Mount Nyamuragira is one of the two most active volcanoes in the Virunga mountain range. The Virunga range stretches across three countries, Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Mount Nyamuragira is located in eastern Congo, about 25 kilometers north of Lake Kivu.
Mount Nyamuragira gets its name from a local Bantu word meaning “herds of cattle.” The volcano rises to an elevation of 3,058 meters above sea level. It last erupted in April 2018 and is known for frequent volcanic activity. Since 1885, Mount Nyamuragira has erupted more than 40 times. Even though it is very active, the volcano has not been fully studied by scientists.
Over the years, several eruptions have occurred from the sides of Mount Nyamuragira. These eruptions formed small volcanic cones that later disappeared with time. The volcano lies only about 13 kilometers from Mount Nyiragongo, another highly active volcano in the Virunga range. Mount Nyiragongo erupted in May 2021, drawing global attention to volcanic activity in the region.
Unlike Mount Nyiragongo, there are no major human settlements close to Mount Nyamuragira. However, wildlife living on and around the volcano is often affected by lava flows and ash. Major eruptions of Mount Nyamuragira occurred in 2010, 2011, 2014, and 2018. The lava lake that existed before 1938 disappeared for many years. In 2014, a new lava lake formed at the summit for the first time in about 75 years.
The 2014 eruption caused serious air pollution. Mount Nyamuragira releases very high amounts of sulfur dioxide compared to other volcanoes. The sulfate particles from this eruption were detected as far away as the Amazon rainforest in South America.
Gorilla Trekking Near Mount Nyamuragira
The slopes around Mount Nyamuragira fall within Virunga National Park, which is home to endangered mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking is one of the main activities in the park. There are eight habituated gorilla families that tourists can visit.
Gorilla trekking starts early in the morning after a briefing by park rangers. The trek can take between 3 and 7 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family. Visitors are allowed to spend one hour observing the gorillas and taking photos.
Nature Walks and Volcano Hiking
Virunga National Park also offers guided nature walks. These walks follow marked trails through rainforest areas. Visitors can see plants, birds, and animals while learning about the park’s plant and animal life.
Mount Nyiragongo is close to Mount Nyamuragira and is one of the most active volcanoes in Africa. Although Mount Nyiragongo erupted in May 2021 and is currently closed for hiking, visitors can follow official updates to know when climbing becomes safe again.
