Mount Bisoke: Beauty Of Rwanda's Bisoke Volcano

Planning a trip to Rwanda and eager to explore many exciting outdoors? Interested in seeing wild gorillas without breaking your bank? Rwanda’s Bisoke Volcano might be one of the top destinations where you can travel without worrying about money while you can enjoy the natural beauty in Rwanda.

Located in between the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda’s Bisoke brings a breathtaking view and offers many challenging hikes for travelers. In this article, we'll take an in-depth look at Rwanda’s Bisoke Volcano, its geological significance, diverse biodiversity, and many unique experiences that adventurers and nature lovers can enjoy.

The Virunga Mountains and Bisoke Volcano’s Geological Significance

• Location: Volcanoes National Park Rwanda

• Lowest Altitude: 2,686m 

• Highest Altitude: 3,711m

• Elevation: +1025m / – 1025m

Rwanda's Bisoke Volcano is in the Virunga Mountain range, a chain of volcanoes located along the borders of Rwanda. The range includes eight major volcanoes, two of which, Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira still active, are among the most active in the world. However, Bisoke, also known as Visoke, is an inactive volcano, the last erupted in 1957, and although it is currently dormant, its presence looms large, both literally and figuratively, in the surrounding landscape. Therefore, this is a safer place but no less thrilling adventure that travelers can explore and enjoy.

The formation of Bisoke, like the other volcanoes in the Virunga range, is a result of the rift activity associated with the East African Rift system. This activity has created some beautiful landscapes in the region. Moreover, around Rwanda's Bisoke Volcano is incredibly fertile with diverse plant life.

Rwanda's Bisoke Volcano is one of the top destinations for travelers

The Journey to the Summit: Hiking Bisoke Volcano

Before trekking the Rwanda’s Bisoke Volcano

One of the most popular activities for visitors to Rwanda is hiking Bisoke Volcano. Before hiking to the Bisoke Volcano summits, a park officer will inform you at the Volcanoes National Park headquarters. You will be assigned a guide who will ensure your physical well-being while you trek across the volcano's high slopes.

Unlike other mountains, the Bisoke climb brings you through lush flora zones, ranging from bamboo to hagenia forest. Persons above the age of 15 are deemed fit, albeit some physical exercise may be required prior to the actual hike.

Weather warning

A weather warning for Bisoke Volcano typically signals potentially hazardous conditions for hikers and visitors. These can include heavy rainfall, fog, strong winds, or sudden temperature drops, all of which can make the steep, often muddy trails more challenging and dangerous. It's essential to check weather updates before setting out, as these conditions can affect visibility and increase the risk of landslides or slippery paths. Hikers should be prepared with proper gear and consider postponing their trek if severe weather is forecasted.

If you’re hiking during the long dry season (June, July, August) and your guide will confirm that the trail is dry, you might not need as much gear but should bring more water due to the heat. You'll likely be able to ascend (and definitely descend) faster and cleaner than we did.

Read more: Weather and Climate of Rwanda - An In-Depth Analysis for Your Trips

What to prepare

• A waterproof shell: This will keep you dry and protect you from scratches.

• Durable shoes: Choose a pair that you don’t mind getting muddy.

• A packable puffy jacket: This is necessary because the weather conditions will get wet and a little bit cold.

• Gloves: Our hands became so cold at the summit that taking photos was difficult.

• A water bottle: Drinking water is really important when you take in any outdoor activities.

• Fresh shoes or sandals: These are great to have for after the hike.

• Snacks or lunch: Bring something to eat unless you're fasting, or if your group moves very quickly.

• Wool socks: This will keep your feet warm during the cold.

Prepare enough gear to hike the mount

Rwanda’s Bisoke Volcano Hike Guide

The journey to the summit is challenging but accessible for those with a reasonable level of fitness. The hike typically takes between six to seven hours, depending on the pace and weather conditions. The trek is steep and can be muddy, especially during the rainy seasons, but the stunning views and unique experiences along the way make it well worth the effort.

• Starting time: You should start your journey in the early morning, and arrive at 7 a.m. Don’t use Google Maps, this might be difficult for you to hike. Instead, When you arrive in Knigi, keep an eye out for the large signs for the park and follow them.

• Fee: The fee for experiencing Volcano National Park activities, gorilla trekking, Mount Bisoke hike is from $75 USD (in 2024). You can pay online or use a credit/debit card to pay, they won’t accept cash.

The hike begins at the base of the volcano, where trekkers are greeted by a lush, green landscape teeming with life. As you ascend, the terrain becomes more rugged, with dense forests giving way to bamboo groves and eventually to the alpine zone near the summit. Along the way, hikers may encounter a variety of wildlife, including golden monkeys, buffalo, and even mountain gorillas. The presence of these creatures adds an element of excitement and unpredictability to the trek, reminding visitors that they are truly in the heart of nature.

As you approach the summit, the air becomes thinner, and the temperature drops significantly. However, the sight of the crater lake, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the sky above, is a sight to behold. The lake, formed in the aftermath of Bisoke’s last eruption, is a serene and otherworldly place, offering a moment of tranquility after the challenging ascent.

Read more: Discover Top Hiking Trails In Rwanda Through Mountain Highs And Forest Greens

Hiking Bisoke Volcano is a nice experience

Bisoke Volcano – A Natural Wonder Worth Exploring

Rwanda’s Bisoke Volcano is a natural wonder that offers a unique combination of stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. For those who are willing to take on the challenge of hiking to its summit, the rewards are immense – from the breathtaking views of the crater lake to the chance to encounter some of the world’s most endangered species. But beyond the physical beauty of the volcano, Bisoke also holds a deeper significance, as a symbol of the delicate balance between conservation and development, and as a testament to the resilience of both nature and human culture.

Now start your visa application if you haven’t had a valid visa to enter the country. Rwanda Immigration Services will support travelers to standardize your documents and boost your visa successful rate. Apply your visa and Rwanda Immigration Services will take care of the rest of the process. Your travel documents will be sent through your email about 3 business days.

Whether you’re an adventurer looking for a challenging hike, a nature lover eager to experience Rwanda’s incredible biodiversity, or a cultural enthusiast interested in learning about the region’s history and traditions, Bisoke Volcano has something to offer. As more people discover the beauty and significance of this remarkable place, it is essential that we continue to protect and preserve it for future generations to enjoy. Bisoke Volcano is not just a destination – it is a journey into the heart of one of Africa’s most extraordinary landscapes.