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Experience the Magic of Congo’s Nyiragongo Volcano Hike

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Explore the magical Nyiragongo Volcano Hike in Congo Tours and Safaris in Virunga National Park! Gorilla Tracking included! Book permits with Tour Operators.

Nyiragongo volcano hike is one of the magical congo tours and safaris in virunga national park . gorilla tracking adventure can be aligned with nyiragongo volcano hike and gorilla permits for congo to be booked with tour operators, mount nyiragongo volcano hike.

Mt. Nyiragongo Volcano is located in north of the town of Goma and lake Kivu on the western border of Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo next to Virunga Gorilla National park which is Africa’s oldest National Park .

A 2 Days Nyiragongo Volcano Hike in Virunga National Park  is enough to make you adventure and enjoy the scenic active Volcano.

How to Book Congo Tours and Safaris

Visit the Democratic Republic of Congo and Climb Nyirangogo Volcano

Itinerary for Nyiragongo Volcano Hike 3 Days

Day 1 – Transfer from the Airport in Kigali Rwanda , Visit the Genocide Memorial and drive to Goma in Congo

Day 2 – Transfer to Kibati and Hike Mt. Nyiragongo Volcano

After breakfast in the morning, you will drive to Kibati the base of Mt. Nyiragongo one of the active volcanoes for briefing by the park rangers and start the hike. Nyiragongo is 3470m and it takes between 5- 6 hrs to get to the top. The Volcano gives a beautiful night scenic view of the boiling magma that is the high light for Triple Gorilla Tour Rwanda . Dinner and Overnight at Nyirangogo Volcano summit shelter.

Day 3 – Descend from Nyirangogo Volcano to Kibati and Transfer back to Goma Congo/Kisoro Uganda / Kigali Airport Rwanda for your late departure flight

Duration of Nyiragongo Hiking Tour

Nyiragongo hike takes about 4 to 6 hours to climb the summit that begins at Kibati at an altitude of about 1,989 meters to 3,470 meters above sea level. Guaranteed by experienced guides who will lead all your treks after checking your complete hiking and cold weather gear including packed meals, proper hydration and take preventive measures from your physician for those prone to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) because of the change in altitude. Before you make the climb, make sure you have packed accordingly since there is no food service on top of Nyiragongo to be rewarding as it is demanding. Porters will help carry your back packers to ease Nyiragongo Volcano Hike for you.

Fortunately for fitter people it is possible to climb up and descend in one day. On one occasion you will reach the top of Nyiragongo after a walk through the lava rocks you are guaranteed to have extensive views of the Virunga mountains National Park. A fine early evening dinner and overnight stay at Nyiragongo Cabins built on the edge of the lava lake will introduce you to a new beginning in the late dark hours once again to view the dim brittle outside of lava, the merging and cracking lava rocks. Seeing rock plates separate and unbelievably create a spider-web like pattern typically makes Nyiragongo Lava Lake unique with attention-grabbing views you will ever wonder in a lifetime.

On Day two, after everyone has had a strenuous climb through Nyiragongo’s magma rocks and the rim of tropical forested slopes, descend from the summit back to Kibati

The Nyiragongo Volcano Hike includes these tourist activities ;

-Transportation by 4 x4 wheel drive

-Full Board Accommodation

-Nyiragongo Hiking permit

-1 porter to carry your langage

-Packed Food

-Over Night at Nyiragongo shelter

After or Before the Nyiragongo Climbing, You may decide to go for Gorilla Tracking in Virunga National  park .

Another activity carried out along side Nyirangogo trek in Virunga National Park is Mountain Gorilla Trekking .

For more information about Nyirango Volcano Hike and Gorilla Trekking Congo Tours and Safaris, send Katona Tours an e-mail at  [email protected]    and   [email protected]   ,  What’as up: +256774161700  ,  +256701161700

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Tags Congo Tours and Safaris Gorilla Trekking Congo Nyiragongo Climbing Nyiragongo Hiking Tour Nyiragongo Volcano hike Virunga National Park

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• Tours & Dates
• Destinations

Nyiragongo Lava Lake & Mountain Gorillas

• The world´s largest and most active lava lake
• 2 days/nights camping on the volcano summit
• Trekking through rainforest and mountain moorlands
• Summit stay around full moon for photography purposes
• Virunga - Africa´s oldest national park
• Chance to spend time up close with the mountain gorillas
• Scenic drives across western Rwanda
• Private 4WD transfers and camping cook
• Insight into Rwandese and Congolese history and culture

8 days itinerary (2 nights on Nyiragongo)

Additional info

Physical requirements.

The climb up to Nyiragongo´s summit is strenuous and takes about 5-6 hours (1400m total altitude gain from ca 2000 masl to around 3400 masl and about 7 km distance) and starting in hot conditions, but the path is relatively easy and not excessively steep. The most challenging part of the descent from Nyiragongo´s summit are the first 200 m on the steep upper slopes which can be wet and slippery. Tracking the mountain gorillas may involve 3 up to 7 hours of moderate trekking across the Congolese farmlands and through rain forest. 

Arrival in Kigali (Rwanda)

From Kigali (Rwanda) to Goma (DR Congo)

Transfer to Kibumba camp

Mountain gorilla tracking in virunga national park.

Climb to the summit of Nyiragongo volcano

Full day at Nyiragongo's summit

Descend from Nyiragongo - Goma Volcano Observatory

Return to Kigali, departure (or own extension)

Tour Dates & Prices

Prices for tours at custom dates on request.

• Accommodation in double rooms with private bathrooms or tents
• Full board (B, L, D) from dinner on first day to lunch on last day, including 1 non alcoholic drink per meal
• Drinking water in the car, on the volcano and during the gorillas tracking
• Private transport in 4WD safari vans with driver during the whole tour
• 1 porter on Nyiragongo for personnal luggage
• Cook and assistants for Nyiragongo camping
• All camping equipment (except personal sleeping bag)
• Experienced English-speaking guide
• Volcanologist guide from Goma Volcano Observatory
• 2 Virunga National Park permits for Nyiragongo (600 USD)
• 1 Virunga National Park permit for mountain gorilla tracking (400 USD)

Not included:

• Flight to and from Kigali, Rwanda
• Single room in hotels / tent supplement (Single accommodation on the Nyirogongo crater is provided due to the availability and is not guaranteed. Usually accommodation is provided in twin huts)
• Extra and alcoholic drinks
• Visa fees (125 USD for DRC visa and 30*3 for Rwanda visa)
• Tips for the main guide/driver, cook, Goma volcanologist, porters, ...
• Personal expenses for souvenirs etc
• Extra night in hotel in Kigali: 150 USD for a twin or double room / 115 USD for a single room

'You have been great throughout the entire process with regard to communication and updates'

"Dear Ingrid, Again, thank you for all your efforts, but I have decided to withdraw from the entire trip and accept the full refund. You have been exceptionally helpful and diligent with your communications. I hope to make a journey with VolcanoAdventures in the future." - Barbara O. (USA) regarding the cancellation of her Nyiragongo lava lake and mountain gorillas'expedition from 24 June to 1 July 2018 due to closure of Virunga NP.

parfaite organisation de ce magnifique et extraordinaire voyage

"Chère Madame, De retour en suisse, j'aimerai vous remercier pour la parfaite organisation de ce magnifique et extraordinaire voyage qui s'est parfaitement déroulé et dont nous garderons des souvenir inoubliables . Encore un grand merci Bien à vous" - François T. (CH) about his private customised Nyiragongo lava lake and mountain gorillas expedition in May 2018 )

The organisation throughout was brilliant, in an area where its anything but straightforward.

"Hi Ingrid, I just wanted to thank you for a really great week last week. The lava lake was incredible - particularly at night, and while I hadn't been that fussed about seeing the mountain gorillas , they were pretty amazing so close-up and a real highlight . Sam was outstanding throughout - he certainly had to put up with some slightly trickier times with his guests than I think he should have - but he kept an amazing sense of humour throughout and honestly did far more than anyone could reasonably have asked of him. Without doubt he's the best guide I've ever had on any trip and I learnt a huge amount about Rwanda from him. The organisation throughout was brilliant, in an area where its anything but straightforward. Thanks for giving me my first opportunity (definitely not my last) to see lava (and to hear it - particularly at night, which I thought was amazing!). Can't wait to travel with you - and hopefully meet you in person - in the future." - Mike W. (UK) about his Nyiragongo lava lake and mountain gorillas expedition in January 2018 )

Nothing to complaint or suggest - just a big thank you!!!

"Dear Ingrid, this was a very nice tour, which i enjoyed very much. Nothing to complaint or suggest - just a big thank you!!! Preparation and info in advance by you (incl. very quick and useful answer of any question) and your team was perfect . Driving and management in Ruanda and Congo was excellent thanks to Samuel . Food was excellent too - also the one cooked at Nyirangongo. We were lucky with the weather and got dry up and down Nyiragongo as well as to the Gorillas and back. The views from the crater edge down to the magma lake were magnificent during all 3 evenings spent up there. And watching the gorillas was also very spectacular . Best Regards" - Tobias F. (Germany) about his Nyiragongo lava lake and mountain gorillas expedition in January 2018 )

The local staff were fantastic!

"Ingrid, the local staff were fantastic. Sam - our main guide - was very reliable & handling local problems. The cook was excellent . The porters were very helpful when they saw people in trouble especially coming down Nyiragongo." - Alan R. (UK) about his Nyiragongo lava lake and mountain gorillas expedition in January 2018 )

I had a wonderful trip (thoroughly enjoyed it)

"Hello Ingrid, Tom, Here is my feedback on the recent trip to DRC. ... I had a wonderful trip (thoroughly enjoyed it). Nyiragongo volcano was spectacular . Although you could see the side vent smoking away, there is no longer a lava fountain running into the main crater. At times there was high activity but you could also see the level of lava going down and then coming up again . Sometimes there was too much cloud/fog to see the crater but then it would clear and it was great to be able to see it in different light conditions . The volcano was a hard climb (~2000m altitude gain in one go is quite a lot), but not too bad. ...the climb down was much harder (due to steep slippery slopes covered in moss), ... Seeing the gorillas was also wonderful and am glad of having had the opportunity to do so . - Jay Ramji (UK) about his June 2016 Nyiragongo lava lake and mountain gorillas expedition

A truly enjoyable experience

"Dear Friends, Please find below the link to the photos i took during our recent volcano adventure, which I would like to share. It was a truly enjoyable experience, I am very grateful to all those who participated and facilitated the organization of this trip . Thanks—" - Fadi A. (Jordan) about his Nyiragongo lava lake and mountain gorillas expedition in July 2016 )

Trip was incredible!

The trip was incredible and – this (extra excursion to erupting Nyamuragira) was most definitely a highlight. We were incredibly lucky – our viewpoint was better than when the eruption first started due to the orientation of the new cone..." - Lorraine F (UK) about her January 2012 Nyiragongo Lava Lake & Mountain Gorillas expedition to which an excursion to Nyamuragira was added as the volcano as then in an intensely active phase.

Die Reise war super! ( Nyiragongo Vulkanexpedition )

"Hallo Tom, ...Ich bin Dir noch ein Feedback vom Nyiragongo schuldig: Die Reise war super! Trotz nicht ganz Trockenzeit-konformer Witterung am Vulkan war die Sicht auf den Lavasee, der recht aktiv war, mehrmals sehr gut. Die Gorillas konnten wir aus geringer Distanz beobachten , und bei guter Witterung. In der Gruppe verstanden wir uns bestens (war ja auch nur eine Miniaturgruppe), und Sam hat uns bestens betreut. Auch der anschliessende Besuch im Akagera Nationalpark, auf dem mich Camilla Walter begleitet hat, war lohnenswert." -Markus H. (Schweiz) zur seiner Sommer 2011 Nyiragongo Vulkanexpedition )

Requested tour:

Name and (billing) address of the main traveler (person responsible for the booking):, you can enter the names of up to 3 additional participants in your booking:, additional information:.

Mount Nyiragongo Volcano Congo, Nyiragongo Hiking Safaris & Tours

Mount Nyiragongo Volcano is an active stratovolcano with an elevation of 3,470m within the Virunga Mountains associated with the Albert Rift. The Mount Nyiragongo hiking safari tours take you to the world's most powerful active volcano within Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo north of Goma and Lake Kivu.

Mount Nyiragongo Volcano is part of the chain of eight volcanoes in the Great Rift Valley which is known as the Virunga volcanic chain. Other volcanoes include Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Sabyinyo, Mikeno, Gahinga, and Nyamuragira.

Being one of the world’s largest active volcanoes, the Nyiragongo volcano lava lake is very fascinating and impressive among all lava lakes. Nyiragongo has the world’s largest lava lake bubbling within its summit crater.

Congo Mount Nyiragongo vented on May 22nd, 2021, when the fractures opened up in the volcano’s rocky sides, spilling fast-moving lava down its slopes. This major eruption was massive and that’s why Benoît Smets, a geohazards expert at the Royal Museum for Central Africa calls it one of the most dangerous volcanoes in Africa.

The eruption is due to many storm factors and the lava is remarkably fluid and moves up to 40 miles an hour sending large amounts of lethal carbon dioxide gas to the surface.

Goma Volcano Observatory is responsible for the volcano with the help of scientists. Despite, the eruption, Nyiragongo remains a top attraction in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This amazing stratovolcano containing the world’s largest lava lake offers the best hiking experiences.

The volcano’s lower forested slopes are home to a variety of animals that you can see during your ascent like Chimpanzees, monkey species, and myriad bird species.

For a better experience, climbing Nyiragongo volcano can be combined with Gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park giving you unforgettable memories all in one trip.

Mount Nyiragongo Just Erupted—Here’s Why It’s One of Africa’s Most Dangerous Volcanoes

This Mount Nyiragongo Volcano/mountainous volcano is one of the places in the world that has a lake of lava bubbling within its summit crater. Nyiragongo opened up its fissures in the volcano’s rocky sides spilling fast-moving lava down its slopes to the ground.

During the volcanic activity, some of the lava headed toward Goma city which displaced around 1.5 million people. The sky shimmered with a cherry hue as lava piled and speedily invaded the streets of several villages surrounding Goma city and swallowed several villages.

The past disasters have left volcanologists nervous every time Nyiragongo shows signs of life and that’s why Benoît Smets an expert at the Royal Museum says that it is one of the most dangerous volcanoes in Africa.

Nyiragongo’s reputation is due to a perfect storm of factors. Its lava is amazingly fluid moving at a high speed and the eruptions can send large amounts of lethal carbon dioxide gas to the surface.

Goma Volcano Observatory is responsible for monitoring the volcanic activity with the help of scientists though there were no signals detected before its latest eruption and there is an impending eruption to expect.

Volcano Nyiragongo: Lava Lake in Congo

Mount Nyiragongo Volcano is part of the 8 Volcanoes chain in the Great Rift Valley, known as the Virunga Volcanic chain. Its eruption style of choice is Hawaiian eruptions, and the generation of lava lakes and lava flows of particularly low-thickness basaltic lava.

On the eruption, solidified basalt plates form on the surface of the largest lava lake. The basalt plates float on the lake surface and are punctuated by cracks of red-hot lava.

Also, these plates isolate the lava lake so that molten lava remains liquid below the surface for a long time. The feeding rate of fresh material is as with most lava lakes relatively low though the heat flow from the interior of the earth which is higher than in most volcanoes.

Between 1923 and 1977, there was a lava lake which vented, and the lava lake flowed through a large fissure vent. There were massive lava flows. In the year of 2002, Congo Mount Nyiragongo vented again flowing with a stream of lava on the slopes destroying several villages before flowing into the Kivu Lake.

Since that year, a new lava lake has boiled in the crater of Nyiragongo Volcano, and the Goma volcano observatory is on watch of the mountain and other lava lakes for any impending eruption with the help of scientists.

The New Lava Lake in the Crater of Nyiragongo

The summit of Nyiragongo is dominated by a crater having a diameter of 1.2km with lava bubbling since 2005 making it the biggest in the world. The lava lake was roughly 800m below the main crater rim and rose to 450m below the crater rim by 2011.

Many terraced plateaus in the crater show the status of earlier lava lakes. At many times of the day, there are periods of increased activity in the lava lake related to the development of lava fountains.

This lava lake level increases slowly by about 10m before it sinks again relatively fast forming lava fountains which are about 12m high.

The lava lake surface is in constant movement caused on the one hand by convection. As the level of the lava lake changes, crustal plates and fountains move to the eastern side of the crater rim, where there appears to be a discharge into the magma chamber. This second process appears to be related to the variation in the lava lake level.

The vent from which lava rises seems to be well-kept in the northwestern third of the lava lake. The recent pictures show that the crustal plates form on the largest lava lake spread radially from one point.

Climbing Mount Nyiragongo: A Hike to the World’s Largest Lava Lake

Climbing Nyiragongo can be challenging for those who are not prepared enough and not physically healthy enough. One needs to be ready to deal with the steep slopes and rugged terrain.

There are porters that you can hire from the Kibati Ranger post. The ascent starts with a briefing at 9 am with assembling the whole team including cooks and other participants in the hike.

You should know that there are five segments when climbing Mt Nyiragongo. The first section of the ascent involves climbing through a region at a lower altitude. This first section at one point requires only those who are mentally or physically prepared.

After the first section, you can have a major stop after some hours of the hike, and this is when altitude increases bringing more challenges.

In the second segment of the ascent, one has to deal with small loose lava rocks, however, it is easier to go through the region when in good hiking boots.

After accomplishing the second part, you then have to deal with not only the small loose lava rocks but also slippery stones and challenging conditions of higher altitude. By the time you ascend to the fourth segment, the Mountain slopes become steeper and steeper with greater cold due to high altitude.

There is much coldness, and it is common to find rain in the section. The final part is the steepest but also the shortest. While here, you can see cabins which give more motivation to hikers.

Those who can reach this level are allowed to complete the rest of the ascent at their own comfortable pace. You then reach the summit and enjoy the remarkable sightings of the boiling world’s largest lava lake for hours which can be a highlight of your life.

Getting Down

After marveling at the world’s largest lava lake with boiling lava and magma, it is the initial time to descend Mountain Nyiragongo. If you are descending faster, it can take about three hours to reach the starting point though it is a bit challenging.

You need to be curious enough so that you don’t get hurt by the sharp rocks. When descending Mountain Nyiragongo, you get clear sightings of Virunga National Park and other distant volcanoes and many amazing things in the region. You also get views of the Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda, the Rwandan city, and Lake Kivu.

How to Climb Mount Nyiragongo on a Budget

Climbing Nyiragongo is easier to enjoy on a budget than Mountain Gorilla trekking in Congo . This is because you don’t need to stay in the Democratic Republic of the Congo the night before your climb.

Arrangements can be made so that you are picked up from the border straight to the starting point the same morning which is less than an hour. Permits for climbing Mt Nyiragongo are $300 through Virunga National Park and it is inclusive of accommodation in the cabins at the top.

You can also hire a porter to help you carry your backpack at around $24. You can also spend an extra $100 to get the gear with a meal package. With the package, there is a warm sleeping bag and liner, a rain jacket, and a fleece, and you also get snacks, 5 liters of water, and a delicious three-course meal cooked for you in a warm hut at the top.

If your budget is so tight, then you can skip any extras and just pay for the permit to ascent to the world’s largest lava lake within hours.

The Best Time to Hike Nyiragongo

Hiking Nyiragongo volcano can be done all year round though the dry season is the most preferred by visitors. The dry season is usually between June and September and also December, January, and February.

The rainy seasons make the slopes slippery making it challenging for hikers to climb the Nyiragongo region. There is also better lighting when you reach the summit for photographs of the lava lakes with a glimpse of the volcanic activity.

During this time, the daytime temperature is bearable compared to that of the wet season as there is less mist on the summit hence clear views of the lava crater.

The average temperature experienced up the mountain range is between 10°C to 30°C with the lowest temperature being 8°C while the maximum is 31°C.

Is It Safe to Visit Mount Nyiragongo?

Yes, it is to visit Mount Nyiragongo volcano despite the eruptions that this volcano has experienced over the years. It is one of the few places on earth one would think that it is not inhabited by people since it has the largest fluid lava in the world.

Surprisingly, the lower slopes of Nyiragongo region are populated with a large number of people living in village settlements while its densely forested lower slopes are habitats for various animals like Chimpanzees, Bushbucks, monkey species, and bird species.

The hours you spend at the summit with views of the lava lake can be your highlight of life.

What to Pack for Hiking Mount Nyiragongo

Visitors going to climb the Nyiragongo to see the world’s largest lava lake, one needs to be well-equipped and prepared. You need to carry the most essential items though don’t forget to travel light.

• Decent hiking boots that are water-resistant
• Multiple pairs of socks
• Waterproof hiking pants
• So many thermal clothes
• A hat, a pair of gloves, and a scarf
• A headlamp to wear at night

What Causes Nyiragongo to Erupt?

The eruption of Nyiragongo Volcano is said to be caused by tectonic plates near Lake Kivu. The rifting action of the Rift system makes pathways for magma to rise and create volcanoes.

Solid mantle material is rising from considerable depth to interact with the underbellies of the tectonic plates. Most magma has silica in it which is a compound that acts as a sort of skeleton in molten rock.

Scientists say, the less silica, and the less goopy the lava is once it erupts. The volcano’s magma is also particularly rich in carbon dioxide air. If carbon dioxide-rich magma is tapped by Nyiragongo, dangerous volumes of the gas may also gush leading to a major eruption.

Also, eruptions at Mt Nyiragongo happen when the pressure of accumulating magma or earthquakes force open fissures in the sides of the mountain that form the draining of the lava lake or eruption of magma.

Between eruptions, Nyiragongo’s summit crater tends to fill up with magma and it has been the case since the 2002 eruption. After

How to Get to Virunga National Park/The Democratic Republic of the Congo

Before traveling to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, visitors need to first secure a hiking permit before applying for a Visa through Virunga National Park. You can travel to DRC by air to Goma airport or by road.

With your Visa, you will enter the country through the Grand Barrière border crossing between Gisenyi in Rwanda and Goma City in the DRC. It only takes four hours to get from the Rwandan city to Gisenyi though the distance is short the road network makes it longer due to slow driving.

Once you get to the border crossing, you will get stamped out of Rwanda, present your yellow fever card, and then get stamped into the DRC. The process is easy and quick as it takes less than an hour as you will not get any inconveniences.

Is Mount Nyiragongo Still Erupting?

Yes, Mountain Nyiragongo Volcano is still lively. Congo Nyiragongo erupted in May 2021 and its major attraction is the world’s largest lava lake roughly 2 kilometers wide located in the main crater. This lave lake is 250m deep and filled with liquid lava.

It is a stratovolcano meaning that it can erupt at any time.

When Was Mount Nyiragongo Last Eruption?

It was on May 22nd, 2021, leaving the world’s largest lava lake with fluid lava flows having basalt plates on the largest lava lake surface. This Africa’s most active volcano and most dangerous in the world had lava flow from the Mount Nyiragongo Volcano flowing to the northeast of Goma city in DRC.

What Is Mount Nyiragongo Famous For?

Mt Nyiragongo is known for its devastating eruptions. It is well known as an active volcano in eastern Africa and central Africa having the world’s largest lava lake. After the eruptions, molten lava flows to several villages and destroys them.

How Many People Died In 2002 Nyiragongo Eruption?

In the 2002 Nyiragongo eruption, about 245 people died in the eruption from asphyxiation by carbon dioxide and buildings collapsing due to lava and earthquakes.

Lava flows covered 13 percent of Goma city and the eruption resulted in the displacement of so many people.

Where Can the Nyiragongo Volcano Be Found?

Mt Nyiragongo is part of the Virunga Volcanic province within Zaire along the western branch of the East African Rift Valley.

It has a lava lake in its 1.2 km-wide summit crater floor that has been erupting since at least 1971.

How Many People Died in the 1977 Nyiragongo Eruption?

Nyiragongo had a deep summit crater floor with an active lava lake that, in 1977, catastrophically drained through its outer flanks.

In 1977, a highly fluid, swiftly moving lava flow that was flowing from the top lava lake to the ground caused the destruction of multiple communities and the death of 50 to 100 people as it surrounded them.

What is the meaning of Nyiragongo? | What does Nyiragongo mean?

Nyiragongo means Mountain of Fire and this volcano contains the largest active lava lake in the world.

What is the location of Mount Nyiragongo Volcano? | Where is Nyiragongo volcano located?

Mt Nyiragongo is located within Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo north of the city of Goma and Lake Kivu.

Did a Volcano Erupt in Congo?

Mount Nyiragongo Volcano vented in May 2021 leaving the world’s largest lava lake and molten lava flows on the slopes to the ground. After explosive volcanic eruptions, volcanic ash was formed.

How many people died in the Congo volcano?

About 32 people died in the volcano eruption. Lava flows out of the fissures left the slopes and surrounded the neighboring towns destroying people’s property, and the eruption resulted in the loss of lives of people in Goma City leaving others displaced.

What is the largest volcano in the Congo?

Nyiragongo volcano is the largest having the world’s largest lava lake and the basalt plates on the crater surface.

What volcano erupted in the Congo recently?

Congo Mount Nyiragongo Volcano erupted recently on May 22nd, 2021, and molten lava flowed out of the most dangerous volcanoes in Africa. Earthquakes were heard all day though no other signs were showing to be any eruptions.

In summary, Mount Nyiragongo volcano is one of the amazing places you need to visit on your African trip for great Congo  hiking safari adventures hike to its summit to see lava lakes. You will the crater with a boiling lava lake that will give you endless memories.

You can combine a visit to the Nyiragongo volcano with trekking with Mountain Gorillas in Virunga National Park for a memorable life experience on your trip.

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3 Days Nyiragongo Hike Tour

3 days nyiragongo volcano hike tour on a congo hiking safari.

3 days Nyiragongo Volcano hike safari tour explores Mount Nyiragongo which stands at 3470 meters tall in the Virunga national park eastern Democratic republic of Congo. Nyiragongo is one of Africa’s most active volcanoes and it most recently erupted in 2002 causing major destruction of property and lives of people in Goma city. On this 3 days Nyiragongo Volcano hike safari tour, hikers will be guided to the summit in about 6 hours from the bukima anger post and are rewarded with spectacular views of Virunga landscapes as well as the lave lake beneath. You will have a night at summit and it is possible walk around the crater rim in about 2 hours to observe the active lava lake and gases glow at night. On the third day you will descend and return back to Kigali.

Visitors need to bring sleeping bag, head phones, hiking shoes, rain jacket, light but warm blanket, sweaters. Start and end in Kigali

Detailed itinerary for 3 Days Nyiragongo Volcano hike safari tour

Day 1: transfer from Kigali to Goma city eastern DR Congo Pick up from your hotel in Kigali and transfer to Goma City. It is a 3 hours drive. You will reach the border, show your passport and visa then cross over to Goma city. You will explore the city; see buildings and massive volcanic rocks that tell the history of destruction by volcanic eruption in 2002.

Day 2: Hiking Nyiragongo At 07am after breakfast head to Kibati ranger station. You will meet with your guides helping you to organize hiking gears and hire the porters and cooks. You start your adventure at Kibati by climbing Mount Nyiragongo, you need at least 6 hours to arrive at the summit cabins where you will sleep. During the trek through rainforest, your guide will identify birds, plants and primates. You arrive at the summit cabins and enjoy stunning views of Virunga massifs. Your cook will prepare dinner and make your bed for tonight. You will walk along the crater rim with your guide and marvel at the active lava lake beneath. At night the scenery will be spectacular as the active lava lake emits gasses looking like fire.

Day 3: descend and return back to Kigali After breakfast, you hike back to kibati ranger post where your guide/driver is waiting for you. your trip today will finish when you return back to Kigali.

End of Tour

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3 Days Mount Nyiragongo Hiking in Congo

3 days Mount Nyiragongo volcano hike takes you to the see the only volcano with a lava lake and where tourists can pay to observe a boiling Magma Lake. Mount Nyiragongo is an active volcano found at the Virunga national park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Virunga National Park is the oldest in Africa. At one time, the park extended as far as the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Mgahinga National Park. Virunga is home to the rare okapi , Mountain gorillas, Bongo antelopes, lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, chimpanzee and countless birds. Because of its incredible biodiversity, the park is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The 2 kilometer crater on top of Mount Nyiragongo is the world’s largest lava lake. Most of Africa’s recent volcanic eruptions have come from Mount Nyiragongo and the neighboring mount Nyamuragira. It is not clear when the volcano had its first eruption but geologists trace the first eruption to 1882. There have been times when an eruption went on for years. In the 1997 and 2002 eruptions, liquid lava suddenly flowed from the volcano at great speed killing many people and displacing hundreds of thousands of residents around Goma town . Despite the lurking danger, Mount Nyiragongo is perhaps the only active volcano open to tourism in the world at the moment. There is no danger of a devastating eruption any time soon because the volcano has been calm since 2002. If you are among the lucky ones to hike the mountain, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the boiling lava from a safe distance.

Our 3 Days Nyiragongo package is very popular but if you already in Goma town or are interested in a shorter trip starting from the town, you should check out our 2 days Nyiragongo Hiking Package. We also have an amazing 4 days Nyiragongo hike and Congo mountain gorilla package. If you want to track the gorillas in Rwanda before crossing to Congo to view the lava lake, you can instead go for the 5 days Rwanda gorillas and Nyiragongo Hike Package.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Pickup – Kigali City Tour – Transfer from Kigali to Congo

Dinner and overnight will be in Kibumba Tented Camp (Mid-range), Bukima Tented Camp (Mid-range) of Mikeno Lodge (Luxury).

Day 2: Nyiragongo Hike –  Observing the Lava Lake

Day 3: Descend the Nyiragongo volcano and head back to Kigali.

End of Hike

Quote Inclusions and Exclusions

The cost of the 3 days Nyiragongo volcano hike will include: –

• Airport transfers
• An English speaking driver/guide
• The Nyiragongo volcano Hike
• The Nyiragongo Hiking package (fees, Guide/Ranger and porters to carry supplies)
• Bottled water and lunch while traveling
• Transport in 4X4 vehicle
• Accommodation and meals

The cost of the 3 days Nyiragongo hike excludes: –

• International flights and Visas
• Personal expenses on laundry, crafts, drinks, cigars, souvenirs and tips.
• Personal Porters to carry your back pack and heavy cameras. The Chef and Porters to carry supplies are covered in the tour cost.

Accommodation

Kibumba tented camp : Kibumba Tented Camp is the closest lodge to the Nyiragongo hike starting point. It is a mid-range lodge hence very budget friendly. Kibumba offers 18 self-contained tents that can accommodate up to 36 people. Each tent is well set with a private bathroom, a large bed, working desk and a shower. They have a resident chief who prepares tasty meals for both lunch and supper. If you want to drink something, you can just go to the bar and order for alcoholic or soft drinks. Kibumba is close to Goma town and is highly recommended for those who are planning to hike the mountain.

Bukima Tented Camp: Bukima Tented Camp is an optional mid-range lodge located at the edge of the park – next to the starting point for gorilla trekking. It was initially built to house researchers in the park but is now used by tourists who are interested in gorilla trekking. Bukima Tented Camp comprises of plush platform tents with a bed, wardrobe, working desk, shower and other furnishings. Each tent offers majestic views of the park, the Nyiragongo and Mikeno volcanoes. At night, the beautiful glow of the Nyiragongo Volcano paints the sky red. Bukima is also special because Mountain gorillas can be spotted within or around the Camp on a lucky day. Gorilla trekking starts right from this camp, implying that you get to meet most of the tourists residing in the other lodges.

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Hiking The Nyiragongo Volcano in Congo – Cost and Price of Permits

The volcano last erupted in 2002 and what remains now is a giant black rock that is visible from Goma in Congo and Gisenyi in Rwanda. The DRC offers a double experience of hiking the Nyiragongo volcano and gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park . If you can see both mountain gorillas and the lava lake on top of the volcano, you would have had a truly memorable African safari .

Getting your way to Mount Nyiragongo

A night on top of the Nyiragongo volcano and descending down

What are the requirements for climbing the Nyiragongo Volcano?

What should one pack for climbing mount Nyiragongo

Warm clothes: Lighter clothes may be used at the start of the hike and at low altitude. But as one climbs higher, the mountain gets freezing cold especially at the summit. Clothing that can withstand rain such as a jacket, sweater, warm socks, scarves and gloves will come in handy. Whilst a rain jacket is important for hiking mount Nyiragongo, let it be warm and not too bulky to increase on the weight of your luggage.

Comfortable hiking boots: Having mentioned the slippery trail, steep sections of the hike, stones along the trek, visitors are also advised to carry shoes with a good grip (rubber soles). The shoes should be water proof, comfortable and should be able to keep your feet warm.

Sleeping bag: At the top of the summit are cabins that are fitted with mattresses and comfortable pillows. But one needs a sleeping bag for more warmth and comfort.

Snacks and Water: Climbing mount Nyiragongo is no daunting task. It leaves one tired, hungry and thirsty. Food/snacks and water will help the body rejuvenate to enable you reach the summit in good condition.

Hire a porter: During the briefing at Kibati village, porters can be hired for $15 per day. The porters are accustomed to the challenges of climbing the mountain and can help visitors with carrying their luggage for the entire duration of the activity.

A hat and sunscreen: The mountain climbing experience either presents sunshine or rain. The hat and sunscreen will come in handy especially if you hike during the dry season.

Backpack: This may seem obvious but you need one to keep all your belongings in one place during the journey. You need one luggage to carry all your belongings if possible so as not to be burdened by extra weight. A good back pack will help store all your gadgets and clothes

Portable charger and a torch: Remember that you will be far away from the real world for two days. You don’t want to see your phone, iPad or cameras lose power while you are at the summit because you didn’t come with their chargers and batteries. Charging your gadgets is possible from the cabins at the summit.

Additional Information About Hiking Mount Nyiragongo

The best time to Hike Mount Nyiragongo: Whilst the mountain can be accessed throughout the year, the rainy season comes with difficulties. The hiking trail can get too wet and slippery hence causing more exhaustion as hikers take longer than usual reaching the summit. In this regard, visitors always prefer the dry season which is between June to September and December to February.

Use a stick for hiking: These are usually provided by the park Rangers to help you remain steady and balanced as you navigate steep slopes. Hiking sticks will also help relieve your legs/knees from unnecessary strain.

Keep your valuable safe: Hiking the Nyiragongo volcano often occurs in the company of complete strangers from across the globe. By that we mean fellow hikers or hired help/porters. It is therefore important to keep all valuables safe and within your reach because you just never know.

Mission Africa Safaris is a leading safari company registered in Uganda with an office in Rwanda. We offer gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania and The DR Congo.

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Nyiragongo Volcano Trek

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Nyiragongo crater boasts the largest lava lake in the world.

Nyiragongo offers an exhilarating gift to those who have conquered its slopes: the world’s largest lava lake churning away in a mosaic of molten red fire.

Guests get spectacular views from the top of Nyiragongo.

Breathtaking sunrises can be viewed from the top of the volcano before descending.

The Nyiragongo volcano trek is divided into five sections, with a 15-minute break at each stop. Hikers commence the ascent at the Kibati Ranger Post at an altitude of 1870m and reach the summit at 3,470m, with a 6.5km hike each way. Average climbing time is between 4 and 6 hours, with descent off the volcano taking around 4 hours. Times are dependent on group speed and agility as the slowest person on the trek sets the pace.

The first section of the trek will take guests through dense forest at the base of Nyiragongo. It is in this area that hikers are encouraged to keep a look out for wildlife, including monkeys and bushbuck.

The forest ascends up into the second section whose open skied trails offer beautiful views of the valley below. The third section takes you across old lava flows and past steaming volcanic fissures. After entering high montane forest to traverse the fourth section, the fifth and final ascent is a steep 300m to the summit.

Once at the top, exhaustion melts away as Nyiragongo offers an exhilarating gift to those who have conquered its slopes: the world’s largest lava lake churning away in a mosaic of molten red fire. The most breathtaking spectacle is saved for last however, when the sun goes down and Nyiragongo begins its nightly glow against a backdrop of stars.

The temperature at the volcano summit frequently drops below freezing, with occasional high winds and rain.

Please ensure that you bring adequate rain and cold weather gear. We recommend packing a couple of extra pairs of dry, clean socks. Gloves and headwear come in handy as well.

Trekkers are responsible for their own equipment, food and water.

Trekkers are encouraged to take at least 3 litres of water.

Please note that all water, charcoal for heating and cooking, as well as food and cooking equipment have to be carried by hand to the top of the volcano. If clients would like to rent hiking equipment and/or hire a cook from the Park, it is at an extra cost.

Local porters are available for hire at the start of the trek at Kibati Ranger Post.

“This was without any doubt one of the best experiences we have ever had. Climbing Mount Nyiragongo was such a rewarding and humble experience. Once we reached the top we were rewarded with an extraordinary view and experience.” (TripAdvisor review)

“This trip is one of the best things I have ever done! The view of the lava lake at night is like nothing on earth!” (TripAdvisor review)

“The lava lake is incredible and we spent hours watching the waves of lava and listening to its roars. This was a truly amazing and unforgettable experience, and probably one of the best things I have ever done.” (TripAdvisor review)

Gorilla Tours to Rwanda, Uganda & Congo

Congo Gorilla Tours & Nyiragongo Volcano Climbing

Gorilla tours to Congo are done through Kigali were travelers fly to Kigali international airport and cross over to Congo through Rubavu/Goma border in North Kivu province and Cyangugu south of Lake Kivu. Besides gorilla trekking , Congo offers you the most exceptional hiking tours to the top of the active Nyiragongo Volcano whose summit shelters the world's largest lava lake.

Featured Congo Gorilla Safaris & hiking Packages

4 Days Congo Gorilla Trekking Safari

5 Days Congo Mountain gorilla Safari (2 Treks)

6 Days Congo Gorillas & Nyiragongo Hiking Safari

6 Days Congo Mountain & Lowland Gorilla Safari

5 Days Nyungwe Chimps & Congo Lowland Gorilla Trek

8 Days Congo Gorillas & Idwiji Island Tour

Guide to Congo Safaris

Due to continuous insecurities in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the government and Park managements have put strategies to ensure safety of travelers on gorilla safaris and hiking experiences. For that case, armed rangers guide all safaris to Congo right from the hotel/lodge to the park and back. Your Guide from Gorilla Trek Africa will take you to the Lodge and wait fro you from there. However despite the instabilities, gorilla safaris and other travel experiences in Congo remain exceptional and worth doing. Check the MUST do things in Congo with Gorilla Trek Africa

Mountain Gorilla Trekking

Enjoy guided Congo mountain gorilla treks to Virunga National Park. The park is one of the four parks where these endangered primates live in the whole world. Virunga Park is believed to shelter over 300 mountain gorillas, which travelers chance to experience this magical feeling of looking into the eyes of the silverback gorilla. There are 8 habituated gorilla families in Congo which guarantee availability of 64 gorilla permits everyday. Interestingly, a Congo gorilla permit costs $450 which make it cheaper and affordable compared to Rwanda @$150 and Uganda @700 per permit. Congo is therefore the best gorilla tour destination for budget travelers.

Lowland Gorilla Trekking

Go to trek the endangered eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park! The lowland gorillas are the largest specie compared to other species in the world. It’s only in this Park that travelers can trek lowland gorillas in the globe.

Nyiragongo Volcano hiking

For adventure travelers, Nyiragongo hiking is the best experience for you in Congo. Enjoy a trek on the lose rocky slopes to the summit of the active Nyiragongo and get chance to peep into the world’s largest crater lake with boiling lave. The 3 Days Nyiragongo tour is the best package for you to conquer this Volcano. The permit for hiking Nyiragongo volcano costs $300 paid at the head quarters of Virunga National Park. You can s combine Nyiragongo hiking and gorilla trekking to make your experience more enjoyable.

Birding and nature walks

A guided walk through the jungle forests of Congo is a magical experience you will live to remember. Walking on foot through the forest gives you chance to discover the hidden gem you cannot see on a vehicle. Also, enjoy birding experience to see various bird species in Congo some of which are jot found anywhere else in the world. Some birds to see in the Democratic Republic of Congo include White faced whistling duck, White backed duck, Knob billed duck, Spur winged goose, Gadwall, Yellow billed duck, Flamingoes, Cape shoveler, Maccoa duck, Northern Pintail and Black guineafowl among others.

Generally, Congo is naturally gifted by nature to offer you all you need on a safari. Contact Gorilla Trek Africa and book a tailor made Congo safari to trek mountain gorillas, lowland gorillas and Nyiragongo Volcano experience.

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Mount Nyiragongo Volcano In DR Congo, Nyiragongo Hiking Safaris & Tours

Mount Nyiragongo volcano in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is one of the most active volcanoes in Africa as well as on Earth. In fact, this striking Nyiragongo volcano is another great tourist attraction popular for Mount Nyiragongo hiking safari tours after gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park and Kahuzi Biega National Park.

Volcano Nyiragongo summit is capped with a breathtaking 1.2km wide boiling lava lake crater having steep-sided walls thus, making it the largest lava lake crater in the world. This spectacular stratovolcano in Virunga Mountains rises over 3,470m above sea level within the Albertine Rift Valley region- inside Virunga NP.

Ranking among the most violent volcanoes on Earth, Nyiragongo has exploded several times. From 1882-2021 May, it has exploded at least 34 times. These eruptions have led to loss of life as well as properties on its foothills. It’s listed among the most dangerous volcanoes in the world today!

For a rewarding safari experience on your African safari tours on Congo gorilla safaris, it’s also possible to hike Nyiragongo. Adventurous travelers shouldn’t miss this golden opportunity to see the spectacular boiling lava lake crater! Thousands of travelers on gorilla trekking tours in this country have done so, why not you then?

We can arrange for you memorable Nyiragongo hiking expeditions on top Rwanda gorilla safaris, inquire now.

Mount Nyiragongo Eruption History – When Was the Last Time Nyiragongo Erupted?

Are you wondering how many times has Mount Nyiragongo erupted? Since the year of 1882, Nyiragongo eruptions have occurred about 34 times. This includes the various times the eruptions could happen continuously at a time- often in the form of a churning lava lake in the crater.

Scientists had suspected the existence of a crater lava lake at the summit of Mountain Nyiragongo however, it was confirmed in around 1948.

Although several outbursts have happened (recorded ones) since 1882, the most recent eruptions include that of 2002 and 2021 in May- the latest one.

Today, the explosions are still happening though confined within the lava lake crater- molten lava (magma) views offer a memorable scenery, ideal for incredible photoshoots.

The deadliest Eruptions of Congo Mount Nyiragongo

1977 ERUPTION OF MT NYIRAGONGO

Between 1894 and 1977, the crater at Nyiragongo’s summit contained a crater lava lake. On 10th January 1977, the walls of this lave lake fractured, and the lava lake drained in less than an hour.

Molten rocks flowed down its flanks (at the upper slopes) at a speed of about 60km/hr- the fastest lava flow recorded to date, crushing several villages and killing over 2,000 people in villages of Kibati and Moniki, according to reports made at the time.

NYIRAGONGO 2002 ERUPTIONS, MT NYIRAGONGO ERUPTION 2002

After lava lakes reformed in the crater in eruptions of 1982-1983 as well as 1994, another major eruption started on 17th January 2002. This was after several months of seismic and fumarolic activity.

These violent eruptions (volcanic activity) of molten magma led to the opening up of a 13km fissure on its southern flank. It spread in a few hours from 2,800 to 1,550m altitude, reaching the outskirts of the city of Goma, the provincial capital on the northern shore of Lake Kivu.

Earlier, a warning had been given by the Goma Volcano Observatory and 100,000 people were evacuated to the Kisenyi region. Molten lava (magma) covered the northern part of the runway at Goma International Airport and reached Lake Kivu.

This raised worries that the lava (magma) might cause gas-saturated waters of L. Kivu to rise on the surface, releasing lethally large amounts of Carbon dioxide and Methane! This didn’t happen.

About 245 people died in this eruption from suffocation by Carbon dioxide as well as buildings collapsing due to the lava and earthquakes. Lava covered about 13% of Goma city and roughly 120,000 people were left homeless in the region.

After these violent eruptions, a large number of earthquakes were felt in Goma City and Gisenyi area for about 3 months. 6 months later after the start of this 2002 Nyiragongo eruption, it exploded again.

2021 ERUPTION OF NYIRAGONGO

This began on 22nd May 2021. Molten lava (magma) reached Goma airport. It also moved towards the city center of eastern Goma.

Authorities urged the residents from the city of Goma to vacate! The eruption resulted in so many people leaving their homes to save life. However, many people went missing (presumed dead), the Beni highway surface was cut off and there was an electric cut-off across large areas.

Climbing Mount Nyiragongo- How Long Does It Take to Climb Mount Nyiragongo?

Never miss climbing Mt Nyiragongo (3,470m high) while on your Congo  gorilla trekking trip in Virunga National Park !

This remarkable hike offers you great views of the world’s largest lava lake crater. Taking a selfie with a backdrop of lava bubbling is one of the great adventures in DRC.

HIKING NYIRAGONGO VOLCANO- THE WORLD’S LARGEST LAVA LAKE CRATER

The Nyiragongo hike is divided into five sections. You’ll relax for 15 minutes at each stop as you ascent.

Hikers interested in exploring the world’s largest lava lake at Nyiragongo summit start the ascent at the Kibati Ranger Post which is around 1870m altitude. This climb (ascent) covers about 6.5km, taking 4-6 hours average climbing time. The climbing time depends on the group speed, as well as the agility of the slowest person on the trek.

Nyiragongo hiking first section takes you through a beautiful dense forest at its foothills . If lucky, in this region you can encounter lovely wildlife such as Monkeys, and Bushbucks.

This beautiful forest ascends into the second section which holds open skied trails with magnificent views of the valley below. A third section takes you across gorgeous old lava flows plus steaming volcanic fissures. On entering the high montane forest to traverse the fourth section, the fifth and final ascent is fairly challenging steep 300m to the summit.

Upon reaching the summit of Nyiragongo, you’ll enjoy jaw-dropping views of the world’s largest lava lake crater with lava bubbling . The views of this lava lake with churning mosaic molten red fire will amaze you.

There are 12 cabins at the ring of this lava lake crater. While here, in the night you’ll enjoy watching the night glow of Nyiragongo against the backdrop of stars. It can be the best moment to take a selfie!

Try out our 3 days Nyiragongo hiking tour in Congo – hiking the world’s largest lava lake!

GETTING DOWN TO MOUNT NYIRAGONGO

After having wonderful views of the boiling lava lake- the world’s largest lava lake crater, you’ll descend. Descending is easier than ascending! It takes about 3 hours to reach the starting point.

While sloping, be cautious not to hurt your feet on sharp rocks. You’ll enjoy gorgeous views of the mighty Virunga National Park, Lake Kivu the distant snow-capped peaks of Rwenzori Mountains.

Cost For Climbing Mount Nyiragongo

The cost for hiking Nyiragongo is $300 per person for each trek . Nyiragongo trekking permits are obtained from Virunga National Park or you can book yours through your tour operator who is organizing your Congo gorilla safari trip.

A porter costs $15

Hikers intending to spend a night at the mountain pay $100. It includes meals, water as well as a sleeping bag.

Packing List for Hiking Mount Nyiragongo – What to Pack for Nyiragongo Hike?

All visitors intending to explore Nyiragongo should come with some essential items for a rewarding adventure. Always travel light, just pack crucial staff only!

Below is the Nyiragongo volcano hiking pack list:

• Suitable hiking shoes are ideal on rocky slopes, ground, or surface.
• Camera & Binoculars
• A rain jacket
• Warm jumper to keep you warm
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
• Sleeping bag
• Enough drinking water and energy-giving snacks
• Sunscreens and sunhat
• Insect repellents
• Light backpack
• Warm clothing e.g. a sweater so helpful at night when the temperature is low.
• Travel documents i.e. A valid passport and a yellow fever vaccination card
• Personal toiletries e.g. Toothpaste and toothbrush
• Walking stick- gives you extra support on the ground while walking on challenging slopes.

Best Time to Hike Nyiragongo Volcano – When Is the Best Time to Hike Nyiragongo Volcano?

It’s possible to hike Mt Nyiragongo all year round . However, we advise our travelers to hike Nyiragongo in dry months when minimal rainfall inconveniences are expected in Virunga National Park.

The dry months in DRC are June-early September and December to February.

In DRC, October-November and March-May are wet months, rains are usually much in most hours of the day. The hiking trail as well as gorilla trekking trails can be challenging.

How to Get to Mount Nyiragongo? | How Do I Get to Mount Nyiragongo?

Mt Nyiragongo can be reached from numerous areas however, due to security reasons it’s safer through Gisenyi Town from Rwandan City- Kigali.

Visitors will be driven for about 20km (about 30-minute drive) to the border of Rwanda and DRC before crossing to Goma. Then, from Goma city, you’ll start having views of the unique great black cloud in the air- volcanic emissions (volcanic activity) as you drive for about 16km to the park headquarters in Kibati Village.

In case you’re a solo traveler, you can hire a taxi from Goma city at about $20 to Mountain Nyiragongo in Virunga NP.

Is Mount Nyiragongo Safe? | Is It Safe to Visit Mount Nyiragongo? | Is It Safe to Hike Mount Nyiragongo?

Is Nyiragongo safe? Yeah, it’s safe to hike Mt Nyiragongo. For the past good years, numerous visitors (travelers) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have hiked Nyiragongo Volcano to explore the hidden treasure in DRC- the world’s largest lava lake crater, and most expeditions (99%) end successively.

Mount Nyiragongo eruptions (Nyiragongo volcano eruption) are monitored by a team of scientists at Goma Volcano Observatory (GVO). These scientists continuously monitor it with seismic data produced every 4 minutes and temperature data produced every 10 minutes.

Indeed, it’s safe to hike Mt Nyiragongo!

Can Scientists Predict Nyiragongo Eruptions? | Can Science Predict When a Volcano Will Erupt?

Yes, scientists can monitor and predict the time when it’s about to erupt. Normally, much black smoke is seen!

Other signs or warnings about the impending eruption include earthquakes, bulging of the volcano’s flanks as well as increasing emissions of harmful gases (i.e. Carbon dioxide) to the surface.

It’s very possible for volcanologists to tell especially if they have a thorough understanding of a volcano’s eruptive history. Their machines can help them to predict!

Guide to Nyiragongo Volcano Hike- What to Know Before Climbing Mount Nyiragongo?

For a rewarding hiking experience, there are some hiking tips you should at least know before undertaking the Nyiragongo hike!

These are the tips for hiking Congo Mount Nyiragongo:

• Come with warm clothes

These are so helpful in low temperatures at night while at your accommodation at the rim of the world’s largest lava lake.

• Don’t get close at the age of this lava lake crater

There are no barriers at the summit of Nyiragongo, therefore, it can be easy for you to slip and fall. Unnecessary to say, but in a few past years, a Chinese woman died when she tumbled into this lava lake crater!

Therefore, avoid getting very close to the edge, not even a gram.

• Consider putting on light hiking boots

These protect your feet on the rocky slopes while on the hike

• Be fit for the hike- How hard is hiking Mount Nyiragongo ?

It’s ideal you try to increase your body fitness level before you come on this fairly challenging hike. Climbing Nyiragongo doesn’t require previous hiking experience. This hike takes about 4, 5, or 6 hours depending on the speed of the group. The rangers will move at the pace of the slowest hiker!

• Don’t hike on weekends

Weekends are so busy! Most of the UN as well as other workers from NGOs in Goma city normally climb (ascent) on Saturdays. Always target weekdays when the visitors are minimal.

• Get a travel insurance

DRC is one of the riskier destinations, so we suggest that you get travel insurance.

Hire a porter

These guys will help to carry your heavy bag or give you a push while on the hiking trail. A porter can cost over $15.

• Stock some Diamox

This drug helps you in case you have some illness of altitude sickness along the slopes.

• Leave your luggage behind

You can leave your package at the park’s storage area. It’s not wise to hike with unnecessary items on challenging slopes.

• Never attempt to fly a drone over this lava lake!

This world’s largest lava lake crater is a graveyard for drones. It has something to do with drones flying.

• Tip your porter, cook, ranger, and guide

At one point, tipping is not a guarantee however, it’s ideal you come with some extra cash on this hike. These guys risk their lives to hike Nyiragongo- one of the most violent volcanoes in Eastern Africa.

More FAQs About Mount Nyiragongo

What Is the Location of Mount Nyiragongo? | Where Is Nyiragongo Volcano Located? | Where Can the Nyiragongo Volcano Be Found?

Where is the location of Mount Nyiragongo? Nyiragongo is one of the world’s most violent volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains of East Africa Central Africa. It lies within Eastern DRC in the volcanic expanse of Virunga NP near the border of Rwanda, 19km north of Goma city.

What Country Is Nyiragongo Volcano In? | Which Country Is Mount Nyiragongo?

Nyiragongo Volcano within the Democratic Republic of the Congo is one of the most dangerous volcanoes in Africa with the largest lava lake crater. It’s possible to undertake Nyiragongo hikes on top of your Rwanda gorilla safaris.

What Is the Meaning of Nyiragongo?

Nyiragongo is an incredibly active Volcano in Eastern DRC. In fact, it holds the world’s largest lava lake. On your trip to DRC, it’s possible to visit this mountain and witness its scenic lava lake crater.

What Type of Volcano Is Mount Nyiragongo? | Is Mount Nyiragongo a Cinder Cone Volcano?

Nyiragongo is a stratovolcano! It’s one of the most violent volcanoes on Earth found in DRC, part of the 8 ranges in the Virunga area.

It was formed as a result of molten magma (lava flows) onto the Earth’s surface. After the ash, rocks, and previous lava flows solidify onto the Earth’s surface, a volcano is formed.

For about 5 decades, it cradled a lava lake on its summit.

Is Mount Nyiragongo Still Erupting? | Is Mount Nyiragongo Still Active? | Is Nyiragongo Still Erupting? | Is Mount Nyiragongo Active?

True, Nyiragongo Mountain in DRC is an active volcano and one of the most perilous volcanoes in the world. It last exploded in May 2021 and its summit holds a boiling lava lake- the largest lava lake in the world.

How Tall Is Mount Nyiragongo?

This great natural wonder with the world’s largest lava lake raises about 3,470m above sea level in the Virunga Mountains.

Mount Nyiragongo Facts- What Are Nyiragongo Volcano Facts?

These are the interesting facts about Nyiragongo- one of the most dangerous volcanoes in Africa.

• Nyiragongo is summited with one of the world’s largest lava lakes. This lava lake is about 1.2km wide.
• Nyiragongo main crater lava lake has been bubbling since 2005.
• It has exploded over 34 times from 1882 to 2021. This makes it one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the entire world.
• Nyiragongo last exploded in May 2021.
• This mountain is a stratovolcano in the 8 ranges within the Virunga Mountains region.

When Was Mount Nyiragongo’s Last Eruption? | When Was the Most Recent Eruption of Mount Nyiragongo? | When Was the Last Eruption in Congo?

2021 Mount Nyiragongo eruption is the last eruption in DRC. There was great lava flows that blocked Beni highway and thousands of people had to evacuate the area. However, many people went missing, presumed dead.

How Many People Died in the 1977 Nyiragongo Eruption? | How Many People Died in the Congo Volcano?

Over 50 people were killed, and several villages were destroyed after Mountain Nyiragongo exploded in 1997.

According to the reports, after the fracturing of the lava lake walls (on 10th January), the lava lake drained in less than one hour! These lava flows (at a speed of 60km\hr) made the fastest lava ever recorded on Earth.

How Many People Died In 2002 Nyiragongo Eruption? | How Many People Died in the 2002 Mt Nyiragongo Eruption?

About 250 people lost their lives and over 120,000 were left homeless after the molten lava flows.

What Is Mount Nyiragongo Famous For? | What Is Unique About Mount Nyiragongo?

Nyiragongo in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is renowned for its amazing boiling lava lake at its summit. Thousands of travelers every year on gorilla safaris explore this natural wonder!

How Deep Is Nyiragongo Crater Lake?

It’s believed that Nyiragongo Crater Lake is about 2,600 feet deep, almost half a mile. Its crater floor is filled with a boiling lava lake.

What Causes Nyiragongo to Erupt? | How Was Mount Nyiragongo Formed?

It’s believed that Congo Mount Nyiragongo exploded due to the movement of tectonic plates near Lake Kivu and the constant seismic activity in the region.

The interior of the Globe is under great heat and pressure, and this leads to the melting of rocks to form magma. The continuous movement of tectonic plates raises pressure and in case of any line of weakness, lava flows out and solidifies on the surface. Usually, gases like Carbon dioxide and Methane are also released.

Did A Volcano Erupt in Congo? | Which Volcano Erupted in Congo? | What Volcano Erupted in the Congo Recently?

Mountain Nyiragongo exploded in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since 1882, this mountain has exploded over 34 times and the most recent is the eruption of May 2021.

Volcanicity in DRC happens due to the movement of tectonic plates.

What Are the Hazards of Mount Nyiragongo? | How Does Mount Nyiragongo Affect the Environment?

The air around Nyiragongo comprises some acidic gases that can affect the lives of people in the surrounding regions. During volcanic activity, Sulphurous gases, Carbon dioxide, and Methane escape to the surface through fissures on in the ground leading to loss of lives due to suffocation.

What Is the Largest Volcano in the Congo?

Found in the Virunga Mountains in the Albertine Rift Valley region, Nyiragongo rises about 3,470m above sea level and it’s the most famous in DRC.

It’s surrounded by other beautiful summits of the Virunga ranges all formed due to the movement of tectonic plates .

What Is the Largest Lava Lake in the World?

Among the lava lakes in the world, Nyiragongo Summit holds the largest! This dazzling lave lake is about 2km wide.

On the African continent, it’s one of the unique amazing lava lakes every adventurous must visit!

In summary, the best way to explore Mountain Nyiragongo – (one of the most violent volcanoes in Eastern Africa) is to undertake the Nyiragongo hike on top of your gorilla trip in DRC.

Climbing Nyiragongo will offer you a golden opportunity to have remarkable views of the world’s largest lava lake. This is one of the rare adventures worth undertaking on your African safari tour ! At one point if time allows, you can also visit Mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park or the great Royal Museum.

Let’s Explore This Great Natural Wonder Together, Inquire Now !

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Welcome to Mount Nyiragongo Volcano

Mount nyiragongo is one of the most dangerous active volcanoes in the world and it is famous for amazing scenery viewing & mountain hiking/clmbing tours in congo ., visit mount nyiragongo volcano dr congo nyiragongo hiking safaris & tours in volcanoes virunga goma.

Mount Nyiragongo volcano is one of the active volcanoes standing at an altitude of 3,470 m above sea level and having the world’s largest lava lake. Mount Nyiragongo hiking safari tours take you to the world’s most powerful active volcano which is among the 8 Virunga Mountains within the Albertine Rift and is inside Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, found in Central Africa.

This Volcano is 12 km North of Goma City and Lake Kivu on the Western border with Rwanda.

Mt Nyiragongo has a major crater which has a lava lake, 2 kilometers wide. This crater has two different cooled lava benches in the crater walls with one being about 3,175m and the other 2,975 m.

The depth of the lava lake in the mountain has always been different depending on the different eruptions through the years. Many of the lava lakes are thus created from the edges of the tectonic plates.

Before the 1977 eruption, the lava lake was about 3,250 m and after the 2002 eruption, the lava lake was recorded to be 2,600m or about 900m below the rim. However, the level of the lava lake has since increased in level.

Due to these historical eruptions, Mt Nyiragongo and Namuragira both found in the Virunga region have all been responsible for 40% of Africa’s historical volcanic eruptions from its lava lakes.  Therefore, making them one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world due to the active volcanic activity in both volcanoes, plus others surrounded by them.

Nyiragongo, having the world’s largest lava lake carries a record for having the fastest lava flow on the surface of the earth during one of its eruptions where the lava flows from the lava lake occurred in less than an hour.

The Nyiragongo Volcano protects many animals including the Bushbuck, different Monkey species, the Three Horned Chameleon, and various bird species.

Inquire for your Mt Nyiragongo trip today and let us help you organize your tours to this amazing destination.

The Active History of Mount Nyiragongo Volcano and Its Lava Flows

Congo Mount Nyiragongo Volcano erupted at least 34 times since 1882 and there have been long seasons where the mountain was active due to the stirring lava lake in the crater.

Although the molten lava in the lava lakes is like that of many volcanoes, the heat flow, that produces carbon dioxide from magma in the open surface is much higher in the world’s largest lava lake.

The 1977 Eruption

A lava lake existed in the crater of Nyiragongo between 1894 and 1977. However, on the 10th of January 1977, this world’s largest lava lake drained in less than an hour because of the fracturing of the crater walls.

The lava flows from this largest lava lake in the world went down at a speed of 60km/h and this was the fastest lava flow to be recorded in history to date.

This lava flowed through several villages, killing at least 50 people in Kibati and Moniki, thus known to be one of the most dangerous volcanoes on the earth’s surface.

This 1977 major eruption unveiled the dangers that the lava lake was capable of causing to the neighboring people. The eruption resulted in a small volcanic vent was made, a short distance away on the Nyamuragira. Therefore, the world’s largest lava lake made Nyiragongo one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world.

The 2002 Eruptions

This 2002 eruption occurred on 17th January when the lava flowed even to Goma City found on the Northern shore of Lake Kivu. There was not much danger to the life of locals living near the volcano as many of them were warned before the occurrence of the eruption. 400,000 people were evacuated and some crossed the Rwandan border into Gisenyi.

However, about 245 people died due to the asphyxiation from carbon dioxide-rich magma, and about 120,000 people were left homeless due to the eruption as the lava flows covered about 13% of Goma City.

The lava flows from the world’s largest lava lake ran up to the runway of Goma International Airport in Goma City and even reached the L. Kivu.

After 6 months, the Mt Nyiragongo eruption took place again, making it one of the world’s most dangerous volcanoes.

The 2021 Eruption

On 22 May 2021, there was another major eruption from the volcano in which the molten lava flow from the lava lake at the summit reached the ground to the Goma International Airport in the city center of Eastern Goma.

Since so many people were advised to leave Goma City and neighboring areas, many were left homeless. There was no electricity in an extensive region and on 27 May 2021, 37 people were said to be missing and thus assumed to be dead.

Thus, this Mount Nyiragongo Volcano eruption led to at least 32 deaths from burning and carbon dioxide filling the air.

2 Days Nyiragongo Volcano Climbing Tour Congo

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A Congo safari trek to mount Nyiragongo is a hooray journey to the world`s largest active lava lake. The whole hiking experience of Nyiragongo Mountain contains most of the theoretical geography that you have studied.

The Nyiragongo trek begins from the bottom of the volcano in Goma. You will have a stopover at the Virunga National Park office to sign-in along with your guide. The trek to the top of Mt Nyiragongo is often done in groups ranging from a couple of people to 12 but it usually depends on the day.

The hike begins at 1,994 meters above, and then you will embark on more 1,524 meters of elevation up to the summit which is approximately 3,502meters. The hike is approximately 8km, not so long but you will experience a sharp altitude in such a short distance. Hiking is like a game of footballers, they run for 90minutes with just a break of 15minute!

Then you too do not have to worry whether you will manage this steep trek. The trek is not as strenuous as most people say, you just need to get prepared and be passionate. Armed rangers and porters are always at a standby to give you maximum support.

Porters will possibly carry for you your luggage to the top and back. Should you fear and chose to stop along the way, talk to you porter and ranger. They will definitely bring you back. But of course, you don't have to tremble, you can hike.

Brief History about Virunga National Park in Congo

Virunga National Park in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on the border of Uganda and Rwanda.

Virunga National Park is the oldest national park in Africa and has the biggest population of mammals, birds and reptiles in the African continent.

It covers an area 7800Km2 (3000 square miles) (790,000 ha), that includes forests, savannas, lava plains, swamps, erosion valleys, active volcanoes, and the astonishing glaciated peaks of Rwenzori mountains.

The only park in the globe that hosts three taxa of Great Apes, Virunga national park in the Democratic Republic of Congo is most famous for housing up to about a quarter of the world's critically endangered mountain gorillas, and the other two Great Ape species, the eastern lowland Grauer's gorillas and chimpanzees.

Virunga National park is also home to the Okapi, a threatened species that resembles a zebra but is more closely related to the giraffe. Large colonies of hippopotami, forest and savanna elephants, lions, and numerous rare bird species can also be found in the park.

It is believed that the Nyiragongo volcano erupts due to the tectonic plates that fracture from the Lake Kivu rift allowing magma to pass through them, and the continuous seismic activity in the region.

The basalt plates usually separate the lava lake for the molten lava to remain in liquid form for a long period – many hours.

Consequently, a fissure opens from the plates, causing flows from the lava lake to run downhill.

The New Lava Lake in the Crater of Nyiragongo

Until 1948 when it was discovered, the lava lake at Nyiragongo Volcano was previously suspected to exist. At the time of its discovery, the lava lake was measured and was found to be 120,000 square meters, but later measurements confirmed it to be changing in depth, size, and temperature.

This world’s largest lava lake is within a broad, steep-sided cinder cone of about 18m high and about 180m wide on the crater floor, and its eruption is still prone to happen.

This new lava bubbling since 2005 also form lava fountains that rise to about 12m high. The many plateaus in the crater reveal the same patterns of previous lava lakes before eruption for example earth earthquakes.

The Goma Volcano Observatory and scientists are striving to discover other signs before the eruption apart from the common earthquakes to predict any future volcanic activity.

Mount Nyiragongo Erupted Recently – Why This is Africa's Most Dangerous Volcano

Even though the mountain eruption last happened in 2021, current trends in the geologic factors reveal that this volcano is still a threat to the neighboring people and the eruption will still happen.

Mountain Nyiragongo is one of the few volcanoes on the surface of the earth with a consistent lava lake boiling in its crater floor.

Hundreds of people living on the slopes have been killed through the previous eruptions and thousands have been displaced from their homes from the destruction of the lava.

More so, each eruption resulted in large amounts of carbon dioxide overshadowing the air surface of several villages thus a big threat to the locals living in the slopes on the ground.

The Possibility of a Future Impending Eruption

Nyiragongo Volcano still shows signs of an impending eruption soon for example earthquakes. Studies reveal that due to the active status of the lake, there is a possibility of it erupting again.

It is assumed that the next time this volcano erupts, the magma rising to the lava lake will flood Goma City and the shores of Lake Kivu will also be covered with a large amount of carbon dioxide from the magma. The magma may move below the grounds, thus causing a new volcanic vent in the middle of Goma City.

Therefore, Goma City together with the Gisenyi border is in a very serious threat. However, scientists are studying the frequency of any possible future eruptions and the likely paths that the lava flows may take in the future.

It is also revealed that the neighboring inhabitants of the mountain slopes cannot move to a safer region and in case of any future eruptions, millions of people will greatly be affected.

In addition to the country’s political instabilities throughout the years, the Nyiragongo Volcano is a place you can visit for your trip but with a lot of safety precautions, especially from a reliable tour operator.

Hiking/Climbing Mount Nyiragongo | Tourism at the Nyiragongo Volcano

Since the Nyiragongo volcano is on the borders of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and Rwanda, it is much easier to connect from any of these countries from Eastern Africa to tour the Volcano.

The ascent on the Nyiragongo volcano is through five sections and visitors will rest for at least 15 minutes at one point at a time at every break stop during their ascent.

This ascent to the mountain begins at the Kibati Ranger Post nearest to the slopes and is at an altitude of 1870m to the summit which is 3,470m.

The ascent to the top of the mountain will take about 4 hours to 6 hours and descending to the ground slopes of the mountain takes about 4 hours depending on the speed of the hiking group.

The first section of the ascent will lead you to the dense forests at the bottom of the Nyiragongo. This first section is the one point to view the different wildlife of the mountains including the different Monkey species and the Bushbucks, among others.

After the first section, the second section of the ascent offers an amazing scenery viewing space for hikers in which they will have a look at the extensive vegetation and the valley below the ground.

Additionally, the third section of this ascent will lead you across the old lava flows and churning volcanic fissures that form on the surface or the slopes. The fourth section crosses beautiful montane forests while the fifth section leads you 300m to the summit of the volcano.

When you reach the summit of the mountain, the beautiful extensive views of the vegetation and the valley below on the ground will carry you away in its exhilarating views. You will meet the world’s largest lava lake burning in a red fire once on the summit.

A beautiful view is also emitted at night as this world’s largest lava lake glows against the beautiful night stars.

Local legends believe that after people die, the souls of sinners burn the lava lake of Nyiragongo and good people enjoy eternal life on the snowcapped summit of Mt Karisimbi.

To climb to the crater of the largest lava lake in the world, you will need to get permission from the National Park Service and you will be accompanied by a ranger.

Additionally, it is best to use a reputable Congo tour operator who has at one point experienced organizing such tours for tourists.

How to Climb Mountain Nyiragongo on a Budget | Climbing Mount Nyiragongo Cheaply

It is possible to climb this main crater to see the largest lava lake in the world on a budget tour.

Below is how you can climb this main crater to see the lava lake with a simple budget.

• Instead of spending on expensive accommodations, you can get cheap accommodations for about $11 at the Gisenyi border or spend about $ 40 if you stay at Goma City. Virunga National Park will pick you up in the morning.
• The Nyiragongo hike is $ 300 if you climb through Virunga National Park and this cost includes the cost of your accommodation at the top. Thus, you are recommended to spend on the meal package and porters to manage costs.

Travel Tips and Practical Information to Consider Before Hiking Mt Nyiragongo

While on an ascent to the summit, the temperature drops, and therefore it is colder at the summit than on the lower levels. There are also a few cases of high winds and rain at the summit upon your ascent. Thus, it is important to carry sufficient attire and equipment for rain and cold temperatures at higher altitudes, especially at the summit point.

Visitors are responsible for their hiking equipment, food, and water, but by using a tour operator, they can get a lot of help and make their journeys more comfortable. According to our long experience in organizing tours to this lava lake, and important information from scientists from bodies like the Royal Museum, we provide the best experiences for your trip.

You are advised to carry at least 3 liters of water while on your ascent to the summit.

Hiking gears can however be hired at an extra cost to make the summit ascent and stay much more comfortable. Water, charcoal, and other cooking equipment are carried by hand to the crater top, but you can hire porters cheaply (about $24) to help you with this.

Additionally, hiring a wooden walking stick will go for about $5 and you can spend about $100 for gear and meal package.

The meal package offered by Virunga includes hiring a cook to climb with you, availability of snacks and drinks at the rest stops, and a three-course meal once you arrive at the top of the crater.

For visitors buying a gear package, you can leave your personal backpack at a storage area because the gear comes with the needed equipment including a backpack.

Once you get to the lava lake views, avoid getting close to the edge of the crater/lava lake as it is possible to slip and fall, thus threatening your life.

Flying a drone is also not recommended as the volcanic ash in the air from the molten lava affects the way the drone flies. You will end up losing your drone in the volcanic lake.

If you desire hiking with a large group of people, it is best to join on the weekends, but if you are the type that enjoys the company of a few people, then hiking on the weekdays is recommended. This is because the weekend is when scientists from research organizations book a climbing adventure

Remember to tip the porters, guides, rangers, and cooks once you come done from visiting the crater/lava lake.

Last but not least, get travel insurance in case of any emergencies that may risk your life in terms of medication.

What to Pack for Climbing Mount Nyiragongo

There are many important things to consider packing before and when climbing Mount Nyiragongo to view the lava lake in the large crater.

Some of them include the following;

• Water-resistant hiking boots that are comfortable on the feet.
• At least two pairs of socks, gloves, head socks, and many warm clothes are also recommended to keep warm and comfortable during the hike to colder temperatures in the higher summit.

Waterproof hiking pants to keep you warm and dry as you climb to the summit.

• Altitude sickness preventative medication like Diamox is highly recommended to take during your hike.
• A headland that you can wear at night during the hike.
• A waterproof backpack to keep all your belongings safe.
• Camera for taking memorable photos of the crater and the lava lake at Nyiragongo, plus other wildlife that you will spend hours watching during your walk.

Bottled water to stay hydrated during your Nyiragongo hike to the crater/lava lake.

• Insect repellent, with the lava lakes region surrounded by some insects, and insect repellent will help keep them away.
• Pair of Binoculars
• Rain jacket or Poncho
• First aid kit

How to Get to Virunga National Park/The Democratic Republic of the Congo

Purchasing a DRC permit can be done through Virunga National Park, seamlessly. It is possible to get your visa within 48 hours without going through any hectic paperwork.

You can enter the Democratic Republic of the Congo with your visa at the Grand Barrière Border between Rwanda and Kenya in Eastern Africa, within a few hours. There are also two crossings at the Gisenyi border which leads to Goma City. Visitors who usually use the Gisenyi border fly into Kigali City (the Rwandan City) and then they continue to the border using public transport.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mt Nyiragongo

Did a volcano erupt in congo | what volcano erupted in the congo recently.

Yes, the Nyiragongo Volcano eruption in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Central Africa recently took place in 2021. However, other years in which Congo Mount Nyiragongo eruption occurred in 1977 and 2002.

What is the Meaning of Nyiragongo?

“Nyiragongo” means “Mountain of Fire”, referring to its large lava lake, also known to be the largest lava lake in the world.

What is the Location of Mount Nyiragongo? | Where is Nyiragongo Volcano Located? | Where Can the Nyiragongo Volcano Be Found?

What is mount nyiragongo famous for.

This volcano is famous for having the world’s largest lava lake on its summit.

Is Mount Nyiragongo Still Erupting?

According to recent studies, scientists believe that the Nyiragongo Volcano will still erupt in the future due to the current volcanic activity of the plates becoming magma and some fissures that form on the surface/slopes as a result, earthquakes among other signs.

When Was Mount Nyiragongo's Last Eruption?

This Congo Mount Nyiragongo erupted last on 22nd May 2021, in which many people lost their homes as the lava flows went through several villages in the neighborhood.

How Many People Died in The 1977 Nyiragongo Eruption?

At least 50 people in Kibati and Moniki, among several villages died because of the carbon dioxide asphyxiation produced from the magma and burns in the 1977 Nyiragongo eruption.

How Many People Died in the 2002 Nyiragongo Eruption? -

In 2002, about 245 people died due to carbon dioxide asphyxiation from magma and burn in the Nyiragongo eruption and 120,000 lost their homes.

How Many People Died in the Congo Volcano?

Due to the volcanic eruptions that form fissures on the surface of some places including slopes, at least hundreds of people have died from carbon dioxide asphyxiation produced from the magma or burns and more than 100,000 people lost their homes.

What is the Largest Volcano in the Congo?

The Nyiragongo Volcano which rises at an elevation of 3,470 m above sea level is the largest of volcanoes on the surface of the earth and it also has the world’s largest lava lake.

Visiting the Nyiragongo Volcano in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is thus an adventure to add to your bucket list. This adventure that leads you to the lava-bubbling summit of the Nyiragongo will bring you close to the world’s largest lava lake, a region where you can also explore the Mountain Gorillas in Virunga National Park.

Book with us your Mt Nyiragongo trip today for exclusive experiences. Inquire today!

4 Days Gorilla Trek and Nyiragongo Volcano Hike Congo

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Mount Nyiragongo Volcano is one of the most dangerous active volcanoes in the world.

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Virunga National Park Congo, Gorilla Trekking , Congo gorilla tour, Congo safaris

Virunga National park is one of not the best with diversity in Africa Famous for mountain gorilla trekking/ gorilla tours. Almost more than half of what’s in Sub Saharan Africa in concentrated in this park.  This park also boosts of two active volcanoes.  Virunga national park though has for a long time been threatened by political conflicts in DRC but somehow its still surviving. Established in 1925 by the then King of Beligium King Albert 1 and it was first called Albert national Park. It was primarily gazetted to protect the endangered Mountain Gorillas which can also be found in Uganda and Rwanda Only there by giving rise to gorilla trekking/ gorilla safari as a thriving activity. After 1960 when Congo had gotten independence the park deteriorated just like the country and it was not until the early 70s when the president picked interest in conservation that the park was revived and renamed Virunga National Park. The park is about  7800 sq km and stretches from Virunga Mountains  in the South to the Rwenzori in the north. The park is well known for its bird, mammal and reptile concentration more than any other protected areas in Africa.  Some of the notables include the chimpanzees, mountain gorillas , giraffes, buffaloes and many others.

Virunga National Park is the oldest wildlife protected area on the African soil created to protect and conserve the unique wildlife species therein, for science and research purposes and protecting an indigenous threatened fruit-gathering community; the Twa. The Virunga wildlife conservancy is the joint where the West African rainforests meet with the East African savanna grasslands and runs more than 300 km (190 mi) along the Albertine rift that splits the African continent from north to south.

The vestiges of Virunga’s rich diverse ecosystem that includes block mountain, volcanic mountains, the Albertine rift, craters and crater lakes, rainforests, woodlands, open grasslands, swamp and wetland vegetation amongst others extend into Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable another gorilla trekking destination, Queen Elizabeth, Semliki, Rwenzori and Mgahinga National Park as well as Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, both gorilla safari destinations

Of recent mountain gorillas in Virunga have been the major attraction in this park given the fact that this is among the few parks in the area with these endangered gorillas. People prefer to track the gorillas here also because the cost is low and the park is also less congested compared to other tracking centers like PNV and Bwindi. This park is still fresh for new discoveries since it has not had a lot of tourism activity for a long time since its inception and it would be a good idea for those who want research and adventures in the same line. For some good time the area has been free for rebel activity and it is safe to travel, there is of course propaganda that the place is not safe but what of the influx of tourist coming in every day.

In 1979, the Virunga was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of her ecological importance though political upheavals have had negative implications on the conservancy. The 1990’s war period in the Rwanda was so challenging to the Virunga because of high influx of refugees into the Virunga conservancy who encroached on wildlife resources. In 1994, the Virunga conservancy was declared World Heritage in Danger and later became a Ramsar site of international importance in 1996. The Virunga is still rated a strong ecological pillar for the entire east and central African ecosystem.

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How to access virunga national park.

Virunga National Park is located in Eastern DR Congo. Travel by road to Virunga is challenging in some way from the rest of DR Congo except Goma Town 32km close. Many travelers to Virunga National Park fly to Kigali International Airport, connect by road through Gisenyi town, and cross to Goma in DR Congo by dirt road. From Gisenyi it is average 2-hour drive to reach the park headquarters at Bukima. Travelers from Uganda side cross at Bunagana border post in Kisoro town and take an hour drive to Bukima the Mountain gorilla trek starting point. Ethiopian Airways operates single flights each week to Goma. The park arranges private transport for travelers arriving by air at Goma Airport. Seek guidance from Virunga National Park on the best way to travel into the park . Travelers may need ranger escorts at times to guide them on the best way to make it to the tourism zones.

Major Attractions in Virunga National Park

Climate ; The Virunga conservancy is many travelers’ dream destination because of pleasant warm weather and mild showers. The equator line runs through the Virunga and carries with it high temperatures. Some parts of the Virunga are at a higher altitude and get chilly all the time. The Virunga volcanic soils are rich in nutrients for plant growth and the favorable temperatures ensure rapid plant growth. The surrounding large water bodies; Lakes Kivu, Edward, Albert and other smaller lakes, Rivers Congo, Nile, Semliki and other tributaries have cool breezes and are ideal for water adventure activities. These factors result in a pleasant mix of tropical and equatorial climate with to mean rainfall at 190 mm (7.5 in). Mean temperatures vary between 23–28 °C (73–82 °F) in lowlands, and 16–24 °C (61–75 °F) at higher altitude. March-May and September -November experience large volumes of rains and night temperatures drastically fall low. The climate is favorable for travel and exploration of Virunga attractions all through the year.

Wildlife species ; unique impressions of number of wildlife species and populations overwhelm travelers on tour into Virunga National Park.  A combination of factors pleasant weather, soils that are fertile and rich in plant mineral content, limited number of travelers explore, discover and congest the wildlife have allowed the Virunga to remain pure and chaste. The conservancy is very rich in wildlife species, a very vibrant plant life and boasts of close to 2,077-plant life of these 264 are tree species and 230 of the grasses, shrubs, and plants are endemic to the Albertine Rift. Swamp and wetland vegetation ring the water bodies rising to open grasslands, woodlands, rainforests, montane forests, heath and alpine vegetation in the highlands. The Virunga is top travel destinations for travelers with an eye for wandering in the lush vegetation to explore and discover the beauty that is hiding in the African wilderness.

Mammals ; The Virunga overflows with stunning beauty shown by high diversity in terrain, land features, vegetation and plant species. The Virunga National Park has ideal habitat conditions for any mammal species. The 2012 wildlife census recorded 218 mammal species of these 22 are primates, 706 bird species, 109 reptiles and 65 amphibian species. Travelers into Virunga have options of observing wildlife on game viewing drives, nature walks, hikes, boat cruise or trekking them in the forest. Notable mammal sightings in open grasslands or water include elephant, buffalos, lions, hippopotamus, leopard, okapi, bongo, warthog, waterbuck, bushbuck, blue duikers, bay duiker, yellow backed duiker, red river hog, giant forest hog, topi, aardvark, kob and many others. The rainforests, montane forests and alpine vegetations are ideal places to spot primate species. Travelers trekking Mountain gorillas and tracking chimpanzees in the rainforests have high opportunities to encounter red-tailed monkeys, De brazza’s monkey, blue monkey, golden monkey, Dent's Mona monkey, Hamlyn's monkey, Central African red colobus mantled guereza, grey-cheeked mangabey, black and white colobus monkey and olive baboon. Nile crocodiles and monitor lizards are often sightings along the shores of Lakes Edward and Albert and the Semliki River.

Activities in Virunga National Park

Special Virunga Packages

• 2 days Jomba Community Camp Gorilla trek
• 6 days Ngila Classic Safari
• 2 Days Tchegera Island Retreat
• 8 Days Virunga Gorilla Extravaganza
• 5 Days Ngila Classic without Nyiragongo package
• 8 Days Virunga National Park special
• 7 days Gorilla Bonanza package
• 8 Days Best of DRC
• 7 Days Congo Gorilla & Chimpanzee Safari
• 8 Days Congo Safari tour
• 5 Days Virunga Gorilla & Volcanoes Golden Monkey Trekking
• 5 Days Virunga Gorilla & Akagera Wildlife Tour
• 10 Days Congo & Uganda Safari
• 10 Days Congo Safari Tour
• 11 Days Rwanda and Congo Safari

Safari Packages

Safari information.

• Activities to do around Lake Bunyonyi
• How do Gorillas communicate 
• Kibale Forest National Park Tours in 2024
• Nyungwe National Park Fees 2024
• Gorilla Safaris in Uganda
• Birding safari in Nyungwe forest national park
• Minimum Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Congo
• Popular Safari Packages in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accomodation Facilities in Virunga National Park

Accomodation facilities in kahuzi biega national park.

Visiting Congo one also gets a chance to visit Kahuzi Beiga, and this national park offers the following for accomodation; Mont Kahuzi Hotel , Lakeside Hotel Bukavu Camp , Exodus Bukavu Camp , Hotel Begonias , Lodge Coco and Orchids Safari Club

Trips to Virunga National Park

Virunga national park offers a number of trips to the Park which inlcude; 5 Days Virunga Gorilla Trekking & Nyiragongo Hiking Congo (Mikeno Mist), 3 Days Nyiragongo hike from and back to Kigali, 8 Days Virunga PNV & Bwindi, 6 Days Virunga Nyiragongo and Kahuzi Biega, 3 Days Virunga Gorilla Safari, 3 Days Nyiragongo Hike, 4 Days Lowland Gorilla Tracking, 5 Days Virunga Nyiragongo & Kahuzi Biega, 4 Days Gorillas and Nyiragongo, 5 Days Virunga and Bwindi and 5 Days Congo Rwanda Gorillas.

Virunga National Park on TripAdvisor

• UGANDA: +256-785 790925
• UK: +44 7955 492116

3 Day Active Volcanoe of Nyiragongo Tour

Home / Dr Congo Safaris / Congo Volcano Hiking Safaris / 3 Day Active Volcanoe of Nyiragongo Tour

Description

Detailed itinerary, getting there, 3 day active volcano of nyiragongo tour.

Face the active lava of Nyiragongo, Lava lakes are huge volumes of molten lava which form in the vents or craters of volcanoes. Lava partially fills the crater or vent following an eruption, or when a new vent erupts for a period of weeks, leaving a crater that then fills with lava. They usually have a grey crust that forms over the top as the molten rock partly solidifies in the cooler air. This crust measures between two inches (5cm) and 11.8 inches (30cm) and after it forms it gradually shifts and moves into the molten lava below and is replaced by another crust.

This process can take a few minutes, or a few hours depending on the size of the lake. This movement is often referred to as ‘tectonic’ activity because it resembles the way in which the Earth’s plates move, spread and slip. Mount Nyiragongo is part of the Virunga volcanic chain that straddles the border between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda. It is one five major lava lakes that have formed since the 1980s and has remained in existence for decades.

Safari Highlights

• Mt Nyiragongo hiking
• Kigali City tour
• Goma City tour
• Visit Lake Kivu

Tour Summary

Day 1: arrival in kigali rwanda-face the active lava of nyiragongo, day 2: mount nyiragongo volcano hike, day 3: descend from nyiragongo and transfer back to kigali.

Arrival at Kigali International Airport and transfer to Goma – Congo on a smooth road through the beautiful hilly Rwanda’s countryside to start your 3 Day Active Volcanoe of Nyiragongo Tour.

Overnight: Goma.

Breakfast followed by the transfer to Virunga national park office for the briefing the  Active Volcanoe of Nyiragongo Hike Tour and start ascending the active volcano. Hiking will take 3 or 4 hours depending on your fitness. Overnight: Tents on the top of the volcano.

Descend the volcano after your morning tea and arrive Goma town for lunch, Afternoon transfer to Kigali-Rwanda for your onward flight.

End of 3 day Active Volcanoe of Nyiragongo Tour

• All our tours/safaris can start and end in Kigali Rwanda or Entebbe Uganda with no extra costs
• Our tour consultant is at your disposal for any information you may need 24/7
• We do all your airport transfers in Kigali or Entebbe
• We arrange accommodation for you day before the tour starts and on the day tour ends with no extra costs

Transportation & Guides

We use both standard 4×4 customized safari vans and 4×4 luxury customized safari Land cruisers as our road mode of transport for game viewing, taking photos wildlife filming and photography, all our safari vehicles has pop up roofs for proper game viewing and easy for to take as much photos as you can, with also charging system for your cameras, phones and also every client is guaranteed of a window seat for easy view.

Our drive/guides are very professionally and well trained, we know every successful safari needs a great guide, majority of the comments from our clients regarding our services are centered on the professionalism of our guides, returning clients request the same guide on their second and third trip.

– Meet & greet services airport transfers to/from Kigali airport, – Accommodation and meals on safari as above, – Nyiragongo hiking  permit per person – Bottled water in the safari vehicle, – Full time services of English speaking driver/guide, – All park entry fees and set activities on the itinerary.

– Visas, Rwanda gorilla permit – Personal travel insurance and items of a personal nature. – Charter/Scheduled flights also optional extra. – Plus all expenses of personal nature like tips, drinks etc.

COST PER PERSON SHARING TWIN/DOUBLE ROOMS.

Cost per person sharing Price(USD)

1 person 1575 2 people 1350 3 people 1245 4 people 1150 5 people 1050 6 people 890

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Home » Congo Gorilla Tours

Congo Gorilla tours and safaris in lead you to two key destinations for Gorilla trekking in Congo . To be clear, I am talking about the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and due to its huge size, the country is known to bear on and off insurgencies on the Eastern side – something that creates an irony about the name “democratic”. Well, back to the Gorillas in Congo, the country is blessed with 2 species; the renowned mountain gorillas and the Eastern Lowland gorillas.

The mountain gorillas tend to be bigger than the lowland gorillas and another difference is on their hairy coat – the giant mountain gorillas possess a dark coat whereas the lowland subspecies carries a lighter grayish hair.  Congo Gorilla tours take place in the Virunga national park, a renowned UNESCO heritage site that is part of the greater Virunga massif – a giant block of volcanic mountains shared among the three countries of Uganda, Rwanda and DRC.

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Congo Gorilla Trekking: What you should know

Congo's Virunga national park is the oldest national parks in Africa established in 1925 by king Albert 1 of Belgium for the main purpose of protecting the mountain Gorillas that roam the Virunga massif. It thus carried his name; Albert Parc until 1969 when it was renamed Virunga National Park. Sadly, Gorilla trekking here has been an on and off activity until recently because of the constant insurgencies by the different militia groups in the massive forests of Eastern Congo! The park was re-opened for tourism since 2013 and operations have been smooth and there is more hope now as the security and safety of the area continues to grow with stability returning to Eastern Congo.

For those looking to visit the lowland gorillas - which are also endangered species, you will be visiting Kahuzi-Biéga national park for lowland gorilla trekking which is also a remarkable experience and an activity that also growing in popularity. The park is located on the western bank of Lake Kivu, near Bukavu town in Eastern Congo and close to Rwanda boarder. For many a visitor, a Gorilla trekking safari in Congo is not perfect enough unless combined with a tour of the active Volcano - the Nyiragongo Mountain. We offer expert knowledge and affordable tailored Congo safaris and tours including mountain and lowland Gorilla tours, Nyiragongo hike, Rwenzori trekking and other authentic experiences combining Uganda, Rwanda and The Democratic Republic of Congo. Contact us today!

Highly Recommended on TripAdvisor

Lifetime Gorilla Tour Experiences!

Rwanda, Uganda and DR Congo offer the most convenient, budget and luxury gorilla trekking experiences. Mountain gorillas are found in Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park & Virunga National Park. Want to vist gorillas in Africa? Send us an inquiry below.

Mount Nyiragongo just erupted—here's why it's one of Africa's most dangerous volcanoes

Lava from the recent eruption stopped just short of the city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. But geologic factors and inconsistent monitoring make the volcano a perpetual threat.

Mount Nyiragongo is rarely calm. The mountainous volcano in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is one of the few places in the world to feature a persistent lake of lava bubbling within its summit crater.

And late on May 22, local time, things abruptly escalated: Fractures opened up in the volcano’s rocky sides, spilling fast-moving lava down its slopes. Some of it headed toward the city of Goma, a metropolis just six miles away that’s home to around 1.5 million people. The night sky shimmered with a crimson hue as lava, sometimes piling up to three stories high , speedily invaded the streets of several villages surrounding Goma and swallowed any buildings it encountered, setting them ablaze. As of this writing, there have been 15 confirmed casualties, a number expected to rise in the coming days.

Two of Nyiragongo’s recent eruptions, in 1977 and 2002, were full-blown disasters. In 1977, estimates suggest somewhere between 600 and 2,000 people were killed by lava flows. In 2002, molten rock destroyed up to a fifth of Goma, leaving 120,000 people homeless and killing around 250 people through carbon dioxide asphyxiation, burns, and the lava-triggered explosion of a gas station .

These past disasters have left volcanologists nervous every time Nyiragongo shows signs of life. “It’s one of the most dangerous volcanoes in Africa,” says Benoît Smets , a geohazards expert at the Royal Museum for Central Africa in Tervuren, Belgium.

Nyiragongo’s deadly reputation is due to a perfect storm of factors. Because of the geologic complexities of the region, its lava is remarkably fluid, able to move at up to 40 miles an hour. Eruptions can also send large amounts of lethal carbon dioxide gas to the surface. That’s extremely worrying, since millions of people live in the volcano’s shadow.

Add in the region’s political instability and bouts of conflict, and Nyiragongo is a profoundly difficult volcano to monitor. Despite the best efforts of the Goma Volcano Observatory—set up in the eponymous city in 1986—no clear warning signals were detected prior to its latest eruption.

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With all these factors in play, the fiery mountain is capable of producing “the kind of eruptions you really fear,” says Corentin Caudron , a volcanologist at the Institute of Earth Sciences in Grenoble, France.

A tectonic rift  

Nyiragongo, whose peak stands 11,400 feet above the DRC’s Virunga National Park, owes its existence to two things. One is the leisurely geologic fragmentation of Eastern Africa. A strip of land from the Red Sea down to Mozambique is being pulled asunder, with the Nubian plate to the northwest and the Somalian plate to the southeast moving in opposite directions by a few inches every decade. This tectonic divide is known as the East African Rift.

Among other things, this rifting action makes pathways for magma to rise and create volcanoes. What’s more, a plume of superheated but solid mantle material is rising from considerable depth to interact with the underbellies of the tectonic plates. This combination of rifting and pluming creates some strange magmatic concoctions, says Christopher Jackson , a geologist at the University of Manchester in the U.K.

Most magma has a decent amount of silica in it, a compound that acts as a sort of skeleton in molten rock. The less silica you have, the less viscous or goopy the lava is once it erupts. Basaltic magma, the stuff erupting out of Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula right now , has a low proportion of silica in it, making it fairly runny, but on a flat surface it can easily be outwalked.

Not so for Nyiragongo’s molten matter: Its lava has such a deficit of silica that it zips across the ground, especially if the lava is erupting at a high rate. If the lava erupts from a high elevation, the volcano’s steep slope may give it an additional speed boost.

The volcano’s magma is also particularly rich in carbon dioxide, an invisible, odorless gas. This gas often quietly exudes to the surface via aquifers above deep-seated bodies of degassing magma. Being denser than air, the gas gathers unnoticed in low-lying areas. Locals refer to it as mazuku , or “evil wind.”

“We have many people die because of mazuku every year in the area,” Smets says. If carbon dioxide-rich magma is tapped by Nyiragongo, dangerous volumes of the gas may also gush out of fissures and flood areas rather suddenly.

A volcanic ambush

Eruptions at Nyiragongo generally transpire when the pressure of accumulating magma or an earthquake forces open fissures in the sides of the mountain, leading to the catastrophic draining of the lava lake or the eruption of magma stored deeper down.

But like the volcanoes that make them, individual eruptions have their own unique behaviors and properties, and no two are identical. Monitoring volcanoes for signs of upcoming paroxysms is therefore fraught with difficulties, and Nyiragongo’s latest flare-up is a perfect example of these challenges.

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Between eruptions, Nyiragongo’s summit crater tends to fill up with magma, and it has been doing just that since the 2002 eruption. In 2016, a second vent opened at the summit. In 2020, volcanologists flown in by UN peacekeepers, who shielded the scientists from armed rebels in the area, noticed the lava lake was filling up faster than ever . A worrying sight, but scientists can’t be sure whether the height of the lava lake is an indicator of the volcano’s readiness to erupt.

On May 10, 2021, the Goma Volcano Observatory detected an uptick in seismic activity at the summit. This was perhaps suggestive of magma moving about at shallow depths, but it was not a surefire harbinger of an upcoming eruption.

The observatory’s efforts to keep an eye on Nyiragongo have been somewhat stymied as of late. Some of its seismic stations had been subjected to theft and vandalism , with the risk of violence leaving many of them unrepaired. The observatory also lost financial support from the World Bank last year amid allegations of embezzlement .

Consequently, for several months, remote sensors lacked an internet connection, and regular on-site measurements of the volcano were not possible. Despite these ongoing issues, the observatory, with a small budget from the DRC government, and in cooperation with other international partners, kept up its efforts to monitor Nyiragongo.

But in the end, the volcano erupted unexpectedly, providing no clear geologic hints that it was about to blow. “There was absolutely no precursor for this eruption,” Smets says. “Nobody could have detected this eruption” in advance.

This weekend’s eruption surprised a city haunted by Nyiragongo’s past infernos. Down to luck alone, the lava missed Goma. By Sunday morning, the eruption had lost its intensity . The lava stopped less than 1,000 feet from Goma’s edge, leaving behind a frozen, hissing river of volcanic rock.

Even so, tragedy struck 17 nearby villages, which suffered incursions of lava, leading to the loss of hundreds of houses, a school, three health-care centers, and a water pipeline. As of this writing, two people burned to death, nine died in a traffic collision during the chaotic evacuation, and four prisoners were killed as they attempted to escape their cells.

A future of fire  

Nyiragongo is still making a lot of seismic noise, and some significant earthquakes are shaking the region, hinting at turbulence below. But scientists don’t know whether another eruption could happen soon.

This past weekend is the first time that an expansive suite of monitoring equipment—as opposed to the small assortment of seismic stations in the past—has been up and running during a Nyiragongo eruption. That’s great news for those wishing to study the current geologic activity, but without older data to compare it with,   the recent volcanic activity is difficult to interpret. But, Caudron says, these records will be invaluable to scientists working to understand the churnings of the volcano in the run up to the next eruption.

Nyiragongo will certainly erupt again, eventually. Lava could tear through Goma next time. If the area’s Lake Kivu is disturbed by major underwater volcanic activity, significant quantities of carbon dioxide may flood its shores . And if the magma moves elsewhere below ground, a new volcanic vent could open up in the middle of the city.

The hazards are plentiful and omnipresent around this hyperactive volcano. Goma, along with Gisenyi—a Rwandan city contiguous with Goma—are in near-perpetual peril.

But work is continuously being done to bolster scientists’ understanding, from determining how often it erupts to mapping out the likely future paths of lava flows, says Matthieu Kervyn , a natural hazards expert at the Free University of Brussels in Belgium.

Whatever the science reveals, many of the city’s residents likely can’t or won’t move to somewhere safer , even those who live in the eventual paths of the volcano’s future flows. Should lava once again slither through the streets of Goma, it could inflict great harm and lasting trauma on millions of people.

But perhaps the recent close encounter with widespread destruction will spark a renewed mitigation effort, leading to more robust scientific work on the ground, more active monitoring, and renewed city planning in the most at-risk areas.

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A huge volcano near Naples has been convulsing. What does it mean?

Mysteries lurk below Iceland's restless volcanoes

Iceland has entered a new volcanic era

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Congo Tours

 congo tours: gorilla trekking safaris  & nyiragongo hike 2024.

Be part of our guided Congo tours to trek the endangered mountain gorillas in Virunga National park, and hiking the active Nyiragongo Volcano with Silverback Gorilla Tour.  Our Congo gorilla tours also take you to  visit the biggest gorilla specie i,e the lowland gorillas in Kahuzi Biega National Park which are not found any where else in the world, Discover the hidden treasures of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) on our customized  adventure safaris with Silverback Gorilla Tour

Travelers who book our Congo tours have a lot to explore and experience from the untapped forest parks while enjoying Congo gorilla trekking experience Rivers, Lakes, people, and their unique cultures to thrilling volcano hiking adventures at pocket friendly prices

The lesser visits to Congo compared to other tourism destinations in East and Central Africa has left the place virgin and with a lot to offer. Interestingly,  Congo gorilla tours are cheaper at $450  compared to Uganda at $800 and Rwanda at $1500.  The low cost Congo gorilla safaris therefore make it a best gorilla trekking destination for budget travelers.  Our 5 Days Congo Gorillas and Nyiragongo Volcano hike is a teal adventure you  should not miss out on your Congo safari. Its with no doubt that  Congo gorilla tours are a major highlight for most visits made to the Democratic Republic of the Congo – D.R.C.

Congo Gorilla Safari Packages

15 Day Uganda Rwanda Safari  takes you to the best national park through Uganda and Rwanda. This safari trip starts from Rwanda and Ends in Uganda. Read More

3 Days Lowland Gorilla Tour is one of the best budget Congo gorilla safaris set for you to explore Kahuzi-Biega National Park. The package covers mainly Eastern Lowland Gorillas. Read More

3 Days Nyiragongo Volcano Hike takes you through an unforgettable hiking safari experience to historical Nyiragongo Mountain. Mt. Nyiragongo is, without a doubt, one of the very few most powerful volcanoes. Read More

5 Days Rwanda Gorilla trek & lowland gorilla trekking in Congo is an exceptional mountain gorilla trekking safari and lowland gorilla tracking adventure you shouldn’t miss. Read More

4 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trek is a gorilla trekking safari to the 2 most popular gorilla safari countries; Uganda & Rwanda. This gorilla safari takes you to Bwindi National Park. Read More

5 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking and Golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes national park and Nyiragongo lava lake hiking tour in Congo. This tour starts and ends in Kigali. Read More

Booking Congo gorilla trekking tours with silverback gorilla tour guarantees enthusiastic nature lovers ultimate experiences. Our Congo gorilla tours introduce you to 2 prime Congo gorilla trekking destinations each with unique apes (mountain gorillas and eastern lowland gorillas) for you to encounter. Other interesting wildlife species to explore on Congo safaris include chimpanzees, bonobos, okapis, forest elephants, antelopes, lions, hippos, crocodiles and more.

Ever thought about seeing mountain gorillas in the wild? Yes, Virunga National Park is Congo’s only National Park to visit for you to enjoy face-to-face interaction with the massive and intelligent mountain gorillas while in the dense rainforest. Congo gorilla tours don’t stop at magical encounters with only mountain gorillas- there is a lifetime opportunity for you to also interact with the eastern lowland gorillas during lowland gorilla trekking only in Congo’s Kahuzi-Biega National Park .

Amazingly, all Congo gorilla trekking tours are budget-friendly regardless of the destination you plan to visit. Congo gorilla tour permits can be booked at US Dollars 450 per person and with a silverback gorilla tour, it is easier to have your permit booked before the actual gorilla trekking date.

Silverback gorilla tour organizes both short and long Congo safaris- presenting you variety to choose from. Our short Congo tours take from 1 day to 4 days and long Congo safaris can be arranged starting from 5 days to 10 days or more days. Restricting visitor exploration is one thing that never clicks on our minds and to ensure that you get the most of what Congo has to offer, our Congo safari packages come in a variety and can be adjusted. Or you can reach out to our reservation team and let us plan for your Congo gorilla trekking tours or Congo safaris together.

Top destinations to visit in the D.R. Congo

Virunga National Park: Virunga National Park is the leading Congo gorilla trekking destination and lies suitably in the Eastern part of the Congo. Virunga NP is one of the oldest parks and its establishment dates back to 1925 and expands up to 7800sq.Kms featuring the world’s powerful volcanoes- Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira; savanna plains, swamps, forests, valleys, and part of glacier peaks of the Rwenzori Mountain ranges. It is also officially a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site and gorilla trekking is the main reason why most tourists undertake Congo safaris here, about 8 habituated gorilla families are available for gorilla tracking.

Other than gorilla trekking, Congo safaris in Virunga National Park also take you through other unique experiences. These include unforgettable Nyiragongo volcano hiking 3470m, nature walks, birding, Rwindi plain tour, Senkwekwe gorilla orphanage visit, chimpanzee encounters, Tchegera island tour, and others.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park: Kahuzi-Biega National Park is one of the biggest Congo safari destinations lying 30kms off from Bukavu, D.R. Congo. The 6000sq.km Congo gorilla trekking park hosts the endangered eastern lowland gorillas and a variety of other primate species.

Congo tours in Kahuzi-Biega National Park introduce you to a variety of experiences other than Eastern lowland gorilla trekking. These include volcano hiking on Mount Kahuzi (3308m) and Mount Biega (2970m)- the two dormant volcanoes are all in Kahuzi-Biega NP and the park is named after them. You also have a great chance to visit Lwiro Primate Rehabilitation Center founded in 2002, Idjwi Island lying in the heart of Lake Kivu.

Other National Parks in D.R. Congo to expect to visit on Congo safaris include Lomami National Park, Upemba National Park, Maiko National Park, Garamba National Park, Salonga National Park, Mangroves National Park, and Kundelungu National Park.

When to visit

There is a lot to explore in the D.R. Congo and it is possible to organize Congo safaris or Congo gorilla tours at any time. But, the dry season is the best time for tourists to undertake Congo gorilla tours and this is experienced from June to August than January to February. Prolonged rains in most Congo safari destinations are experienced from March to May/ October till early December.