Expedition at Mount Nyiragongo
Expeditions at Mount Nyiragongo which is located in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), makes it one of the most captivating and unique destinations for adventurers and nature lovers.
This active stratovolcano, known for containing the world’s largest lava lake, is part of the Virunga Volcanic Province along the East African Rift System.
The main crater is about two kilometers wide and usually contains a lava lake. The crater has two distinct cooled lava within the crater walls where one is at about 3,175 m and a lower one at about 2,975 m.
The Nyiragongo expedition offers a unique combination of natural beauty, thrilling adventure, and cultural exploration. Nature enthusiast and photographers, truly Nyirangongo gives extraordinary experience to you.
Nyiragongo provides a chance to witness one of the most spectacular volcanic landscapes on Earth while engaging with the rich culture and history of the region.
Attractions at Nyiragongo
The Lava Lake
At the summit of Nyiragongo, you will find a 1.2-kilometer-wide crater that houses a boiling lava lake, which has been active since at least 1971.
The sight of the glowing molten rock is breathtaking particularly at night when the red hue lights up the sky. This “sea of lava” is a major draw for tourists, photographers, and volcanologists.
Diverse Wildlife
The volcano is covered with lush forests that are home to a wide range of wildlife at the lower side of it and these include; chimpanzees, different species of monkeys, the rare three-horned chameleon, bushbucks, and numerous bird species.
The climb to the top offers an opportunity to experience this unique biodiversity up close.
Goma City
Goma is the largest town near Nyiragongo which is a hub of cultural and historical significance in the eastern DRC.
Visitors often explore Goma’s markets, local cuisine, and nearby Lake Kivu’s beautiful beaches.
The city has developed significantly as a tourism destination and serves as a gateway for Nyiragongo treks.
Virunga National Park
The trek up Mount Nyiragongo typically begins in Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its mountain gorillas, making it a popular spot for combined trekking adventures that include both gorilla tracking and the Nyiragongo hike.
Expedition Overview
A typical expedition to Nyiragongo includes a thrilling hike to the summit. The trek begins at the Kibati Ranger Post and covers a 6.5 km path that ascends to 3,470 meters.
The journey is usually divided into five sections with breaks, taking between 4 to 6 hours to complete depending on fitness levels.
Overnight stays on the crater rim offer a unique experience, allowing trekkers to witness the mesmerizing sight of the lava lake under the stars.
Expeditions usually begin with a transfer from Kigali, Rwanda, to Gisenyi, a town near the DRC border. The next morning, participants cross into Congo and commence the trek.
After spending the night at the summit, the descent occurs the following day, followed by a return trip to Kigali or further exploration in the region.
Activities to do while at the expedition at mount Nyirangongo
Nyiragongo Trekking: Climb to the summit of Nyiragongo and witness the active lava lake.
Mountain Gorilla Trekking: Combine your Nyiragongo adventure with a trek to see endangered mountain gorillas in the nearby Volcanoes National Park.
Kigali City Tour: Start or end your journey with a cultural and historical tour of Rwanda’s capital.
Goma City Tour: Explore the largest town in Eastern Congo, rich in culture and history.
Getting to Mount Nyiragongo:
- Fly to Goma, DRC: The nearest city to Mount Nyiragongo is Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). You can fly into Goma International Airport (GOM) from major regional hubs such as Kigali, Rwanda, or Entebbe, Uganda.
- Overland from Rwanda: Many visitors opt to travel overland from Kigali, Rwanda. The journey takes around 3-4 hours by road, crossing the border at Gisenyi/Rubavu into Goma.
- Organized Tours: Joining a guided tour is highly recommended for safety and convenience. Tours typically include transportation from Goma to the starting point of the trek, securing permits, and providing a guide.
- Obtain Necessary Permits: You will need a permit to trek Mount Nyiragongo, which can be arranged in advance through tour operators or the Virunga National Park website.
Best Time to Visit Mount Nyiragongo
The ideal time to visit Mount Nyiragongo is during the dry seasons:
- January to February: The weather is generally clear, offering the best conditions for trekking.
- June to September: This is another dry period, with less rainfall and milder temperatures making it favorable for hiking.
For more information on planning a trip to Nyiragongo, consider checking out local tour operators like Gecko safaris Africa for tailored packages that include all the essentials for a safe and memorable adventure
