3 Days Nyiragongo Volcano & Gorilla Tracking Adventure

Goma City & Gorilla Trekking

Active Volcano Hiking

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This 3-day expedition merges two of Africa’s most thrilling wilderness experiences: trekking mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park and summiting the active Mount Nyiragongo volcano. Starting from Goma (DR Congo), you’ll track gorillas in dense rainforest, hike up to the rim of one of the world’s most dramatic lava lakes, spend a night on the crater edge, and finish with a descent and return. It’s physically demanding, spiritually powerful, and unforgettable.

Tour Highlights

Gorilla tracking in Virunga National Park — walking through thick forest to spend an hour with a mountain gorilla family.
Climb to the rim of Mount Nyiragongo, enjoying views into its glowing lava lake at dusk.
Overnight on the crater rim in tents — remote, rugged, and spectacular.
Sunrise views from above the crater before descent.
Scenic travel across the Rwanda/Congo border region, with opportunity for birdlife and unique landscapes.

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Day 1: Gorilla Tracking in Virunga

Depart early from Goma, head into Virunga National Park. After arrival at the park station, attend briefing on safety and gorilla trekking, then begin the gorilla trek (2-4 hours depending on gorilla movement). Spend approximately one hour with the gorillas. After the trek, return down to headquarters, then drive back to Goma for dinner and overnight rest.

Day 2: Nyiragongo Volcano Hike

After your breakfast, you will move from the hotel, and do some shopping in the supermarket before transferring to Kibati Village where you start your hiking experience. Start the hiking and arrive at the top in the afternoon. This will take you 5-8 hours, with an en-route view of some animals and birds along the trail. Admire the lava lake all evening, before retiring in the tent on the rim of the giant crater, high above the active lake. The climb up to and down from Nyiragongo is strenuous and often in hot conditions, but the path is relatively easy and not excessively steep.

Day 3: Descent & Transfer

After a crater‐top breakfast, descend (4-5 hours) back to Kibati. From there, travel to either Goma or cross into Gisenyi, Rwanda. Conclude the tour with drop-off at your exit destination.

Safari Locations

Goma, DR Congo
Virunga National Park (gorilla habitat)
Kibati Village (trailhead for Nyiragongo hike)
Nyiragongo Volcano crater rim
Gisenyi, Rwanda

Transport
Travel in a 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof, guided by an English-speaking professional driver.

Trekking Notes

Gorilla & chimpanzee permits included (UWA-issued).
Treks last 2–6 hours, depending on primate location.
Fitness level: moderate, with some uphill forest trekking.

Best Time to Visit
Dry seasons (June–September & December–February) are best for trekking, but safaris run year-round.

What to Pack
Hiking boots, rain jacket, long trousers, insect repellent, gloves, and a reusable water bottle.

Safari Package Includes

Transport in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle
Gorilla trekking & chimpanzee tracking permits
Budget lodges with full board (meals included)
Professional English-speaking safari guide
Bottled drinking water throughout the trip
Park entrance fees & ranger services

Excludes

International flights, visas, and travel insurance
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
Tips and personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, etc.)