages: The trail takes you through multiple local villages, where you can stop to eat and even find a place to stay for the night.
- Well-marked trail: The route is praised for being exceptionally well-indicated, with markers placed at strategic points roughly every 5 to 10 kilometres.
- Wildlife: From colourful birds to elusive primates, you’ll see all sorts of animals along this hike, so keep your eyes peeled.
Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo
The picturesque Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo offer relaxed hiking opportunities and incredible views of the surrounding rural landscapes. The most popular route is the Twin Lakes Trail, which is just 6 kilometres and a popular option for families and older people.
If you’re up for a bit more of a challenge, you could hike to the lakes from Musanze Town or ascend some of the nearby hills. Book a guided nature walk with a local guide to learn more about this area’s history and ecology.
Mount Kabuye
If you’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding hike, you should consider traversing Mount Kabuye. This non-volcanic mountain sits at 2,700 metres and offers beautiful views of the twin lakes. One of the best things about this hike is that you don’t need a permit, making it a much more affordable option than some of the other hikes on offer.
Ready to embark on the Rwanda safari holiday of a lifetime? Here at Tailormade Africa, we can put together a custom itinerary that aligns with your budget, preferences, and physical fitness. Don’t hesitate to contact them should you have any questions about what we offer. They’d love to help plan an unforgettable trip for you and your travel companions.