Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is where emerald-green peaks pierce the clouds, mist-clad volcanoes whisper ancient stories and vibrant communities’ welcome travelers with open arms. For those who seek more than just a hike—those who yearn to walk in rhythm with nature and culture—Rwanda’s trails offer an unforgettable journey. At Camp & Explorer Rwanda, we don’t just guide you up mountains; we invite you to step into a story shaped by resilience, community, and a deep love for this land.
Why Hike in Rwanda?
Rwanda’s landscapes are as diverse as its people. From the mystical Virunga volcanoes to the rolling hills of Kigali, every trail reveals a new chapter of this country’s rebirth. But hiking here isn’t just about summiting peaks. It’s about:
- Connecting with Culture: Meeting local communities who share traditions, stories, and smiles.
- Preserving Heritage: Supporting sustainable tourism that protects Rwanda’s ecosystems and cultural legacy.
- Challenging Yourself: Trekking trails that range from serene walks to exhilarating volcanic climbs.
This philosophy drives Camp & Explorer Rwanda, founded in 2018 by Steven Niyogakiza, a guide whose passion for Rwanda’s beauty turned into a mission to redefine tourism.
The Story Behind Camp & Explorer Rwanda
In 2021, during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, Steven envisioned a new way to travel—one where visitors and communities thrive together. This led to the birth of Kigali Cultural Experience CBT, a Community-Based Tourism initiative that ensures every hike, every interaction, and every dollar spent directly uplifts local lives.
“We don’t just take you hiking—we take you home,” Steven says. “Our trails are pathways to understanding Rwanda’s soul.”
Trails that tell a story
Here’s a glimpse into the adventures awaiting you:
1. Mount Jali Urban adventure
Mount Jali at 2,050 meters of elevation
When you arrive at the top of Mount Jali, you have Scenic View of City of Kigali, you explore Down town, Nyabugogo Marshland, Rice plantation, and fresh air from Mount Jali
Starting point: at Camp &Explorer office’s Parking
Duration:
- There are 3hours trails of Hiking and descending of Easy trail.
- There are 5hours trails of Hiking and descending Medium trails.
- There are 3hours trails of Hiking and descending Short but challenged Trail.
Rwanda’s trails are not just natural pathways but bridges to its people. At Camp & Explorer Rwanda, we design hiking trails that immerse you in community life before, during or after hiking were you can have the following experience:
- Coffee plantation and traditional coffee Experience, from crop to the cup
- Drumming and traditional dance
- Banana plantation and Banana brewing Experience
- Cows farming and Milking Experience
- Traditional local food taste
2. Mount Kigali: Urban Adventure
Starting point: at City center of at Nyabarongo River
Duration: 3-5hrs
At a height of 1,853 metres (6,079 ft), along with the taller Mont Jali at 2,078 metres (6,818 ft) directly to its North, it dominates over other hills in the city as they rise between 1300 and 1600 m
Mount Kigali offers panoramic views of plantations and marshlands, Nyabarongo River and Fazenda Sangha, where adventure meets relaxation.
Local Tip: Join a lunch in Biryogo for delicious Rwandan Cuisine
3. Bisoke Volcano: The Lake in the Sky
At 3,711 meters, Bisoke’s crown jewel is its shimmering crater lake, a sapphire nestled in the clouds. The hike is moderate but magical: ascend through bamboo forests, spot golden monkeys darting through the trees, and breathe air scented by wildflowers. At the summit, the lake’s stillness mirrors the vast Rwandan sky.
Local Encounter: After your descent, share a meal with communities near Volcanoes National Park, where farmers grow crops on fertile volcanic soil.
4. Mount Sabyinyo: The “Old Tooth”
Sabyinyo’s jagged peaks—nicknamed “the tooth”—challenge hikers with its iconic ladder climb to the summit ridge. But the reward? Standing at 3,645 meters, you’ll straddle three countries (Rwanda, Uganda, and DRC) while listening to the haunting calls of Rwenzori turacos.
Hidden Gem: The slopes are home to mountain gorillas. While hiking, you might hear their distant grumbles—a reminder of Rwanda’s commitment to conservation.
5. Mount Gahinga: The Gentle Giant
The smallest of the Virunga volcanoes, Gahinga (3,473m), is a serene hike through alpine meadows and giant lobelias. Its name means “small pile of stones,” a nod to the volcanic rocks scattered by ancient eruptions.
6.Mount Karisimbi
Starting point: Bisoke Parking
Duration: 2 days
Length: 12 km (x2)
‘Karisimbi’, which translates as white shell, refers to the frequently white-capped cloud cover at the summit. At4,507m it is a strenuous yet rewarding hike, which takes two days, camping along the way.
As this is the territory of gorillas,other primates and many bird species, hikers could
be blessed with a chance of meeting them along the way.
7.Mount Muhabura
- Starting point: Nyagahinga
- Duration: 8 hours (x2)
- Length: 9 km (x2)
Mount Muhabura is the second highest of the Rwandan Virunga Volcanoes, bordering Rwanda and Uganda, and the steepest of all. The Mount Muhabura hike is the most demanding hike up to 4,127m and especially since hikers are required to complete the hike in a day. For those who make it all the way up to the top, a breathtaking
scenery will reward their challenging climb.
Your Hike Supports a Bigger Mission
When you hike with Camp & Explorer Rwanda, you’re part of a story larger than yourself:
- Empowering Communities: A portion of your fee funds education, healthcare, and livelihood projects.
- Conserving Culture: We work with local citizen to preserve traditions culture, from basket weaving to the traditional dance.
Protecting Nature: Our hikes follow Leave No Trace principles, and we partner with guides and local leaders to safeguard wildlife.
How to Prepare for Your Adventure
- Gear Up: Sturdy shoes, layers for changing weather, and a reusable water bottle.
- Meet the Guides: Our local guides aren’t just experts but storytellers, conservationists, and your gateway to Rwanda’s heart.
- Book Responsibly: Every booking supports our CBT initiatives.
Ready to Write Your Rwanda Story?
Rwanda’s trails are more than dirt paths—bridges between past and present, visitor and host, adventure and purpose. At Camp & Explorer Rwanda, we’re here to guide you, but the land and its people will leave the most profound imprint.
Contact Us:
- 📞 +250 788 621 474
- 📧 info@campandexplorer.com
- 🌐 Book now at our website: https://campandexplorer.com/hiking-2/
