Things To Do
in Goma
Goma is a city located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It sits at the edge of Lake Kivu, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding mountains. Goma has a bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, crafts, and other goods.
The city has faced challenges such as volcanic eruptions and conflict, but its resilient population continues to rebuild and thrive.
- "Mbote na yo" - Hello to you
- "Nani akosala?" - Who will do it?
- "Oyo azali nani?" - Who is that?
- "Tata, mama" - Father, mother
- "Ndeko na yo" - Your brother/sister
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Mount Nyiragongo to witness the stunning views. Don't forget to pack water and snacks for the hike.
Explore the vibrant local markets to experience the culture and buy some handcrafted souvenirs. Engage with the locals to learn about their daily life.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and try some traditional Congolese dishes. Spend the night relaxing at your accommodation.
Visit the Virunga National Park for a guided tour to see the amazing wildlife. Keep your camera ready for stunning photography opportunities.
Take part in a primate trekking excursion to see the endangered mountain gorillas. Remember to respect their habitat and follow park guidelines.
Reflect on your day's adventures over a cozy meal at a local eatery. Share stories with fellow travelers about your wildlife experiences.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural diversity and vibrant local traditions.
- Scenic landscapes and proximity to beautiful natural parks, such as Virunga National Park.
- Opportunities for adventure tourism, including gorilla trekking and hiking.
- Growing market for agribusiness and trade due to fertile land and natural resources.
- Ongoing instability and conflict in the region, affecting safety and security.
- Limited infrastructure and basic services, including healthcare and education.
- Challenges with access to clean water and sanitation.
- Economic difficulties and high rates of poverty among the population.
Best Activities in Goma
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush natural beauty, wildlife, and active volcanoes in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Embark on a thrilling adventure to the summit of one of the world's most active volcanoes and witness its fiery lava lake.
Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the peaceful waters of Lake Kivu, surrounded by stunning landscapes and local culture.
Tours
Uncover the best of Goma with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Goma
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the active volcano and the surrounding area
Provides beautiful scenes of the lake and its serene surroundings
Features a variety of landscapes and wildlife for great photo opportunities
Food in Goma
Goma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mbisi is a popular local dish in Goma, consisting of fresh fish from Lake Kivu, simmered in a rich tomato and onion sauce. It is often served with plantains or fufu. You can find delicious Mbisi at local lakeside restaurants like Chez Ruddy or Mama Carotte.
Must-Try!
Goat brochettes are a must-try street food in Goma. The succulent skewers of grilled goat meat seasoned with local spices are commonly sold by street vendors along the shore of Lake Kivu or at the Virunga Market.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling Virunga Market is a vibrant hub of local food, featuring a wide array of fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls. Visitors can savor a variety of snacks like samosas, fried plantains, and grilled meats while immersing in the lively ambiance.
Exploring the street food scene along the picturesque Lake Kivu shore is a delightful experience. Here, you can sample freshly caught fish, grilled meats, and other local delicacies from the friendly vendors along the waterfront promenade.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet people with a handshake, using the right hand, and make eye contact.
It is important to show respect to elders by using formal language, speaking politely, and offering them seats.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas, to show respect for local customs and traditions.
Safety
Tipping in Goma
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Goma, Congo (Kinshasa). In most cases, a service charge may already be included in the bill at restaurants and hotels. However, if exceptional service is provided, a small tip may be given as a token of appreciation.
In Goma, Congo (Kinshasa), cash is the primary form of payment, especially for small transactions. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, so it's important to carry enough cash when visiting local markets or smaller establishments. Larger hotels and some upscale restaurants may accept credit cards, but it's always advisable to check beforehand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Goma as the weather is drier and the region is less prone to heavy rainfall and flooding. It's a good time for gorilla trekking and hiking in the Virunga National Park.
Expect heavy rainfall, which may cause roadblocks and travel disruptions. However, the rainy season results in lush green landscapes and is a good time for bird watching and seeing the Nyiragongo volcano's lava lake.
Goma at Night
Hiking in Goma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An active stratovolcano located within Virunga National Park, known for its lava lake and challenging hiking trails.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, offering diverse landscapes, including mountains, volcanoes, and savannahs, suitable for various hiking experiences.
Part of the Virunga Massif, this peak offers breathtaking vistas and a chance to encounter rare mountain gorillas.
Home to two mountain ranges and a variety of trails, this park is perfect for hiking and exploring rich biodiversity.
While primarily known for its lake activities, there are several trails around the lake offering scenic views and moderate hikes.
Aiports
How to reach Goma by plane.
The primary airport serving Goma, a city in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with various regional and international flights.
The busiest airport in East Africa, located in Nairobi, Kenya, approximately 1,600 km from Goma, offering extensive international connections.
The main airport serving Kampala, Uganda, located about 400 km from Goma, with several international routes.
The main airport serving Kigali, Rwanda, located approximately 300 km from Goma, with numerous international flights.
The main airport serving Bujumbura, Burundi, located roughly 600 km from Goma, with various regional and limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of Goma's population consists of young individuals, often facing challenges related to education and employment.
Women in Goma play vital roles in both the economy and community, often responsible for household management and entrepreneurship.
Due to conflict and instability, many IDPs reside in Goma, requiring humanitarian assistance and support.
The elderly population often faces challenges in healthcare access and support systems due to economic hardships.
Goma is home to refugees fleeing conflict from neighboring countries, contributing to the city's cultural diversity and demographic complexity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Goma, played by both men and women, with numerous local clubs and community leagues.
Basketball is widely played in Goma, with many youth engaging in the sport, inspired by both local and international players.
Volleyball is a popular team sport in Goma, often played on the beaches or in schoolyard settings.
Cycling has gained popularity as a recreational activity and competitive sport in Goma, with local races organized periodically.
Martial arts, including judo and boxing, are practiced in Goma, with various clubs training young athletes and promoting self-defense.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Goma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While the traditional cuisine in Goma is meat-centric, some restaurants and cafes, such as Green Village and La Tortue, offer vegetarian and vegan options, including flavorful vegetable stews, fresh salads, and plantain-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free meals at select eateries in Goma. Restaurants like Chez M'Horo and Coco Jambo provide gluten-free alternatives, such as grilled fish, rice dishes, and fruit platters.