What to pack for Nyiragongo Volcano hike?

What to pack for Nyiragongo Volcano hike? – Packing List

What to pack for Nyiragongo volcano hike? – The Nyiragongo is one of the largest most spectacular active Volcanoes in the world with a caldera summit having a diameter of 1.2 kilometres with steep sided walls making it the largest active lava lake in the world. Today the volcano stands at the height of 3,470 meters high and has seen a number of volcano actions causing lava to flow downhill to the neighbouring Goma settlements found on the foothills. Nyiragongo today is listed as one of the deadliest and most dangerous Volcanoes in the world

Parking list

A rain jacket: 

This should be light so as not to inconvenience you while climbing the mountain. The rain jacket will help shield you from the heavy rains.

Suitable hiking boots:

The shoes should have a good grip (rubber soles), water proof, comfortable and able to keep your feet warm.

Warm clothes and sleeping bag:

The Mountain gets colder as one ascends higher and you need to be prepared in the best possible way. Go with warm clothing to stop protect you from the freezing cold at the summit. You will need a sweater, rain resistant pants, jacket, long underwear, warm socks and hat.

Packed lunch and Water:

Climbing Mount Nyiragongo can be very tiring leaving you thirsty and even hungry. Carry along packed lunch and enough drinking water.

Hire a porter:

Hiring a porter at the base of the Volcano costs about USD15 per day and these porters are used to climbing the volcano several times a week and have no difficulty helping with heavy luggage. They will also help you climb the most difficult parts of the mountain.

A hat and sunscreen:

These will come in handy when there are heavy downpours or during the hot/dry season.

Camera and Binoculars:

You cannot go for such a great experience without a good camera or photos to show of your time at the volcano. Watching a live Volcano is an experience only few ever get in their lifetime. You need good photos for your record and to also show off to friends and family. Binoculars will enable you spot amazing scenery particularly while climbing down the mountain.

Backpack:

This is where you would be keeping all your gadgets – phones, ipads, camera, binoculars and more. Ensure that it is rainproof.

Portable charger:

This will ensure that your ipads, Laptops, phones are powered while in your cabin at the summit.

A flash light:

The summit has no electricity. Power is got from solar but is not available everywhere. You will need a torch to move about to the kitchen or bathrooms.

Important Information about Climbing Mount Nyiragongo

Best time to Hike Mount Nyiragongo Volcano:

Hiking mount Nyiragongo can be done throughout the year but dry season is the most preferred. The dry season fall between June and September and also December, January and February. The rainy seasons cause the trails to be more slippery and difficult for hikers.

Be in Good Shape:

Climbing mount Nyiragongo is challenging and requires one to be fit. The mountain becomes steeper as one ascends while climbing down has its own challenges Knee and ankle pain because of pressure. The weather conditions get more challenging as one ascends the mountains. You need to take that into consideration especially if you are sensitive to extreme weather changes.

Mental Preparedness:

This is a key because it is not all about being fit. You need to be determined to complete the hike despite all the challenges you may face. One can prepare the mind and body weeks before the hike by going for minor hikes on rocks or hills around your home.

Hiking sticks:

A hiking stick will help you climb up and down steep slopes by helping you maintain balance and relive the knees from greater strain. Climbing sticks are available at the starting point.

Keep your valuables safe:

Always keep your valuables like cameras, money and laptops close to you even while at the cabins with fellow hikers.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate: To cross the border to the Democratic Republic of Congo, you will be required to show your passport and yellow fever card. Without the card, you may not be allowed entry to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

N.B: Hiking the Nyiragongo Volcano can be combined with Mountain Gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of Congo for a more complete and memorable safari experience. If you are interested in combing the two activities, contact us at Great Adventure Safaris for more information to help you plan your safari accordingly.