Mountain Karisimbi

Mountain Karisimbi.

Mountain Karisimbi among the virunga mountains in Volcanoes National Park is a hardest to trek. Travelers enjoy hiking this mountain due to a different remarkable experience on it. The height of Mountain Karismibi is 4507m above sea level and the 5th highest in Africa. ‘asirimbi means white shell in Kinyarwanda due to its white capped smmit.

It’s located along the border between Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda on the western branch of the African Rift valley. For the past years it was an active volcano however its now a dormant volcano. The volcano is famous of the Rwanda Gorillas that travellers trek and gives an opportunity to visitors to view the entire Volcanoes National Park.

All travelers meet at Kinigi headquaters early in the morning at 7:00 am to be briefed about the journey. Armed rangers accompany them on this tour to ensure safety and give them support on the steepy slopes.

The name Karisimbi is derived from the word ‘arismbi which means “white shell”, referring to the white-capped summit which is often seen on top of this volcano. Hiking the volcano is strenuous due to to the steep slopes and the slippery sponge-like soils. It takes 6 hours to hike up as you enjoy the several bird species and primates. Along the way to the peak, navigate bthrough Bisoke and then have an over night camping.

Apart from the forest vegetation along the slopes their are different plant vegetation with flowers. For the final destination at the summit, it requires to be stable with the relevant attires and rubber shoes to hike successfully. Incase the back pack or the luggage is heavy or slightly heavy, It’s advisable to hire potters to carry them while hiking.

Hiking Dian Fossey can be added as an additional activity since Karisoke research center is nearby hence one has chance to access the grave yard.

Birding on slopes of Mt.Karisimbi.

Its a best sight for birders since its a paradise for various bird species that move in a flock at times. Not forgettting a pair of binoculars to have a clear view of the birds. The birds include Handsome fracolin, Ruwezori double collared sunbird, collared Apallris, and strange weaver among others. If you a bird lover, it will take you longer hours to complete the hike due to the many birds in the sky.

Golden Monkeys

Trekking the endagered colourful species might be done for a short time. The prescence of Bamboo vegetation attracts the golden monkeys because they are source of food. They are realised on bamboo trees swinging from one tree to another. Depending on travelers choice, this can be done for 1 hour.

Necessities to hike Mt. Karisimbi.

First and foremost are the necessary documents that allows to access the park. For instance a Passport for foreigners and entrance receipt for both National and Non-Nationals. Among these are what to carry if hiking Mt. Karisimbi is on your must visit list;  A simple backpack to carry simple gadgets such as a camera, a apair of binoculars and a phone, A bottle of mineral water and snacks for refreshments and waterproof rubber shoes.