Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park | Uganda Gorilla Safari

Explore Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and scenic volcano views in southwest Uganda.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park lies in the Virunga Mountains and is home to mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. The park features dramatic volcanic scenery and offers gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and volcano hiking experiences.

• Mountain Gorillas: The park is a crucial habitat for the critically endangered mountain gorillas and is one of only four parks in the world where they reside. Gorilla trekking to visit the single habituated Nyakagezi family is the most popular activity.
• Golden Monkeys: Mgahinga is the only place in Uganda where you can track the rare golden monkeys, an Albertine Rift endemic species that thrives in the park's bamboo forests.
• Virunga Volcanoes: The park includes three dormant volcanoes, all available for day hikes.
  • Mount Gahinga (3,474m): A moderately easy climb (approx. 6-8 hours round trip) that leads to a crater swamp at the summit.
  • Mount Sabyinyo (3,669m): A rugged, challenging hike that, at the peak, allows you to stand in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo simultaneously.
  • Mount Muhabura (4,127m): The highest peak in the park, offering sweeping panoramic views of the Virunga Massif, Lake Edward, and Queen Elizabeth National Park from the top after a demanding climb.
• Garama Cave: Visitors can explore this 200m-long sacred cave, a former council chamber and hiding place for the indigenous Batwa people.

Activities & Experiences

• Gorilla and Golden Monkey Trekking: Guided treks offer intimate encounters with these rare primates in their natural habitat. Permits for gorilla trekking must be secured in advance through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or a licensed tour operator.
• Batwa Trail/Cultural Experience: A guided walk led by the indigenous Batwa people, offering insights into their traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle, fire-making techniques, and ancient relationship with the forest.
• Bird Watching: With over 180 recorded bird species, including many Albertine Rift endemics like the handsome francolin and regal sunbird, the park is a prime destination for birders. The Sabyinyo Gorge and the border trail are popular spots.
• Nature Walks & Hiking: Beyond the volcano summits, various nature walks, such as the Sabyinyo Gorge trail and the Congo-Border trail, allow visitors to explore the park's diverse ecosystems and scenic views.

The best time to visit for trekking and hiking is during the drier months of December to March and June to October, when trails are less muddy. Accommodation near the park ranges from luxury lodges like Mount Gahinga Lodge to budget-friendly options such as the Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp near the park gate