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GOM destination photo
BKY destination photo

GOMBKY

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic Kahuzi-Biega mountain range and the active volcanic peaks of the Virunga chain shortly after departure from Goma.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

Virunga Volcanoes

Immediately after takeoff, you get a breathtaking view of the active Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira volcanoes to the north.

🦍

Kahuzi-Biega Massif

The dense, misty rainforests of the national park, famous for being the primary habitat of the Eastern Lowland Gorilla.

🏘️

Bukavu Peninsulas

On descent, view the unique urban layout of Bukavu city, built across several narrow peninsulas stretching into the lake.

⛰️

Western Escarpment

The rugged Rift Valley cliffs that drop sharply into Lake Kivu provide a dramatic vertical landscape.

This is the preferred side for photographers. Try to secure a seat early in the day (08:00-11:00) before the tropical convective clouds build up over the Kahuzi-Biega mountains. Keep your eyes peeled right after the landing gear retracts for the best view of the Goma lava flows.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🇷🇼

Rwandan Highlands

The terraced, rolling green hills of Rwanda are clearly visible across the eastern border of the lake.

🏝️

Idjwi Island (East)

Views of the eastern shoreline and agricultural settlements of one of Africa's largest inland islands.

🛶

Kivu Pirogues

Look for the distinctive three-hulled fishing boats used by local fishermen on the deep blue lake waters.

🌊

Lake Kivu Expanse

A wide-angle perspective of the lake's surface, which is unique for its lack of surface waves and deep methane-rich depths.

Select this side for morning flights to enjoy the sunlight hitting the Rwandan hills. It is also the best side for spotting the distinct border lines between DRC and Rwanda along the lake's edge. Watch for the sunset reflection on the water during evening flights.

Top Activities in Bukavu/kavumu
Route Information

Distance: 86 km (53 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 9 min

Departure: GOM (-1.670809984207153, 29.23850059509277)

Arrival: BKY (-2.3089799880981445, 28.808799743652344)

Route Type: Domestic

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