Are you looking for the destination where you can spend your memorial time as you taste your physical ability and fitness, the home to thousand hills – Rwanda, has got you covered. With a total surface area of 26,338 square kilometers, the county encompasses numerous destinations that offer an incredible opportunity to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, immerse yourself in nature, and witness breathtaking views through hiking safaris.
The fine road network, with little traffic, offers wonderful opportunities for long bicycle trips across the verdant hills and valleys. Mountain biking and hiking can be enjoyed on the thousands of kilometers of fine rural trails linking remote villages, criss-crossing the entire country.
These hiking destinations are located in different regions of the country and below are some of the popular destinations and trails in Rwanda where the experiences take place;
Volcanoes National Park
In the Northwestern part of Rwanda, Volcanoes national park is offers excellent hiking opportunities. It encompasses five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga mountains – Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga and Sabyinyo where the experience is mostly done in the country. The hike to the summit of the volcanoes especially the extinct volcanoes like Mount Bisoke offer a stunning view of the crater lake at the top. The hike takes about 5-6 hours round trip and offers panoramic views of the surrounding volcanoes and lush forests.
Apart from hiking, Volcanoes national park is known for hosting almost half of the world’s mountain gorillas in its natural rainforests that can be seen during the mountain gorilla trekking experience at a cost of USD 1500 per person per trek.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Located in the southwestern region of Rwanda, Nyungwe is a tropical rainforest with a network of hiking trails suitable for different fitness levels. One of the main trails is the Canopy Walk, a suspension bridge that takes you through the forest canopy for a unique perspective of the flora and fauna below. There are also longer hikes, such as the Kamiranzovu Trail, which leads to a beautiful swamp with abundant birdlife.
Mount Karisimbi
This is the highest an active stratovolcano in the Virunga Massif and one of the most challenging hikes located on the border between Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo. The trek to the summit usually takes two days with an overnight camping at an altitude of about 4,507 meters. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.
Musanze Caves
Located near Volcanoes National Park in Ruhengeri Northern province, the Musanze Caves are also destinations in Rwanda offering a fascinating underground hiking experience. Explore the dark tunnels and chambers, and learn about the history and cultural significance of the caves.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park
Named after Gishwati forests, Gishwati Mukura national park is one of the newly established national parks in Rwanda perfect for those seeking off-the-beaten-path hiking experiences. With a total area of approximately 32.02 square kilometers, the park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, with several hiking trails that take you through lush forests and bamboo groves. Among these include the 4-mile waterfall trail that leads you to the park’s impressive waterfalls, and the Matyazo hill trail that takes you to the hilltop offering amazing forest views.
Mount Gahinga
Also, one of the dormant volcanos in Virunga mountains, Mount Gahinga is another hiking destination in Rwanda situated near Volcanoes National Park with a height of 3,474 meters above the sea level. The beautiful volcanic peak that can be hiked in a day as you pass through bamboo forests enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding volcanic peaks and spotting some wildlife species like birds, insects and others.
Lake Kivu Shoreline Trail
If you prefer a more relaxed and scenic hike, the Lake Kivu Shoreline Trail is an excellent option. The trail takes you along the shores of Lake Kivu, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscapes.
Apart from hiking safaris, there are also other experiences one can opt for during a trip to Rwanda and among these include; gorilla trekking experience, chimpanzee trekking, golden monkey tracking, wildlife safaris, cultural tours and many others.
Before embarking on any hiking safari in Rwanda, it’s essential to be physically prepared, wear appropriate gear, and be accompanied by experienced guides or rangers, especially for more challenging hikes. Also, remember to adhere to park rules and regulations to ensure your safety and the preservation of Rwanda’s natural environment.