About this experience
Hiking Mount Gahinga offers breathtaking features such as the Volcanic Caves and a caldera at its peak. Mount Gahinga is the smallest and lowest of the 8 Virunga Volcanoes, standing at 3474 meters (11,464 feet) above sea level, with its borders shared by Uganda and Rwanda.
Gahinga is loosely translated as “Pile of stones” in the local Kinyarwanda language.
The hike takes you through the bamboo forest, a paradise for a medley of wildlife species such as mountain gorillas, Black-fronted duikers, golden monkeys, bushbucks, etc. The volcano's peak has a beautiful swamp with unique flora and stunning views.
At a glance
- Duration: 12 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 12 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What is included
- Driver guide
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- Private 4x4 WD safari Vehicle
- Hiking Permit
Not included
- Porters
- Personal expenses like shopping, Visa, Flights, Insurance
Itinerary and highlights
Early in the morning at 5:00am, you will be picked up from hotel in Kigali and drive 3hrs to Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi for registration and briefing about the Hike and what to expect.
You will be assigned the park rangers and guides to start the hike which takes you through bamboo forests hence you might get a chance to spot mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, elephants and bushbucks in addition to bird species. Also expect to enjoy the breathtaking views of other Virunga Volcanoes from a distance that will make you wish to hike them as well.
Hiking Mount Gahinga lasts 6-8 hours, you ascend to the stunning view of the peak will begin to welcome you. Upon arrival at the swamp-dominated peak, you will take photos and enjoy your packed lunch or snacks and rest for some time before preparing to descend to the base of the Mountain.
Later you will descend the volcano via the ladders back to the park headquarters and drive to Kigali or lodge.
Languages and tickets
- German — Guide
- sv — Guide
- English — Guide
- Italian — Guide
- French — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Silverbird Tours Agency
Accessibility and practical details
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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