Are you planning to hike the famous Mount Nyiragongo, one of the active Virunga Volcanoes during Congo Safaris? Have you already parked for the safari and do you know what you must or must not park during this unforgettable adventure? Then you don’t have to worry because provided is the comprehensive list of what you have to pack when heading for this unpredictable yet jaw-dropping adventure of a lifetime. Packing for a safari has always been a nightmare and involves a lot of legwork thus you need adequate information and advance preparation to make it easier for you. However, the number one principle is to pack light and right.
One thing you need to always understand is that Virunga National Park (where Mount Nyiragongo is found) is generally a mountainous and tropical rainforest, thus no clear trails but muddy. Nonetheless, there are some seasons that are generally hot and humid with short and light pours thus you have to be careful with what you pack. Imagine hiking to the peaks of Mount Nyiragongo, it means you have to carry the right items/things which include the following;
Travel documents that include valid passports, Visas, inoculation certificate against yellow fever and valid Photo ID for identification when getting around or moving from one place to another.
Strong waterproof hiking boots
Just like most places within Virunga National Park, you will encounter muddy and slippery trails when hiking Mount Nyiragongo thus you will need strong hiking boots with enough grip so that you hike through areas of high elevations.
2-3 pairs of long sleeved shirts
Hiking this Volcano need long sleeved shirts because you will not just be climbing but going through areas of thick vegetation thus likely to find some unpleasant plants that will injure your arms thus it is important to avoid short sleeved shirts or sleeveless tops.
Long trousers
Just like you need long sleeved shirts, long trousers are very important to protect your legs from scratching plants.
Neck warmer/scarf
Due to the coldness during the rainy season and also evenings (whether wet or dry season), you will be required to use a scarf during such times. Sometimes it is very cold in the morning as you start the hike.
Waterproof backpack
Backpacks are important for carrying your lunch, snacks, drinking water as well as other documents and has to be waterproof because sometimes it rains even when you don’t expect it to.
Walking stick
Walking stick is important for climbing to areas of high elevations, especially due to the slippery nature of the trails during rainy seasons.
Long and warm socks
Wear long socks and make sure to tuck in your trousers into the socks to prevent insects from entering into your pants/trousers.
Light rainproof jacket
This is very important during the rainy season because the rain can find you on the way to the peak of Mount Nyiragongo but even during the dry season, sometimes probability of it raining or not is not predictable thus make sure you don’t forget your rainproof jacket at whatever season.
Gardening gloves
Gardening gloves are helpful for protecting your hands from being scratched as you support yourself with tree branches during hiking.
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Sunglasses are ideal for protecting your eyes against the scotching sun (if it is a dry season.
Toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, bathing soap, sanitary towels, lotion, conditioner, face towels and shavers are very important during the Mount Nyiragongo hike because you will be camping in the middle of the hike.
First Aid Kit with bandages, headache relievers, liniment and altitude medication are a must-have during the Mount Nyiragongo hike.