3 Days Nyiragongo Hiking

The 3 Days Nyiragongo Hiking Safari takes you to one of Africa’s most spectacular volcanic destinations, Mount Nyiragongo in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Standing at 3,470 metres above sea level, Nyiragongo is famous for having one of the world’s largest and most active lava lakes. This adventure offers an exciting trek through diverse vegetation zones, breathtaking views of the Virunga landscape, and an unforgettable overnight stay at the summit cabins overlooking the glowing lava lake.

Day 1: Kigali to Goma and Transfer to Virunga National Park

After an early breakfast, your driver-guide will pick you up from your hotel in Kigali and transfer you to the Rwanda-DR Congo border at the Grande Barrière crossing in Gisenyi.

After completing immigration formalities, continue to Goma where you will meet the Virunga National Park team for a briefing about your upcoming trek. Depending on arrival time, you may explore parts of Goma city and enjoy views of Lake Kivu.

Spend the evening relaxing and preparing your hiking equipment for the next day’s ascent.

Accommodation Options

Budget: Kibumba Tented Camp

Mid-range: Bukima Tented Camp

Luxury: Mikeno Lodge

Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Hike to the Summit of Mount Nyiragongo

Wake up early and transfer to the Nyiragongo trailhead at Kibati Ranger Post for registration and a briefing from park rangers.

The hike begins through lush forest and gradually ascends through different vegetation zones, including montane forest, bamboo forest, and volcanic terrain. Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding Virunga landscape.

The ascent typically takes between 5 and 7 hours depending on fitness levels and weather conditions. Several rest stops are provided during the hike.

Upon reaching the summit, settle into the mountain shelters before heading to the crater rim for your first view of the magnificent lava lake. As darkness falls, the glowing lava creates one of the most dramatic natural spectacles on Earth.

Spend the evening enjoying the views and learning about the volcano’s geological history from your guides.

Accommodation

Nyiragongo Summit Shelters

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Descend Mount Nyiragongo and Return to Kigali

Wake early to enjoy sunrise views over the crater and surrounding Virunga Mountains. After breakfast, begin the descent back to Kibati Ranger Post.

The descent usually takes between 3 and 5 hours. Upon arrival, receive your hiking certificate and meet your driver for the transfer back to Goma.

After border formalities, continue to Kigali where you will be dropped off at your hotel or Kigali International Airport, marking the end of your adventure.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Optional Activities

Virunga National Park

• Lowland gorilla trekking
• Nature walks around Bukima
• Bird watching excursions
• Photography tours
• Community visits
• Lake Kivu excursion

Goma

• Lake Kivu boat cruise
• Local market visit
• Cultural experiences
• Coffee tasting tours

Rwanda Extension Options

• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• Golden monkey tracking
• Kigali city tour
• Twin Lakes excursion
• Dian Fossey hike