Nyiragongo Hike

Visit Democratic Republic of Congo to experience the active mount Nyiragongo hiking trek, located inside Virunga National Park about 20 km. North of Goma, Mount Nyiragongo is currently still active, its last deadly eruption taking 147 lives in 2002. Its activity is, for now, being confined to the crater, where the lake of lava is slowly rising once more. A trip to the top may take about 5-6 hours; most climbers spend the night at the top. This also makes it possible to see the boiling lava at night, when it becomes even brighter. The Nyiragongo volcanoes trekking permit costs $300 USD per person. Visitors that climb to the top are treated to a spectacular view of the world’s largest lava lake.

All climbs begin promptly at 9:30 am. Late arrivals will not be allowed to climb and permits are non-refundable. For security reasons, there will be no exceptions. The Kibati ranger station, which is the trailhead for Nyiragongo, is approximately 30 minutes from Goma by car. Kibati is approximately 45 minutes from Bukima Tented Camp and Mikeno Lodge by car. All climbers must check in at the Kibati station by no later than 9:00 am on the day of their climb. Climbers typically descend the volcano at between 6:30 – 7:00 am the next morning and arrive back at Kibati station by 11:30 am. If one intends to fly out of Kigali on the same day, please make sure not to schedule your departure flight before 6 pm. All climbers overnight in the summit shelters because the best viewing is after dark.

Trekkers are strongly advised to bring full rain and cold weather gear, sweater or fleece, jacket, rain resistant pants, long underwear, warm socks, hat, sleeping bag). Temperatures at the summit are routinely below freezing. Although most people arrive at the summit sweating from the steep climb, this sense of warmth quickly gives way to cold. A complete change of base layers is a must. Failure to bring proper gear will lead to hypothermia. Please do not endanger yourself and others by coming unprepared for these conditions. Porters can be hired at the base of the climb to carry loads for $24 round trip (gratuity not included). The maximum weight that porters are authorized to carry is 15 kg. Porters can be arranged by speaking with a Virunga National Park ranger at the Kibati station.