Mgahinga National Park – Uganda’s Hidden Gem

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of Uganda’s most remarkable destinations, known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage. Located in the southwestern part of the country, this park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, which spans across three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). Despite being Uganda’s smallest national park, covering just 33.7 square kilometres, Mgahinga offers an abundance of natural beauty, mountain gorillas, and rare species like the golden monkeys.

What to See in Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a diverse habitat with montane forests, bamboo zones, and alpine vegetation. Visitors will discover an array of wildlife, many animals, breathtaking landscapes, and a deep cultural history. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss when you visit:

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda’s smallest national park, is home to the Nyakagezi Gorilla Group, the only habituated gorilla family in this world park. Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga offers a less crowded, intimate experience compared to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

What to Expect During Gorilla Trekking

• Briefing at the Park Headquarters: The trek starts early in the morning at Ntebeko Gate, where visitors receive an orientation.
• Duration: 2–6 hours, depending on the movement of the gorillas.
• One Hour with the Gorillas: Once found, visitors spend an hour observing the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

The Nyakagezi gorilla population or group has one habituated gorilla family is known for its playful juveniles and a dominant silverback that leads the group. They are often found in the former farmland zone, lower slopes, or in the dense montane forest of the park.

The best months for gorilla trekking are June to September and December to February, when trails are dry and accessible. The cost of a Gorilla Trekking Permit is $800 per person for Foreign Non-residents and is always advisable booking in Advance at least 3–6 months in advance due to high demand.

How to Get There

• By Air: Flights from Entebbe to Kisoro Airstrip take about 1 hour.
• By Road: A 9–10 hour drive from Kampala or a 4–5 hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda.

Packing List for Gorilla Trekking

• Sturdy hiking boots
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
• Rain jacket and gloves
• Camera with extra batteries (flash photography is prohibited)
• Packed lunch and drinking water

Mountain Hiking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to three Virunga Volcanoes: Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura. These extinct volcanoes offer challenging yet rewarding hikes with breathtaking views of Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo.

1. Mount Sabyinyo (3,669m) – The Three-Country Border Hike

• Hiking Time: 7–9 hours
• Highlights:
  • The summit marks the international border of Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo.
  • Spectacular views of the Virunga Mountains and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
  • Steep ridges and ladders are used to navigate the peaks.

2. Mount Gahinga (3,474m) – The Bamboo Forest Trail

• Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
• Highlights:
  • Trails pass through montane forest and bamboo vegetation, home to golden monkeys.
  • The summit has a small crater swamp and stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes.
  • Nearby Mount Gahinga Lodge provides a great retreat for hikers.

3. Mount Muhabura (4,127m) – The Most Challenging Hike

• Hiking Time: 8–10 hours
• Highlights:
  • The steepest of the three volcanoes, offering panoramic views of Lake Bunyonyi, the Rwenzori Mountains, and the Albertine Rift.
  • A crater lake at the summit adds to its beauty.
  • Ideal for experienced hikers looking for a challenge.

Hiking is best from June to September and December to February, when trails are drier. The following is what to pack for a hiking trip in Mgahinga gorilla national park.

• Strong hiking boots
• Warm clothing (it gets cold at higher altitudes)
• Rain jacket
• Plenty of drinking water
• Walking stick (provided at the visitor center)

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Home to the Golden Monkeys

Golden Monkey Trekking in Mgahinga gorilla National Park is a fantastic addition to a primate safari, allowing visitors to experience the rich biodiversity of Uganda.

What to Expect During Golden Monkey Trekking

• Trekking Starts at Ntebeko Gate: The experience begins at the park headquarters, where visitors receive a briefing on the rules and expectations.
• Duration: The trek typically lasts 2–4 hours, depending on the location of the golden monkeys.
• One Hour with Golden Monkeys: Once found, visitors spend one hour observing and photographing these playful primates.
• Habituated Golden Monkey Groups: The monkeys are habituated, meaning they are comfortable with human presence, offering great opportunities for close encounters.

Golden monkey trekking is available year-round, but the best months are June to September and December to February, when trails are drier and easier to navigate.

Packing List for Golden Monkey Trekking

• Sturdy hiking boots
• Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing
• Rain gear (Mgahinga’s weather is unpredictable)
• Camera and binoculars for photography and birdwatching
• A small backpack with water and snacks

The cost of a golden monkey trekking permit is $60 per person & Golden Monkey Habituation Experience $100 per person (allows more time with the monkeys)

Apart from mountain gorillas, Mgahinga National Park is famous for golden monkey trekking, a unique activity that allows tourists to track the rare and playful golden monkeys. These primates live in the bamboo forests of Mgahinga and feed on bamboo shoots, fruits, and leaves. Golden Monkey Trekking is one of the most exciting wildlife activities in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in southwestern Uganda.

This small but biodiverse park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area offering a rare opportunity to track golden monkeys, a striking primate species known for their golden-orange fur and playful behaviour. Unlike mountain gorillas, golden monkeys are fast-moving, making the trekking experience dynamic and thrilling.

Golden monkey tracking takes about 4 hours or more and visitors spend only one hour with someone tracking them. The activity starts from the park headquarters at the visitors’ centre where briefing and some registration is done from. The golden monkeys of Mgahinga are a subspecies of the blue monkey and are only found in the Virunga Conservation Area, which includes Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in DR Congo.

Bird Watching in Mgahinga National Park

For bird enthusiasts, bird watching in Mgahinga gorilla national Park is an exciting experience. The park hosts over 180 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics like the Rwenzori Batis, Blue-headed Sunbird, Rwenzori Turaco, and Western Green Tinkerbirds. Notable bird species found here include:

• Dusky Turtle Dove
• Cape Robin Chat
• Fire Finch Stonechat
• Grey-capped Warbler
• Red-faced Woodland Warblers
• Archer’s Robin Chat
• Paradise Flycatcher

The Batwa Trail – A Cultural Experience in Mgahinga

The Batwa Trail Experience is a great opportunity to learn about the Batwa people, the indigenous forest dwellers who once lived in the Mgahinga Forest and Bwindi Impenetrable national park before their establishment as parks. Batwa guides lead visitors on foot through the traditional forest life, demonstrating hunting techniques, fire-making skills, and medicinal plant usage. A highlight of this trail is a visit to Garama Cave, where the Batwa people once held council chamber meetings. Here, visitors can listen to Batwa music and songs, which reflect their former life in the forest before their eviction when the park was gazetted.

Hiking and Volcano Climbing in Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga is part of the Virunga Mountains, which include three volcanoes within the park:

1. Mount Gahinga (3,474m) – The word Gahinga means “a small pile of stones” in the local Rufumbira dialect. This volcano hiking takes about 4-6 hours both trip and is the simplest one of the rest.
2. Mount Sabyinyo (3,669m) – Called “Old Man’s Teeth,” this volcano has a rugged summit with stunning great views of the international border with Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. Travellers get a chance to stand in three countries at the same time on its third peak which is the highest point of this volcano. The hike takes 6-8 hours round trip and is a bit challenging on the steep part on the third peak.
3. Mount Muhabura (4,127m) – The tallest of the three, also known as the “Guide,” offers breathtaking views of the eight volcanoes of the Virunga Massive Area. The name came from the directional assistance that the local people used to tell direction while locating Rwanda or Uganda.

Generally, hiking these extinct volcanoes takes between 6 hours and a full day and requires a moderate level of fitness. Along the way, visitors can see wild golden monkeys, forest elephants (not easily seen during day), duikers, giant forest hogs, tree hyraxes, and serval cats. Mountain climbing seems a bit tiresome at the beginning but worth it conquering the top with beautiful views.

The Border Trail and Former Farmland Zone

The trail follows the plateau northern edge of the park, providing an excellent walk for those travellers interested in a less strenuous hike. This trail takes 4 hours and runs along the international border with Rwanda and DR Congo. Hikers will pass through the former farmland zone, where they can learn about the park’s conservation efforts to restore the land. Along the way, they may spot olive woodpeckers, black kites, and pin-tailed whydahs.

How to Get to Mgahinga National Park

By Road: Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is accessible from Kampala via Kisoro District, which distance is about 9-10 hours by road. The main entrance to the park is through the Ntebeko Gate but one can as well access another entrance on the other side of Muhabura volcano.

By Air: For those preferring air transport, Mgahinga National Park is located near Kisoro Airstrip, which receives domestic flights from Entebbe International Airport. Alternatively, travellers can fly into Kigali, Rwanda, and drive to reach the park in about 4 hours.

Where to Stay in MGAHINGA? Lodges and Accommodations

1. Luxury Lodges Near Mgahinga National Park

Mount Gahinga Lodge

Mount Gahinga Lodge is the premier luxury lodge near Mgahinga National Park, offering a tranquil retreat with exceptional service, breathtaking views, and eco-friendly accommodations. Located just a few minutes from the park entrance, the lodge provides a perfect base for gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and volcano hiking.

Key Features:

Elegant bandas (cottages) with fireplaces and private terraces
Scenic views of the Virunga Volcanoes
Personalized service and fine dining with locally sourced ingredients
Spa and massage services for post-trekking relaxation
Community and conservation projects supporting local initiatives

2. Mid-Range Lodges Near Mgahinga National Park

Ichumbi Hotel Kisoro

Located a few metres off Kisoro town, just a 30-minute drive from Mgahinga National Park, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge is a popular mid-range accommodation offering modern amenities, spacious rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Key Features:

Comfortable rooms with en-suite bathrooms and WiFi
On-site restaurant serving a mix of local and international dishes
Beautiful gardens with views of the Virunga volcanoes

Travellers Rest Hotel

One of the most historic hotels in Kisoro, Travellers Rest Hotel has a unique charm and has hosted legendary primatologist Dian Fossey during her research on mountain gorillas. Located just 14 km from Mgahinga National Park, the hotel is an excellent option for mid-range travellers seeking a classic safari experience.

Key Features:

Rustic yet comfortable rooms with an African-inspired design
A cozy lounge with a fireplace for chilly evenings
Beautiful gardens with mountain views

3. Budget-Friendly Accommodations Near Mgahinga National Park

Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp

Key Features:

Affordable dormitory-style rooms, private Bandas, and camping options
Community-led cultural performances and interactions with local people
Delicious home-cooked meals made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients
A stunning location with views of the Virunga volcanoes

Mucha Hotel Kisoro

Located in Kisoro town, Mucha Hotel is a great budget accommodation option offering basic amenities, friendly service, and a convenient location for accessing Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Key Features:

Simple, clean rooms with private bathrooms
Budget-friendly rates with good food options
Great location near Kisoro town for easy access to restaurants and shops

4. Camping Options Near Mgahinga National Park

Muhabura Climbers Campsite

Located at the base of the park, this campsite provides basic camping facilities for travellers who prefer to stay close to the trekking start point.

Key Features:

Affordable camping fees
Access to basic restroom and shower facilities

Choosing the Right Accommodation Near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

When planning a trip to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, selecting the right accommodation is essential to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay. Whether you prefer luxury lodges with breath-taking views, mid-range hotels with cozy amenities, or budget-friendly campsites for an immersive wilderness experience, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. For the best experience, consider booking your stay in advance, especially during peak gorilla trekking seasons (June–September and December–February).

With the expertise of Hillary, a local guide who has lived in Kisoro and Lake Bunyonyi, your journey will be well-planned and insightful. So, if you are planning your next Uganda safari, don’t forget to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park—it’s truly a hidden gem waiting to be explored! [/vc_column_text]