Mount Nyamuragira Trek and Hiking Tours, DR Congo wildlife safaris
Hiking Mount Nyamuragira can be challenging but very rewarding. Mount Nyamuragira Volcano is one of Africa’s most deadly active volcanoes with an elevation of 3,058 meters situated in Virunga National Park in DR Congo. It’s part of the Virunga volcanoes together with mountains such as Nyiragongo, Mikeno, Karisimbi, Sabyinyo, Bisoke, Gahinga, and Muhabura. Mount Nyamuragira is located about 25 km north of Goma city and Lake Kivu, and it’s 14 km northwest of the world’s active volcano, Mt Nyiragongo, the volcano which erupted and caused massive damage to Goma city in 2002. The volcano covers an area of over 1,500 sq. km (580 sq. miles).
Mount Nyamuragira, also known as Nyamulagira, is an active shield volcano in the Virunga Mountains of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, situated about 25 kilometers north of Lake Kivu. It's at times referred to as Nyiragongo sister.
Mount Nyamuragira has been described as Africa’s most active and has erupted 43 times since 1885 with the most recent eruptions occurring on 5th November 2011 and 12th November 2019. Apart from its peak eruptions, there have been various eruptions from the flanks of the volcano, thus creating new smaller volcanoes that have lasted only for a short time such as the Murara, which lasted from 1976 to 1977.
Mount Nyamuragira eruptions have attracted so many hikers from different parts of the world to visit Virunga National Park. Its summit gives stunning views of the lava lake, and surrounding areas like the sister volcanoes such as Mount Nyiragongo, Virunga National Park, Lake Kivu, and Goma City. Hiking Mount Nyamuragira allows hikers to encounter some of the animals of Virunga National Park including the mountain gorillas.
Tourists are advised to acquire hiking permits in advance, which can be purchased from Virunga national park head offices on the day of trekking but it’s better to buy them from a trusted tour operator to secure a spot on a particular day and also prepare accordingly.
Mount Nyamuragira Hiking Journey:
The hiking journey takes 4-6 hours with a 6.5 km each way. Hikers commence the ascent at the Kibati Ranger Post at an altitude of 1,870m early mornings for briefing, where they are assigned armed rangers to lead them through the beautiful hiking trails. While hiking Mount Nyamuragira, the hikers spot different park mammals, primates, and birds including the famous mountain gorillas.
Hiking Nyamuragira needs one to be physically fit as it takes you through very steep slopes, rugged terrain, and thick vegetation cover. Hikers must have good hiking shoes and a walking stick. After 5-6 hours of hiking, hikers reach the summit at 3,470m.
While at the summit, hikers enjoy great views of the lava lake, and surrounding places such as Virunga National Park, lake Kivu, Mount Rwenzori, and Virunga Volcanoes. Hikers that are interested in having an overnight stay at the summit can use the bungalows and those that want to climb down can do so, and the descent of the volcano takes around 4 hours.
Other Things to Do After or Before Hiking Mount Nyamulagira:
Before or After hiking Mount Nyamuragira, there are several other activities and attractions you can explore in the surrounding areas as below;
1. Virunga National Park Visit: Mount Nyamuragira is located within the Virunga National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park offers a range of activities, including wildlife viewing, guided nature walks, birdwatching, and visiting the mountain gorillas in the neighboring areas of Mount Mikeno and Mount Karisimbi.
2. Nyiragongo Volcano Hike: If you’re interested in exploring more volcanoes, you can visit Mount Nyiragongo, which is another active volcano in the region. It is known for its stunning lava lake and offers the opportunity to hike to the summit and spend a night at the crater rim.
3. Take Wildlife Safaris: Virunga National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife. You can embark on a wildlife safari to spot animals such as chimpanzees, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and various bird species. The park also has several scenic lakes and rivers where you can enjoy boat rides or canoeing.
4. Community Visits: Engage with the local communities near Mount Nyamuragira to learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life. You can visit nearby villages, interact with residents, and even participate in community-led initiatives or workshops.
5. Nature Walks: Explore the beautiful landscapes and natural surroundings of the Virunga Mountains through guided nature walks or hikes. Numerous trails in the area offer scenic views, lush forests, and opportunities to spot unique flora and fauna.
6. Visit Lake Kivu: Lake Kivu, located near the city of Goma, is a picturesque freshwater lake shared between the DRC and Rwanda. You can take a boat trip on the lake, relax on its shores, or visit the nearby hot springs.
It’s important to note that some activities may require additional permits, fees, or arrangements. It’s recommended to contact Ultimate Wild Safaris to get detailed information and assistance in planning and booking your DR Congo safari tour.
Best Time to Climb Mount Nyamuragira:
Hiking Mount Nyamuragira can be done all year round but the best time to hike is between June to September and December to February. During search months, there is little or no rainfall, the hiking trails are less muddy and not slippery, the vegetation along the trails is short with clear views of the park animals, and the roads leading to the mountain are passable.
However, hikers can still climb Mount Nyamuragira in the rainy season of March to May and October to November to enjoy huge discounts on accommodation facilities. Hikers should note that during the rainy season, the hiking trails are muddy and slippery, vegetation is tall with unclear views of the animals, the summit is snowcapped with unclear views of the surroundings and the roads leading to Virunga National Park are impassable.
Where to Stay In Mount Nyamuragira
You can find a range of lodging facilities in the nearby city of Goma, which is a common base for exploring the region. Here are some accommodation options in Goma;
1. Mikeno Lodge: Located within Virunga National Park, Mikeno Lodge offers comfortable and eco-friendly accommodations. It provides a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views of the surrounding area. Prices vary depending on the type of accommodation and amenities provided.
2. Hotel Ihusi: Situated on the shores of Lake Kivu, Hotel Ihusi offers a range of rooms and suites with lake or garden views. The hotel features amenities such as a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar.
3. Lac Kivu Lodge: This lodge offers bungalows and rooms with lake views. It provides a tranquil setting, a private beach, and an on-site restaurant.
4. Karibu Lodge: Karibu Lodge offers comfortable accommodations and is known for its friendly staff and tranquil atmosphere. The lodge features a restaurant, bar, and garden area.
5. Other Options: There are also smaller guesthouses and budget accommodations available in Goma. These options may offer more affordable prices but with simpler amenities and services.
Access to Mount Nyamuragira:
Reaching Mount Nyamuragira can be done both by road and by air transport, depending on your starting point.
By Road:
Starting from Goma: Goma is a city in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and serves as a common starting point for visiting Mount Nyamuragira. From Goma, you can hire a private vehicle or take a taxi to drive to the volcano. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on road conditions and the specific route taken.
By Air:
Goma International Airport: If you’re arriving from a distant location, the most convenient way to reach Mount Nyamuragira is by flying to Goma International Airport. Several airlines operate flights to Goma from various African cities, including Nairobi, Addis Ababa, and Kigali. From the airport, you can arrange for ground transportation to the volcano.
Once you have reached the vicinity of Mount Nyamuragira, you may need to make further arrangements for transportation within the Virunga National Park, as the volcano is located within the park boundaries.
Arrange with Ultimate Wild Safaris for a memorable hike of one of Africa and DR Congo’s most active volcanoes, Mount Nyamuragira.
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