Mount Mikeno – Mountain Mikeno is the type locality of the yellow-crested helmetshrike (Prionops alberti). It lies within the Virunga National Park and is best known for being home to the endangered mountain gorillas.
Mikeno Mountain is a stratovolcano whose last eruption is said to have been in the Pleistocene epoch.
It has an elevation of 4,437 meters (14,557 feet), a prominence of 1,193 meters (3,914 feet), and coordinates 1°27’50″S 29°25’6″E.
Mikeno Mountain is an extinct volcanic mountain and belongs to the Virunga Mountains in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), along with Mount Nyiragongo, Mount Nyamuragira, Mount Karisimbi, Mount Bisoke, and Mount Sabyinyo.
Mount Mikeno is the second highest peak in the Virunga Mountains at 4,437 meters (14,557 feet), after Mount Karisimbi, making it the 13th highest mountain in Africa.
Mikeno Mountain is known for its harsh slopes, which are unfavorable for human habitation; thus, the word “Mikeno” means “poor terrain.”
Activities Carried Out on Mount Mikeno
- Mountain hiking
- Gorilla trekking
- Birding
- Golden monkey trekking
Requirements to Carry
- Hiking gear
- Packed food
- Drinking water
- Boots
- Cameras
- Insect repellents
- Sunglasses
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is from June to July and December to February.
Precautions
Mountain Mikeno is very challenging to hike and requires expert guidance.
In conclusion, Mount Mikeno is best known for its mountain gorillas, which contribute greatly to the tourism sector.
