Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in the southwestern corner of Uganda, covers an area of about 34 square kilometers, making it Uganda’s smallest national park. Despite its size, the park plays a crucial role in the conservation of mountain gorillas, situated as it is at the confluence of the Virunga Mountains, where Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo meet. Besides mountain gorillas, the park is home to golden monkeys and a vast range of biodiversity including birds, reptiles, and flora.

Activities in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Gorilla Trekking

The star attraction of Mgahinga is undoubtedly the opportunity to trek mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The park is home to one habituated gorilla family which can be visited by tourists. These treks are led by experienced guides who lead small groups through the forest to spend an unforgettable hour observing the gorillas in their natural behaviors.

Golden Monkey Tracking

Mgahinga also offers visitors the unique experience of tracking golden monkeys, a species that is endemic to the Albertine Rift. The monkeys are known for their striking colors and lively behavior, making them a fascinating subject for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

Hiking and Volcano Climbing

For those drawn to scenic hiking and climbing, Mgahinga offers three extinct volcanoes to conquer: Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabinyo. Each mountain presents a different challenge and reward, including panoramic views of the Virunga ranges and the rest of the park.

Cultural Encounters

Visitors to Mgahinga can also engage with the indigenous Batwa pygmies. Through the Batwa Trail experience, guests can learn about the Batwa’s ancient culture and traditions as hunter-gatherers who depended on the forest for shelter, food, and medicine.

Bird Watching

The park is a haven for bird watchers, with over 115 bird species recorded. Its diverse ecosystems support a variety of birds including the Rwenzori Turaco, Dusky Crimsonwing, and the Blue-headed Sunbird, making it a rewarding destination for birding.

Accommodation Options

Luxury Lodges

– Mount Gahinga Lodge: Offering luxury cottages with views of the volcanoes, this lodge provides top-notch amenities and easy access to park activities, ensuring a comfortable stay in a serene setting.

Mid-range Options

– Traveler’s Rest Hotel: A historic hotel just outside the park in Kisoro, which has been a famous stopover for gorilla researchers and travelers. It offers comfortable rooms and a cozy atmosphere.

Budget Accommodations

– Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp: Located at the entrance to the park, this community-run camp offers basic facilities and the chance to support local livelihoods directly.

How to Get There

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is approximately 510 kilometers from Kampala, a journey that takes about 8 hours by road. The nearest town is Kisoro, accessible by public transport from Kampala. There are also daily flights from Entebbe to Kisoro Airstrip, which considerably shortens the journey and provides stunning aerial views of southwestern Uganda.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is not only important for wildlife conservation but also offers a rich blend of tourist activities including some of the most iconic primate experiences in Africa, set against a backdrop of stunning volcanic landscapes.