The Best Hiking Destinations in the DRC
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is home to some of Africa’s most remote and captivating hiking destinations. From towering mountains to lush rainforests, the DRC offers exciting hiking experiences. Eastern DR Congo is particularly renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, which provide an adventurous challenge for trekkers. Whether you are looking for a challenging mountain trek or a peaceful hike through dense forests, DR Congo has something for everyone. Here are a few top hiking spots in the region.
Hiking Mount Nyiragongo
Hiking Mount Nyiragongo is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for adventurers visiting Virunga National Park. Nyiragongo is an active stratovolcano, home to the world’s largest lava lake. The volcano lies on the border between the DRC, Rwanda, and Uganda, with Goma being the nearest town. The hiking trail begins at Kibati Ranger Post, which is 1,870 meters above sea level. It’s a 6.5 km hike to the summit at 3,470 meters, which takes about four to six hours.
The trail has five rest stops, allowing you to take breaks and enjoy the surroundings. The hike begins with a walk through dense forests, where you may spot monkeys and bushbucks. The second section opens up to beautiful views of the valley below, while the third section crosses old lava flows and volcanic fissures. Finally, the trail ascends through montane forests to a steep 300-meter climb to the summit.
At the summit, you will be rewarded with a stunning view of the lava lake. The molten lava glows red against the starry night sky, making this one of the most mesmerizing sights in Africa. The temperature at the summit can drop below freezing, so it’s essential to bring warm clothing and rain gear. You can also hire gear at Kibati Ranger Post before starting your hike.
A guided hike to Nyiragongo costs $360 per person, and the hike can be accessed from Goma, which is about 15 km away.
Hiking Mount Rwenzori (The Mountains of the Moon)
The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” lie on the border between DR Congo and Uganda. These mountains offer some of the most spectacular hiking in Africa. The trails here vary in difficulty, from easy walks to challenging hikes. The trek to the summit of Mount Margherita, the highest peak of the range, is particularly rewarding. This strenuous 7 to 9-day hike includes glaciers, forests, and alpine meadows.
Along the way, you will experience magnificent views of the dramatic ridgelines and snow-capped peaks. The diverse flora and fauna, including rare plants and animals, add to the adventure. Rwenzori National Park offers a range of hiking options, making it suitable for all levels of adventurers.
Hiking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park
Kahuzi-Biega National Park is located in the eastern DRC, near the border with Rwanda. The park is famous for being home to the endangered eastern lowland gorillas. Hiking through the park offers the unique opportunity to observe these incredible primates in their natural habitat. The park has various trails that range in difficulty, all of which lead to unforgettable encounters with the gorillas.
In addition to gorillas, Kahuzi-Biega is home to other wildlife, including chimpanzees and various bird species. The park also features scenic viewpoints and waterfalls, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Hiking here combines adventure with conservation, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the rainforest while supporting gorilla protection efforts.
Hiking Mount Kahuzi
Mount Kahuzi is 3,308 meters high and offers a challenging yet rewarding hike. The ascent takes about six to seven hours. The hike begins in bamboo forests and continues through sub-alpine vegetation. As you climb, you will be rewarded with stunning views of Lake Kivu and Bukavu city below. The trail provides an opportunity to see wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Hiking Mount Biega
Mount Biega, at 2,790 meters, is slightly lower than Mount Kahuzi but still offers an exciting hike. The vegetation on Biega differs significantly from Kahuzi, making it a unique ecological experience. The hike takes about six hours to ascend and descend, with maintained trails to guide you.
In addition to these main hikes, Kahuzi-Biega National Park offers other exciting trails, such as the Marais Musisi Trail and the Tshibati Waterfalls Trail. These trails lead to encounters with chimpanzees and are ideal for bird watching. Hiking in Kahuzi-Biega costs about $35 per person for a walk.
Kahuzi-Biega is easily accessible from Kigali, Rwanda. You can drive from Kigali to Bukavu, which takes about seven hours. Alternatively, you can enter Rwanda through Cyanika and then cross into DR Congo to reach Bukavu. Once in Bukavu, it’s easy to reach the park headquarters.
Best Time to Visit DR Congo for Hiking
The best time to visit DR Congo for hiking is during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. The dry months make hiking in the rainforests more comfortable and accessible. However, the trails are open year-round, and you can enjoy hiking at any time, depending on your preferences. Keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, and it’s always good to prepare for rain.
