Mount Nyiragongo is an active volcano found on the eastern border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo within the Virunga Mountains. Globally, Mt Nyiragongo is known as one of the most active volcanoes! Its summit holds a boiling lava crater lake (the world’s largest lava lake) which can be explored during your Congo safari tours.

This prominent natural wonder in the Democratic Republic of the Congo- Mountain Nyiragongo is a massif stratovolcano rising about 3,470m in the Virunga ranges within the Albertine Rift Valley, the western branch of East African Rift Valley.

Mount Nyiragongo active lava lake is roughly 1.2km in diameter. This glowing lava lake at Mountain Nyiragongo is endowed with two airy lava benches the upper one at 3,175m and the other at 2,975m within its crater walls. Congo`s volcanic mountains- Mount Nyiragongo and Mount Nyamuragira, take approximately 40% of the volcanic eruption in the modern history of Africa. Mount Nyamuragira also holds a lava lake that sometimes produces gas and steam plumes.

The world`s largest lava lake on the summit of Nyiragongo volcano has become famous since the 1960s and 70s depending on various studies about Nyiragongo volcanic mountain from volcanologists like Kraffts & Tazieff. Nyiragongo Mountain has proved being lively for half a century when it erupted and the lava lake drained in 1977.

What makes this beautiful stratovolcano the most dangerous is that, it killed over 1,000 people in the 1977 volcanic eruptions. Similarly, in 1994, refugees from Rwanda who fled Congo caused a lot of destruction during the eruption. In January 2002, the lava flows drained Lake Kivu to a depth of 150km through Goma city centre.

From 2002, there were still some seismic tremors and smaller eruptions which shows that Mount Nyiragongo is still an active volcano. The last violent eruption of Nyiragongo volcano was in May 2021 and today, catastrophic eruptions are still ongoing within the lava lake at the summit!

Mount Nyiragongo Hiking Adventure to See the Boiling Lava Lake!

Today, hiking Mount Nyiragongo has become a must-do thrill for tourists on Congo safaris. Therefore, if you are an adventure lover, contact Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd to tailor an African trip in Congo featuring a hike to Mount Nyiragongo and explore its active boiling lava crater lake.

Mount Nyiragongo Location- Where Is Mount Nyiragongo Located?

Mount Nyiragongo in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is an active volcano with a boiling lava lake on its summit. This stratovolcano with an active lava lake is located in Virunga National Park, 20 kilometers north of Goma town and Lake Kivu in DRC. It’s adjacent to the west of the Congo-Rwanda border.

Nyiragongo volcano in the Virunga Volcanoes sits in the Albertine Rift Valley region- a western branch of the Rift Valley. Most travelers who hike Nyiragongo volcano are interested in exploring its boiling lava lake- the world’s largest lava lake on its summit with the lava lake activity which produces gas and steam plume often. Sometimes, molten magma can produce a red glow light even seen while down in Goma Town.

Interesting Facts About Mount Nyiragongo in Congo Central Africa

Since Nyiragongo Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in Africa, numerous adventure travelers (hikers mostly) want to know much about it!

Below are some quick facts about Nyiragongo active volcano in Congo Virunga National Park;

• Since 1882, Volcano Nyiragongo has erupted about 34 times. The last eruption of Mt Nyiragongo was in 2021. It’s one of the most active volcanoes in the world with lava lake activity on its summit.
• This stratovolcano- Nyiragongo volcano is about 3,470m above sea level
• Mount Nyiragongo’s lava lake is over 1.2km in diameter. It’s one of the largest lava lakes in the world
• Nyiragongo volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Since 1882, this volcano has erupted over 34 times. Few active volcanoes have done this!
• Volcano Nyiragongo is a stratovolcano surrounded by numerous cinder cones formed as a result of eruption from the flank. The Nyiragongo cone features pyroclastics and lava flows. Stratovolcanoes are formed when basic lava is emitted.
• Today, Mount Nyiragongo eruptions are said to emit toxic gases such as Carbon dioxide. It’s one of the most destructive effusive eruption in the world.
• A hike to reach to summit of Nyiragongo volcano with a maximum elevation of 4370m takes around 4-6 hours.
• The most dangerous eruption of Mount Nyiragongo was in 2002. It reached Congo’s Goma Town, and this eruption resulted in the destruction of properties including Goma International Airport, and this left over 400, 000 people homeless. Around 245 people lost their lives.

• MORE FACTS ABOUT NYIRAGONGO VOLCANO- A STUNNING VOLCANO IN CONGO WITH THE WORLD’S LARGEST LAVA LAKE

• Despite its being active, hikes to explore the glowing lava lake on its summit are possible.
• Mt Nyiragongo lava flows very fast as it’s more of a liquid. This is a reason why Mount Nyiragongo eruptions are deadly. Such lava flows at a terrible speed and covers a wider area! Nyiragongo’s lava flows at a speed of over 60km/hr. It’s one of the most destructive effusive eruption on earth.
• On 5th 07, 2024, there was a satellite image that revealed a dark elliptical area of lava within Nyiragongo’s crater floor. Gas and steam plumes seemed to be rising out of two central vents
• Along with two more older volcanoes, Baruta and Shaheru, the volcano is partially covered by hundreds of smaller cinder cones formed by flank eruptions.
• Nyiragongo Volcano is characterized by thermal anomalies, seismic activities, and even lava effusion. Gas and steam plumes are also emitted. According to Goma volcano observatory seismic data and other seismic stations, these gases include; Carbon dioxide and Sulphur dioxide.
• Congo’s Nyiragongo volcano lava lake at the summit has been active at least since 1971. In the past 120 years, most of the eruptions have been at the top lava crater. However, as recently as 2019 and 2021, several flank lava flows have been seen, with the latter reaching Goma Town.
• The crater lake on Nyiragongo volcano summit sometimes produces gas and steam plume. This is full of poisonous gases like Sulphur dioxide and Carbon dioxide.

Formation of Mt Nyiragongo Volcano in Congo, Central Africa

Mt Nyiragongo Volcano is formed as a result of volcanicity and below is a detailed formation of this famous lively volcano in Africa capped with a lava lake, the world’s largest lava lake.

The unique formation of Nyiragongo Volcano- one of the most active & dangerous volcanoes in the world

Mount Nyiragongo is a stratovolcano formed by a combination of geological processes, tectonic activity, and volcanic eruptions- which are prone to Rift Valley regions, areas on lower altitudes.

Mount Nyiragongo is located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, within the East African Rift system. The East African Rift is a geological fault system caused by the movement of tectonic plates. Geographers agree that the earth’s interior is under great heat and pressure and this results into the melting of rocks to form magma- hot molten rocks.

Continuous heating of these rocks will result into great pressure within the earth’s interior. In case of any fissure (line of weakness within the earth’s crust), magma will escape onto the earth’s surface to form a towering conical structure called a volcano for instance, Nyiragongo volcano.

Formation of Nyiragongo Lava Lake

A lava lake, a feature uncommon among volcanoes worldwide, is one of Mount Nyiragongo’s most distinctive features. Because of the unique characteristics of the magma and the shape of the crater’s summit, a lava lake has formed.

Because of its low viscosity, the magma under Mount Nyiragongo flows more very fast compared to other magmas of other volcanoes. Instead of flowing away from the volcano, this lava collects in the summit crater to create a lava lake.

Amazing Physical Characteristics of Nyiragongo Volcano in Africa Congo

The following are the unique physical characteristics of Volcano Nyiragongo in Congo worth knowing before you come for the Nyiragongo volcano hike.

1. Nyiragongo Volcano Holds a Stratovolcano Shape

Mt Nyiragongo Volcano is shaped like a typical stratovolcano; it is steep and cone-shaped. Its sides stand out strongly from the land around it, and the volcano’s peak is dominated by a big, round crater.

2. Volcano Nyiragongo has an Impressive Summit Crater

Among Mount Nyiragongo’s distinct features is the lava summit crater lake. Its size is astounding, with a diameter of approximately 1.2 kilometers. The lava lake that has made Nyiragongo famous is often located within this crater. Volcanic activity has caused the lava lake’s size to change throughout the years.

3. Nyiragongo Volcano summit holds a Lava Lake

The lava lake that often fills the crater at the top of Nyiragongo Volcano is one of its most interesting features. Such a lava lake isn’t found on many volcanoes around the world, and Nyiragongo is one of the few mountains on Earth where people can see hot lava flowing inside a crater.

4. Nyiragongo Volcano is an Active Volcano

Volcano Nyiragongo is famous for its explosive eruptions, which can be disastrous at times. Nearby towns and animals are in serious danger from the volcano’s explosive eruptions, which continue to be quite active.

5. Lava Flows of Nyiragongo Volcano

: During eruptions, Nyiragongo produces fast-flowing and highly fluid lava. These lava flows are often capable of traveling great distances, posing a threat to nearby towns and villages.

Elevation of Mt Nyiragongo

Volcano Nyiragongo is over hike 3470m above sea level and this makes it one of the highest volcanoes in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Geology of Mt Nyiragongo Volcano in Congo Central Africa

Nyiragongo volcano overlaps with Baruta and Shaheru, two older volcanoes. It’s also encircled by a number of small cinder cones that were formed during flank eruptions.

Pyroclastic flows and lava flows make up Nyiragongo’s cone. Nyiragongo’s lavas are ultramafic rocks that have little to no feldspars and a lot of alkali. They include olivine-rich melilitites, leucites, and nephelinites, with nepheline, melilite, leucite, clinopyroxene, and kalsilite, making up the main minerals in different amounts. This very low silica content causes outbursts with flows that are very fluid.

Most lava flows move slowly and don’t pose much threat to people, but Nyiragongo’s lava flows can go downhill at a speed of over 100 km/h (60 mph). It’s one of the most dangerous volcanoes in Africa holding a boiling lava lake. It also emits poisonous gases such as Carbon dioxide.

A satellite image taken on July 5, 2024, showed a dark elliptical area of lava along the Nyiragongo crater floor. It appeared as though two central vents were releasing steam plum

History of Mount Nyiragongo Eruptions in Congo

Volcano Nyiragongo has erupted at least 34 times since 1882. The duration of these catastrophic eruptions is unknown, but they have frequently lasted for years at a time, frequently in the form of a boiling lava lake in the crater. Although the lava lake existence has been suspected, it wasn’t until 1948 that it was officially proven by science.

Mount Nyiragongo’s lava lake was measured at about 120,000m2 at the time. The size, depth, and temperature of the lake varied over time, as evidenced by later expeditions. Lava lake activity is still going on and this volcano is believed to be one of the most destructive effusive eruption on Earth. This lava crater lake also produces some poisonous gases including Carbon dioxide.

By 2020, the majority of the lava lake was contained within a large, steeply-sided cinder cone that is 180m wide and around 18m high on the crater floor with volcanic activity.

Major eruption of Nyiragongo volcano- one of the most active volcanoes on Earth;

1977 Nyiragongo Eruption in the Democratic Republic of Congo Virunga Park

A crater lava lake existed at the top of Volcano Nyiragongo from 1894 until 1977. Lava lake area walls cracked on January 10, 1977, and the lava lake drained within just an hour and lava flowed down killing people.

At the time, sources indicated that around 2,000 people were killed in the towns of Kibati and Moniki when molten rocks rushed down its top slopes at a terrible speed of approximately 60 km/hr, making it the fastest lava flow ever recorded. This eruption destroyed multiple settlements within Moniki and Kibati.

2002 Nyiragongo Volcanic Eruption in Democratic Republic of Congo Virunga National Park

On January 17, 2002, another major eruption began, following the formation of a lava lake during the eruptions of 1982–1983, and 1994. This came after months of volcanic activity, fumarolic activity & seismic activity.

A 13-kilometer-wide crack sprang up on its southern slope as a result of these explosive magma eruptions (volcanic activity & seismic activity). It climbed rapidly from an elevation of 2,800 to 1,550 meters in only a few hours, eventually making its way to the northern edge of Lake Kivu and the suburbs of the Goma town/ city centre.

The Goma Volcano Observatory had already issued a warning, prompting the evacuation of 100,000 people to the Kisenyi District. Magma, or molten rock, filled much of the runway in the northern section of Goma International Airport and eventually made its way to Lake Kivu.

Tragically high levels of Carbon dioxide and methane could be released if the gas-soaked waters of Lake Kivu were to rise to the surface due to the lava (magma). None of this occurred.

As a result of Carbon dioxide suffocation, building collapses caused by lava and earthquakes, and other causes, around 245 individuals lost their lives in this eruption. Roughly 120,000 people were forced to flee their homes when lava engulfed 13% of Goma Town- the nearby city centre.

The Goma city centre and Gisenyi area experienced several seismic activity- (earthquakes) for around three months following these explosive catastrophic eruptions. Many buildings collapsed and numerous properties were destroyed.

6 months after the first eruption, Volcano Nyiragongo erupted again.

HOW LONG WAS THE 2002 NYIRAGONGO ERUPTION LAST?

The 2002 Nyiragongo volcano eruption is one of the most destructive effusive eruption on Earth. This eruption ejected fluid lava (moving at a terrible speed) which destroyed 15% of Goma town, the business center as well as Goma International Airport.

Ongoing Threat of Mt Nyiragongo Volcano in Congo Within Central Africa

Persistent danger more recently, localized carbon dioxide toxicity- referred to as “Mazuku”- has killed young kids. Without wind to disperse it, the effects of the gas can be fatal in areas where it seeps from the earth at relatively high levels.

In response to local reports of rumblings from the volcano, Goma Volcano Observatory found a new vent on March 8, 2016, at the northeastern side of the main crater. Some worry that a flank eruption might result from this. In 2020, observers noticed the lava lake rising and other indicators that an eruption was about to occur.

2021 Eruption of Mount Nyiragongo- Mount Nyiragongo Last Eruption

The 2021 Nyiragongo Volcano eruption began on 22nd May. Goma airport was affected by the fluid lava. It also made its way towards eastern Goma town.

Goma town residents were asked to leave by the authorities! In this latest eruption of Mount Nyiragongo, many individuals had to flee their homes in order to save lives as a result of the eruption. However, there was an energy outage across a significant area, numerous people went missing and were assumed dead, and the Beni highway surface was cut off.

The Background of 2021 Nyiragongo Eruption

An official from Virunga National Park stated that the 2021 Nyiragongo eruption is very similar to the one that occurred in 2002 and killed 250 people. A possible eruption could occur in the next several years due to the fast filling of the lava lake, according to Katcho Karume, head of the Goma Volcano Observatory in September 2020.

However, Karume did mention that an earthquake could spark an eruption earlier in the process. Nearly a year prior to the eruption, the Goma Volcano Observatory had been ineffective due to the World Bank’s decision to restrict funding in response to corruption charges.

During their infrequent trips to the volcano, staff manually downloaded data from memory cards because the Observatory couldn’t afford to pay for an internet connection to link remote monitors or fuel to frequently move them. A prospective flank eruption between March 2024 and November 2027 was highlighted in a paper published in August 2020 in Geophysical Research Letters that compared past and present volcano activity at Nyiragongo volcano with a lava lake on the summit.

What to Know About 2021 Nyiragongo Volcano Eruption

Lava started to flow towards the city of Goma, which had a population of 2 million people, about 20 kilometers to the south, after a side of Mount Nyiragongo erupted at around 6:30 p.m. (CAT) on 22 May 2021.

Residents of the city were urged to flee by the DRC government. With a pace of about 1 kilometer per hour (0.62 mph), the lava flow gave people enough time to flee. After destroying hundreds of homes and buildings in the Buheme region in the northern suburbs of Goma, the lava finally stopped. It was later established that the airport and the built-up section of the city were undamaged, contrary to previous claims that the lava had poured into the city and even reached Goma International Airport at the south of the city.

Unfortunately, the lava flow of this eruption severed all communication between Goma and Beni, the northern city, by crossing the N2 road.

Approximately 8,000 individuals fled to Rwanda from Goma. A number of issues, including water and power outages, may await evacuees when they return to their homes, according to UNICEF. Rwandan officials officially acknowledged the crossing of over 3,000 individuals from Goma into Rwanda, as reported by BBC News. According to UNICEF, 25,000 people fled to Sake’s northwest, in addition to those that escaped to Rwanda.

On 23^rd May, the flow of lava towards Goma city had stopped, the Rwandan government’s emergency management ministry said that the majority of the refugees who had sought shelter in Rubavu had made it home.

Humanitarian workers in northern Goma were urged by the International NGO Safety Organisation to flee to the west on May 23 as lava seemed to be rushing towards the Rwandan border. Seismic vibrations were still being recorded, according to DRC Communications Minister Patrick Muyaya, who warned people to stay vigilant and not travel unless absolutely necessary.

Goma was rocked by powerful earthquakes on May 24. Several structures were destroyed and concerns that fresh fissures in the lava lake or an eruption were imminent after a 5.3 magnitude earthquake in the area on 25 May at 11:03 a.m.

The warning about more eruption

On 27 May, Goma Volcano Observatory authorities ordered the evacuation of tens of thousands of people from Goma because of the possibility of further eruptions. About a third of the city’s population was ordered to evacuate when military governor Constant Ndima Kongba of North Kivu province issued an edict for ten districts.

Ndima warned that lava beneath the city and its surrounding areas could erupt, prompting discussions about the possibility of a limnic eruption in Lake Kivu. Multiple tremors, the worst of which was 4.9 on the Richter scale, shook the Gisenyi Area, and some residents fled eastward.

Meanwhile, those in Goma crossed the Rwandan border and sought refuge in Gisenyi. Even though it was 90 kilometers away, the capital of Rwanda, Kigali, was rocked to its very core.

When the seismic activity subsided on June 7, the Congolese authorities announced that residents may gradually reenter the city.

Observatory Criticism About 2021 Nyiragongo Volcano Eruption

The Goma Volcano Observatory was held responsible by the locals for failing to issue an eruption warning.

Scientists conducting the observation lost their financing in 2020 from the World Bank, and the observatory ceased its volcanic monitoring a few months later. Goma Volcano Observatory had earlier warned that the lava lake at the volcano was filling up, which raised the likelihood of an eruption or earthquake-related catastrophe; on May 10, 2021, they issued a warning on increased seismic activity at Nyiragongo- an incredible volcano with a boiling lava lake.

Celestin Kasereka Mahinda, the scientific director of the Goma Volcano Observatory, stated that the scientists’ inability to issue a public warning about the eruption was due to a lack of finance. Additionally, Mahinda cautioned the Goma residents against needless travel to areas affected by the volcano’s lava because the lavas are poisonous and hazardous- containing poisonous gasses like carbon dioxide.

The Aftermath of Nyiragongo Volcano Eruption

Everything is back to normal in Goma as of August 22, 2021. Volcano and Lake Kivu hazards have prompted officials to contemplate moving some city residents to Sake Town. However, it would be costly to implement a relocation project, and it will likely be challenging to persuade the long-term residents to leave.

The Causalities and Damage of 2021 Nyiragongo Eruption

On the evening of May 23, government spokesman Patrick Muyaya announced that fifteen lives had been lost: two from fires, nine in a vehicle crash while escaping, and four inmates who were unable to escape from Goma’s Camp Munzenze jail. Over 170 children have been reported missing, and 150 have been separated from their families, according to UNICEF.

Twenty bodies have been uncovered thus far; five more victims died of asphyxiation on May 24. A portion of the victims perished on May 24 from breathing in smoke and toxic gas while walking on a patch of cooled lava, bringing the death toll later to 32. As the hunt for missing persons continues, government spokesman Patrick Muyaya made the statement and hinted at the likelihood of an increase in the figures.

Current Monitoring of Nyiragongo Volcano Eruption

Seismic data is generated every four minutes and temperature data every ten minutes as part of the ongoing monitoring of the Nyiragongo volcano by a team of scientists at the Goma Volcanic Observatory (GVO). As of 2020, the World Bank has chosen to stop contributing to the GVO, hence its continued funding is uncertain.

Attractions in Mt Nyiragongo Volcano in Congo Virunga National Park

Here are the various things to see during your Mount Nyiragongo hiking tour to witness Nyiragongo’s lava lake holding lava lake activity. It’s the largest lava lake in the world.

Nyiragongo Volcano- Among the Most Active Volcanoes in the World With a Boiling Lava Lake

The crater rim on the summit of Mount Nyiragongo in Eastern Africa is mostly bear with no vegetation. While on the crater rim, guests will enjoy brilliant views of Nyiragongo’s lava lake.

Don’t leave behind your camera for remarkable photo shoots while at the crater rim featuring views of the molten glowing magma in the lava lake- the world’s largest lava lake about 1.2km in diameter.

As you climb to explore Niragongongo’s lava lake- (one of the most active lava lakes on earth), you’ll enjoy the views of the lava area.

Nyiragongo Volcano- The world’s largest lava lake in the Democratic Republic of Congo Virunga National Park

A trek to Volcano Nyiragongo in Eastern Africa is a hooray journey to the world`s largest active lava lake. The whole hiking experience of Nyiragongo Mountain contains most of the theoretical geography that you have studied.

This active lava lake is viewed while at the crater rim. Be expectant to see the molten magma down in the main crater lava lake. Remember to keep a safer distance from the lava lake depression while at the crater rim.

Hiking Nyiragongo Volcano- Explore the World’s Largest Lava Crater Lake  

A trek to Mount Nyiragongo is a hooray journey to the world’s largest active lava lake. The whole hiking experience to explore the catastrophic eruptions in the lava lake on the summit of Mt Nyiragongo Volcano gives you a golden opportunity to most of the theoretical geography that you have studied.

Nyiragongo hiking tours begin from the bottom of the volcano in Goma. You’ll have a stopover at the Virunga National Park office to sign in along with your guide. The hike to Mt Nyiragongo volcano summit is often done in groups ranging from a couple of people to 12 but, this depends on the day.

The hike begins at 1,994 meters of altitude, then you will embark on more than 1,524 meters of elevation up to the crater rim which is approximately 3,470m. This memorable adventure covers 8 km and doesn’t require a mountain hiking experience.

First Section of the Mount Nyiragongo Hike in Virunga Park Congo

Welcoming you to the trek. The hike to explore the boiling lava lake on Nyiragongo’s crater floor begins about 2,000 meters above sea level from the starting point. But it’s just a gradual trek, not a very serious hike except that there are some climbing spots that you’ll have to gain.

The second section of Nyiragongo Volcano Hike in Virunga National Park

Still, the altitude gains seem to be gradual and steeps will officially open up at the end of the second trail. You’ll definitely observe in this section that the woody trails will vividly change into slippery loose lava rock.

The fourth Section of the Nyiragongo Volcano hike to explore the Lava Lake Activity in Congo Africa

As you climb Mt Nyiragongo Volcano to explore Nyiragongo’s crater floor with a boiling lava lake, this section holds a steep altitude and the terrain holds you sharp lava rock. It’s just as you approach the volcano crater rim or Nyiragongo summit. The conditions here are cold in this area of Nyiragongo volcano in Virunga National Park.

The Cost for Hiking Nyiragongo Volcano- How Much Does It Cost to Hike Mount Nyiragongo?

The cost of climbing Volcano Nyiragongo is $300 for each person. The hiking permit can be obtained from Virunga National Park headquarters. Most of the visitors book their expeditions through a tour operator.

Accommodation for Mount Nyiragongo Hiking Tours in Congo Virunga National Park

Mount Nyiragongo Summit Shelters- Gives views of the Nyiragongo Volcano Active Lava Lake

The Accommodation at the summit of Mt Nyiragongo volcano- (one of the most active older volcanoes in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is in smaller basic tents provided with a decent mattress and pillows. Each tent is meant for two people but since they are small, you’ll be in close quarters with your tent mate!

There are eight cabins around the crater rim while others are below. Housing in the upper cabins just around the crater rim allows you to pop out of your tent for a look at the main crater at a moment’s notice however even those sleeping in the lower cabins will also witness the views of the lava lake at Nyiragongo’s crater floor with volcanic activity.

Note that, the cabins on the crater rim are colder than those down. Regardless of where you sleep, you can easily enjoy the sights of the Nyiragongo’s crater floor.

Best Time for Hiking Nyiragongo Volcano in Virunga National Park

Dry months offers the best hiking expeditions for Mount Nyiragongo tours. The dry months in Virunga National Park run from June-August and December-February. Most of the Nyiragongo hiking trails are dry in the dry season and are easy to hike unlike the wet months- (March-May & September-November) when rainfall is much.

Likewise, the dry months are also the best months for Congo gorilla trekking safaris in Virunga National Park.

What to Pack When Hiking Mount Nyiragongo in Congo?

Are you looking for Nyiragongo volcano packing list? Adventure travelers coming for Mount Nyiragongo hike tours to explore Nyiragongo’s crater floor with a boiling lava lake should have the following items for a notable hiking adventure;

1. Comfortable Hiking Shoes

Adventure travelers interested in witnessing the boiling lava lake on the summit of Nyiragongo volcano should never miss the hiking shoes. As you hike to explore the summit crater lake of Nyiragongo volcano, they will protect your feet from injuries. The hiking trails are in the past lava areas that hold sharp rocks along steep slopes of Nyiragongo volcano with a boiling lava lake on the summit.

2. Rain Jackets for Rainfall Emergency

Rainfall is prone in the Nyiragongo volcano area. Therefore, as you hike to explore Nyiragongo’s lava lake- (the lava summit crater), the rain jacket or raincoat is of help. If possible get that one with a hood.

3. A flashlight

Since most hikers hiking Volcano Nyiragongo to witness the boiling lava lake- (the world’s largest lava lake) spend a night there, a flashlight is crucial. It helps you as you walk from your accommodation to the summit crater to enjoy views of the red glow light of fluid lava in the lava crater lake.

4. Good cameras to take photos of Nyiragongo Volcano Crater Lake

The only way you can keep the memories of the boiling lava crater lake on the summit of Nyiragongo Volcano- (a famous volcano holding the largest crater lake) is by taking photos. Therefore, never leave a camera behind. Remember, in Africa’s modern history, Nyiragongo holds the most destructive effusive eruption. Scenery of the lava area is incredibly beautiful!

5. Warmer and Comfortable Clothes

The crater rim of Mount Nyiragongo is cold at night, so such clothes will keep you warm. This applies to travelers who will spend a night on the rim of the summit crater.

6. Binoculars

During the Nyiragongo volcano hike, these binoculars will help you to see other distant features including other volcanoes in Virunga Mountains & Kivu Lake as well as the lava area in the crater lake. Then, while at the top, binoculars help you have clear views of the boiling lava lake- the summit crater known as the largest lava lake in the world.

7. Walking Stick

Gives you support as you climb Nyiragongo volcano fairly steep slopes to explore the world’s largest crater lake- the summit crater of Nyiragongo which holds some gas and steam plume features producing poisonous gases Carbon dioxide inclusive.

8. Medical Kit

A medical kit shouldn’t be missed in your backpack as you hike to explore a lava lake on Nyiragongo summit crater in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo to see the world’s largest lava crater lake. Your kit must have at least a bandage as well as painkillers.

More crucial items to have when hiking Nyiragongo volcano to explore the world’s largest lava lake- Nyiragongo crater lake;

1. Sunhat, sunscreens plus, sunglasses
2. Insect repellant
3. Warm cloves
4. A backpack
5. Your sleeping bag

How to Get to Nyiragongo Volcano in Congo Virunga National Park?

Hiking to the summit of Mount Nyiragongo in Congo to explore Nyiragongo’s crater floor with the world’s lava lake commences at the Kibati Patrol Post, approximately half an hour by car from Goma Town. It’s less than an hour from Mikeno Lodge.

Numerous travelers who come for Nyiragongo hiking tours in the Democratic Republic of the Congo arrive at Kigali International Airport in Rwanda and then connect to DRC. It’s also possible to visit Congo’s Nyiragongo Volcano while from Uganda.

If you book your trip with Prime Safaris & Tours, you’ll be transported in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle by a knowledgeable driver guide.

Most of the hikers spend a night at Nyiragongo volcano’s summit so that they enjoy the beautiful views of the red glow light of Nyiragongo’s crater floor with volcanic activity. There are comfortable budget cabins at the summit of this geographical wonder all giving glowing views of the red glow light from the lava lake of this volcano- Nyiragongo volcano.

FAQs About Mt Nyiragongo Volcano in Congo

1.     Is Mount Nyiragongo Still Erupting?

Yes, Volcano Nyiragongo is still erupting and volcanic activity is in Nyiragongo’s crater floor. Though Nyiragongo last eruption (catastrophic eruptions) where in 2021, today this volcanic activity is in the lava crater lake on its summit. Adventure travelers hike this volcano to witness molten lava in the summit crater.

A satellite image taken on July 5, 2024, showed a dark elliptical area of lava along Nyiragongo crater floor. It appeared as though two central vents were releasing steam plumes and gas.

2.     What is the Deadliest Volcano in Africa?

The deadliest volcano in Africa is Nyiragongo Volcano in the Democratic Republic of Congo- Central Africa. Amazingly, this volcano features the largest lava lake in the world. This lava lake is approximately 1.2km in diameter and travelers on Nyiragongo volcano hiking expeditions will witness this lava activity in this world’s largest lava lake.

In most cases, travelers who hike Mt Nyiragongo to view the boiling lave lake spend a night at the summit of this volcano. Nyiragongo volcano hike takes you through the steep slopes of this volcano but, the thrill is worth undertaking. Be expectant to see the stunning lava area.

3.     Which Country Is Mount Nyiragongo?

Mountain Nyiragongo is a burning volcano in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This wonderful volcano is located in Virunga National Park- a renowned site for Congo gorilla safaris. The summit crater of Nyiragongo volcano holds molten lava lake which gives out a lovely red glow in the night.

A number of travelers who do Congo gorilla trekking tours also take up the Nyiragongo volcano hike to explore its boiling lava lake at the summit. Today, numerous seismic stations are in place to watch the volcanic activities of this volcano in Virunga National Park. This seismic data helps to notify the public about any violent eruption that might be about to happen.

4.     How Many People Died in the 2002 Mount Nyiragongo Eruption?

An explosion at the Goma town central petrol station on January 21 killed 60-100 people, causing 30,000 to flee their houses and 14,000 to lose their homes in the eruption, according to the United Nations. Gas poisoning, burns, and fractures were among the injuries sustained by about 470 individuals.

In the modern history of Africa, Nyiragongo Volcano summited with a lava lake is the most active volcano. Its last catastrophic eruptions was in May 202 and this eruption resulted in the death and destruction of properties, homes, and towns including Goma town.

Currently, various seismic stations help to monitor the volcanic activity of Nyiragongo volcano and notify people to vacate.

5.     What Is Unique About Nyiragongo As a Volcano?

Nyiragongo Volcano in the Democratic Republic of the Congo holds a summit crater filled with boiling lava. This volcano on the floor of the East African Rift Valley in the Democratic Republic of the Congo can be visited after or before gorilla trekking tours in Virunga National Park.

Along with two more older volcanoes, Baruta & Shaheru, this volcano- (one of the most active volcanoes in East Africa holding a lava lake on its summit) is partially covered by hundreds of smaller cinder cones formed by south flank eruptions.

6.     What is a Fun Fact About Nyiragongo Volcano in Congo?

There is no lava on Earth that is identical to the lava that flows from Nyiragongo Volcano. The fluid lava of this volcano is incomparable to any volcano on Earth- scientists say. Nyiragongo’s lava moves at a rate of 20 to 60 mph.

While in Goma Town, you can see the gorgeous red glow light from the lava crater lake of Nyiragongo Volcano- one of the famous active volcanoes with a maximum elevation of 3,470m high. Between 1894 and 1977, a crater lake existed on Nyiragongo. But, on January 10th, 1977, this lava lake drained within one hour after its walls cracked and lava flowed down.

7.     What is the Name of the Active Volcano in Africa?

Among the active volcanoes in Africa, Nyiragongo Volcano in the Democratic Republic of Congo is the most active. The last violent eruptions were in 2021 and this destroyed lives, villages, farmlands, and millions of properties in Boma Town.

Today, there are volcanic activities within Volcano Nyiragongo’s lava lake at the summit. Red glow light from the world’s largest lava lake can be observed at night while in Goma town. This volcano is taken to be among the most deadly volcanoes on earth with a lava lake on the summit.

8.     What Type of Lava Flow Does Mount Nyiragongo Have?

Nyiragongo Volcano features basic lava. This lava flows at a high speed due to its low viscosity, it’s just like water and this makes it cover a larger area when eruption occurs before it solidifies.

9.     Why Is Nyiragongo Lava So Fast?

The lava of Congo Nyiragongo Volcano is so fast because it’s basic lava. This is more of a fluid lava and it can move long distances before solidifying at a terrible speed. On your adventure, you can see this lava in the lava lake at the summit.

10. What Is Mount Nyiragongo Famous For as a Volcano?

Congo’s Volcano Nyiragongo is famous for its boiling lava lake on Nyiragongo’s crater floor. Its summit crater can be explored by undertaking Nyiragongo hiking expeditions. The lava lake at the summit of this volcano is about 1.2km in diameter and it’s one of the largest lava lakes in the world.

11.  Is Mount Nyiragongo Safe?

Hiking tours to Congo Nyiragongo volcano are safe as every year, thousands of visitors from all over the globe come to witness Mount Nyiragongo’s lava lake. Most of the hikers spend a night at the summit crater to enjoy the views of the red glow magma in the lava lake- one of the largest lava lakes on Earth.

12. When Did Mount Nyiragongo Last Erupt in Eastern Africa?

Volcano Nyiragongo last erupted in 2021. The fluid lava of Mt Nyiragongo volcano is said to be one of the lava flowing at the highest speed on earth. Today, Nyiragongo eruptions are taking place within its summit crater lake with lava.

Note that between 1894 and 1977, a crater lake existed on its summit according to satellite images. However, on January 10th,1977, this lava lake drained in just one hour after cracking of its walls.

13. What Is the Meaning of Nyiragongo?

The word Nyiragongo means a mountain of fire. It’s a lively volcano in the Democratic Republic of the Congo within Virunga National Park. Amazingly, Volcano Nyiragongo holds a summit crater which is a boiling lava lake with a diameter of 1.2km wide- one of the largest lava lakes in the world with modern history of eruption.

14. Is Mount Nyiragongo Extinct?

Mt Nyiragongo is an active volcano in the western branch of the East African Rift Valley. The summit of Mount Nyiragongo features a lava boiling crater lake- one of the biggest lava crater lakes on planet Earth. Nyiragongo Volcano latest eruption was in May 2021.

How does it feel to hike a lively volcano (Volcano Nyiragongo) with a boiling lava lake on its summit? Let no one tell you about this experience, contact the Prime safaris and Tours team and let the adventure begin. Volcano Nyiragongo hiking tours usually go hand in hand with Mountain gorilla trekking tours in Virunga National Park.

Contact us for any inquiries about Mount Nyiragongo hiking tours!