Tucked away in the southwestern corner of Uganda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a more intimate and scenic mountain gorilla trekking experience. Although smaller and lesser-known than its neighbor Bwindi, Mgahinga holds its own with its dramatic volcanic landscapes, cultural richness, and unique wildlife encounters.
Brief History of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park was gazetted in 1991 as part of Uganda’s effort to protect the endangered mountain gorilla and the rich biodiversity of the Virunga Mountains. Covering just 33.7 square kilometers, it is Uganda’s smallest national park, but it forms part of the much larger Virunga Conservation Area, which spans across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The park’s conservation history includes the displacement of indigenous Batwa communities, who once lived as forest dwellers in harmony with the environment. Today, efforts are being made to involve them in tourism and cultural preservation.
Location and Landscape of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga lies in Kisoro District, bordering Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Virunga National Park. The park is situated within the Virunga Mountain range, encompassing three dramatic, extinct volcanoes:
Mount Muhabura (4,127 m) – the highest and most prominent peak.
Mount Gahinga (3,474 m) – from which the park gets its name.
Mount Sabinyo (3,645 m) – known as the “Old Man’s Teeth” due to its jagged peaks and views into three countries.
This volcanic terrain, along with lush bamboo forests and montane vegetation, creates a unique ecosystem supporting mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and a host of bird species.
What to Do at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
1. Gorilla Trekking
Mgahinga is home to the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family, a well-habituated and mobile group. Gorilla trekking here is less crowded than in Bwindi, offering a more exclusive and scenic experience. Permits are limited and easier to secure, making it ideal for last-minute travel plans.
2. Golden Monkey Tracking
One of the park’s signature activities, golden monkey tracking allows visitors to observe these endangered primates in their natural habitat. Found only in the Virunga region, these playful creatures are highly photogenic and unique to Mgahinga in Uganda.
3. Volcano Hiking
Adventurous travelers can climb any of the three volcanoes:
Mount Muhabura – a full-day, strenuous hike with panoramic views.
Mount Sabinyo – a rugged trail leading to the tripoint border of Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC.
Mount Gahinga – the easiest of the three, passing through beautiful bamboo forest.
4. Batwa Cultural Trail
Take a guided walk with Batwa elders, who share their forest traditions, hunting skills, and spiritual beliefs. The trail ends at a sacred Garama Cave, once a Batwa refuge. This immersive experience highlights the need for indigenous inclusion in conservation.
5. Bird Watching
Mgahinga hosts over 180 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics like the Ruwenzori Turaco, Crowned Hornbill, and Black Kite. Birding trails wind through bamboo forests and montane woodland.
How to Get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
By Road:
From Kampala/Entebbe, the drive is about 9–10 hours (540 km), via Kabale and Kisoro. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for the mountainous roads near the park.
From Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, it takes about 2–3 hours depending on the sector.
By Air:
Daily flights are available from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro Airstrip, followed by a 45-minute drive to the park. Flights are operated by Aerolink Uganda and other local carriers.
From Kigali, Rwanda, the drive to Mgahinga via the Cyanika border takes about 3–4 hours, making it a convenient option for travelers combining Rwanda and Uganda.
Accommodations at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Though fewer in number than Bwindi, lodges near Mgahinga provide comfortable stays with breathtaking mountain views.
Luxury:
Mount Gahinga Lodge – Eco-luxury lodge with cozy cottages, solar power, and local community integration.
Mid-range:
Traveler’s Rest Hotel, Kisoro – Historic hotel once frequented by primatologist Dian Fossey.
Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Kisoro – Comfortable and well-reviewed, with great access to Mgahinga.
Budget:
Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp – Community-run lodging near the park gate.
Virunga Campsite & Backpackers – Budget-friendly with tented options and local cuisine.
Whether you’re tracking gorillas on misty mountain slopes, spotting golden monkeys in bamboo forests, or climbing dormant volcanoes, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a raw, authentic wilderness experience. It’s a must-visit for travelers who want to explore Uganda’s lesser-trodden paths while enjoying unmatched scenic beauty and cultural depth.
