The Nyiragongo Volcano is one of the most active and dangerous volcanoes in the world. It is also known as a gorilla highland and its eruptions in 2002. It last erupted as recent as 2002 and is still erupting although the activity is now limited to the lava lake inside the rim. It has erupted over 34 times since 1888. Well before you think of visiting or hiking this mountain, here are a few things you need to know about this volcano that can be of great importance to you. Here is what you need to know before hiking Nyiragongo.
The encounter is exceptional
Think about the largest lave Lake and imagine any lake you know just filled with red molten rock. It seems like its never real but it is so out of this world. You will have these memories forever, as you stare at this stunning and beautiful molten lava, splashing up and down. This will blow your mind, you will never regret what you paid for to reach at this point of the world, where you stand before the real burning lava, taking selfies of a life time, not seen anywhere in the world, but only here.
Build your trust on the ground
Like any other destination, the DRC is not any different. It is important to be mindful of you security but also trusting the people around you will make your safari even a very memorable one. DRC has been safe since 2012 although most people still think it is still unsafe. Your safe with the people around you, they know the place better than anyone else. Leave the exaggerated media stories, and trust us.
Sleep in the wilderness.
You will have one of the most coolest and lovely night ever in your life, as you sleep on the highest point of above 3500 ft., overlooking the burning lava on top of the Volcano. It’s a night to remember as it will be a dead night, with only the roaring sounds of the burning lava.
Security is paramount.
You will be escort on arrival to Congo till you cross by security guards who carry their riffles along with them to give you total security. You will feel a VIP for the first time, as the guards, watch over you, and escort your vehicle, and also along as you hike. You need not to worry, you’re in safe hands. This is one of what you need to know before hiking Nyiragongo.
Fitness is not a must
The Hike to the summit of this volcano takes about 6 hours and you will spend a night there and descend the next morning. Going through the rocks is hard but also the distance and altitude is hectic. The hike will be slow depending on your energy levels and you will not be rushed. At some point it is slippery, and muddy, worse when it rains, though walking sticks are there to support you. But you need some fitness to keep in shape.
When to Visit Nyiragongo.
The trek can be done year round, however, dry months are the best time to hike Mount Nyiragongo, though it cease to rain any time, being in a tropical rain forest zone, and near the equator. As mountain favors rainfall formation, expect fall down even in dry season.
Meals are optional
You can pay for a package that covers everything but you will still need a few things that may be under looked by other people. You may need small bills of up to USD100 to carter for things like tips and porters. It’s a sense of humanity, as you will see the great job they do, as you hike along.
The summit is one of the coolest areas you will ever stay in
When you think about the Lava Lake on the top you may imagine this place is too hot but it is the opposite. The summit is too cold and some areas are even covered by snow. Carry come warm clothes and gloves. You’re above 3500 fts on the sea level. This is incredible.
Friends at Heart.
If you’re good at friendship, the short 2 days trek, is enough for you interact with everyone in the group and make a strong long lasting friendship, as your mode and place of meeting is one of its kind. You will join other people to hike with together for that particular day, you will chat and interact, your heart will fall in love with the friendship and help, if your group members are friendly and if they care, then you can spark out a strong relation, just like other hikers.
Yellow fever certificates are mandatory
If you arrive to the Congolese border without the yellow booklet, they will charge you $70 to make you one. With vaccination or without it. This is one of what you need to know before hiking Nyiragongo.
Memorable trek.
Its not all about seeing the burning magnificent lava, but also the hike up and descending, is part of one of the lovely activity to do, as you exercise, fall and get up, slide and stumble. At the end, you enjoy rum some experience filled with great memories, as you enjoy the company of one another in your trekking group.
Take good care of your property
Be mindful of your property and who you leave it with. Even in other destination it should be like so. Since you sleep in huts that are not really well closed, keep watch of your bags. Always keep an eye to your belongings, your among people you have just met for a day or 2.
Carry a good Camera.
These are photos, only taken once in a life time, not found elsewhere. Carry a good camera with good lens. You will take enough photos, from the boarder as you cross, along the way to the park, as you hike up the volcanos, lava summit. Everything in Congo is quit unique that your photos will tell it all to the people back home who will be waiting to see and listen to the beautiful stories you will share way back home.
Keep calm.
You need to be calm and enjoy your stay, though be alert, don’t totally relax your mind, you’re into another country.
Last But Not least.
End ever to thank everyone, for the good job well done, share the memories, write a review about your experience, tell the world, how incredible your African safari was, if all went well, recommend. Many still think Congo is worse, but it’s us, to let them know, all is well.
The Nyiragongo climb is an insane experience, just go and do it! Feel free to contact us more information about what you need to know before hiking Nyiragongo.
