For well-travelled South Africans who’ve done Kruger, the thrill of adventure often demands something a little wilder. Enter the volcanic heartlands of Central Africa, where molten lava, crater lakes, and moon-like landscapes await those bold enough to step off the beaten path.
Lava fountaining within the Nyiragongo crater, DRC/Pierre-Yves Burgi/Unsplash
From the fiery rim of Nyiragongo in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to the crater-topped peaks of Mount Bisoke in Rwanda, volcano trekking offers experiences unlike any other.
Why volcano trekking belongs on your bucket list
Africa’s volcanoes aren’t just mountains—they’re living, breathing landscapes. Trekking them combines raw natural beauty with a pulse-quickening thrill. Few adventures compare to standing at the edge of a glowing lava lake or peering down into a crater lake framed by misty forest. These treks are not only physically demanding but also uniquely rewarding: the vistas, the geology, and the sense of remoteness make this an unforgettable journey.
Nyiragongo, DRC – The fiery heart of Africa
Virunga National Park/MONUSCO Photos/Wikimedia Commons
Nyiragongo is legendary among volcano enthusiasts. Located within Virunga National Park, it was home to one of the world’s largest lava lakes before the 2021 eruption. The volcano’s dark slopes and red-orange glow at night create a dramatic, almost otherworldly spectacle.
Trekking Nyiragongo is not for the faint of heart. The climb typically takes four to six hours from the base camp to the summit, often with an overnight stay in huts near the crater rim. The path winds through volcanic rock and sparse forest, demanding stamina and focus.
From the top, the view of Goma city below and the vast crater with its roiling lava is breathtaking. For safety reasons, guided treks are mandatory, and access is monitored by park authorities—something that adds to the sense of adventure and exclusivity.
While the 2021 eruption temporarily paused tourism, reopening plans signal a return for intrepid travellers who want to witness Nyiragongo’s fiery heart.
Mount Bisoke, Rwanda – The accessible alternative
Mount Bisoke/Alex Niragira/Wikimedia Commons
If Nyiragongo is Africa’s wild, fiery spirit, Mount Bisoke offers a more approachable adventure without sacrificing drama. Situated in Volcanoes National Park, Bisoke is famous for its serene crater lake, surrounded by steep, forested slopes that contrast beautifully with the moon-like volcanic rock near the summit.
The trek is typically completed in a single day and is considered moderate in difficulty, making it ideal for travellers looking for a volcano experience without the extreme isolation of the DRC.
Along the way, hikers may spot golden monkeys or hear the distant calls of mountain gorillas, adding a wildlife dimension to the adventure. From the summit, the crater lake glistens like a jewel, a serene counterpoint to the fiery spectacle of Nyiragongo.
Bisoke’s accessibility via Kigali, coupled with Rwanda’s efficient park management, makes it a top choice for adventurers seeking both convenience and awe-inspiring scenery.
Mount Karisimbi – The high-altitude challenge
At 4,507 metres, Mount Karisimbi is the highest peak in the Virunga range. This two-day trek involves camping overnight on the mountain before reaching the summit at dawn, making it a serious adventure for fit and experienced hikers. The altitude adds to the challenge, but the reward is spectacular views stretching across Rwanda, the DRC, and even into Uganda on clear mornings.
Karisimbi is less frequented than Bisoke, offering a sense of solitude and accomplishment for those willing to take on its rugged slopes.
Mount Sabyinyo – The Old Man’s Teeth
Mount Sabyinyo/Jonas Antony/Wikimedia Commons
Straddling the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC, Mount Sabyinyo is affectionately called the “Old Man’s Teeth” for its jagged, tooth-like peaks. The trek is a strenuous one-day hike that involves scrambling up steep ridges and narrow trails. It’s the most technically challenging of Rwanda’s accessible volcano treks, but also one of the most rewarding.
Reaching the summit means standing at the exact point where three countries meet—a unique bucket-list bragging right for adventurous travellers.
When to go & how to plan
Timing is crucial for a successful volcano trek. The dry seasons—June to September and December to February—offer safer, clearer conditions. Rwanda is straightforward to access, with Kigali serving as the usual base. DRC treks are more logistically challenging, requiring permits and coordination with guided tours through Virunga National Park. Combining the climb with gorilla trekking or other local adventures makes for a full African bucket-list experience.
Practical tips for travellers
- Permits and Guides: Both Nyiragongo and Bisoke require official guides. For Nyiragongo, park authorities issue permits in advance.
- Gear: Sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, rain protection, and headlamps are essential. Overnight stays near Nyiragongo require warm gear, as summit temperatures drop significantly.
- Safety: Monitor security advisories for eastern DRC, and travel with reputable operators.
- Fitness: Moderate to high stamina is required, especially for Nyiragongo’s steep climbs.
Who this adventure is for
Volcano trekking appeals to thrill-seekers, photographers, geology enthusiasts, and anyone who loves standing on the edge of something extraordinary. For South Africans who have explored Kruger and beyond, Nyiragongo and Bisoke represent the next level of adventure—rare, dramatic, and unforgettable.
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