Happy TravellerWelcome to Goma, the capital of North Kivu province in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. This city is located on the northern shore of Lake Kivu, next to the Rwandan city of Gisenyi. The lake and the two cities are in the Albertine Rift, the western branch of the East African Rift system. Goma lies only 13–18 km (8.1–11.2 mi) south of the active Nyiragongo Volcano. Despite its tumultuous history, Goma is a city of resilience and hope, with a rich culture and stunning natural beauty.
Goma’s recent history has been dominated by the volcano and the Rwandan genocide of 1994, which in turn fueled the First and Second Congo Wars. The aftermath of these events was still having effects on the city and its surroundings in 2010. However, Goma has since been retaken by government forces and is slowly rebuilding.
One of the highlights of Goma is the annual Amani Festival, which celebrates peace and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The festival is a testament to the city’s determination to move forward and create a brighter future.
Goma’s history dates back to the late 19th century when it was just a way-point for lake traffic and a crossroads for the overland trade routes between Central Africa and the Indian Ocean. The city developed from 1910 when Belgium established an administrative center there.
Goma’s proximity to the Nyiragongo Volcano makes it a unique destination for adventure seekers. In 2002, the volcano erupted, sending a stream of lava through the center of the city and destroying 40% of the city. Agencies monitoring the volcano were able to give a warning, and most of the population of Goma evacuated to Gisenyi. The lava also covered over the northern 1 km of the 3-kilometer runway of Goma International Airport, isolating the terminal and apron which were at that end.
Goma is also home to Virunga National Park, which is home to endangered mountain gorillas. The park is a must-visit for nature lovers and offers a unique opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close.
Transportation in Goma is primarily by air and road. Goma International Airport provides domestic flights and two international destinations – Entebbe and Nairobi. The city lies on the Rwandan border, and neighboring Gisenyi is connected to Kigali, the Rwandan capital, by road, and regular buses travel between these cities in under four hours. Goma is connected to Bukavu by ferries, to Butembo, Beni, Bunia, and Kisangani either by domestic flights or by road, and regular buses travel from Goma to these cities.
Goma’s climate is classified as a tropical savanna climate, with warm days and pleasant nights year-round.
Despite its challenges, Goma is a city of hope and resilience, with a rich culture and stunning natural beauty. It is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
