Goma

Goma, on the shore of Lake Kivu in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, serves as a gateway to Virunga National Park and the volcanic peaks of the region. Its lakeside markets, volcanic landscape and resilient cultural scene give the city a character shaped by both natural beauty and a turbulent past.

Country

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Population

782,000

Area

75.72 km²

Time zone

CAT (UTC+2)

Language

French (official), Swahili

Nearby airport

Goma International Airport

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About Nord-Kivu

Goma is the capital of North Kivu in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, set on the northern shore of Lake Kivu beneath the Virunga volcanoes. It is a busy border and trading city directly across from Gisenyi in Rwanda and serves as the main gateway to Virunga National Park and Mount Nyiragongo.

The city's recent history has been shaped by displacement and rebuilding. During the 1994 Rwandan genocide, huge refugee camps grew around Goma, and in 2002 an eruption of Nyiragongo sent lava through parts of the city. Lava rock still marks streets and shorelines, a visible reminder of the volcano and the city's resilience.

Goma's commercial centre runs through the Volcans district, while the more affluent Himbi quarter, the dense Birere area near the border and neighbourhoods such as Katindo and Mikeno each add a different character to daily life. Markets including Virunga and Mikeno are busy hubs for food, clothing and cross-border trade.

As a regional centre, Goma supports cross-border commerce, transport, aid operations and logistics, alongside tourism focused on volcano hikes, Lake Kivu boat trips and visits to Virunga National Park when conditions allow. Local movement relies heavily on moto-taxis, minibuses and walking, while restaurants serve Lake Kivu fish, grilled meats, plantains and cassava-based dishes.

Travel to Goma requires careful planning because the security situation in North Kivu can change quickly. For visitors following current travel advice, the city offers a distinctive mix of lakeside setting, volcanic landscape and a lively Central African trading culture.

Goma lakeside town on Lake Kivu with the Nyiragongo volcano rising behind, North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Nord-Kivu Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit

The drier months from June to August are generally the most practical for roads, lake trips and volcano hikes. December to February is another drier spell, but travellers should check current security conditions before any visit.

How to Get Around

Moto-taxis are the most common way to move around Goma, while shared taxis and minibuses serve longer routes and the border. The compact centre is walkable, and boats on Lake Kivu connect to nearby lakeside towns; four-wheel-drive vehicles are useful for rougher roads and park access.

Where to Stay

The Volcans city centre and Himbi offer many hotels and guesthouses, while lakeside lodges provide quieter options near Lake Kivu. Staying with a vetted or well-reviewed property close to central facilities is common, and visitors should factor in the current security situation.

Food & Drink

Goma's food scene centres on Lake Kivu fish such as tilapia and sambaza, grilled chicken and goat, plantains, cassava and pondu made from cassava leaves. Local beers like Primus and Mützig are widely available, with markets and lakeside restaurants offering everyday Congolese dishes.

Ground Transportation Services in Nord-Kivu

Airport Transfers

Travel between Goma International Airport and hotels, the city centre, the Rwandan border and other destinations in and around Goma.

Hourly Chauffeur

Book a private chauffeur by the hour for business meetings, security-conscious city travel, volcano or lake excursions and flexible movement around Goma.