Explore Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in Kisoro District, in the far southwestern corner of Uganda. The park was gazetted in 1991 by the Ugandan government through the Uganda Wildlife Authority to protect its rich biodiversity—especially the critically endangered mountain gorillas, which are the park’s main attraction and draw the highest number of travelers.
Within Mgahinga are three dormant volcanoes: Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo. These are part of the Virunga Mountains, a chain of eight volcanoes that stretch across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Muhabura and Gahinga sit on the Uganda-Rwanda border, while Sabyinyo lies at the tri-border point of Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC. Together with adjacent parks in Rwanda and the DRC, Mgahinga forms part of the 434-square-kilometer Virunga Conservation Area (VCA), a collaborative effort among the three countries to protect mountain gorilla habitats. Mgahinga alone accounts for about 8% of the total VCA.
Vegetation and Climate
Mgahinga features lush tropical Afromontane forests, characteristic of the Albertine Rift ecoregion. The park experiences two wet seasons—from February to May and September to December. Rainfall ranges from 250 mm in October to just 10 mm in July. For gorilla safaris, the drier months (December to January and June to August) offer the best experience.
Gorilla Tracking and Other Attractions
Mgahinga is Uganda’s second gorilla habitat after Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. However, it has only one habituated gorilla family—Nyakagezi—compared to Bwindi’s 12 groups. In addition to gorilla trekking, the park offers golden monkey trekking, hiking volcanoes, birdwatching, and the unique Batwa Trail experience.
Gorilla Tracking
Gorilla trekking safaris start daily at 8:00 AM from the Ntebeko entrance gate and typically last between 2–4 hours. Visitors are allowed to spend a maximum of one hour with the Nyakagezi family, so plan your time accordingly for this unforgettable encounter.
Volcano Hiking
There are three volcanoes to climb:
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Mount Muhabura (4,127m): The tallest of the three. The 12 km hike takes about 8 hours and offers panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes, Lake Edward, Bwindi Forest, and the Rwenzori Mountains.
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Mount Sabyinyo (3,669m): Known for its challenging ridge and dramatic views. The 14 km round trip also takes roughly 8 hours.
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Mount Gahinga (3,474m): A moderate 6-hour hike through bamboo forests, where golden monkeys can often be spotted.
The Batwa Trail
The Batwa, indigenous forest dwellers, were evicted when the park was established. Today, they guide visitors along the Batwa Trail, sharing their cultural heritage, traditional hunting skills, and knowledge of medicinal plants. The trail ends at the sacred Garama Cave, a former refuge and cultural site. Revenue from this activity supports Batwa guides and helps fund education for Batwa children.
Birding
Birdwatching is best along the gorge trail between Mount Gahinga and Mount Sabyinyo. Expect to see species like the dusty turtle dove, Kivu ground thrush, regal sunbird, Rwenzori batis, and silvery-cheeked hornbill among many others.
Nature Walks
Nature walks and shorter hikes offer scenic views, golden monkey sightings, birding opportunities, and the chance to explore calderas and viewpoints like Gisozi Hill, which overlooks Kisoro, Bunagana, and Lake Mutanda.
Accommodation
Budget travelers can stay at Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp, while those looking for mid-range options can book at Mount Mgahinga Lodge. Note: Only eight people are allowed to visit a gorilla family per day, so book your permits early.
Getting to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
The park lies 15 km south of Kisoro town and about 55 km west of Kabale. From Kampala, the journey via Kabale and Kisoro is around 510 km (about 8 hours by road). The park’s entrance is at Ntebeko, 14 km from Kisoro.
Alternatively, tourists can reach Mgahinga from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park—a 4-hour drive from Buhoma. There are also daily flights from Entebbe to Kisoro airfield, making the park easily accessible by air.
Why Visit Mgahinga?
Mgahinga offers a rich and rewarding experience, from gorilla tracking and golden monkey trekking to hiking dormant volcanoes and discovering Batwa culture. It’s an incredible destination for anyone seeking adventure and authenticity in Uganda’s wild landscapes. A visit to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is not just a safari—it’s a journey of a lifetime.