Mount Nyiragongo is one of the most beautiful active volcanoes of Africa since its eruption in 2002. The site is located in Goma, a city in the Republic of Congo, on the northern shore of Lake Kivu next to the Rwandan city of Gisenyi. The site is reopening to the public for the first time in over two years. Tourists and local visitors will be able to climb to its summit and stare down into the world’s largest lava lake.
Top of Mount Nyiragongo
Mount Nyiragongo has had a dark history for over a decade, which is why this new opportunity for tourism comes as a relief. Its eruption in 2002 wiped out at least 15 percent of Goma, leaving 120,000 people homeless and living at the base of the mount since 2012. Rebels and Congolese army soldiers have also fought on this location.
Mount Nyiragongo on the outskirts of Goma where tens of thousands of people took refuge in August 2012 during the M23 rebellion
Today, this new cultural site represents more than just a form of travel and entertainment for Goma, but a sign of peace and harmony in the region. It will also aid in boosting tourism, which will in turn improve the economy in the long run.
Two of the refuges at the summit of the volcano where visitors can spend the night
A Virunga park ranger stands on the rim of Nyiragongo
Photo credits Phil Moore, Aljazeera.
