Mount Karisimbi Volcano
Karisimbi is one of the dormant Volcanoes of the Virunga Volcanoes and lies between the borders of two countries-Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Lying within the borders of Volcanoes National Park, Karisimbi Volcano is so far the highest of the 8 Virunga Volcanoes standing at a height of 4507 meters (14,787 feet) above sea level, making it the 11th highest Mountain in the African Continent and is bordered by Nyiragongo to its west, Mikeno to its north and Mount Bisoke to its east while its southern side is flanked by the Rift valley.
Karisimbi Volcano derived its name from a Kinyarwanda word “amasimbi” meaning “white shell” because its peak usually has snow-like (not really snow) features in the months of June, July and August. Climbing the Karisimbi Volcano is an adventurous activity enjoyed by tourists who visit Volcanoes National Park but the most interesting part of this activity is the fact that it leads hikers to the Karisoke Research Center found between the Karisimbi and Bisoke Volcanoes founded by Dian Fossey to study the mountain gorillas inhabiting the area.
Climbing Karisimbi Volcano
Karisimbi’s interesting height and steepness makes it challenging but generally rewarding hike that requires participants to be physically fit. The Hike usually lasts two days with the first day involving hiking for 6 hours until an altitude of 3700 meters above sea level for an overnight and another day involves continuing to the peak and descending.
The hike is generally rewarding because hikers are likely to spot several primates, bird species and sometimes mountain gorillas. The best time for hiking the Karisimbi Volcano is the dry season (June, July, August and September as well as December, January and February) where hiking trails are less muddy making the activity less challenging compared to the rainy season where trails are muddy.
What to take for Karisimbi Volcano hike
Waterproof walking boots, walking stick, long sleeved shirts, long trousers, rainproof backpack, warm jacket/poncho, drinking water and hat should not miss on your packing list for Karisimbi volcano hike.
Other Virunga Volcanoes that can be hiked are Bisoke on the border of Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo, Mount Mikeno in DRC, Nyiragongo also in DRC, Mount Sabyinyo lying in the borders of Uganda, Rwanda and DRC, Mount Gahinga in Rwanda and Uganda, Mount Muhabura in Rwanda and Uganda and Mount Nyamuragira in DRC.