Hiking Mount Nyiragongo Volcano

Hiking Mount Nyiragongo Volcano is an exhilarating adventure that takes you to one of Africa’s most famous and active volcanoes, located in the Goma region of the Democratic Republic of Congo in Virunga National Park. The highlight of this hike is reaching the summit and witnessing the world’s largest and most spectacular lava lake. Here’s some information to help you plan your Hiking Mount Nyiragongo Volcano:

1. Location: Mount Nyiragongo is situated within Virunga National Park in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including mountain gorillas, and its stunning landscapes.

2. Permits and Regulations: To hike Mount Nyiragongo, you’ll need to obtain a permit from the park authorities this permit costs $300 and Eco Adventure Safaris can help you book this permit for Hiking Mount Nyiragongo Volcano in advance. These permits may include transportation to and from the trailhead, guides, and accommodation. It’s important to follow all park regulations and guidelines for safety and conservation.

3. Difficulty and Duration: The hike to the summit of Mount Nyiragongo is considered challenging due to the steep terrain and high altitude. The hike typically takes about 4 to 6 hours to reach the summit, and the descent takes around 3 to 4 hours. The trail can be physically demanding, so it’s recommended that hikers are in good physical condition.

4. Accommodation: At the summit of Mount Nyiragongo, there are basic but comfortable shelters where hikers can spend the night. These shelters are equipped with bunk beds and basic amenities. Staying overnight is a unique experience, as it allows you to witness the lava lake’s mesmerizing glow after dark.

5. Packing List: When preparing for the hike, consider packing the following items:

• Sturdy hiking boots
• Warm clothing (temperatures can drop significantly at night)
• Rain gear
• Sleeping bag
• Snacks and water (though some water may be available at the summit, it’s recommended to bring your own)
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Personal medications
• Camera and binoculars to capture the stunning views

6. Safety Precautions: Hiking an active volcano comes with risks, so it’s crucial to follow your guide’s instructions and adhere to safety protocols. The trail can be strenuous, especially at higher altitudes, so take breaks and stay hydrated. If you have any medical conditions, consult a healthcare professional before attempting the hike.

7. Wildlife and Environment: While hiking in Virunga National Park, you may encounter various wildlife species, including primates, birds, and more. It’s important to respect the environment and wildlife by not disturbing or feeding them.

8. Current Conditions: Before embarking on the hike, check with local authorities or tour operators for the latest information on trail conditions, security, and any other relevant updates.

Hiking Mount Nyiragongo Volcano is an unforgettable experience that offers breathtaking views, unique natural wonders, and a sense of accomplishment. Just remember to plan ahead, stay safe, and enjoy the beauty of this remarkable destination. Here is the recommended itinerary to book for Hiking Mount Nyiragongo Volcano.

5 Days Gorillas Trekking and Hiking Mount Nyiragongo Volcano in Congo

The 5 days of gorilla trekking and Nyiragongo Volcano Hiking in Congo take tourists to hike volcanoes for mountain gorillas, Nyiragongo for mountain climbing to the smoky and active volcano.

 Day 1: Kigali transfer to Gisenyi Lake Kivu

Our trained guide/driver will pick you from the hotel room and brief you about the trip. He will drive towards Gisenyi via Ruhengeri and will make the first stop over at cultural center in Ibiwachu village found in Ruhengeri. Upon reaching Gisenyi, our clients can have boat cruise if they wish on Lake Kivu.

Accommodation options:

• waterfront resort lodge
• Lake Kivu Serena hotel.
• Destination: Lake Kivu

Day 2: Hiking Nyiragongo Volcanoes

Your will have breakfast than transfer to Nyiragongo national park for briefing. The journey of hiking into crater of Nyiragongo Mountain will start and it only takes 5-6 hours climbing to the summit. You will pass through tropical rainforest, so clients should carry the rain jacket because of climate changes, wear rubber shoe, and carry climbing stick, head gear and enough drinking water. The nights are spent from tented camps and dinner is provided from the camp at summit of the volcano.

Day 3: Descend back from the Summit and transfer to Goma for overnight

After morning breakfast from the top summit camp, you will descend to the bottom and the driver will take you to Goma where you can have nature walks in Goma village and overnight spent from minkeno lodge.

Accommodation options:

• Ihusi Hotel
• Minkeno Lodge
• Bukima tented Camp
• Destination: Virunga National Park

Day 4: Gorilla Tracking in Virunga National Park

We expect our clients to wake up very early and have morning breakfast. Hikers should carry packed lunch from the lodge, enough drinking water. Our driver will drop you at park headquarters for briefing about the do’s and don’ts of gorilla trekking. The reason as to why you have to wake up early, so as to get when the gorillas are still in their nest before they set off to look for food. At 8:00am you will start your journey through the forest trial but not only will you view gorillas but you will encounter others mammals such as monkey, elephants, and also bird species. The time spent with gorillas after allocating a gorilla family is 1 hour and gorilla permits cost USD 400. After long day of hiking gorillas you will head back to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 5: Transfer back to Kigali for a city tour and back to the International Airport

You have morning breakfast then transfer to Kigali town for city tour and then back to Kigali international airport for flight back home.

End of Tour

Quotation includes;

• Gorilla trekking permit
• Hiking fees
• Park entrance fees
• Congo Visa fee
• Vehicle Entrance fees
• All accommodation per itinerary
• 4×4 safari vehicle and fuel
• Full-time English/French speaking driver guide
• Bottled mineral water while on safari

Excludes;

• Tips
• Rwanda Visa fees
• Air tickets
• All items of personal nature like laundry, phone calls, porterage, alcohol, etc.
• Anything else not included in the itinerary

Why book Hiking Mount Nyiragongo Volcano through Eco Adventure Safaris?

Eco Adventure Safaris boasts of a professional office and field team that takes care of all your requests and inquiries. We are highly recommended on trip advisor and Trust Pilot. Our website is one of the best and most reliable points to help you start preparing for your tour, we have the best and most updated information that you can rely on. Eco Adventure Safaris is owned and run by Ugandans who have well explored Uganda for many years and as such, you will be dealing with a team that sells what they know. Please feel free to contact us here about booking Hiking Mount Nyiragongo Volcano.