Searching for adrenaline-filled adventures with a good challenge?! Hiking Mount Nyiragongo is the way to go and a must-do tourist activity for tourists on a Congo safari.

Mount Nyiragongo is an active stratovolcano and one of the most dangerous volcanoes located in the Virunga Mountains in the Democratic Republic of Congo, among other distant volcanoes. It is famous for its highly fluid and fast-moving boiling lava, which can flow downhill up to 100 km/h (62 mph) during active volcanic activity or when Nyiragongo begins to erupt.

Mount Nyiragongo volcano is situated in the Virunga National Park, near the city of Goma, in the North Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It’s approximately 25 km (15.5 miles) north of Lake Kivu and 25 km (15.5 miles) west of the Rwanda border crossing.

The Nyiragongo volcano hike (the actual hike) starts from the Kibati Ranger Post, which is located at an altitude of 1,975 meters (6,480 ft). For experienced hikers, it takes around 4-6 hours to reach the fifth and final ascent, which is at an altitude of 3,470 meters (11,384 ft). For inexperienced hikers, it takes more hours. The descent takes approximately 3-4 hours.

This activity is often done after participants meet all the requirements for hiking, i.e., good physical condition is required for a challenging climb, Nyiragongo hiking permits are acquired from Virunga N. Park authorities, a professional guide is hired, hiking gear like sturdy hiking boots, a walking stick, comfortable clothing, rain gear, a first-aid kit is worn or carried, etc.

Hikers can stay overnight at several lodging facilities near and around Nyiragongo such as the Nyiragongo Summit Shelter while on the Nyiragongo volcano hike safari enjoying the amazing views of the.

Other places in Africa where hiking is done are Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania), Mount Kenya (Kenya), Mount Bisoke (Volcanoes National Park Rwanda), Mount Rwenzori (Uganda), Mount Elgon (Uganda), Drakensberg Mountains (South Africa), Atlas Mountains (Morocco), Simien Mountains National Park (Ethiopia)

It is worth noting that hiking Mount Nyiragongo requires proper planning, preparation, and caution due to the active volcanic activity and potential risks. Contact our professional team at Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd for the most affordable hiking safari packages!

Mount Nyiragongo

This active stratovolcano is located in the Virunga Mountains in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The volcano stands at approximately 3,470 meters (11,384 ft above sea level) and is considered very active with eruptions every 2-3 years spewing and bubbling lava at a speed of up to 100 km/h (62 mph).

It is found in Virunga National Park, North Kivu Province, the Democratic Republic of Congo adorned with several climbing routes (Kibati, Kibumba, Rungunda, and Masisi) and steep-sided walls, a large crater lake, steep slopes, sharp rocks, etc making it a natural wonder worth visiting while on Congo adventure safaris.

Unique Facts About Mount Nyiragongo

Some of the key unique facts about Mount Nyiragongo that make it stand out from other volcanoes are;

1)      Highly Active Volcano

Mount Nyiragongo is one of the most active volcanoes in Africa, with frequent eruptions every 2-3 years. Its molten red fire or boiling lava flows are highly fluid and can flow downhill up to 100 km/h (62 mph), making it one of the fastest-moving lavas in the world. This makes volcanologists come from all over the world to climb and see this wonder.

2)      Large Crater Lake

The Nyiragongo crater lake is one of the largest crater lakes, that is approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) in diameter and covers an area of approximately 0.25 square kilometers (0.1 square miles) with highly alkaline turquoise waters because of dissolved minerals and gases that create a distinctive “boiling” effect on the lake’s surface. This makes the mountain a unique safari destination worth visiting to get a glimpse of this wonder.

3)      Mount Nyiragongo’s Lava Lake

Nyiragongo is home to the world’s largest lava lake or largest active lava lake that possesses past steaming volcanic fissures with fluid lava trails still evident in the magma chamber. The molten red fire or fluid lava is a reckoning sight to see while on a hike Nyiragongo adventure.

4)      Unique And Diverse Ecosystem

The mountain slopes support a diverse ecosystem of vast flora and fauna (plant and animal species) that are adapted to the harsh, high-altitude environment such as Alpine meadows, subalpine forests, volcanic vegetation, endangered mountain gorillas, Chimpanzees, Golden monkeys, birds, etc which are a rare sight to see.

5)      Mineral-Rich Soil

The volcanic soils on Mount Nyiragongo are rich in minerals such as coltan, cassiterite, and wolframite, found in the sharp rocks making it a significant source of revenue for local communities around this mountain making it a unique place.

6)      Location

Mount Nyiragongo is part of the Virunga Volcanic Province or Virunga Mountain ranges which are globally recognized as being the home to several active and dormant volcanoes, making it an important area for global volcanic research and monitoring. This makes travelers from around the world travel to marvel at its beauty.

These unique facts make Mount Nyiragongo a natural wonder and a fascinating hiking safari destination worth visiting that will leave anyone in awe of its magnificence.

Hiking Mount Nyiragongo

Hiking Mount Nyiragongo is one of the most active volcano and tourist activities visitors from around the world visiting Congo look forward to partaking in the country.

Some of the hiking routes on this mountain include:

• Kibati Route (the most popular route to the summit going for around 12km, starting from the Kibati Ranger Post (1,975m) and the volcano hike takes 4-6 hours to reach the summit)
• Kibumba Route (starts from the Kibumba Patrol Post (2,300m) and the climb takes 6-8 hours to reach the summit)
• Rungunda Route (the route starts from the Rungunda Patrol Post (2,100m) and takes 7-9 hours to reach the mountain summit)
• Masisi Route (it starts from the Masisi Patrol Post (2,400m) and takes 8-10 hours to reach the mountain summit)

Duration Of Climbing Mount Nyiragongo Volcano

The duration of climbing Nyiragongo volcano depends on several factors, including the route taken, the hiker’s physical condition, and the weather conditions. However, here are some general guidelines for visitors to note before choosing a climbing route;

1. Kibati Route: To ascend to the summit from this trail is about 4-6 hours and to descend it takes 3-4 hours approximately.
2. Kibumba Route: On this trail ascending takes about 6-8 hours while descending is about 5-6 hours.
3. Rungunda Route: On this trail, to ascend it takes approximately 7-9 hours while to descend it is about 6-7 hours
4. Masisi Route: To ascend to the summit, it takes about 8-10 hours while to descend, it takes about 7-8 hours back to the starting point.

Some of the climbing options visitors can choose from are;

• Day Hike: This involves climbing to the summit and back in one day (around 10-12 hours).
• Overnight Hike: This involves climbing to the mountain summit, spending the night at the Nyiragongo Summit Shelter, and descending the next day.
• Multi-Day Hike: This climb involves climbing to the summit, spending multiple nights at the mountain summit or in nearby camps, and exploring the surrounding area before descending back.

Please note, a trained park ranger should be at the forefront of this hiking tour and park rules and regulations should be followed. Carrying warm clothing, rain jacket, rain resistant pants, and sleeping bags is an added advantage.

Things To See When Climbing Mount Nyiragongo Volcano

When on a Mount Nyiragongo hike, travelers have perfect opportunities to see some interesting things and attractions before and after reaching their fifth and final ascent such as;

a)   Volcanic Landscapes

Due to old lava trails on the mountain from the eruptions, there has been the creation of several unique volcanic landscapes that are worth seeing such as volcanic rocks, lava lakes, formations, etc.

b)   Nyiragongo Lava Lake

Travelers have a chance to view the world’s largest lava lake swirling in a tapestry of red fire at the summit of the mountain. This boiling lava lake is a rare sight to see when climbing Nyiragongo.

c)    Crater Lake

Visitors on a Nyiragongo volcano hike have perfect opportunities to see the turquoise-colored crater lake on the summit with its unique chemistry, beauty, formation, etc.

d)   Picturesque Views

This mountain offers travelers on a Mount Nyiragongo hike adventure panoramic view of the surrounding incredible landscape, including the rest of the Virunga Mountains, Lake Kivu, etc that are worth seeing with the naked eye.

e)    Climbing Routes

The mountain is adorned with several routes that lead to the summit such as (Kibati, Kibumba, Rungunda, and Masisi), with each offering unique challenges and perspectives for the visitors looking for an adventure.

f)     Unique Flora

The mountain is home to diverse vegetation types adapted to high altitude and volcanic soil, such as alpine meadows, subalpine forests, dense forest cover, Cloud forests, and volcanic vegetation (lava-resistant plants and thermal-resistant mosses). These can all be seen when climbing Mount Nyiragongo.

g)   Sunrise And Sunset

While camping at some of the Nyiragongo summit camps (Nyiragongo Summit Shelter) tourists have perfect opportunities to gaze and witness the stunning beautiful sunrise and sunset, as well as stargaze from the summit or camp.

h)   Wildlife Species

Climbing Nyiragongo offers visitors perfect avenues for wildlife encounters and spotting wild animals like mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, monkeys, birds, reptiles, etc which inhabit the higher and lower steep slopes.

Other Activities Done While Climbing Mount Nyiragongo;

Besides climbing Nyiragongo volcano, there are other tourist activities, visitors can engage in on the mountain and Virunga NP such as;

• Birdwatching (to spot unique bird species like the Rwenzori turaco, Congo peafowl, lammergeier, etc)
• Golden Monkey tracking (track golden monkeys after attaining a golden monkey trekking permit)
• Wildlife viewing (encounter animals like gorillas, monkeys, antelopes, bushbabies, chimpanzees, etc)
• Photography (capture incredible landscapes, flora, and fauna)
• Mountain Gorilla trekking (get a mountain gorilla trekking permit and track endangered mountain gorillas)
• Geological exploration (examine volcanic remnants such as rocks, lava flows, formations, etc)
• Adventure sports (combine the climb with other activities like trekking, mountain bike rides, etc)
• Camp safaris (partake in camping at designated sites, with opportunities for stargazing, remember to carry sleeping bags)

It is strongly recommended that visitors prioritize safety, follow park guidelines, and be respectful of the environment and communities found along the challenging routes for a rewarding and memorable volcano hike adventure.

Rules And Regulations for Climbing Mount Nyiragongo, Virunga National Park

Some of the rules and regulations for climbing Mountain Nyiragongo that visitors ought to follow when visiting Virunga NP for hiking tours on Nyiragongo are;

1)   Permits

Visitors are required to obtain a valid hiking permit from Virunga N. Park authorities or through licensed Congo safari operators before attempting the Nyiragongo climb.

It’s quite important to book these permits in advance through a reputable Congo safari operator.

2)   Guides And Group Sizes

Participants set to embark on a Nyiragongo volcano hike are required to hire a licensed hike guide or join a guided group for safety purposes. The group size should have a limited number of 8 climbers per guide.

Please note that solo climbs are not allowed.

3)   Age Limit

The minimum age for a hiking venture on Nyiragongo volcano is 12 years old but children must be accompanied by an adult while the maximum age is 70 years old but with proof of medical clearance showing physical capability.

4)   Physical Condition

It is crucial to understand that only physically fit and healthy participants are allowed to embark on a climbing safari to Nyiragongo.

Please note that this is a must because high altitude and steep terrains always demand a lot of work so one ought to be in good physical shape and free of any altitude sickness.

5)   Safety Gear and Emergency Preparedness

Participants are strongly encouraged and required to wear appropriate clothing, suitable hiking boots or hiking shoes, safety gear (helmets, gloves), and carry a hiking stick, first aid kits, etc.

Travelers are encouraged to consider purchasing travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation and climbing-related risks while on a hiking safari.

6)   Environmental And Local Community Protection

Nyiragongo Climbing participants are required to respect the environment, wildlife, and local communities, the cultural traditions they find on the slopes and mountain areas.

7)   Camping

Visitors intending to carry out camping safaris are required to only camp or use designated campsites and follow camp rules and regulations.

8)   Waste Management

The Virunga N. Park authorities emphasize that visitors should properly dispose of human waste and trash while on a climb to the summit of Nyiragongo volcano or while partaking in other activities in the park.

9)   Registration

Travelers heading for a climb on Nyiragongo Mountain are required to first register with the Virunga NP authorities and provide emergency contact information before embarking on a climb for follow-up and safety precautions.

10)   Information

Visitors are strongly advised to use tour operators and tour guides or park rangers well conversant with the mountain pattern, extreme weather changes, volcanic activity, and park regulations for proper monitoring and to keep them actively informed of the situations while climbing.

11)  Climbing Hours

Travelers are highly advised to ascend the mountain summit between 6 am and 10 am and descend between 10 am and 4 pm.

Please note that these rules and regulations are subject to change, and it’s essential to check with Virunga Park authorities or a licensed Congo tour company for the most current information and guidance.

How To Get to Mount Nyiragongo, Virunga National Park

Getting to Nyiragongo volcano is quite easy as it can be done by road, that is to say;

Fly into Goma International Airport (GOM) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, then from Goma (the closest city to Mt Nyiragongo), and take the road heading north towards Kibati village, the base of Mt Nyiragongo (about 30 minutes), then drive through Kibati village and continue on the main road.

Turn left at the Virunga N. Park entrance signpost, arrive, and register with Park authorities obtain a hiking permit, and hire a licensed park guide or join a guided tour to climb Mount Nyiragongo trailhead.

Alternatively, tourists can start the climb from Kibati village, following the designated trail as long as they have trained tour guides and a climbing permit from the Kibati ranger post.

Additional Tips

• Visitors need to check if they need a visa to enter the Democratic Republic of the Congo and as such attain one if needed from the embassies.
• Before traveling to DR Congo, visitors need to have the necessary vaccinations taken and proof carried (yellow fever card)
• If a traveler can afford to purchase travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation and climbing-related risks, it’s crucial to buy it.
• Using a licensed Congo tour company is highly encouraged as it ensures hassle-free hiking adventures as they take care of all transportation, accommodation, etc on behalf of the visitor for a seamless trip.

Please note that there are limited commercial flights from Goma to Nyiragongo Volcano, so travelers may need to charter a flight or book a flight with a reputable Congo tour operator.

Cost Of Climbing Mount Nyiragongo

Listed below is a rough estimate of the costs, and fees that a traveler may incur while on a hiking adventure on Nyiragongo Volcano;

a)   Permits And Fees

–        Virunga N. Park entrance fee ranges from $100-$200 per person per day

–        Climbing permit goes for approximately $200-$300 per person

–        Other regulatory fees such as park fines or other tourist activities may cost around $50-$200

b)   Guided Tour

Guided tours led by park rangers cost may vary with a day climb often going for approximately $200-$500, an overnight climb for $500-$1,000, and a multi-day trek: $1,000-$2,500 depending on season (peak season or low peak season) among other factors.

c)    Accommodation

There exist several recommended lodging options ranging from budget to midrange to luxury options depending on the place and option taken for example, in Goma, most hotels charge approximately $50-$100 per night, in Kibati village, they can go for about $20-$50 per night while camping sites and shelters can charge about $10-$20 per night, etc.

It is important to consult with a reputable safari company for the best options.

d)   Transportation

It is highly recommended to book transport means or options in advance with a tour company. However please note the costs may vary for different options for example flights may cost between $1,000-$2,500, road transfers between $50-$100, and helicopter charters can go for approximately $1,000-$2,000, etc

e)    Hiking Equipment and Gear

In case a visitor does not carry their climbing gear, they can decide to rent or buy with renting going for about $50-$100 and buying around $200-$500 depending on gear such as hiking stick, hiking shoes, helmets, ropes, rain jackets, warm clothing (warm clothes), gloves, etc.

However, the costs and fees of climbing Nyiragongo volcano vary and depend on several factors such as:

1. Type of climb (Day climb, overnight climb, or multi-day trek)
2. Guided tour (hiring a licensed guide or joining a guided group)
3. Accommodation (staying in Goma, Kibati, or camping on the mountain summit)
4. Transportation (inclusive or exclusive flights, road transfers, or helicopter charters)
5. Permits and fees (Virunga N. Park entrance fees, climbing permits, and other regulatory activity fees)
6. Equipment and gear (renting or buying necessary climbing equipment)
7. Contact our professional team at Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd today for the best hiking tour packages at affordable prices and book Nyiragongo hiking permits in advance.

Where To Stay When Climbing Mount Nyiragongo Volcano

When climbing Nyiragongo Volcano, visitors have several lodging options for a comfortable stay ranging from budget to midrange to luxury lodges, hotels, camps, etc as listed below

1. Goma Town

Visitors who prefer to stay in Goma town, have a variety of lodging options to choose from that range from spacious hotels, lodges, and guesthouses, such as:

• Hotel Virunga
• Hotel Nyiragongo
• Goma Lodge
• Lake Kivu Hotel

2. Kibati Village

Travelers can choose to stay in Kibati village, which offers a range of lodging options from basic lodges, and guesthouses, such as:

• Kibati Lodge
• Nyiragongo Guesthouse

3. Camping Sites

Visitors climbing Mount Nyiragongo can also choose to stay at camp on the mountain, either at the base (2,800m) or at the higher altitude camps (3,800m). some of these are;

• Bukima Tented Camp
• Kibumba Tented Camp
• Nyiragongo Summit Shelter
• Tchegera Tented Camp

Please note, that carrying a sleeping bag is important.

4. Virunga National Park Lodges

The Virunga NP has some lodging facilities offering basic amenities for travelers to stay at and some of the park’s lodges are;

• Mikeno Lodge
• Bukima Lodge

5. Climbing Huts

These are basic accommodations that provide a convenient and safe place for rest during a climb. They are located at various elevations on the mountain such as base camp (2,800m), higher camp (3,800m), and summit camp (4,200m).

These offer basic facilities, including Bunks or beds, shared rooms, toilets, and cooking facilities (in case one wants to prepare dinner)

They host around 10 to 20 people per hut and are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s highly recommended to book in advance through a licensed Congo tour operator.

NB: Carrying a sleeping bag (to keep oneself from the freezing cold), and hiring a chef from the park offices could be very important.

Please note booking lodging options in advance can save visitors a lot of disappointments, especially during the park season.

Best Time to Visit Nyiragongo Volcano and Lava Lake in Virunga National Park

The best time to visit Nyiragongo Volcano is during the dry seasons, which run from June to August and December to February as these months offer clear skies, mild temperatures, dry conditions, and cooler temperatures.

Please Note;

1. Visitors are highly discouraged from visiting during the wet season (March to May, September to November) as there are heavy rains that make the trails slippery and muddy making them more challenging and dangerous.
2. Travelers through their tour operators need to check the level of volcanic activity on Nyiragongo volcano before planning their visit.
3. They also need to use tour companies well conversant with weather forecasts for proper monitoring of any changes in the weather while climbing.
4. Visitors need to crosscheck with Virunga N. Park authorities for any updates on park regulations or closures.

Packing List for Climbing Mount Nyiragongo Volcano and Lava Lake |Virunga National Park

When it comes to the packing list, we look at what to wear, and what to carry while heading to DR Congo for a climbing Nyiragongo volcano adventure and these include;

a)   Warm Clothing

These are some of the cold weather gear and warm clothing travelers are strongly encouraged to carry when heading for a Nyiragongo climb;

• Suitable Hiking boots/sturdy shoes/hiking shoes (to protect feet from sharp rocks)
• Comfortable hiking warm clothes (to keep oneself from the freezing cold)
• Waterproof rain jacket
• Insulating layers (fleece, wool, or synthetic scarfs or neck gaiter)
• Long trousers and rain resistant pants
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Warm hat and gardening gloves
• Enough underwear
• Socks (to keep feet warm)

b)   Climbing Gear

Tourists preparing for the climb Nyiragongo volcano tour ought to carry gear used in hikes and climbs such as

• Waterproof Backpack
• Sleeping bags
• Water bottle or hydration pack or lunch box
• Walking stick or climbing sticks (optional)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Head lamp (optionl)
• Extra batteries (optional)
• Reusable bag for carrying personal essentials

c)    Personal Essentials

For personal essentials and utilities, travelers are strongly advised to carry some of these items for a smooth tour;

• Passport and copies with country visas
• Travel insurance documents
• First-aid kits
• Medications and prescriptions from recommended doctors (eg Diamox for altitude sickness)
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
• Extra cash (preferably the Congolese Francs used for tipping, buying crafts, and souvenirs) and credit cards (Visa enabled for bigger purchases)

d)   Additional Items

These are some of the optional things a traveler may pack, such as;

• Snacks (energy bars, nuts)
• Novel or a book
• Map or GPS reader
• Phone/camera Portable charger

Visitors are advised to check with their Congo tour operator or park authorities for specific requirements and recommendations especially cold weather gear before embarking on this trip to the DR Congo.

Best Congo Tour Companies

Some of the best DR Congo tour companies that offer the best safari packages are

• Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd
• Congo Gorilla Safaris and Tours
• Wild Gorilla Safaris
• Africa Safaris Tours

Contact a reputable safari company today and schedule your next hassle-free hiking adventure today

Mount Nyiragongo Hike FAQ [Frequently Asked Questions]

1.    What type of volcano is Mount Nyiragongo? Is Mount Nyiragongo active?

With its vast 1.2-kilometer-wide caldera summit and steep walls, Nyiragongo volcano is not only one of the largest and most active volcanoes in the world but also home to the most extensive active lava lake making it one of the most dangerous volcanoes in Africa.

2.    Where is Mount Nyiragongo located? What country is Mount Nyiragongo in?

Nyiragongo volcano is located in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the Virunga Mountains, North Kivu province, near the city of Goma and bordering Rwanda. It’s within Virunga NP and part of the Virunga Volcanic Province, which spans across DRC, Rwanda, and Uganda at Latitude 1.52° S and Longitude 29.25° E.

3.    How was Mount Nyiragongo formed?

Nyiragongo volcano is a volcanic mountain that was formed as a result of volcanic activity in the Virunga Volcanic Province following geological processes of Rifting and faulting, Magma rise, Volcanic eruptions, Lava accumulation, Caldera formation, Lava Lake formation, etc.

For a memorable Nyiragongo volcano hike & tour, contact our professional team at Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd for customized tour packages to the active volcano and largest lava lake in the world. Visit DR Congo today!