A nine-day loop from Goma into Virunga and across the Congo: summit Nyiragongo’s rim, track mountain gorillas, relax on Tchegera Island and cruise the Congo River. Expect rugged trails, required permits, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You arrive under a wide equatorial sky: the air sharp with lake spray and the distant rumble of volcanoes. Goma’s busy docks and roadside markets give way within hours to Virunga’s forested slopes, where ranger trails climb through moss and light to the exposed rim of Nyiragongo. At night the lava lake glows like a low, breathing sun; by day mountain gorillas move through the understorey with deliberate curiosity.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
9 days
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and leg strength; able to hike 4–6 hours on steep, uneven terrain and tolerate long transfer days
Wildlife
History
Virunga National Park was established in 1925 and has long been a locus for conservation—and conflict—shaping conservation strategies in central Africa.
Conservation
Permits fund park management and community programs; visitors should follow park rules, minimize waste, and support local guides to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the 9 Days Congo Expedition today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Secure permits early
Gorilla tracking and Nyiragongo permits are limited and issued in advance—book them before arrival to guarantee access.
Prepare for altitude and steep climbs
Nyiragongo involves 4–6 hours of steep hiking; train with sustained uphill walks and carry electrolytes to aid recovery.
Health and entry requirements
Carry proof of yellow fever vaccination and check DRC visa requirements well before travel; travel insurance with evacuation coverage is advised.
Pack a reliable headlamp
Nighttime at the volcano rim and early-morning starts for treks require a bright, long-lasting headlamp.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction for steep, often muddy trails on Nyiragongo and in Virunga.
Gaiters
Protect legs and socks from mud, leeches, and undergrowth during gorilla treks and forest walks.
Headlamp with extra batteries
Essential for summit approaches, rim-side nights, and pre-dawn starts.
Light waterproof jacket and layers
Variable mountain weather requires breathable rain protection and insulating mid-layers for cool nights.