Goma

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Safety rating
2.5/10
Best time to visit
The drier months from June to September and December to February are best for gorilla trekking and volcano hikes.
Population
0.7M

Overview

Dramatically set on Lake Kivu beneath the active Nyiragongo volcano, Goma is the gateway to mountain gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park. The frontier town carries a tense edge but rewards adventurers with extraordinary volcanic and wildlife experiences.

Top attractions

Highlights are Nyiragongo's lava-lake summit, Virunga's mountain gorillas, and the shores of Lake Kivu.

Getting around

Moto-taxis and shared taxis cover town, but tours and park transfers should be arranged through trusted operators.

Airports near Goma

Goma essentials