3 Days of Bisoke Hiking & Golden Monkeys Trekking

3 photos

Duration

3 days

Max People

Min Age

12+

Introduction

Mount Bisoke is an extinct volcano located in the Virunga Mountains, part of the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. The hike to the summit of Mount Bisoke is a challenging yet rewarding adventure. It usually takes around 6-7 hours round trip, depending on your fitness level and weather conditions. The trail winds through lush rainforest, offering opportunities to spot various bird species and perhaps even some primates along the way. As you ascend higher, the terrain changes, eventually leading to the crater lake at the summit, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the neighboring volcanoes.

Golden monkeys are an endangered species found in the Virunga Mountains, and Rwanda is one of the few places where you can encounter them in the wild. Golden monkey trekking involves hiking through bamboo forests and other habitats within the Volcanoes National Park in search of these elusive primates. Once you locate a troop of golden monkeys, you’ll have the chance to observe them as they go about their daily activities, which may include feeding, grooming, and playing. It’s a unique and memorable experience to witness these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

Both activities offer an immersive experience in Rwanda’s stunning natural landscapes and provide opportunities for adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural enrichment. Whether you choose to hike Mount Bisoke or go golden monkey trekking (or both), you’re sure to create lasting memories of your time in Rwanda.

Included/Excluded

All meals
First-Aid
Park Entrance fee
All government taxes
4 WD Tourist Vehicle/Jeep & Fuel
English/French-speaking licensed guide
Mineral Water & Refillable water bottle
Accommodation
All mentioned activities

Travel insurance
Specialized medications
Other expenses of a personal nature
Additional meals and alcoholic drinks

Tour Plan

Day 1 Arrival at Kigali International Airport & Transfer to Hotel

Depending on the arrival time and your place of origin, you will find our designated tour guide waiting for you at Kigali International Airport. He will drive you to the hotel in the city center. The transfer will take approximately 20 minutes from the airport to the hotel if there is no traffic jam in the city.

You will enjoy a refreshing rest before you start your adventurous trip the following day.

Day 2 Transfer to Volcanoes & Golden Monkey Trekking

Early in the morning, as early as 4:30 a.m., meet your designated tour guide (French or English speaking, depending on your wish). Together, you will start the journey that takes you through scenic countryside, offering glimpses of rural life and beautiful landscapes along the way. Your knowledgeable guide will take you through Rwanda’s general lifestyle, answering key questions you may have and sometimes stopping at points of interest along the route.

At 7:00 a.m. you will check in at the Volcanoes National Park. After a coffee break, you will join other hikers on a guided hike to Golden Monkeys. The hike typically starts early in the morning, and you’ll be accompanied by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the area and its history. The hike to Golden Monkeys be difficult due to weather conditions. Some parts of the trail may be steep and muddy, so wearing sturdy hiking boots and bringing along trekking sticks can be helpful.

After the trek, your guide will drive you to the place where you will enjoy a hearty lunch. After lunch, you will visit the Ibyiwacu culture village, where you get the opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about traditional lifestyle, dances, archery, pottery, kingdom, marriage, traditional healers, and more; to culminate lively experiences you can enjoy on this day.

Day 3 Bisoke Hiking & Return to Kigali

After the morning breakfast, your driver guide will meet you at 6:30 a.m. to take you to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters where you meet other trekkers and receive a briefing about the forest and park regulations.

One of the highlights of the Mount Bisoke hike is reaching the summit crater, which is home to a beautiful crater lake. The lake is known as Lake Ngezi and sits at an altitude of about 3,711 meters (12,175 feet). Hikers can take a break at the summit to rest and admire the stunning scenery before beginning the descent back to the trailhead. You will be accompanied by the park guide for safety purposes and to enhance the hiking experience with their knowledge of the area’s flora, fauna, and local culture.

After your trek, the guide will bring you back to Kigali. Arrival time will depend on your return from the mountain and the traffic situation on your way back to Kigali. He will take you to the airport or any other designated accommodation in Kigali. This will mark the end of your trip.