Accommodation in the Democratic Republic Congo does provide the authentic and adventurous feel that visitors are usually looking for.
The range of options for accommodation in the Republic of Congo is more limited than you will find in other safari destinations and the accommodation itself also rather more basic. Usually consisting of small lodges or camps, they are generally remote and accessed by 4×4 or a local pirogue. Facilities may be more rustic too, with forest showers and long drop toilet facilities, but we have chosen accommodation that places you in the heart of the natural attractions to ensure you get the most from your adventure.
FEATURED DRC ACCOMMODATIONS
Kibumba Tented Camp
Kibumba offers sweeping views of the volcano valley across to the Mitumba Mountains. In addition to Mt. Mikeno, three other Virunga volcanoes are visible to the south: Karisimbi, Nyiragongo and Nyamulagira. The latter two are active volcanoes who grace visitors with their stunning red glow after sundown.
Surrounded by forest, one can relax on the comfortable veranda after a gorilla trek and watch blue, colobus and endemic golden monkeys frolic in the forest canopy. Due to the high altitude, it is also a birders paradise for montane species rarely seen outside of the region.
Kibumba’s comfortable tents are nestled into the hillside and are equipped with en-suite bathrooms, running hot water showers and flush toilets. The spacious dining room and sitting area are perfectly located to watch the sun go down and enjoy sipping on one of the many amazing beers Congo has to offer.
Mikeno Lodge
Mikeno Lodge is a 90-minute drive from Goma and offers beautifully appointed bungalows and fine dining. The lodge, restaurant, and bar are all located within a forest and offer beautiful views of the rift valley and Nyiragongo and Mikeno volcanoes. Nature walks and visits to local places of interest can be arranged. There is an abundance of bird life, as well as resident blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and baboons. Chimpanzees are also frequent visitors to the area. The Senkwekwe Center for orphan mountain gorillas is just a 10-minute walk from the lodge and can be visited daily.
Nyiragongo Huts
This is a totally unique, dream destination for the intrepid traveler. Experience sleeping on the rim of an active volcano and gazing down into the bubbling mosaic of molten magma in one of the largest lava lakes on the planet. Located on the outskirts of Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mount Nyiragongo is an active volcano, but don’t let this put you off – its eruptions are highly predictable, making it safe to climb. The sheer magnificence of the experience will be hard to beat anywhere else on earth.
Tchegera Island Tented Camp
Tchegera camp has a very specific function in the context of Virunga’s tourist offering and fulfills it wonderfully. The park’s main attractions are very active (gorilla trekking and climbing Nyiragongo) and this camp provides the perfect way to recuperate.
Getting here involves about a 30-minute drive from Goma and a 5-10-minute boat ride. The island itself is uninhabited so it’s incredibly peaceful. The tents are excellent and unlike Bukima camp there is WiFi and electricity in each. Perfect for backing up all the photos from your earlier adventures! We had unlimited hot water (solar panel generated) on tap as well which again is ideal after a night on the volcano.
Breakfast and dinner were excellent and the chairs in front of the main tent is perfect for watching the world go by over a bottle of Simba beer. The staff put on a small campfire before dinner so people can watch the sun go down.
There is nothing specific to do but there are nice trails which circle the island, loads of birds to watch and kayaks for those who want something more active.
Would highly recommend two nights here after a volcano trek to put your body and mind back together!