3 Day Nyiragongo Hiking Expeditions

3-Day Nyiragongo Hiking Expedition| Mum And Dad Uganda Tours

3 Day Nyiragongo Hiking Expeditions,  Embark on an exhilarating 3-day adventure to Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, located in the heart of Virunga National Park in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This expedition promises one of the most breathtaking and unique experiences in Central Africa—witnessing the world’s largest lava lake glowing beneath the night sky.

The tour begins and ends in Kigali, Rwanda, offering a convenient and scenic journey across the border. Your adventure includes a relaxing overnight stay in Gisenyi, a charming lakeside town on the shores of Lake Kivu, followed by an unforgettable night camping at the summit of Mount Nyiragongo.

Please note: This trek requires a reasonable level of physical fitness due to the challenging elevation gain. The hike begins at an altitude of 1,989 meters (6,525 feet) and ascends to the summit at 3,470 meters (11,382 feet). Proper hiking gear, hydration, and pacing are essential for a safe and enjoyable climb.

Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or photography enthusiast, the Nyiragongo Hiking Expedition offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand at the edge of a volcanic crater and witness the raw power of nature.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Gisenyi and Cross into Congo

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional safari guide who will brief you on the upcoming adventure. You will then begin your scenic drive to Gisenyi, a picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Kivu, near the Rwandan-Congolese border.

Upon reaching Gisenyi, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local lakeside restaurant. In the afternoon, embark on a relaxing boat ride on Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, known for its calm waters and stunning views. During the boat excursion, you’ll have the chance to explore key attractions such as Coffee Island, a site showcasing local coffee production, the methane gas extraction plant, and, if time permits, the natural hot springs, where locals often gather for therapeutic baths.

After your excursion, proceed to the border post and complete immigration formalities to enter the Democratic Republic of Congo. From there, continue your journey to the city of Goma and onward to your lodge, where you will check in, enjoy dinner, and spend the night in preparation for the challenging but rewarding hike up Mount Nyiragongo the next day.

Main destination: Virunga National Park

Accommodation options; Mikeno Lodge/ Kibumba Tented Camp Bukima Tented Camp

Meal plan: break lunch and dinner (breakfast not included)

Drinking water

• Mikeno Lodge
• Bukima Tented Camp
• Kibumba Tented Camp

Day 2: Mount Nyiragongo Hike – Ascent to the Crater Summit

After an early breakfast at your lodge, you will be transferred to the Virunga National Park headquarters by 8:00 AM to check in, collect your trekking permit, and attend a mandatory pre-hike briefing. The briefing is conducted by park officials and provides essential safety guidelines and information about the hike. This office is conveniently located near the Goma border post.

Once the check-in process is complete, you will be transported by the Virunga Foundation to the Kibati Ranger Post, the official starting point of the Mount Nyiragongo hike. The ascent begins promptly at 10:00 AM, led by experienced rangers and porters (available for hire if needed). The trek to the summit typically takes between 4 to 6 hours, depending on the pace and fitness level of the group.

As you ascend, the trail takes you through several vegetation zones—from lush forests and lava fields to bare volcanic rock near the summit. Along the way, enjoy scenic views and learn about the geology and history of the volcano.

By approximately 5:00 PM, you will reach the summit of Mount Nyiragongo at 3,470 meters (11,382 feet). At the top, settle into your reserved mountain shelter cabin, a basic but secure hut with a mattress and space to sleep. After settling in, witness the awe-inspiring sight of the world’s largest lava lake, glowing vividly in the night—an unforgettable natural phenomenon.

Dinner will be served at the summit, and you’ll spend the night on the volcano, soaking in the incredible views above the clouds and listening to the distant rumble of the lava below.

Day 3: Descend Mount Nyiragongo – Cross the Border and Drive Back to Kigali

After an awe-inspiring night at the summit of Mount Nyiragongo, wake up early to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the surrounding Virunga landscape. At approximately 6:00 AM, begin your descent from the summit back to Kibati Ranger Post, accompanied by park rangers. The descent typically takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the trail conditions and the group’s pace.

Upon reaching the base, you will be transferred by the Virunga National Park team to the Goma border post, where you will complete the necessary immigration procedures to re-enter Rwanda.

Your driver-guide will be waiting on the Rwandan side to begin your journey back to Kigali. Enjoy the scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills, with optional stops for refreshments or craft shopping along the way. Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be dropped off at your hotel or Kigali International Airport, depending on your travel plans.

This concludes your unforgettable 3-Day Nyiragongo Hiking Expedition, a thrilling adventure filled with dramatic landscapes, volcanic wonders, and once-in-a-lifetime memories.

End of 3 Days Nyiragongo Hike

The package includes:

• Airport Pick & Drop.
• Nyiragongo Back Pack
• Transportation from & to Kigali.
• Volcano trek permit
• Transport to and from Kibati Ranger Post, one-night stay on the summit
• DRC Tourist Visa

It Excludes:

• Porter fees
• Gratuities
• Personal Expenses
• Personal Insurance

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