Full Day Goma Villages Tour
Active
7h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour is not simply a village to village look, but a complete learning experience. You will get to experience local people everyday life by enjoying their local food and traditional dance, visit local schools to give you a deep understanding of their education challenges and opportunity, chieftancy to understand how Congo villages are ruled compared to the modern governance, farms to discover how they create wealth and their changes, and orphanage to witness the impact of war on families in rural areas.
Available options
Full Day Goma Villages Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
All Fees and Taxes
Detailed itinerary
1
Important Notice: Being difficult to locate some villages on the map, the whole itinerary is here Presented in block. Thank you for understanding.
(1-2) 09.30-10.20 am,Buhimba & Mugunga:
About 15-18 kms from Goma, we are going to visit the two incredible lakes, though they remain unknown by many. The Black and Green Lakes which are both crater lakes isolated from very old Nyiragongo Eruption before 1800s. The black lake that is located in the priest’s Grand Seminaire is a small piece of water isolated by hills. Same for the Green lake but located 3 kilometres away. They have their coloration thanks to their vegetation and they are deeply linked to the Lake Kivu. Interestingly, they have rare species of fishes that you are going to discover.
(3) 10.50am-12.00 pm, Sake:
About 27kms from Goma. It actually looks more like a small city than a village though life style is still at a rudimentary level. We are going to start by visiting the colorful Sake local market and meet local people in their everyday life and activities. We may also be lucky to assist to youth games (football) or cultural activities, but this is random as we don’t often meet it. We are also going to visit a local organic plantation of fruit and vegetables, and believe us, you will agree that they are naturally delicious. Then the tour in sake will end by visiting donkeys and cows in a private farm.
(4-5) 12.30pm-4.00 pm, Bweremana & Minova:
The first is located in North Kivu Province at 40 Kms from Goma, while the second is located in South Kivu Province at 50 Kms from Goma. We are also going to participate to local activities like cooking local food, local dance, and field work in farms. This tour also offers the advantage of learning about traditional culture. A great highlight is the meeting with the Kihunde tradional dancer’s group. It’s very exciting to learn and practice this dance. In Bweremana, we are also going to visit primary schools (Miteeso and Bweremana Primary Schools), Chieftancy office of Buhunde, taste local banana and Maize beers and experience how they’re made. This may also include local fishermen visit depending on their availability. About what to see in Minova, it includes include coffee farms, orphanage visit, and cow farms where you will assist and participate in the activities of milking cow.
4.00 pm : Return Back to Goma.
What's not included
Lunch
Bottled water
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Goma
Goma is a vibrant city on the shores of Lake Kivu, known for its stunning volcanic landscapes and proximity to Virunga National Park. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and a rich history, making it an appealing destination for adventurous travelers.
Top Attractions
Virunga National Park
Virunga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. It is home to rare species like the mountain gorilla, as well as active volcanoes and stunning landscapes.
Nature
Full day
Moderate to Expensive
Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu is a beautiful freshwater lake offering stunning views and various water activities. It is also known for its therapeutic properties and relaxing atmosphere.
Nature
Half day to Full day
Budget to Moderate
Mount Nyiragongo
Mount Nyiragongo is an active volcano with a persistent lava lake in its crater. Hiking to the summit offers a unique and thrilling experience.
Adventure
2 days (overnight at the summit)
Moderate to Expensive
Goma Market
Goma Market is a bustling hub of local life, offering a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It is an excellent place to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere and interact with locals.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Budget
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pondu
A traditional Congolese dish made from cassava leaves cooked in a peanut sauce, often served with fish or meat.
Main Dish
Vegetarian options available (without meat).
Fufu
A starchy side dish made from cassava, yams, or plantains, often served with soups or stews.
Side Dish
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
Brochettes
Grilled skewers of marinated meat, often served with spicy sauces and fresh vegetables.
Snack
Vegetarian options available (vegetable skewers).
Popular Activities
Hiking Mount Nyiragongo
Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
Boat Tours on Lake Kivu
Sunbathing at Bukavu Beach
Visiting Goma Market
Exploring Local Museums
Swimming in Lake Kivu
Kayaking on Lake Kivu
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the dry season, offering pleasant weather and the best conditions for outdoor activities. The skies are clear, and the landscapes are lush and green.
18°C to 26°C
64°F to 79°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: Swahili, Kinyarwanda
- English: Limited
Currency
Congolese Franc (CDF)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise high caution
Goma is located in a region with a history of conflict and political instability. While the city has made significant progress in recent years, travelers should remain vigilant and stay informed about the current situation.
Important Precautions:
- • Stay informed about the current security situation and follow local advice.
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas.
- • Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets and bag snatchers.
Getting there
By air
- Goma International Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Goma Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Goma. They are affordable but can be crowded and uncomfortable.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Goma
Kavumu
Bukavu
Day trips
Rutshuru
50 km from Goma • Full day
Rutshuru is a small town near Goma, known for its historical significance and cultural heritage. It offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and traditional way of life.
Sake
25 km from Goma • Half day
Sake is a small town near Goma, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Kibumba
40 km from Goma • Full day
Kibumba is a small town near Goma, known for its proximity to Virunga National Park and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Festivals
Fête de la Musique • June 21st
Goma Film Festival • Annual (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more authentic and insightful experience, especially when exploring natural and cultural attractions.
- Learn a few basic phrases in French or Swahili to communicate with locals and show respect for their language and culture.
- Carry small change for bus fares, tips, and small purchases, as change may be limited.
- Be flexible with your itinerary, as weather, road conditions, and other factors may affect travel plans.
- Stay informed about the current security situation and follow local advice to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
