Mount. Mikeno

Mount. Mikeno is one of the highest mountains within the Virunga Mountain ranges standing at 4,437 meters above sea level. Located in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and bordered by Uganda and Rwanda, it is the highest mountain in the country, coming in 13^th place in Africa. Mount. Mikeno is a very old dormant volcano dating back to the Pleistocene Epoch.

The name Mikeno means “poor” in the local language because its slopes are steep and therefore humans can’t settle there, however mountain gorillas call this place home as it favors their stay. The mountain harbors other wildlife species like mammals, reptiles, Amphibians and primates like blue monkeys, olive baboons, Colobus monkeys and more. Hikers are treated to over 706 bird species found within the Virunga National Park such as Madagascar Bee-eater, grey throated starling, Ruwenzori Turaco, Kivu ground thrush and many more.

The first person to hike this mountain and reach its peak was Wanshoff Van der Meesch in 1932.

Hiking Mount. Mikeno

Climbing this volcano starts from Bukima patrol post and after 4 hours travelers will reach Kabara campsite which is the first resting place and it is where Akeley Carl, a nature photographer and conservationist who died of fever during a hike in 1926 was buried. After enduring the harsh slopes for four more hours, hikers will reach the stunning Mikeno summit, though most hikers stop at the first campsite due to the tough terrain and fear of heights.

Being home to the endangered species of Mountain gorillas, hiking can be accompanied by gorilla trekking. These two activities can simultaneously be carried out.

Due to its harsh slopes, climbing Mikeno mountain it is tough but rewarding with its breathtaking scenery at the summit. Therefore, experienced hikers can easily navigate along the mountain.

What to carry?

During the hike, one should carry good and strong hiking boots, warm clothing, raincoats, enough energy foods and water, insect repellents, umbrellas and all hiking essentials. Tourists are also provided walking sticks for support and porters are available to help carry heavy luggage during the hike, visitors can hire them at lower prices in case they need their support.

You need to present your hiking permits, passports and other necessary travel documents like yellow fever certificates before the officials.

How to get there?

Since it is near the Rwandan border, visitors can easily start the journey from Kigali city by road transport which can take about 3-4 hours of drive.

When to visit Mount. Mikeno?

The best time to visit Mount. Mikeno is during the dry season that happens between June and September as well as from December to February. This period of time is composed of less rain and therefore the hiking trails are not muddy and slippery. There are also high chances of coming across gorilla families during the hikes.

Sándor Jakubinyi

14:31 22 Feb 24

2019 megigazulás

12:45 21 Feb 24

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09:38 08 Jan 24

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00:41 15 Nov 23

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18:01 27 Oct 23

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travel uganda

16:35 27 Oct 23

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