Volcanic Adventures in Virunga National Park: Nyamulagira and Nyiragongo Treks in DRC
Experience the awe-inspiring power of active volcanoes up close in Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Recently, Nyamulagira, located just north of Goma, erupted along its eastern flank. Park authorities guided adventurous visitors to within 1.5 km of the eruption site, offering a safe yet thrilling vantage point.
Explosive volcanic activity at Nyamulagira. Photograph: Cai Tjeenk Willink/Virunga National Park
This overnight trek provided front-row views of nature's most dynamic forces. The trail, strewn with volcanic rocks from past eruptions, challenged hikers but rewarded them with evenings under a sky illuminated by glowing lava fountains. Visitors described the spectacle as utterly mesmerizing.
An armed guard at Nyamulagira. Photograph: Cai Tjeenk Willink/Virunga National Park
The final treks coincided with new lava fountains erupting beside fading embers, creating a dramatic finale. Nyamulagira's neighbor, Nyiragongo—famous for its 2002 eruption that devastated Goma—is also emerging as a premier attraction. That event destroyed 4,500 buildings, displaced 120,000 people, and buried parts of the city, including the airport runway, under two meters of lava, though slow flows allowed most evacuations.
Travellers make the trek up Nyamulagira. Photograph: Cai Tjeenk Willink/Virunga National Park
A five-hour climb to Nyiragongo's 3,468-meter summit reveals the world's largest lava lake from the crater rim. Spending the night in a sleeping bag, gazing at the molten glow, offers a surreal and unforgettable experience. Moderate fitness is required for the steep final ascent.
The crater of Nyiragongo volcano. Photograph: Dean Starnes
The US$200 per person permit includes guides, armed security, and accommodation in one of eight A-frame cabanas on the rim, each with bunks, mattresses, and pillows. Bring your own food, water, sleeping bag, sunscreen, toilet paper, torch, and warm layers—nights are frigid, so gloves, hats, windbreakers, and sweaters are essential.
A hazy sunset at Parc National des Virungas. Photograph: Dean Starnes
Book Nyiragongo hikes, visas, and gorilla treks online at www.visitvirunga.org. As Africa's second-oldest national park after Yellowstone, Virunga spans vast forests but suffered from civil unrest. Reopened in 2008 with improved stability, new visas, and expert management, it has seen surging tourism—join the adventure today.
Beaming in front of Nyamulagira. Photo: Cai Tjeenk Willink/Virunga National Park
