Are There Volcanoes in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park?
Yes, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is famously home to three stunning extinct volcanoes that form part of the Virunga Mountain Range. These volcanoes—Mount Sabinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura—are among the park’s most iconic natural features, defining its dramatic landscape and offering some of Uganda’s best hiking adventures. Their towering presence adds both geological wonder and outdoor challenge to this already remarkable destination.
Mount Sabinyo, often called the “Old Man’s Teeth,” is the park’s most rugged and unique volcano. Named for its jagged, tooth-like summit, Sabinyo rises to 3,669 meters (12,037 feet) and sits at the tri-border point where Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo meet. Hiking to the summit of Mount Sabinyo is a thrilling experience that lets visitors stand in three countries at once, while navigating steep ridges and narrow paths.
Mount Gahinga is the smallest of the three volcanoes but is known for its gentle slopes and misty crater lake. At 3,474 meters (11,401 feet), Gahinga offers a slightly less demanding hike compared to Sabinyo, winding through thick bamboo forests—home to the elusive golden monkeys—and montane vegetation. The summit crater is often shrouded in clouds, creating a mystical atmosphere that enchants hikers.
Mount Muhabura is the tallest volcano in Mgahinga, reaching 4,127 meters (13,540 feet). It challenges trekkers with its steep slopes and offers expansive views of the surrounding Virunga Mountains and beyond. Muhabura’s summit features a deep crater lake and provides panoramic vistas into neighboring Rwanda and Congo. Its hike is favored by experienced climbers seeking both physical exertion and spectacular scenery.
Together, these three volcanoes define Mgahinga’s unique volcanic landscape, making the park a magnet for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. Beyond their geological significance, the volcanoes support diverse ecosystems from bamboo forests to alpine moorlands, creating habitats for rare wildlife including mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.
In 2025, hiking any or all of Mgahinga’s volcanoes remains a must-do activity for visitors looking to combine wildlife viewing with highland adventure. Whether you aim to stand at the tri-border peak of Sabinyo or explore the peaceful crater of Gahinga, these volcanoes provide unforgettable experiences that enhance the magic of Uganda’s smallest national park.