Hiking Mount Nyiragongo Volcano has become a popular activity for travelers on Congo safari tours. The Nyiragongo tour hike gives you a remarkable opportunity to explore the most active volcano in Africa- Mount Nyiragongo which holds the world’s largest lava lake at its summit believed to be about 1.2km in diameter.

Congo’s Mount Nyiragongo in Virunga National Park is a stratovolcano holding forested slopes with some amazing wildlife species. Among these include Chimpanzees, numerous monkey species, bird species, bushbucks as well the beautiful three-horned chameleon. Therefore, while climbing Mount Nyiragongo, expect to spot a few animals as you enjoy the gratifying scenery.

Climbing Mount Nyiragongo to the summit (at 3,470m high) takes roughly 4-6 hours and to descend off it’s just 4 hours but, this depends on the pace of hikers. The slowest person in the group sets the hiking pace!

Normally, travelers who track gorillas in Virunga National Park add Nyiragongo hiking expeditions to explore the world’s largest lava lake with bubbling lava. This active volcano is ranked as one of the deadliest and dangerous volcanoes in the world. It has erupted about 34 times since 1882. The recent eruption was in 2021 May.

A hike to explore Nyiragongo volcano is a daring adventure however, thousands of travelers have successively enjoyed this thrill. Don’t look any further, book your Mount Nyiragongo hike tour with Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd for a notable experience in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Climbing Mount Nyiragongo Volcano in Congo

Hiking Mount Nyiragongo can be extremely difficult for individuals who are unfit and poorly equipped. Hikes to Mount Nyiragongo summit involve going through rough terrain and steep slopes that require one to be well-prepared for this remarkable adventure.

The above shouldn’t scare you! There are porters available at a price who will assist in carrying bulky items at the Kibati Ranger Post- the starting point.  Following the 9 a.m. briefing, the hikers and cooks will assemble as a team.

Cases of altitude sickness are very rare during the Nyiragongo hike.

Sections in Climbing Mount Nyiragongo Volcano

Climbing Mount Nyiragongo to explore its lava lake is divided into five parts. The hike’s initial section is a climb through lower-altitude terrain which holds a dense forest. At this stage, most people give up if they are not physically or mentally prepared. Keen hikers can spot amazing wildlife within the forest, for instance, the three-horned chameleon.

More difficulties arise when the altitude rises following the first significant pause. This portion of the hike involves some small, loose lava sharp rocks. This stretch should be easy for those with the right hiking boots to navigate. Expect to see the past steaming volcanic fissures.

Hikers now have to contend with slick stones, challenging circumstances at higher elevations, and small loose sharp rocks after finishing the second section. When you get to the fourth section, the high altitude causes the mountain slopes to become more chilly and steeper. In addition to the freezing cold air, rain is frequently experienced in this area therefore, warm clothing &  rain jackets are necessities.

The last section (fifth and final ascent) is the shortest though the steepest.  Even the most exhausted hiker will be inspired to continue because, from this point, you can see cabins- (Nyiragongo summit shelters) at the summit.  If a hiker makes it to this part, they are free to continue at a reasonable pace.

A Night At Mount Nyiragongo Volcano Summit & Descending

Most hikers with a mission of exploring Mount Nyiragongo’s lava lake spend a night at its summit! After you’ve made it to the summit of Mount Nyiragongo and witnessed the incredible magma chamber, and the boiling magma in the lava lake, it’s time to eat and relax. Views of the magma- (molten red fire) are breathtaking.

At the peak of Mount Nyiragongo Volcano, you’ll find 12 cabins, each with two single beds that come with a mattress and a cozy cushion. Dinner and tea will be prepared for everyone by the porters before you even step foot in your cabin. Gather with fellow hikers from around the world and have a good time while exchanging tales and experiences.

The summit of Mt Nyiragongo Volcano holds strong gusts and chilly conditions. When it gets cold, you have to put on your warm clothes and drink hot tea. Gazing in awe at Nyiragongo boiling lava lake is an experience that, like all good things, must come to an end. While at this peak, you enjoy breathtaking views of other distant volcanoes of Virunga massifs, old lava flows, Lake Kivu, Virunga National Park, Kahuzi Biega National Park, and the distant stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Descending to the starting point of Mount Nyiragongo Volcano takes about 3 hours, unlike the hike which is 4-6 hours. Do not be in a hurry; you will once again meet the same small stones and steep stretches that you encountered ascending.

Note the Nyiragongo hiking permit fees are inclusive of the overnight at its summit. While in your cabin, be expectant to smell the bubbling lava.

Cost for Hiking Mount Nyiragongo Volcano

Nyiragongo hiking permits cost $300. The Nyiragongo hiking permits can be obtained directly from Virunga National Park Headquarters or booked through your tour company. After purchasing the climbing permit (the hiking permit) to hike Mount Nyiragongo, there is no refund!

The fee for climbing Mount Nyiragongo volcano excludes porters who will help to prepare dinner at the summit.

Best Time to Hike Mount Nyiragongo in Congo

The ideal time for climbing Mount Nyiragongo is from mid-December to mid-March and from mid-June to mid-September when it is dry. This time of year, the temperatures aren’t too bad compared to the wet season, and there is less fog on top of the mountain, so you can see the magma in the crater more clearly.

Furthermore, in the dry season hiking to the summit of Nyiragongo Volcano is pleasing as we expect no rainfall inconveniences. Between 10°C and 30°C is the normal temperature in the mountains. The coldest it gets is 8°C, and the hottest it gets is 31°C.

Tourists can explore this glorious volcano year-round! Your role is to get ready to climb Mount Nyiragongo.

The Packing List for Hiking Mount Nyiragongo

All tourists on Congo safaris interested in Mount Nyiragongo tour expeditions should come with the following items for a thrilling hiking adventure;

1. Suitable hiking boots- this is a must-have suitable hiking equipment/ hiking gear. It keeps your feet safer along the steep slopes with sharp volcanic stones.
2. Packed lunch & bottled water at least 3 litters
3. Sleeping bags. Before the hike starts, you can hire these from the station
4. Warm clothes (warm clothing) and a sleeping bag- all these are cold weather gear
5. A rain gear for instance a rain jacket with a hood. Mind also putting on rain resistant pants. Along the hike, there can be extreme weather changes.
6. A sunhat and sunscreens
7. Camera to take photos for instance photos of the volcanic eruptions taking place in the caldera
8. A medical kit with bandage plus some painkillers and drugs for altitude sickness in case.
9. Binoculars- offer you great views of the flowing lava in the torrid lava lake. Likewise, it helps you to view distant features such as Lake Kivu and other beautiful incredible landscape around including the Virunga ranges.
10. A strong headlight
11. Insect repellent
12. A backpack- it keeps safe most of your hiking essentials for instance the camera, sleeping bags, and warm clothes, among others
13. Hiking stick. This is provided at the start of the hike
14. Warm socks, help to keep your feet warm at night. It’s also a warm clothing as you hike Nyiragongo
15. Travel documents including border crossing documents; passport, yellow fever card, and a visa

The tour company you book with your trip will guide you on what to come with.

Precautions During Hiking Mount Nyiragongo in Congo

While hiking Mount Nyiragongo in the Virunga park, there are some guidelines travelers should follow for successful hiking adventures.

These are the guidelines to follow while climbing Mount Nyiragongo;

• When you reach the summit of Mount Nyiragongo Volcano, never get too close to the steep sided walls of this caldera, not even for the perfect shot because this is hot lava surrounded by sliding rocks, don’t be the victim.
• Never carry a drone for photography over Mount Nyiragongo Volcano because it will get into waste because of the ash in the air.
• In case you would love to have the trek to yourself, avoid making your booking for the weekends because they are the busiest times of the week.
• Always get travel insurance before you climb Mount Nyiragongo to explore its boiling lava lake at the summit.
• If possible, come with a medical kit. This should have at least a bandage, as well as some painkillers.
• Carry enough water (about 3 liters) to keep you hydrated while climbing Mount Nyiragongo Volcano in Congo.
• Unfit hikers should hire porters to help them carry their backpacks and a sleeping bag.

Notice for Climbing Mount Nyiragongo Volcano in the Democratic Republic of Congo

With occasional heavy winds and rain, the volcano’s summit temperature drops below freezing. Always bring a rain jacket and cold weather clothes to climb Mount Nyiragongo. We also recommend packing additional socks, cotton gloves, and sunhat for hiking.

Trekkers should bring adequate mineral water bottles and be responsible for their gear, food, and water. To the volcano, you must carry water, charcoal for cooking and heating, food, and cooking equipment. It costs extra to hire a cook, porter, and hiking gear from the park. The hike begins at Kibati Ranger stations, where local porters are available.

FAQs About Mount Nyiragongo Volcano Hike

1. Where Is Mount Nyiragongo Volcano? : How Do I Get to Mount Nyiragongo?

Mount Nyiragongo is found in Virunga National Park in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It’s around 20km in the north of Goma Town. Normally, tourists who visit Congo’s Nyiragongo volcano arrive by plane at Kigali International Airport and then cross to DRC.

2. How Long Does It Take to Climb Mount Nyiragongo Volcano?

Nyiragongo volcano hike takes roughly 5-6 hours but, this is influenced by the pace of the group. Often, the actual hike or the ascent up the summit of Nyiragongo begins around 10 am and the group reaches the caldera summit at 5 pm. Tourists spend the night in the cabins near the rim of the lava boiling crater lake. Around 6 am, you’ll descend to the starting point of the hike on Kibati Ranger Post.

3. Can You Visit Nyiragongo Volcano in Congo?

Yes, it’s possible to visit Mount Nyiragongo despite its being one of the most active volcanoes in Africa with a lava lake. Every year, hundreds of adventure lovers explore this volcano and their expeditions end well. For a notable African safari in Congo, let’s combine your Mountain gorilla trekking safari in Virunga National Park and Mount Nyiragongo hike.

4. What to Expect During Nyiragongo Volcano Hike?

Visitors planning to undertake Mount Nyiragongo volcano hike should not be so expectant. It’s possible that you may not see anything in the night, especially during a cloudy night.  Therefore, it’s better to read anything before you hike; reason, your story could be different so just go have an adventure of your own!

In case there is anything that requires the park officials to cancel your hike, your tour operator will be notified.

5. Is Mount Nyiragongo Still Active?

Yes, Mount Nyiragongo is an active volcano. It’s one of the deadliest active volcanoes in Africa holding one of the largest active lava lake in the world. Since 1882, Nyiragongo has erupted more than 37 times and the most recent one is in May 2021. This volcano is known for ejecting one of the fast flowing lava in the world- the most fluid lava moving at over 60 miles per hour.

6. Is Mount Nyiragongo Safe to Hike?

A hike to explore the lava lake on the summit of Mount Nyiragongo- (a live volcano) is safe! Every year, many adventure lovers visit this landform, and their excursions end successfully. While at the summit, always keep a safer distance from the boiling lava lake and never use drones when photographing.

7. What Is Special About Nyiragongo Volcano Hike?

Mount Nyiragongo Volcano stands 3,147m high in Virunga park and holds a lava boiling crater lake on its summit. It’s the world’s largest with a diameter of about 1.8km.

8. Why Is Nyiragongo Lava So Fast?

Nyiragongo lava flows so fast because it holds low viscosity, a characteristic of basic lava which is mostly fluid lava. This lava can flow downhill at a speed of over 37 mph.

9. What Does the Word Nyiragongo Mean?

The name Nyiragongo means Mountain of Fire, this is according to the local guides.

An African safari to Congo without exploring this charming volcanic mountain- (Mount Nyiragongo) is not a vacation! Why should you miss this memorable adventure? Contact our great team and let us tailor for you a rewarding tour in Congo.

It’s possible to include Mountain gorilla trekking safaris in Virunga National Park on the Mount Nyiragongo volcano hike.