Goma city is located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It sits close to the northern shores of Lake Kivu on the border with Rwanda not far from Gisenyi town. Goma is considered the capital of the Northern Kivu province and one of the largest after Kinshasa.
Goma city of Congo covers an area of about 75km2. A key feature in Goma city is the majestic Nyiragongo Volcano as well as modern restaurants, museums and theaters. Remains of the lava from the 2002 eruption are some the things you ought to see during your travel to the eastern part of the democratic republic of Congo. Recently the number of tourists visiting Goma to hike Nyiragongo volcano are steadily increasing. The 2002 eruption of the Nyiragongo volcano had most of Goma destroyed, and it has since been a under construction and worth a visit.
Goma is a city shaped by its volcanic history and recent strife. Founded near Nyiragongo volcano, it has experienced overwhelming eruptions and has been a central point of regional conflicts, hosting many refugees. Today, Goma is a city wrestling with instability, recently taken by the M23, with a humanitarian crisis worsened by fighting, population displacement, and restrictions imposed on civil society. Despite these challenges, Goma remains an important hub, with an airport, a lakeside port, and several universities. The city is very busy because it is a major trading route for goods going to Congo from Uganda and Kenya. Goma hosts a large number of UN and other international humanitarian organizations. It’s just a few minutes’ drive from Virunga National Park hence offering countless opportunities for those interested in nature and Wildlife.
Activities To Do and Places to Visit in Goma City
Hike Mount Nyiragongo
Mount Nyiragongo is an active volcano standing at 3470m high. It is a great place to make the most of memorable experience after viewing the glowing magma in one of the world’s largest active lava lakes. Staying a night at the shelter on its summit is the most exhilarating part of the tour. The hike to the mountain also gives the best picturesque views of the valley and other spectacular surrounding landscapes.
Tchengera Island- Lake Kivu
After a city tour in goma, take a short break to the tented camp at tchengera island on lake kivu. The place is a quiet one and perfect for relaxation. Enjoy stunning views of the lake, the Nyiragongo volcano whose glowing magma lights the sky in the night turning the sky across glowing red. At one of the bays where there are no crocodiles, visitors can enjoy swimming.
Visit Virunga National Park
Virunga national park is located in the democratic republic of Congo. It is one of the only three places in the world where tourists can see mountain gorillas in their natural habitant and the other two being Uganda (Bwindi impenetrable and Mgahinga gorilla national park) and Rwanda (volcanoes national park). Virunga is a world heritage site and is the oldest national park in Africa.
Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage
Senkwekwe center is a famous home for orphaned mountain gorillas in the world. The center was named after a great silverback that was killed by the militias in 2007 who were taking refuge within the park at that time. The orphanage takes in gorillas that were rescued from poachers and animal traffickers.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park
This is one of the most visited places in the democratic republic of Congo. The park is close to Bukavu town, just 40km and it takes about 30-40 minutes drive to get there. The park is the only place in the world where you can trek the Low land gorillas, which are the largest of the four-gorilla subspecies. About 250 individuals live here, and several gorilla families are habituated for trekking. Established in 1970 and named after two dormant volcanoes, “Mount Kahuzi” and “Mount Biéga”, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site stretching approximately 6,000 square kilometers
Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is one of the most tourist attraction to visit in Goma since it boasts a lot of activities such as fishing, kayaking, birding and also swimming. Boat cruise is the main activity on lake Kivu that enables tourists to explore the islands on the lake. This lake is known to be the second largest in Democratic Republic of Congo
How To Get to Goma City
Goma can be accessed by both road and air. Fly to Kigali international airport and drive to Gisenyi town at the border connecting to Goma in the DR Congo. Alternatively, you can fly directly to Goma international airport with daily flights from Kinshasa or take a direct flight from Addis Ababa to Goma airport with the Ethiopian airlines that operate daily to this destination.
Goma city can be reached by road both public and private means, you can hire a car or use a tour operator who is knows the place very well. There are also buses that move from Bunagana border to Goma, and through cyanika to Rwanda and then transferring to Goma city. Visitors from Rwanda can use hourly omnibuses that depart from Kigali to Goma city on a daily basis. Public transport however, takes longer than private transport to get to Goma.
Visitors are advised to use licenced tour operators who can transfer you to Goma in a few hours.
Where To Stay in Goma City
Luxury accommodation
Goma serena hotel
The city’s only official 5-star hotel. It offers panoramic lake views from all 109 rooms, an Olympic-size pool, a full spa, and multiple dining options. It is located about 10–15 minutes from the airport.
Lac kivu lodge
A high-end boutique option known for its lush tropical gardens and private pontoon on the lake. It’s frequently praised for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent restaurant.
Mid range accommodation
Lhusi hotel
A long-standing favorite in Goma. It’s rated as one of the best value stays with a pool and is noted for its friendly service and “warmth” away from the city’s main energy.
La Villa asha
A newer, smaller guest house that has quickly become popular for its “best breakfast in Goma” and peaceful, secure lakefront location.
Hotel cap kivu
A 3-star beachfront hotel with a fitness center and garden. It’s well-rated for being quiet and offering good value for money.
Budget accommodation
Tchegera island
For something different, this Virunga National Park property is a short boat ride from the city. It offers a “5-star” experience in safari-style tents with views of the Nyiragongo volcano.
Ishango guest house
A simpler lodge that is clean, secure, and helpful for travelers continuing on to other parts of the DRC.
Requirements Needed to Access Goma City
Crossing the border to goma or flying into goma town, you are required to have a valid passport whose expiry date should not be below 6 months from the date of travel. You must as well have a valid yellow fever card which is not beyond 10 years