DISCOVER DR CONGO
Mount Mikeno
Mount Mikeno is a dormant volcano located in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), specifically within the Virunga National Park. It is part of the Virunga Mountains range, which also includes other notable peaks such as Mount Nyiragongo and Mount Nyamuragira. Mount Mikeno is situated near the border between the DRC and Rwanda, approximately 20 kilometres north of the city of Goma.
Mikeno rises to an elevation of 4,437 meters (14,557 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest peaks in the Virunga Mountains. This mountain is the second highest of the Virunga mountains after Mount Karisimbi. The name “Mikeno” translates to “poor” or “pitiful” in the local language, which reflects the challenging conditions found on the mountain. The slopes of Mount Mikeno are covered with dense vegetation, including bamboo forests and montane rainforests.
Formation of Mount Mikeno
One of the distinctive features of Mikeno is its rugged terrain, characterized by steep slopes and deep valleys. The volcanic nature of the mountain is evident in its rocky landscape, with lava flows and volcanic ash deposits visible in certain areas. The last eruption of Mount Mikeno occurred thousands of years ago, and since then, it has remained dormant.
The geological formations on Mikeno showcase the volcano’s past eruptions. The mountain is composed of layers of hardened lava and volcanic ash, giving it a distinctive texture and appearance. These formations serve as a reminder of the volcanic activity that once shaped the area. The volcanic beauty of Mount Mikeno is a captivating aspect that draws visitors to this tourist destination. The mountain is part of the Virunga Mountains, which are a chain of volcanoes spanning the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Hiking Mount Mikeno
The amount of time it take to hike Mikeno is about 2 days and this activity starts from the Bukima post. Mount Mikeno involves traveling to Goma, obtaining necessary permits from Virunga National Park authorities, arranging transportation to Bukima Patrol Post, embarking on a trek through dense forests and volcanic terrain with a local guide.
The trek to Mikeno starts from Bukima Patrol Post, which is approximately a two-hour drive from Goma. From Bukima, you will begin your ascent through dense forests and volcanic terrain. It is highly recommended to hire a local guide who is familiar with the area and can provide valuable insights about the flora, fauna, and safety precautions.
Some of the items to pack for the hike on Mount Mikeno include good hiking boots, warm clothing, rain gear, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit. It is also advisable to bring enough food and water for the duration of your trek. Equipment for the hike can also be rented prior to the hike at an affordable amount.
Additionally, local porters can be hired to assist in carrying the equipment and supplies during the hike on Mount Mikeno which is a way of supporting the local community. Before planning a trip to Mount Mikeno, it is crucial to stay updated on the current safety situation and follow the guidance of local authorities and reputable tour operators.
Visiting Virunga national park
The Virunga National Park, where Mount Mikeno is located, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. The national park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. It serves as a sanctuary for the critically endangered mountain gorillas in Congo, which inhabit the higher elevations of Mount Mikeno and neighbouring mountains. Gorilla trekking in Virunga national park involves hiking through rugged terrain, dense vegetation, and sometimes steep slopes in search of the gorillas. This activity starts with a briefing at the park headquarters before starting the search which can take a few hours or a longer period of time depending on where the gorillas are located. And one hour is spent with the gorillas during this activity.
With several habituated gorilla families residing in the Virunga national park, visitors can embark on guided gorilla treks to observe these magnificent gorillas closely. It is an unforgettable experience that allows you to witness the gorillas in their natural surroundings. Other activities in Virunga national park include volcano hiking, guided nature walks, boat safaris and also cultural tours.
Best time to visit Mount Mikeno
The best time to visit Mount Mikeno is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. During this period, the weather is generally more stable, with less rainfall and lower chances of encountering heavy fog or mist that can obstruct visibility. The dry season also coincides with the peak tourist season in the region, so visitors can expect better infrastructure and services.
In contrast, the wet season in the area usually occurs from October to May, with April and May being the rainiest months. Heavy rainfall during this time can make trekking and hiking more challenging due to slippery trails and increased risk of landslides. Additionally, the wet season may result in limited visibility due to cloud cover and mist, which can hinder panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
It’s important to note that even during the dry season, weather conditions can still be unpredictable in mountainous regions like Mount Mikeno. Therefore, it is advisable to check local weather forecasts before planning a visit and be prepared for sudden changes in weather patterns.
How to get to Mount Mikeno
Mount Mikeno can be accessed by driving about 4 hours from Kigali city in Rwanda and another way to get there is by flying to Goma international airport which is Goma town. Goma is the closest to Virunga national park where visitors can access Mount Mikeno during their tours in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Overall, Mount Mikeno offers a unique and memorable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. From its volcanic beauty and gorilla trekking opportunities to its cultural richness, it is a destination that offers a combination of natural wonders and cultural immersion that is truly remarkable.
