Mount Nyiragongo Climbing Tours

Mountain Nyiragongo is an active stratovolcano located in eastern DR Congo. The mountain was reopened for tourism in 2014, making it one of the most sought after mountain hiking destination in Africa.          Mount Nyiragongo stands out as one of the most spectacular volcanoes with a bubbling lava lake at the top which you can observe from a safe distance at the top.

Hiking mountain Nyiragongo is not so difficult as it will take at most 5 hours for any mountaineer to reach the top. On the top of mountain Nyiragongo are camping shelters where climbers spend the night. The Nyiragongo hiking safari takes just 2 days, but you can add gorilla trekking in Congo or even Rwanda gorilla tracking in volcanoes national park to get the ultimate gorilla and Nyiragongo experience.

Booking your Nyiragongo trekking permit
A limited number of only 24 people is allowed and issues permits to hike mountain Nyiragongo per day. This is attributed to the fact that there are only 12 shelters at the top, shared by 2 people per shelter. Therefore if you are planning to go on a Nyiragongo hiking tour with us, its advisable to book your tour at least 3 months in advance.
The Nyiragongo hiking permit costs $300 excluding hiking gear which can be obtained from Mikeno.

What to Bring on your Nyiragongo Hiking expedition

1. Rain Gear, warm clothes, head lamp, sleeping bag
2. Hire a porter for $24, the porters can help you carry stuff up to 15 kilograms
3. Bring a walking stick
4. Carry your food and at least 5 litres of water

Mountain Nyiragongo Hiking

The Nyiragongo active volcano stands out as a prominent destination in Congo, drawing visitors eager for exploration. Situated in the eastern region of the country and offering breathtaking views of the Virunga National Park, Nyiragongo Volcano stands as one of the eight remarkable volcanoes in the Virunga conservation area. The other volcanoes are Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Mikeno, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Nyamuragira.

The Nyiragongo volcano towers at 3470 meters, presenting an exhilarating hike to its summit that takes about 5 to 6 hours. Mount NyiragongoAs one of the world’s largest active volcanoes, the Mount Nyiragongo volcano lava lake captivates with its remarkable and awe-inspiring presence. In 2014, the Virunga National Park authorities welcomed tourists to experience the thrilling hikes of Mount Nyiragongo. Visitors often embark on thrilling journeys that include trekking with mountain gorillas and scaling the majestic Nyiragongo volcano. For those seeking an extraordinary and unforgettable mountain hiking experience, the journey to Mount Nyiragongo awaits. This destination in Africa offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience a lava lake up close. Discovering details about Mount Kilimanjaro or learning the ropes of climbing this majestic peak could pique your interest.

How to get to Mount Nyiragongo

Scaling the heights of Mount Nyiragongo in CongoMount Nyirangogo can be accessed from various locations, but for safety considerations, the route through Gisenyi town in Rwanda is the most secure. From Gisenyi, travelers will embark on a 20 km journey to the border between Rwanda and DR Congo before crossing into Goma. From Goma town, a great black cloud looms, a haunting reminder of the volcano’s last eruption in 2002. The molten lava that once surged with intense heat has now solidified, transforming into a dark, rugged rock. Following Goma, you will embark on a journey to the starting point of the trail at Kibati village. Prepare yourself for an exciting overview of what lies ahead as you embark on your Mount Nyiragongo volcano hike. The briefing encompasses all essential details for exploring the Nyiragongo Volcano, highlighting what to anticipate, the key stopping points, and packing recommendations. Hikers should stick together for the majority of the journey, except for the last stretch of the hike.

Scaling the heights of Mount Nyiragongo

Scaling Mount Nyiragongo

Scaling mount Nyiragongo presents a formidable challenge for those who are not adequately prepared and in peak physical condition. One must be prepared to tackle the challenging inclines and rough landscapes. At the starting point in Kibati Ranger post, you can find porters available for hire to assist with carrying your heavy gear. Following the morning briefing at 9 am, we gathered as a team alongside the cooks and fellow hikers.

Climbing mount Nyiragongo involves five thrilling segments. The initial segment of the hike takes you through lower elevation terrains, setting the stage for an exciting journey ahead. At this stage, many who lack the right mindset or stamina often decide to give up. Following the initial significant halt, the elevation rises, introducing greater challenges. In this second part of the hike, one encounters small loose lava rocks that add an element of excitement to the journey. Those equipped with the right hiking boots will navigate this section effortlessly.

Scaling Mount Nyiragongo

After finishing the second part, hikers must now navigate not just the small loose rocks, but also the slippery stones and the challenging conditions of higher altitude. As you ascend to the fourth segment, the mountain slopes become increasingly steep, accompanied by a biting chill from the high altitude. In addition to the chill, you can often expect rain in this area – Be sure to pack warm clothing and rain jackets. The last section is the most challenging, yet it’s the briefest. The cabins come into view from this point, igniting a spark of energy in even the most weary hiker. Hikers who conquer this section can continue the journey at their own leisurely rhythm. Our 2 days Nyiragongo hike package promises an exhilarating experience that you will not want to miss.

Spend the night atop the Nyiragongo volcano cabins

At the summit of Mount Nyiragongo, hikers will find cozy cabins equipped with two single beds, perfect for laying down their sleeping bags after an exhilarating trek. The cabins come equipped with a cozy mattress and a soft pillow. During their stay at the cabin, hikers will enjoy a variety of snacks, breakfast, dinner, water, and cozy sleeping bags. The summit can be incredibly frigid, accompanied by fierce winds. It is essential to be ready with warm clothing. The cooks and porters will enthusiastically prepare steaming hot tea and coffee to warm up hikers from the chill of the great outdoors. The fee for the permit covers the cost of an overnight stay at the summit. The scent of boiling and bubbling lava wafts from the cabins.

Embracing the Journey

After marveling at the bubbling lava lake and flowing magma, the descent awaits. Descending is a swift journey, taking roughly three hours to return to the starting point. Yet, it is not as simple as it appears. Descending through jagged rocks and steep terrain presents an exhilarating challenge, requiring careful attention to avoid injury from the rugged landscape. The incredible experience of descending offers an uninterrupted panorama of the magnificent Virunga National Park and the far-off Volcanoes, including the stunning Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda and the serene Lake Kivu.

The expenses and prerequisites for obtaining a Congo Visa Hiking Mount Nyiragongo

Permits for hiking Nyiragongo are available directly from Virunga National Park or through a tour operator for a fee of $300. Once purchased, Nyiragongo Hiking permits are non-refundable. First, make sure to secure the hiking permit before applying for a Congo Visa. The cost of a single Congo tourist entry visa is $105 per person. This single entry visa grants you 14 days of exploration starting from your arrival date.

In addition to the VISA, it is essential to carry other documentation when crossing the Congo border from Rwanda. A valid passport is essential, along with a yellow fever vaccination card. A reliable tour company will assist you in obtaining the VISA while also organizing transportation, accommodation, and porters for your journey. We offer an exciting 3-day Mount Nyiragongo Climbing Package that is sure to captivate you.

Essential Gear for Hiking Mount Nyiragongo

A jacket for the rain: This should be easy to carry, ensuring you can navigate the mountain with ease. The rain jacket will protect you from the pouring rains.

Ideal hiking boots: The footwear must provide excellent traction (rubber soles), be waterproof, offer comfort, and keep your feet cozy.

Cozy attire and a sleeping bag: As you climb higher, the mountain’s chill intensifies, so it is essential to be well-prepared. Dress warmly to shield yourself from the biting cold at the summit. Be sure to pack a sweater, rain-resistant pants, a jacket, long underwear, warm socks, and a hat.

Scaling Mount Nyiragongo

Bring a packed lunch and water: Ascending Mount Nyiragongo can be quite exhausting, leaving you parched and in need of sustenance. Bring a packed lunch and plenty of drinking water.

Consider enlisting the help of a porter at the base of the volcano for around $15 each day. These porters are seasoned climbers of the volcano, effortlessly assisting with heavy luggage week after week. They will guide you through the toughest sections of the mountain.

A hat and sunscreen: These essentials will be invaluable when facing unexpected rain or the sweltering heat of summer.

Camera and Binoculars: Embarking on such an exhilarating journey demands a reliable camera to capture the unforgettable moments and stunning views of your time at the volcano. Observing a live volcano is an experience that only a select few will encounter in their lifetime. You will want to capture stunning photos for your collection and to share with friends and family. A pair of binoculars will help you discover breathtaking views, especially as you descend the mountain.

Backpack: This is the perfect place to store all your essential gadgets – phones, iPad, camera, binoculars, and more. Make sure it can withstand the rain.

Portable charger: This will keep your iPads, laptops, and phones energized while you enjoy your time in the cabin at the summit.

A Torch: The peak is devoid of power. Solar energy is harnessed, yet its availability is not universal. Grab a torch to navigate your way to the kitchen or bathrooms.

Extra Insights on Ascending Mount Nyiragongo

The ideal time to embark on a journey to Mount Nyiragongo is year-round, though many adventurers favor the dry season for their explorations. The dry season occurs from June to September, as well as in December, January, and February. The rainy seasons transform the trails into a slippery challenge, adding an exciting twist for hikers.

Stay Fit: Ascending mount Nyiragongo presents a thrilling challenge that demands physical readiness. The mountain rises sharply as one climbs higher, while descending presents its own set of trials – the strain on knees and ankles from the pressure can be quite intense. The weather conditions become increasingly demanding as one climbs higher into the mountains. It is important to keep that in mind, particularly if you are attuned to shifts in extreme weather conditions.

Mental Preparedness: This is essential because it goes beyond just physical fitness. Embrace the journey with unwavering resolve, ready to tackle any obstacles that come your way on the hike. One can get ready for the journey ahead by exploring the nearby rocks or hills in the weeks leading up to the hike.

Utilize a stick for your hiking journey: A hiking stick will assist you in navigating steep slopes, providing balance and easing the strain on your knees. Climbing sticks await you at the starting point.

Protect your treasures: Always keep your treasures like cameras, money, and laptops close at hand, even when you are at the cabins with fellow adventurers.

A yellow fever vaccination card holds great significance: To journey across the border into Congo, be prepared to present your passport and yellow fever card. Without the card, entry to Congo might be an elusive quest.

Note: Climbing the Nyiragongo Volcano pairs perfectly with gorilla trekking in Congo for an unforgettable journey. If you are keen on merging the two activities