Hiking Trails and Scenic Spots in the Park

May 1, 2025
Volcanoes National Park Insights

Hiking Trails and Scenic Spots in the Park

Hiking trails in Volcanoes National Park: For adventurers and nature lovers planning a trip with Gorilla Rwanda Safaris, exploring the hiking trails and scenic spots in the park adds another thrilling layer to your experience. While gorilla trekking is undoubtedly the highlight, the national parks of Rwanda and Uganda also offer breathtaking hikes, volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and unique viewpoints. Whether you’re walking in the shadows of ancient volcanoes in Volcanoes National Park, traversing dense jungle paths in Bwindi, or enjoying panoramic ridge walks in Mgahinga, these parks offer immersive journeys into Africa’s most stunning wilderness areas.

Let’s explore the best hiking trails and scenic spots that you should consider adding to your itinerary.

1. Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)

Located in Rwanda’s Northern Province, Volcanoes National Park is famous for its mountain gorilla population, but it’s also home to an array of hiking opportunities that offer scenic views and rich biodiversity.

Bisoke Volcano Hike

The Mount Bisoke hike is among the most popular in the park. This full-day trek leads you to a stunning crater lake at the summit, sitting at 3,711 meters. The trail winds through bamboo forests, alpine meadows, and lava rock paths.

Duration: 6–7 hours round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Scenic Spot: Crater lake and panoramic views of the Virunga Mountains

Mount Karisimbi Trek

For experienced hikers, the Mount Karisimbi hike is the ultimate challenge. At 4,507 meters, Karisimbi is the highest peak in Rwanda. This 2-day hike includes a night of camping on the mountain and is perfect for those looking to push their limits.

Duration: 2 days
Difficulty: Strenuous
Scenic Spot: Bird’s eye view of the Virunga Range and Congo basin

More Web Resources: #Visit Rwanda – Karisimbi Hiking Info

Dian Fossey Tomb Trail

This moderate hike leads to the original research center of Dian Fossey, the renowned primatologist. The trail meanders through dense vegetation and ends at her grave, where she was buried near her favorite gorilla, Digit.

Duration: 2–3 hours round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Scenic Spot: Rainforest views and historical significance

2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda)

Mgahinga, Uganda’s smallest national park, lies in the Virunga Mountains and offers spectacular hikes across extinct volcanoes, making it a hidden gem for hiking enthusiasts.

Mount Sabyinyo Hike

Known as the “Old Man’s Teeth,” Mount Sabyinyo straddles the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC. Hiking to its summit is a unique experience—you can stand in all three countries at once.

Duration: 8–9 hours
Difficulty: Difficult
Scenic Spot: Panoramic views of three nations from the summit

Gahinga Trail

The Gahinga trail is ideal for those looking for a moderate, shorter hike. It passes through bamboo forests, which are home to the endangered golden monkeys, and offers impressive views of Mount Muhabura.

Duration: 4–5 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Scenic Spot: Bamboo zone, crater swamp at the top

Related Blog: Flora and Fauna Beyond Gorillas

Batwa Trail Experience

This cultural and ecological walk, led by Batwa guides, takes visitors through ancient forest paths used by the original forest dwellers. It’s a fantastic way to understand conservation from an indigenous perspective.

Duration: Half-day
Difficulty: Easy
Scenic Spot: Waterfalls, sacred caves, and storytelling spots

More Web Resources: #Uganda Wildlife Authority – Batwa Experience

3. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda)

While Bwindi is globally recognized for its gorilla trekking, the park also offers some of the most rewarding hiking trails in East Africa. The thick jungle, ridged valleys, and biodiversity make each trek a journey through a true African rainforest.

Munyaga River Trail

This short and easy hike is ideal for those who want to stretch their legs before or after a gorilla trek. It winds along the Munyaga River, featuring lush foliage and frequent sightings of monkeys and birds.

Duration: 1–2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Scenic Spot: River views and waterfalls

Rushura Hill Trail

One of Bwindi’s most scenic hikes, this trail leads to Rushura Hill, where you can view the Rwenzori Mountains, Lake Edward, and even parts of the Congo on a clear day.

Duration: 3–4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Scenic Spot: Panoramic ridge views

Ivy River Trail

This long-distance trail connects Buhoma to Nkuringo, two main gorilla trekking sectors. It’s perfect for adventurous trekkers looking for a day hike through varying terrains.

Duration: 5–7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Scenic Spot: Forest views, birdwatching, and rural village life

What to Pack for Hiking in Gorilla Parks

Whether you’re tackling volcano summits or taking a gentle forest walk, the right gear makes all the difference. Here’s what to include in your hiking pack:

Sturdy hiking boots
Rain jacket or poncho
Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
Reusable water bottle
Camera and binoculars
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Energy snacks

Best Time for Hiking in Rwanda and Uganda

The best months for hiking in Rwanda and Uganda are during the dry seasons:

June to September
December to February

During these months, the trails are less slippery, views are clearer, and wildlife is more visible.

Tips for Responsible Hiking

As these parks are sensitive ecological zones and home to endangered species, it’s essential to practice responsible tourism:

Stay on marked trails
Follow your guide’s instructions
Do not litter
Keep noise to a minimum
Avoid picking plants or disturbing animals

Responsible hiking ensures that these natural and cultural treasures remain intact for future generations.

Why Choose Gorilla Rwanda Safaris for Your Hiking Adventure

Choosing a trusted operator like Gorilla Rwanda Safaris (Adventure in the Wild Safaris) ensures a safe, enriching, and ethical experience. Our guides are certified, knowledgeable, and committed to conservation. We also offer:

Tailor-made multi-day hiking safaris
Combination tours with gorilla trekking
Support staff and porters for strenuous hikes
Deep cultural insights on all routes

Final Thoughts

The hiking trails in Volcanoes, Mgahinga, and Bwindi parks offer much more than exercise—they are transformative journeys through some of the last intact mountain ecosystems on Earth. Whether you’re hiking to volcanic peaks, tracing gorilla paths, or strolling along forest streams, each trail provides a unique lens into the natural and cultural beauty of East Africa.

Let Gorilla Rwanda Safaris help you explore these scenic spots with care, knowledge, and passion.

Hiking Trails and Scenic Spots in the Park