Rwanda's northwest is a hiker’s paradise, home to the magnificent Virunga volcanoes. I had always dreamt of conquering these legendary peaks, and finally, I made it happen!
With my trusted guide, Kagabo, a seasoned trekker who knows every trail, story, and secret of these mountains, Armed with hiking gear, boundless enthusiasm, and an appetite for adventure, I embarked on a 6-day journey to conquer the towering volcanoes of Karisimbi, Bisoke, Sabyinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura.
Day 1 & 2: The Mighty Karisimbi (4,507m)
Our journey kicked off with Mount Karisimbi, Rwanda’s highest peak and a two-day climb.
The first day was all about immersing in nature. The trail began with a gradual ascent through bamboo forests, where I caught glimpses of golden monkeys leaping through the trees.
Kagabo pointed out different plant species, including giant lobelias and senecios, which thrive in the high-altitude environment.
After about 6 hours of trekking, we reached 3,700 meters, where we set up camp. The air was cold, and the mist rolled in, making the atmosphere surreal. The night was crisp and silent, with only the occasional call of wildlife breaking the stillness.
At dawn, we tackled the final steep ascent. The terrain was rocky, the air thin, but reaching the 4,507-meter summit was beyond rewarding. From the top, I saw a vast sea of clouds, and on a clear day, even the Nyiragongo volcano in DRC, famous for its lava lake, was visible.
Descending back to the base the same day was much faster, and by evening, we returned to Musanze for some well-earned rest.
Day 3: Bisoke’s Crater Lake (3,711m)
After the grueling Karisimbi climb, I was relieved to hear that Bisoke was a one-day trek. “Still steep, but easier,” Kagabo assured me.
The trail was lush and misty, leading through gorilla habitat. Though I wasn’t on a gorilla trek, Kagabo knew the signs, and we did manage to spot a silverback gorilla in the distance—an unexpected bonus!
The real highlight, though, was reaching the emerald-green crater lake at the top. It felt pristine, untouched, and incredibly peaceful.
Day 4: Mount Sabyinyo (3,674m)
Mount Sabyinyo, unlike the others, had rugged ridges and steep climbs, making it one of the most exciting treks of the journey.
As we ascended, the path became narrower and steeper, with wooden ladders aiding us through rocky sections. But the best part? Standing at the summit meant standing in THREE countries at once—Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC.
“This is the only way to visit three countries without a visa,” Kagabo joked.
The panoramic view from Sabyinyo’s summit was unlike anything I had seen before. It felt as if I was on the edge of the world, overlooking the rolling landscapes of three nations at once.
After descending, we returned to Musanze to rest for the final two climbs.
Day 5: Mount Gahinga (3,474m)
After three days of steep ascents, Mount Gahinga felt like a relaxing break.
The trail led through bamboo forests, where we encountered golden monkeys playing in the canopy. The landscape felt mystical, with dense vegetation and a crater swamp at the summit.
It wasn’t as dramatic as the other peaks, but its serenity made it one of my favorite moments.
We finished early, leaving the afternoon for relaxation and preparation for the final climb.
Day 6: Mount Muhabura (4,127m)
The last day was dedicated to Mount Muhabura, which translates to "The Guide." Its perfect cone shape made it look like a classic volcano, and I was excited for the challenge.
The climb was steep from the beginning, with fewer switchbacks than other volcanoes. Despite the effort, the reward was spectacular—at the summit, I could see all the other volcanoes we had climbed over the past few days.
Kagabo and I sat at the top, reflecting on the journey.
“You’ve conquered the Virunga giants,” he said with a smile.
I couldn’t help but feel proud. The past six days had been physically demanding, but also incredibly fulfilling.
This 6-day trek wasn’t just about reaching summits—it was about experiencing Rwanda’s raw beauty, its diverse wildlife, and its breathtaking landscapes.
Would I do it again? Without a doubt.
If you ever find yourself in Rwanda, craving an adventure of a lifetime, find a guide like Kagabo and embark on this unforgettable trek through the Virunga volcanoes.