Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Uganda
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of Uganda’s most fascinating national parks, located in the far southwestern corner of the country. Covering about 33.7 square kilometers, it is the smallest national park in Uganda but one of the richest in terms of biodiversity and cultural experiences. The park lies within the Virunga Mountain ranges and shares borders with Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Virunga National Park, forming part of the great Virunga Conservation Area.
Wildlife and Gorilla Trekking
Mgahinga is famously known as one of the two places in Uganda where mountain gorilla trekking is possible. The park is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, which is habituated and open for trekking. This family is unique because of its playful silverbacks and its history of roaming across the borders into Rwanda and Congo, although it has become more settled in Uganda in recent years. Trekking the gorillas in Mgahinga offers a quieter, less crowded alternative to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Apart from gorillas, the park also shelters the endangered golden monkeys, making it the only place in Uganda where visitors can track both gorillas and golden monkeys in the same park. Other mammals include forest elephants, buffaloes, bushbucks, and numerous small primates.
Birding in Mgahinga
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a paradise for birders, with over 180 bird species recorded. Some notable species include the Rwenzori turaco, crowned hornbill, white-necked raven, and the handsome francolin. Birding is especially rewarding during nature walks through the bamboo forest and montane zones.
Cultural Encounters
A highlight of visiting Mgahinga is the Batwa cultural experience. The Batwa are the original forest dwellers who lived in the park before it was gazetted. Today, they share their culture, traditions, and survival skills through guided community tours. Visitors can explore ancient caves, learn about their hunting techniques, and enjoy traditional dances, making this an enriching addition to the wildlife experience.
Hiking and Volcano Climbing
Mgahinga offers incredible hiking opportunities, thanks to its volcanic landscape. The park contains three of the eight Virunga volcanoes: Mount Sabinyo (3,669m), Mount Gahinga (3,474m), and Mount Muhabura (4,127m). These volcanoes can be climbed in a day, with each hike offering spectacular views of Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo at the summit. Hiking also brings opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Virunga ranges.
Accessibility and Location
The park is located in Kisoro District, about 510 kilometers from Kampala. It can be accessed by road via Kabale to Kisoro or by domestic flights from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro airstrip. Because it borders Rwanda, many tourists also combine a visit to Mgahinga with Volcanoes National Park or even with safaris in Congo.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Mgahinga is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. During these months, trekking is easier, and trails are less slippery. However, since it is a rainforest, rain can fall at any time, so visitors should always be prepared.