Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Nestled in the foothills of the Virunga Mountains on Uganda's southwestern border, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a hiker's paradise and a haven for endangered mountain gorillas. Visitors here can trek through breathtaking volcanic scenery to encounter these gentle giants, alongside golden monkeys and a plethora of birdlife. Mgahinga is a great alternative to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for gorilla trekking adventures.
Overview
Straddling the Ugandan border and shrouded in the mystical aura of the Virunga Mountains, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is an adventure unlike any other.
This tiny park, encompassing only 33.7 square kilometers, packs a mighty punch. Three colossal dead volcanoes – Muhabura (4,127m), Gahinga (3,474m), and Sabinyo (3,645m) – dominate the landscape, their slopes carpeted in verdant vegetation.
Mgahinga's true stars, however, are the majestic mountain gorillas. Sharing this haven are playful golden monkeys, with their distinctive golden fur and black masks, adding a touch of color to the emerald expanse. Keep your eyes peeled for a plethora of birdlife, from the handsome Rwenzori Turaco to the elusive black-and-white colobus monkey.
Gorilla trekking adventures in Mgahinga begin at the Ntebeko trekking center, the park's headquarters. Here, expert guides lead you through dense bamboo forests and up volcanic slopes, searching for these gentle giants. Treks typically last 3-8 hours and reach altitudes of up to 3,474 meters (Gahinga's peak).
But Mgahinga isn't just about gorillas. Volcano enthusiasts can embark on challenging yet rewarding hikes.
Scaling the slopes of Muhabura or Gahinga offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Virunga massif, while the truly adventurous can conquer the tri-point peak of Mount Sabinyo (3,645m). Here, on the border of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, you can stand in three countries at once – a unique bragging right without the need for multiple visas!
Mgahinga's vegetation is as diverse as its wildlife. Hike through bamboo forests teeming with life, traverse verdant slopes dotted with wildflowers, and encounter giant heather at higher altitudes. The air is crisp and refreshing, and the silence, broken only by the calls of birds and the rustle of leaves, is truly restorative.
Beyond the park boundaries lies another fascinating chapter of Mgahinga's story. Once hunter-gatherers who called the park home for centuries, the Batwa people now live in nearby communities. Visiting them offers a glimpse into their traditional way of life and a deeper understanding of the park's cultural significance.
So, if you seek an adventure that blends breathtaking scenery, awe-inspiring wildlife encounters, and a touch of cultural immersion, then Mgahinga Gorilla National Park awaits.
Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Parkd
Mgahinga is a beautiful swatch of the Virunga Conservation Area on the Uganda side and a perfect alternative to gorilla trekking in the nearby Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Gorilla treks here are easier and more scenic. The bamboo forest zone habours other impressive inhabitants, the golden monkeys. Endangered little primates are found only here and nowhere else. And, you trek higher into the volcanoes for an immersive adventure..
Gorilla Trekking Safari Packages
Be inspired by a selection of our favorite Uganda and Rwanda gorilla tour packages. From primate trekking adventures to family-friendly holidays – all completely flexible and arranged to your travel needs.
Uganda Gorilla & Lake Bunyonyi Safari
AvailableALL YEAR
Duration5 DAYS
From$2,013
Uganda Primates Safari Adventure
- AvailableALL YEAR
- Duration8 DAYS
- From$2,748
Best of Uganda's Top Attractions
- AvailableALL YEAR
- Duration10 DAYS
- From$3,350
Rwanda Gorilla Safari in Volcanoes National P.
- AvailableALL YEAR
- Duration4 DAYS
- From$3,242
Best of Rwanda Tour Adventure
- AvailableALL YEAR
- Duration4 DAYS
- From$6,762
Rwanda Primates Safari in Nyungwe & Volcanoes
- AvailableALL YEAR
- Duration6 DAYS
- From$5,038
Visit Rwanda Highligths, Gorillas, Chimps, Culture
- AvailableALL YEAR
- Duration7 DAYS
- From$4,897
Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife via Kigali Airport
- AvailableALL YEAR
- Duration10 DAYS
- From$1,909
Uganda Primates Safari Adventure
- AvailableALL YEAR
- Duration8 DAYS
- From$2,748
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park depends on your priorities. Uganda experiences two dry seasons (December-February and June-August) and two wet seasons (March-May and September-November).
The dry seasons offer clearer skies and better visibility for gorilla trekking, as the undergrowth is less dense. However, these months also coincide with peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and potentially higher accommodation rates.
Traveling during the wet seasons can be rewarding if you don't mind occasional rain showers. Lush green landscapes flourish during this time, and the park teems with vibrant birdlife.
Additionally, you'll encounter fewer crowds during the low season, making your wildlife encounters more intimate.
How to get to Mgahinga
Reaching Mgahinga National Park from Entebbe International Airport, the country's main gateway, is a scenic journey. The distance is approximately 500 kilometers by road, with a drive time ranging from 7 to 9 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
For a quicker option, consider flying into Kisoro airstrip, located just a 1.5-hour drive from the park headquarters at Ntebeko.
However, scheduled flights are limited, so booking well in advance is crucial.
Kigali International Airport in neighboring Rwanda is another option, approximately a 3-hour drive (140 kilometers) from Mgahinga. Keep in mind that this route involves crossing the border, so ensure you have the necessary paperwork in order, including your visa and gorilla trekking permits.
Accommodation - where to stay in Mganhinga
There are few safari lodges or camps that are very close to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. However, there are some decent options available in Kisoro town which is about 30 kilometers away from the park entrance. You may consider these options for your experience in the park.
Mount Gahinga Lodge
This luxury lodge is really close to the park entrance. It's the best option for a luxury treat during your gorilla trekking safari in Uganda. The views are incredible, and they have a sustainable program with the Batwa pygmy community.
Travelers' Rest Hotel
Located in Kisoro Town, a few kilometers from the park, Travelers Rest Camp provides mid-range accommodations. This facility is one of the oldest safari lodges, with a history that goes back to the first gorilla trek in Uganda.
Mutanda Lake Resort
Pocket-friendly and well-positioned for incredible lake views, Mutanda Lake Resort is the perfect getaway. But you have to drive about an hour and a half to get to the park if you choose to stay here for your Mgainga gorilla experience.
Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp
For budget-conscious travelers, Amajambere is a great place to stay. You can pitch up your tent or use the camp's basic ones with shared bathrooms. And, its quite close to the entrance gate.
Mgahinga Rest Camp
This camp has grass-thatched bandas offering basic accommodation close to the park. If you don't expect lavish amenities for your gorilla trekking experience in Mgahinga, this is for you.
Kisoro Tourist Hotel
This hotel is located in Kisoro town offering comfortable amenities including a sauna and steam bath. Basically, like a small town hotel.
