What to Do in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Besides Gorilla Trekking
While gorilla trekking is the crown jewel of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, this small but remarkable park has much more to offer. Nestled in Uganda’s southwestern highlands, Mgahinga is part of the larger Virunga conservation area and boasts a unique combination of biodiversity, scenic beauty, and rich cultural heritage. For travelers seeking more than just a gorilla encounter, the park opens doors to rewarding activities that are equally captivating and enriching.
One of the most underrated experiences is the golden monkey tracking adventure. Mgahinga is the only place in Uganda where you can track the rare and endangered golden monkey. These playful, golden-furred primates are native to the Albertine Rift and are a thrill to observe in the wild. With their high-pitched calls and acrobatic leaps through the bamboo forest, the experience offers a lighter, fast-paced contrast to gorilla trekking, and it’s ideal for those interested in primate diversity and photography.
Hiking and volcano climbing provide a perfect escape for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The park is home to three extinct volcanoes—Mount Sabinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura—each offering an unforgettable hiking experience. Mount Sabinyo, often called the “Old Man’s Teeth,” provides one of the most thrilling treks in Uganda. Its jagged peaks mark the intersection of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and reaching the summit allows you to stand in all three countries at once. The hike is physically challenging but deeply rewarding, filled with panoramic views, unique vegetation, and the thrill of crossing rugged ladders and wooden staircases to the top.
The Batwa cultural trail is another highlight that brings human history and ancestral tradition into the safari experience. Led by Batwa guides, this cultural encounter tells the story of the indigenous forest-dwelling Batwa people, the original inhabitants of the Mgahinga forests. The trail includes traditional music, dancing, fire-making demonstrations, and a visit to a sacred Garama cave that once served as a royal residence and hideout. It’s an emotional and educational journey into a fast-disappearing way of life, adding depth to your understanding of the park beyond its wildlife.
Bird watching in Mgahinga is a dream for avian enthusiasts, with over 180 species recorded in the area. The park lies within the Albertine Rift, one of Africa’s most important birding regions, and is home to numerous endemics and highland species such as the Rwenzori Turaco, Kivu ground thrush, and the blue-headed sunbird. The bamboo zones, montane forests, and swampy habitats each host their own feathered wonders, making every walk a chance to discover something new.
Nature walks within the park offer tranquil exploration and unexpected encounters. Guided walks take you through diverse vegetation zones, from bamboo to moorland, allowing you to observe smaller mammals, butterflies, and beautiful plant life up close. These walks are gentle alternatives to hiking and are ideal for families, older travelers, or those simply wanting to enjoy the peace and quiet of the forest.
In 2025, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park continues to stand out as a destination that combines wild nature, volcano adventure, and living heritage. Whether you’re following golden monkeys through the canopy, climbing volcanic peaks, engaging with the Batwa community, or listening to the calls of birds echo through the forest, Mgahinga gives you a sense of discovery that few other parks can offer in such a compact and intimate setting.