Take part in the Nyiragongo active volcano one of Congo’s major tourist attractions. Located in the Eastern part of the country and overlooking the Virunga national park, Nyiragongo volcano is one of the 8 volcanoes within the Virunga conservation region. Being one of the world’s largest active volcanoes, the Mount Nyiragongo volcano lava lake is very intriguing and impressive.

Visitors usually combine mountain gorilla trekking and hiking the Nyiragongo volcano. If you are looking for a unique and once in a lifetime mountain hiking adventure, you will find the answer in hiking Mount Nyiragongo. It is the only place in Africa where visitors are allowed to go and see a lava lake up close. After all this, relax at Lake Kivu.

Located in the west of the country, dominating the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, is the sixth largest lake in Africa, Lake Kivu. Covering more than 2,500 square kilometres, the lake is particularly deep (with a maximum depth of 485 meters) because of its position on the rift valley and exposure to volcanic activity.

Along the lake border are a series of towns that are well worth a visit, especially as it sits on route between two wildlife destinations in Rwanda, the Volcanoes National Park and the Nyungwe Forest National Park. Situated on the northern edge of Lake Kivu’s border is Gisenyi (which has recently been renamed as Rubavu).

This is one of the most popular towns to visit, and no wonder, with a hub of lakeside hotels and bars. Some of these hotels, including Lake Kivu Serena Hotel and Paradise Malahide, offer water sport activities out on the lake, and there is an average beach in the town.

Comoran Lodge is a lovely relaxing base to take in the stunning views of Lake Kivu. Its cabins on stilts are perched on a lush hillside near the ‘beach city’ of Kibuye, with the largest cabin housing a restaurant and bar that serves up some great local fish. Seven characterful cabin-style rooms are simple but perfectly comfortable and all have a television, Wi-Fi, mini fridge and a stone and slate bathroom with shower.

There’s the choice of double or twin rooms or the VIP cabin, which has views of the Nyiragongo volcano in neighboring Congo. Canoeing, boat rides and water skiing can all be arranged on the lake at extra cost.