Mount Bisoke (also known as Visoke) is a 3,711-metre active stratovolcano in the Virunga chain within Volcanoes National Park, and the second most popular trekking destination in the park after the gorilla trekking. The summit holds a beautiful crater lake, and the full-day climb — a return trek of about 12 kilometres through montane forest and giant heath zone — is one of the best hikes in Rwanda.
The trail begins at the same park headquarters at Kinigi that serves the gorilla treks. Guides are mandatory and are provided by the Rwanda Development Board at the trailhead. The hike requires a reasonable level of fitness and appropriate footwear — the upper sections can be muddy, and the altitude (gaining over 700 metres from the trailhead) is felt by those coming from sea level. The reward at the summit — the crater lake below you and views of the other Virunga volcanoes in all directions — fully justifies the effort. Permits cost considerably less than gorilla trekking permits and must be booked through the Rwanda Development Board.