Nyiragongo is one of the most amazing volcanoes in the world. It is a very beautiful stratovolcano, very active and it is the largest lava lake there is in the world. It is surrounded by different vegetation covers in the different zones as you go higher. The lower part of it is a densely forested area and a home to lots of different animals and these animals include the chimpanzees, there are different monkey species, a big number of bushbucks, among so many others.
Meanwhile, Nyiragongo summit rim is basically free from any vegetation covers which means it is basically a rocky area and with almost no life living over there. From this mountain edge, you can easily stare down to this red burning lava lake, you will see and hear the hot gases as they explode up after the lava melts. Because it is predictable and therefore safe for tourists but it is still very dangerous to be on up the mountain during the time of eruptions. The lava from this mountain has high content of silica content therefore the lava in a form of extremely fluids which is why sometimes it can flow as a far as Lake Kivu as the case was after the 2002 eruption.
The hike up to Nyiragongo
The Nyiragongo trek begins with a briefing from Kibati patrol station early in the morning. This station is located about 30 minutes away from Goma at the border and there, you will also get a hiking guide, you can get a porter if you wish to have one to carry your luggage. This park ranger will lead the way as you trek/ hiking up and the porters that are available are paid per day but the price has to be determined before the hike starts. The time that you need to get to the top of varies on the physical fitness which will determine the speed at which you are hiking but normally, it is between 4 – 6 hours which is why you have to carry packed lunch which you will have any time you wish to whenever you fell like along the way up.
Those with altitude sickness may find a challenge during the hiking since the climb begins at about 1989m (6,525 ft) and then ascends to about 3470m which is 11,382ft. The best way to adapt to this altitude change, you need proper hydration and this will help protect you from that acute Mountain Sickness. It is advisable however to speak to with the physicians before you hike so that you can take all the preventative measures necessary.
It is very possible for someone to climb up and descend on the same day if you are physically fit however it is better to spend the night up the mountain so that you can have the chance to see this burning lake in the night. You can send the night and have your meals at a place like the Nyiragongo volcano summit shelter.
What to carry during your Nyiragongo Mountain hike
Before the hike, you need to carry everything that you will need for the night and day for example the jacket/ raincoats for the cold night or the rain, the water resistant pants will be useful, warm cloths like socks, hats, sleeping bags and anything that you may need to keep warm because usually it falls below freezing point. You will realize that all the heat you will have just as you get to the top of will all vanish with the cool breeze on the top of this mountain. Without the proper cloths, you will spend a cold night. You can expect the best time ever especially when you get to the top.
