The Best hiking trails
Rwanda, also known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a small, landlocked country in East Africa that is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and fascinating wildlife. One of the most popular activities for visitors to Rwanda is hiking, as the country boasts a variety of stunning mountains, volcanoes, and forests to explore. From the lush green hills of the countryside to the misty slopes of the Virunga Mountains, there are plenty of hiking trails to suit all levels of fitness and experience. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or just looking for a leisurely walk in nature, hiking in Rwanda is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Congo Nile Trail:
The Congo Nile Trail is a scenic route that winds around Lake Kivu, one of the Great Lakes of Africa. The trail stretches for 227 kilometers, passing through rolling hills, picturesque villages, and beautiful beaches. Along the way, you can stop to take in stunning views of the lake and its islets, as well as visit local markets and interact with friendly locals.
The trail is divided into six sections, each offering a unique experience. The first section, from Rubavu to Kinunu, takes you through lush green hills and past tea plantations. The second section, from Kinunu to Kibuye, passes through fishing villages and offers breathtaking views of the lake. The third section, from Kibuye to Cyimbili, takes you through banana plantations and past coffee fields. The fourth section, from Cyimbili to Gisenyi, is the longest and most challenging, passing through remote villages and dense forests. The fifth section, from Gisenyi to Musanze, offers panoramic views of the lake. The final section, from Musanze to Goma, passes through rolling hills and offers spectacular views of the Virunga Mountains.
Mount Kabuye:
Mount Kabuye is a beautiful mountain located in the Western Province of Rwanda. The mountain is known for its breathtaking views and lush vegetation, which includes Eucalyptus trees, bamboo forests, and alpine meadows. The climb to the summit of Mount Kabuye takes about four hours, and the trail is well marked and easy to follow.
As you hike up the mountain, you will pass through farmland and wooded areas, and the views will become more and more stunning. At the summit, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, as well as views of Lake Kivu and the Virunga Mountains.
Mount Bisoke:
Mount Bisoke is a dormant volcano located in the Virunga Mountains on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The mountain is known for its stunning crater lake, which is one of the main attractions for hikers.
The climb to the summit of Mount Bisoke takes about six hours, and the trail is challenging and steep in places. As you hike up the mountain, you will pass through dense bamboo forests and alpine meadows, and the views will become more and more spectacular. At the summit, you will be able to see into the Crater Lake and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Mount Karisimbi:
Mount Karisimbi is the highest of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains, with an elevation of 4,507 meters. The climb to the summit of Mount Karisimbi is challenging and takes two days, with an overnight camp at an altitude of 3,700 meters.
The trail to the summit is steep and rocky, passing through dense bamboo forests and alpine meadows. As you hike up the mountain, you will have stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, including Mount Bisoke and Mount Nyiragongo.
At the summit, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda. The descent is challenging but equally rewarding, with the opportunity to spot rare mountain gorillas and other wildlife along the way.
Buhanga Sacred Forest Walk:
The Buhanga Sacred Forest is a small, protected forest located near the town of Musanze in northern Rwanda. The forest is considered sacred by the local people, and is believed to have spiritual powers and healing properties.
The forest walk takes about two hours, and the trail is easy and well-marked. Along the way, you will see a variety of trees and plants
Igishigishigi Trail
Novice hikers will find this 2.1 km trek comfortable, and they will be amazed by the stunning views of the Canopy Walkway and vibrant wildflowers. It is possible to combine the Igishigishigi Trail with the longer Imbaraga or Umoyove Trails.
