The nyirangongo volcano experience (3 days)
Nyiragongo, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is part of the Virunga Volcanic Province (VVP) along the western branch of the East African Rift System. It contains a 1.2 km-wide summit crater with a lava lake that has been active since at least 1971.
Nyiragongo is a beautiful stratovolcano containing the world’s largest lava lake. The volcano’s lower forested slopes are home to a variety of animals, including chimpanzees, several species of monkey, the three-horned chameleon, bushbuck, and a myriad of bird species, making the walk to the top of this mighty mountain all the more gratifying.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival at Kigali airport and Transfer to Gisenyi town
On the day you arrive, a tour guide from Native Expeditions Africa safaris will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to Gisenyi on the shores of Lake Kivu. This town which is located at Rwanda’s border with D.R. Congo has a special array of beaches and factories which you can opt to explore on this day. Your choice of the lodge for accommodation may have special excursion packages for you which you can enjoy throughout the afternoon.
Day 2: Enter DRC and Climb the Nyiragongo Volcano
After an early breakfast, your driver will take you to the grand barrier border to Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo. A team will be waiting at the border to transfer you to the Kibati patrol post on the foot of the Nyiragongo Volcano. Hiking at the Nyiragongo normally starts at 10 AM and takes between 4 to 6 hours to complete depending on your fitness levels. You will have your own porter to carry your backpack and your personal cook will prepare your meal on top of the crater rim. Note that you will need an overnight backpack with a sleeping bag and warm fleece shirt.
At night you can see the red glow which some tourists love to call the “sea of lava” in the crater—be sure not to miss this amazing photo opportunity.
Day 3: Descend the mountain and Transfer back to Kigali
On the final day, you will enjoy a great breakfast after which you will head to the base camp in Kibati. Here you will meet your driver/guide who will take you across the border again and he will take you to your accommodation in Kigali or drop you at the airport in time for your flight.
**END OF TOUR**
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VISIT DRC
The Democratic Republic of Congo is regarded as the ultimate African adventure by seasoned tourists. DRC has experienced one of the saddest chapters in modern history but that has not taken away its uniqueness and appeal as a tourist destination.
Native Expeditions Africa safaris is among the few tour operators in East Africa with the capacity to provide guided, safe, comfortable, and amazing Africa holidays in the Congo. Experience gorilla tours, the Congo Rainforest and more with our thoughtful tour packages in Democratic Republic Of Congo.
VIDEO CREDIT: K.M Media, Documentary written and produced by Patrick Kabeya
