Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the smallest national park in Uganda, covering an area of 33.7 square kilometers.  The park is located in the southwestern part of Uganda, near the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and it is worth visiting on any Uganda safari.

Mgahinga National Park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area shared with Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the DR Congo.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park was established in 1991 to protect endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitats, making it the second game park for gorilla tours in Uganda.

The park is home to a small number of mountain gorillas of about 30 individuals that are grouped into one gorilla family, while other gorillas in Uganda of about 459 individuals live in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Other mountain gorillas in Africa live in Volcanoes NP of Rwanda and Virunga National Park of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The park harbors a remarkable and distinctive primate species, the golden monkeys, which are not present in any other Ugandan game park. This makes Mgahinga National Park the only park for golden monkey tracking.

Location of Mgahinga National Park 

Mgahinga NP is located in the south-western corner of Uganda in Kisoro District within the Virunga volcanoes, bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda.

The park is about 498.4 km from Kampala, which takes about 8-10 hours, and from Mgahinga NP to Bwindi National Park is 49.2 km, which takes about 2 hours on a drive.

The park lies at an altitude ranging from 2,227m to 4,127m (7,306 to 13,540 ft.) above sea level, offering a diverse range of ecosystems and breathtaking views.

Tourist Attractions in Mgahinga National Park 

Mgahinga NP has numerous attractions, making it one of the top travel destinations when on a Uganda trip.

Animals in Mgahinga NP 

Mgahinga NP is home to over 39 different mammal species, including

Over 30 endangered mountain gorillas are often spotted on a gorilla tracking safari in Mgahinga.

There are about 3000 to 4000 golden monkeys in Mgahinga NP, which are worth seeing during a golden monkey tracking experience.

The park is also home to other animals, such as giant forest hog, buffalo, elephants, bushpigs, bushbucks, black-fronted duikers, golden cats, bats, and various types of rodents.

Bird Species in Mgahinga NP 

The park is home to more than 115 bird species, including 14 Albertine Rift endemics and Afro-tropical highlands endemics worth seeing on Uganda birding tours.

Among the common species are the black kite, Rwenzori turaco, Handsome Francolin, Crowned Hornbill, Kivu Ground-Thrush, Black Collared Apalis, Red-Throated Alethe, cinnamon-Chested Bee-Eater, Purple-Breasted Sunbird, Ruwenzori Nightjar, Olive Thrush, Red-faced Woodland Warbler, African Olive Pigeon, Speckled Mousebird, among others.

Vegetation in Mgahinga National Park 

Mgahinga NP experiences a tropical climate that supports unique vegetation types, such as moorland and afro-montane.

The moorland zone features ground plants that harbor most of the small animals, such as rodents. The afro-montane zone features various trees and some undergrowth grasses.

Common plant species in Mgahinga include

Undergrowth grasses like Mosses, lichens, and liverworts

Bamboo species like Arundinaria alpina and Yushania alpina, and other tree species, including giant senecio, lobelia, and African olive wood, among others.

Virunga Volcanoes 

Mgahinga has three extinct volcanoes, which are Mount Muhavura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabinyo, that offer breathtaking views of the park and its surroundings to hikers.

Mount Mgahinga (Mount Gahinga)

It is from Mount Mgahinga that Mgahinga Gorilla National Park derives its name, and this dormant volcano lies on the border of Uganda and Rwanda.

Mount Gahinga is 3,474 meters above sea level, and hiking this volcano takes about 6 hours round trip, especially when the hike starts from Ntebeko.

The hiking trail that reaches the summit goes through a lush bamboo forest. Along the way, you will find a swamp, and the distance covered is about 8 km.

Mt. Muhavura

Mount Muhavura, standing at 4,127 meters, is the highest of the three volcanoes in Mgahinga, and hiking to its summit typically takes around 10 hours.

It’s a cone-shaped mountain that is known for offering eye-catching views of Lake Edward in Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Virunga volcanoes, and the peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Mount Sabyinyo

Mount Sabyinyo is another majestic landscape with three peaks, where the highest is 366 meters.

Its name, Sabyinyo, comes from Iryinyo, meaning “tooth,” because its serrated, multi-peaked summit resembles an old man’s teeth.

The Batwa Pygmies

The Batwa pygmies are renowned for their traditional forest life, where they depend on hunting and fruit gathering for most of their lives. These are worth seeing when on Uganda cultural experiences.

The land where the park is gazetted was formerly their home before they were evicted from there. Meeting this group during the Batwa cultural tours immerses one into their primitive way of life.

Tourist Activities in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park 

Mgahinga Gorilla NP offers interesting tourist activities that will make your Uganda tour unforgettable.

Gorilla Trekking (Tracking of Mountain Gorillas)

Mgahinga NP is one of the few national parks with unique gorilla trekking tours in Uganda, and the Nyakagezi group is the only option available for gorilla tracking.

Gorilla trekking involves hiking through Mgahinga forest to locate the critically endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitats and closely observing their behaviours.

Trekking with gorillas in Mgahinga begins with a briefing at the park headquarters before participants start trekking in search of the gorillas in their one group, the Nyakagezi gorilla family.

After the briefing, visitors are led by the rangers to start trekking through the forest to locate the gentle giants, and the process can be challenging due to steep terrain and the thick forest.

A Gorilla trek takes between 30 minutes and 7 hours, depending on the location of the mountain gorillas, because they normally move to different places in search of food.

Participants are allowed to spend one hour with the gorillas after locating them during the trek in Mgahinga NP, closely observing them as they feed, breastfeed, and play.

Visitors are allowed to take photos of these gorillas, but they should avoid using flash since it may scare away the gorillas.

The best time for Mgahinga gorilla trekking activity is during the drier months, but mid-March to the end of May and from the end of September to November are the wet seasons in Mgahinga, presenting difficulties for trekking.

Golden Monkey Trekking

Mgahinga National Park is the only park in Uganda that harbors the endangered golden monkeys.

This activity involves hiking through the jungle to locate the endangered golden monkeys in their natural environment, especially the bamboo forest.

Just like trekking with gorillas or chimpanzee trekking, golden monkey trekking starts in the morning with a briefing at the park headquarters, where trackers are given rules and guidelines for the tracking.

After the briefing, the park rangers lead the visitors into the jungle to search for monkeys, which takes about 30 minutes to 3 hours to locate the monkey troops.

The trekking of these monkeys in Mgahinga is not as strenuous as gorilla trekking because these monkey species live in lower areas.

These monkey species are known to spend most of their time on top of trees, feeding on bamboo shoots.

When trekking, fresh leftovers of bamboo shoots are looked for during monkey tracking because they do not leave clear evidence of their previous day’s location.

Visitors are allowed to spend only one hour with the monkeys once they are found during trekking, and they are free to observe and take photos of them as they swing through the forest canopy.

These monkeys engage in playful interactions and are generally inquisitive towards visitors.

Golden monkey trekking permits cost $60 for foreign non-residents, $50 for foreign residents, and UGX 250,000 for East African citizens.

Golden Monkey Habituation

Golden monkey habituation is another fascinating activity to experience in Mgahinga NP while on a Uganda wildlife safari.

Golden monkey habituation involves participants trekking through the dense bamboo forests of Mgahinga alongside park rangers and researchers to spend more time with monkeys to make them used to human presence.

Just like golden monkey trekking, this activity also starts with a briefing at the park offices.

During the habituation experience, visitors can spend at least four hours a day with the monkeys, unlike in golden monkey trekking, which takes less time.

The golden monkeys require several years to fully acclimate to human presence.

Bird Watching in Mgahinga NP

Mgahinga NP is home to over 115 recorded bird species, making it a birder’s haven for visitors on Uganda birding safaris.

In Mgahinga NP, different birding places have been gazetted to spot the different forest birds and other avian species endemic to the park, and these places include the gorge trail, montane forest, and bamboo belt.

Among the birds commonly spotted are the Rwenzori batis, Montane double-collared sunbird, olive thrush, red-faced woodland, scarlet-tufted malachite sunbird, crowned crane, black kite, bronze sunbird, alpine chat, dusky turtle dove, handsome francolin, cape robin chat, streaky seedeater, regal sunbird, blue headed sunbird, western green tinkerbird, etc.

Volcano Hiking

Mgahinga NP has 3 dormant volcanoes, which makes it a popular destination for mountain climbing safaris in Uganda.

Hiking trails in Mgahinga NP require good physical fitness and mental preparation due to their challenging nature. However, the trekking routes in Mgahinga vary in difficulty, making them accessible for both seasoned climbers and beginners.

Among the three volcanoes, Mount Gahinga, which stands at 3,474 meters above sea level, provides excellent hiking experiences that typically take about 6 hours to complete.

However, the duration of both the ascent and descent of Mount Gahinga may vary based on the hiker’s speed.

The summit of Mount Gahinga offers breathtaking views of Crater Lake, which features plant species like the giant lobelia and others.

Hiking Mount Sabyinyo, which is 3,645 meters high, takes approximately 8 hours and allows hikers to stand in three countries at the summit.

While hiking to the summit on Mt. Sabyinyo, hikers pass through dense forests with Afro montane vegetation, enjoying breathtaking views of different bird species, primates, and other animals like forest elephants, giant forest hogs, among others.

Mt. Muhavura also offers interesting hiking opportunities, for it is the highest of the three volcanoes in Mgahinga at 4,127 meters, and hiking it typically takes around 10 hours.

During hiking, hikers can experience different vegetation zones while climbing volcanoes in Mgahinga, and when at the summit of these volcanoes, hikers enjoy breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes, the Rwenzori ranges, Lake Edward, and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

It is advised to carry packed food, water, and appropriate gear when hiking the volcanoes because facilities are limited.

Batwa Cultural Experiences 

The Batwa people were the original inhabitants of Mgahinga National Park before it was gazetted as a national park. These have struggled to adapt to life outside the forest since their eviction in 1991.

The Batwa Trail offers visitors the chance to engage in cultural interactions with the Batwa community, learn about their ancient way of life thereby immerse themselves in Batwa culture.

The Batwa cultural trails give insight into the challenges that are faced by the Batwa people in their new lifestyle after their eviction from the park forest.

The Batwa guide, who is always available, is always ready to demonstrate to visitors the traditional hunting methods, honey harvesting, and gathering skills during the Batwa Trail experience.

You will also learn how to make bamboo cups and make fire by rubbing two dry sticks against each other, among other things.

The Batwa Trail experience concludes with storytelling and dance presentations performed by Batwa women.

Exploring Garama Cave

Visitors who are on the Batwa Trail can explore the ancient Garama caves that were historically important to the Batwa.

This cave is approximately 342 meters long, located beneath a plateau in the northern part of the park.

The Batwa occupied this cave during ancient times, using it as a boardroom for discussing important matters in their community.

Nature Walks

At the edges of the three dormant volcanoes, hikers often conduct nature walks in Mgahinga. During these nature walks, hikers explore the Rugezi swamp, bamboo forests, and other wild vegetation.

On the same nature walk, hikers will explore various agricultural areas and the surrounding lakes, such as Lake Mutanda.

Costs and Charges in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park 

There are costs incurred by travelers who take up a Uganda safari in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Park Entrance Fees for Mgahinga National Park 

Foreign Non-Residents: USD 40 per day

Children (5-15 years): USD 20 for foreign non-residents

Foreign Residents: USD 30 per day

East African Citizens: UGX 20,000 per day

Children (5-15 years): GX 5,000 for East African Citizens

Children below 5 years:  free entry

Activity Fees in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park 

Note: Mountain gorilla trekking permits are sold at the park office in Ntebeko or at the offices of the Uganda Wildlife Authority in Kampala.

Gorilla permits in Mgahinga cost $800 and should be booked in advance since only eight are sold a day.

Tour operators like Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd, Wild Gorilla Safaris, Gorilla Tracking Rwanda and Gorilla Safaris and Tours can help you book the gorilla permit and accommodation, among others, in advance.

Accommodation In Mgahinga National Park 

Mgahinga NP has various accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury lodges, thereby catering to budget, mid-range, and luxury travelers.

Most accommodation facilities in the area offer options for camping for those with their own equipment.

The lodges in Mgahinga NP provide well-appointed guestrooms and suites for a comfortable stay when you are on your safari.

There are also hotels, and many of these hotels are strategically located to serve as bases for activities in both Mgahinga NP and Bwindi NP.

Besides lodges and hotels, there are basic campsites, bandas, and standard cottages available for lodging around Mgahinga.

Budget Accommodations

These offer safaris at a relatively low price, and they include the following:

Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp

Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp is a budget facility that is built next to the park gate and run by the local community, aiming to offer cultural experiences.

Services and Facilities at Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp

•         Beautiful bandas
•         Bathrooms
•         Self-contained rooms
•         Ugandan dishes
•          A campfire, etc.

Mutanda Lake Resort 

Mutanda Lake Resort (formerly Nkuringo Safari Lodge) is located along the shores of Lake Mutanda between Nkuringo and Kisoro town.

Mutanda Lake Resort is one of the top accommodation options that provides quality services at budget-friendly prices. The resort organizes birding trips and other activities.

Highlights

•           Tented self-contained rooms
•           Perfect restaurants
•           Kids’ entertainment
•           Free Wi-Fi
•           Laundry services
•           Offers birding trips
•           Offers boat trips on Lake Mutanda

Virunga Hotel 

Virunga Hotel is a budget option located behind the offices of the park with self-contained rooms and a restaurant.

Highlights

•           Perfect restaurants
•           Free Wi-Fi
•           Laundry services
•           Tented self-contained rooms

Mid-Range Accommodations

These provide a balance between budget and luxury accommodation at a price slightly lower than that charged for luxury accommodations.

Mount Gahinga Rest Camp 

It is situated at the foot of the volcanoes, offering breathtaking views of the beautiful Lake Mutanda and different mountains in the park.

Mount Gahinga Rest Camp has nine grass thatched rooms and three tents with private balconies from which they have breathtaking views of the surroundings.

Highlights

•           Secure and accessible parking
•         Wireless Internet access
•           Dry cleaning and laundry facilities
•           Private bathroom
•           24-hour front desk,
•           Room service and luggage storage for guests.

Travelers’ Rest Hotel 

Travelers’ Rest Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Uganda, but continues to offer the best accommodation facilities when on a Uganda holiday.

Travelers’ Rest Hotel in Kisoro offers comfortable midrange amenities and beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes.

Hotel facilities

•        Secure and accessible parking
•       Laundry facilities
•        Conference space,
•        Wireless Internet access.
•        Dry cleaning and laundry facilities
•        24-hour front desk
•        Room service and luggage storage for guests.

Other accommodations include the Ikoro Hotel and Traveler’s Nest Hotel.

Luxury Accommodation

These accommodations provide superior comfort and lavish amenities at a high price.

Chameleon Hill Lodge

Chameleon Hill Lodge is a luxury lodge overlooking Lake Mutanda, suitable for various park activities, including gorilla tracking and bird watching, among others.

Hotel facilities

•           Family rooms with private bathrooms
•           Rooms with bedside lighting
•           Wardrobe
•           Private balconies
•           Laundry services
•           Room services
•           Wi-Fi, etc.

Lake Mutanda Campsite 

This is a luxury accommodation located in Kisoro, offering affordable accommodation with views of the lake and volcanoes.

This campsite offers affordable accommodation for lovers and wildlife enthusiasts because of its excellent location in a peaceful and amazing environment.

Accommodation Facilities Include

•           Bar & Restaurant
•           Free Wi-Fi
•           Laundry service
•          Organizes activities like boat cruises and board games, among others

Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

This is a luxury lodge built in Kisoro, which offers luxury accommodation to travelers

Lodge Facilities

.         Laundry services

.         Meeting rooms

.         A 24-hour front desk

.         Free Wi-Fi

.         Parking

Others include Nkuringo Safari Lodge, Mount Gahinga Lodge, and Bwindi Jungle Lodge, among others.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Mgahinga National Park?

The park experiences two seasons, but the best time to visit Mgahinga NP is during the dry season (drier months), which is June to September and December to February.

However, during the wet season, which runs from March to April and October to November, only a few safaris can be organized because the rain often disrupts most activities.

How to Get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park?

Mgahinga NP in south western part of Uganda can be accessed by air and by road transport. The main entrance or park gate is known as the Ntebeko Gate, which is accessible from Kisoro Town.

By Road Transport 

Visitors to Mgahinga NP drive from Kampala via Masaka, Mbarara, Kabale, Kisoro town, and then to Ntebeko, where the offices of the park are, and the whole trip takes 9 to 10 hours in a 4X4 safari vehicle.

Visitors traveling from Rwanda can access the park through the Cyanika border, and the drive takes about 3 to 4 hours.

By Air Transport 

To fly to Mgahinga NP, visitors can book either scheduled or chartered flights with Aerolink from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro Airstrip.

From Kisoro Airstrip, you can then travel by road to the park headquarters in Ntebeko or to a lodge you booked.

Air transport is the most convenient means to save you from the long distances and traffic jams along the road, and tour operators can help you in booking a flight.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1.        What Is the Mgahinga National Park Famous For?

Mgahinga NP is famous for being one of the few national parks in Uganda where mountain gorillas and golden monkeys can be tracked.

2.        How Much Is the Entrance Fee for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park? 

The entrance fee for Mgahinga Gorilla NP for foreign non-residents is USD 40, foreign residents pay USD 30, and East African citizens pay UGX 20,000 per person per day.

3.        Is Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Safe? 

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is generally safe for tourists interested in gorilla tours and others because of the presence of armed rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority and other security agencies positioned to keep the park’s wildlife and visitor safety.

4.        Where Is Mgahinga National Park Found?

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in south western Uganda in Kisoro.

5. Are There Golden Monkeys in Volcanoes National Park?

There are over 80 golden monkeys in Rwanda’s Volcanoes NP that share the montane rainforest habitats with gorillas.

Conclusion

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, though considered the smallest game park, teems with iconic species like the gentle giants, golden monkeys, and plant species like bamboo. You will enjoy fun activities like mountain climbing, mountain biking, cultural encounters, tracking primates, and other fun activities. Book now, a safari in Mgahinga promises an unforgettable experience of a Uganda tour