15th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Nyiragongo's Caudron

Nyiragongo Volcano’s crater lake is the largest lava lake in the world. The hike up and evening sleeping near the crater was one of the most awe-inspiring travel experiences I have ever had. You can hear the lava bubbling and feel the heat on your face. Nyiragongo is one of the many volcanoes located in the Virunga National Park in the eastern end of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Virunga National Park which has seen a resurgence in tourism as Emmanuel de Merode, the heroic park director has secured a good portion of the national park and reduced poaching and crime.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 07.2016
Date Uploaded: 11.2017
Photo Location: Goma, Congo (the Democratic Republic of the)
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Copyright: © Greg Metro