Which Is The Smallest National Park in Uganda?

The smallest national park in Uganda is Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Despite its modest size, covering just about 33 square kilometers (approximately 13 square miles), Mgahinga packs an incredible amount of natural beauty, biodiversity, and unique experiences into its compact area.

Why Mgahinga Stands Out Despite Its Size

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, bordering Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is famed primarily for being one of the few places where visitors can trek mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The park is also home to golden monkeys, diverse bird species, and volcanic landscapes including the three spectacular peaks of the Virunga Volcanoes: Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabinyo.

Activities in Mgahinga

Visitors to this small park can enjoy mountain gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, hiking, and birdwatching. Its compact size makes it easier to explore within a shorter time compared to larger parks, making it a great addition to a Rwanda or Uganda gorilla trekking itinerary.

Significance of Mgahinga

Though the smallest, Mgahinga plays a vital role in conservation. It protects endangered mountain gorillas and supports cross-border collaboration on wildlife preservation. Its unique ecosystem and cultural heritage make it a jewel among Uganda’s protected areas.