Goma
ISO3: COG
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I have not visited ❌
Time Zone: Africa/Kinshasa
"Imara na nguvu | Strong and resilient"
-1.6782° S, 29.2216° E
About:
Goma, a city in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, was founded by German settlers in 1891. It grew as a commercial center for trade with Rwanda. Goma was affected by the Rwandan Genocide in 1994, and later by the First and Second Congo Wars. The city has been threatened by eruptions from nearby Mount Nyiragongo, notably in 2002 and 2021. Despite challenges, Goma remains an important regional hub for trade and humanitarian aid.
When to visit:
Goma, a city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The best time to visit Goma is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant, with lower chances of rain and more opportunities to explore the city and its surroundings. However, travelers should be aware that political unrest and security concerns may impact travel to Goma, so it is important to stay informed and exercise caution when planning a visit.
When to avoid:
Goma, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, experiences a tropical rainforest climate with two distinct seasons: a wet season and a dry season. The worst time to travel to Goma on a holiday would be during the wet season, which typically occurs from March to May and again from September to November. During these months, heavy rainfall is common, leading to flooding, road closures, and difficult travel conditions. Additionally, the wet season increases the risk of diseases such as malaria and yellow fever, making it less than ideal for holiday travelers.
Rainy Season (Oct-May)
Goma is located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the warmest part of the year generally falls between September and May with an average high temperature above 84°F (29°C). The hottest month is typically February, with an average high of 86°F (30°C).
During this period, rainfall is relatively low compared to the rest of the year, especially from January to February, with an average monthly rainfall of about 2.4 inches. However, sudden rain showers can occur, so it's advisable to always carry an umbrella or raincoat.
Sunlight is abundant during these months, with an average of 6 to 7 hours of bright sunshine each day. The skies are partly cloudy, with cloud cover ranging from 40% to 70%.
Humidity levels are relatively high, averaging around 70-80%. This can make the heat feel more intense, resulting in a sticky, tropical climate.
For a visitor, a typical day in Goma during the warmest part of the year would begin with a bright, warm morning. The temperature would gradually rise to its peak in the early afternoon, making it a good time to seek shade or cool off by the lake. The high humidity can make outdoor activities feel strenuous, so it's advisable to stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing. Evenings are slightly cooler, providing a pleasant respite from the heat of the day.
"Hot Season (July-September)"
Goma is located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the warmest part of the year generally falls between September and May with an average high temperature above 84°F (29°C). The hottest month is typically February, with an average high of 86°F (30°C).
During this period, rainfall is relatively low compared to the rest of the year, especially from January to February, with an average monthly rainfall of about 2.4 inches. However, sudden rain showers can occur, so it's advisable to always carry an umbrella or raincoat.
Sunlight is abundant during these months, with an average of 6 to 7 hours of bright sunshine each day. The skies are partly cloudy, with cloud cover ranging from 40% to 70%.
Humidity levels are relatively high, averaging around 70-80%. This can make the heat feel more intense, resulting in a sticky, tropical climate.
For a visitor, a typical day in Goma during the warmest part of the year would begin with a bright, warm morning. The temperature would gradually rise to its peak in the early afternoon, making it a good time to seek shade or cool off by the lake. The high humidity can make outdoor activities feel strenuous, so it's advisable to stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing. Evenings are slightly cooler, providing a pleasant respite from the heat of the day.
Language:
swahili
Goma is a city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The most widely spoken language in Goma is Swahili, used as a lingua franca by the many ethnic groups living in and around the city. French, the official language of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is also commonly spoken, particularly in educational and governmental contexts. Additionally, Kinyarwanda is spoken due to the city's proximity to Rwanda.