DRC Tourism
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    Volcano Landscapes of Eastern Congo

    North KivuJune-September (clear views)
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    Quick Answer

    Eastern DRC features eight Virunga volcanoes including active Nyiragongo and Nyamulagira. The dramatic landscape includes lava fields, volcanic lakes, and montane forests. Nyiragongo hosts the world's largest permanent lava lake.

    The Virunga Volcanoes — A Living Geology Lab

    Eight stratovolcanoes form the Virunga chain along the DRC's eastern border. Two — Nyiragongo and Nyamulagira — are among the most active in Africa. Nyiragongo holds the world's largest persistent lava lake, glowing red inside its summit caldera at 3,470 m.

    Trekking the Lava Lake

    The classic two-day Nyiragongo summit trek departs from Goma via Virunga National Park headquarters. Combine with mountain gorilla trekking in the same park.

    Safety & Booking

    Review our travel advisories and DRC safety guide, then book through an accredited operator.

    Highlights

    8 Virunga volcanoes
    World's largest lava lake
    Lava fields
    Volcanic lakes
    Dramatic scenery

    Activities

    Volcano hiking
    Lava lake viewing
    Photography
    Landscape exploration

    Nearby Destinations

    nyiragongo volcanovirunga national park

    Related Experiences

    volcano hiking nyiragongo

    Themes

    volcano
    landscape
    adventure

    Plan Your Visit

    Best TimeJune-September (clear views)
    Provincenorth kivu
    Email to BookWhatsApp
    Explore North Kivu Province

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    Continue exploring the Democratic Republic of Congo

    The Congo River, Lake Kivu, Lake Tanganyika, Lake Mai-Ndombe and the Atlantic coast at Muanda make the DRC one of Africa's greatest water-based travel destinations. Continue exploring below.

    Plan your DRC tripAll experiencesAll destinationsNational parksWildlife of the DRCCulture & heritageIslands & riversTravel planning guidesDRC travel FAQKinshasa city guideVirunga National ParkKahuzi-Biega National ParkSalonga National ParkGaramba National ParkUpemba National ParkGorilla trekkingBonobo sanctuaryCongo River expeditionsIs the DRC safe?Travel blogAccredited operators & partnersMedia & press kit

    Common questions travellers ask about the DRC

    Is the Democratic Republic of Congo safe to visit?

    Yes — most tourism corridors in the DRC (Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, Virunga, Kahuzi-Biega, Lola ya Bonobo, Kongo Central coast, Upemba, Garamba) are routinely visited safely when travelling with a licensed operator. The DRC is the size of Western Europe, so security conditions vary dramatically by region — avoid eastern conflict pockets outside designated park corridors and check current advisories.

    How much does gorilla trekking cost in the DRC (Congo)?

    Mountain gorilla permits in Virunga National Park start around €415 per person. Grauer's (eastern lowland) gorilla trekking in Kahuzi-Biega starts around €370. Multi-day packages with transfers, ranger fees and lodging typically range from €1,100 to €3,200 per person.

    Do I need a visa to visit the DRC?

    Most travellers need a tourist visa, obtained in advance from a DRC embassy or via an authorised operator with a letter of invitation. A short-stay tourist e-visa is available for many nationalities.

    When is the best time to travel to DR Congo?

    The dry seasons — June to September and December to February — are ideal for gorilla trekking, volcano hikes and safari travel. Congo River and rainforest experiences are rewarding year-round.

    Prefer a human? Plan your trip, apply for a private consultation, or contact our team. For press and partnerships, see our media kit and accredited partners directory.