Golden monkey in Mgahinga

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a protected area located in southwestern Uganda, on the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is one of the two national parks in Uganda that are home to the endangered mountain gorillas, the other being Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

The Nyakagezi family is composed of 9 members; 4 silverbacks, 2 infants, 2Adults females and 1 juvenile. The dominant silverback is Mark who took over leadership from his father Bugingo. The other members include Mathew and Mafia (silverbacks), Nyiramwiza and Nshuti (adult females), Nkanda (juvenile), Mutagamba and Rukundo (Infant). Bugingo, the oldest silverback, is believed to be more than 50 years old.

The park covers an area of approximately 33.7 square kilometers and is characterized by a diverse landscape of dense forests, grasslands, and swampy valleys. The park's altitude ranges from 2,227 to 4,127 meters above sea level, providing a variety of habitats for a range of flora and fauna.

The park is home to a number of endangered species, including the mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and the rare and elusive ivory-billed barbet. Other wildlife found in the park includes elephants, buffaloes, and various antelope species.

According to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the park is open for tourism all year round, with the best time for gorilla tracking being during the dry season from June to September. Visitors can explore the park's diverse habitats and wildlife through guided walks, bird watching, and gorilla tracking.

What to do in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a range of tourism activities that cater to different interests and preferences. From gorilla trekking to cultural experiences, hiking, bird watching, and volcano climbing, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this unique and bio diverse national park.

One of the main attractions at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is gorilla trekking. Visitors have the opportunity to go on guided hikes through the dense forests to observe and interact with habituated gorilla groups. This activity provides a unique and unforgettable experience, allowing tourists to witness these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.

In addition to gorilla trekking, the park offers other wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can go on nature walks and bird watching excursions to spot a variety of bird species, including the Albertine Rift endemics. The park is home to over 180 bird species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

For those interested in cultural experiences, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park provides opportunities to engage with the local Batwa community. The Batwa are indigenous people who have lived in the region for centuries and have a deep connection with the forest. Tourists can participate in cultural tours and learn about their traditional way of life, including hunting and gathering techniques, music, dance, and storytelling.

Another popular activity at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is hiking. The park offers several trails that lead visitors through stunning landscapes, including bamboo forests, swamps, and volcanic peaks. One of the most famous hikes is the climb to the summit of Mount Sabinyo, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

For those seeking more adventurous activities, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park also provides opportunities for volcano climbing. The park is home to three extinct volcanoes: Mount Sabinyo (3,669 m), Mount Gahinga (3,474 m), and Mount Muhabura (4,127 m). Climbing these volcanoes offers a thrilling experience and rewards hikers with panoramic views of the park and the neighboring countries.

Batwa Trail and Cultural Experience is an activity that is always combined with gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park. The Batwa Trail leads from the base of Muhuvura Cave. The walk is a living museum where you can learn about the Batwa People, a pygmoid tribe that used to live in the Mgahinga National Park.

To ensure the conservation of the park's natural resources and wildlife, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park has implemented strict regulations for tourism activities. Only a limited number of permits are issued each day for gorilla trekking, and visitors are required to follow guidelines to minimize their impact on the gorillas and their habitat. Additionally, trained guides accompany tourists on all activities to ensure their safety and provide valuable information about the park's flora and fauna.

Where to stay on a gorilla tracking tour in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Is there decent accommodation in and around Mgahinga forest national park?

There is a limited availability of high end lodges in and around Mgahinga national, if you plan to come for Gorilla tracking in this remotest destination, be sure that you confirm availability of lodging options, lodges here fill up in high tourist seasons and those who book late are left with far options to choose from. Listed below are some of our researched accommodation options near Mgahinga gorilla national park.

Mount Gahinga Lodge Luxury

Mutanda lake Resort Midrange

Ndere Tala Resort Midrange

Lake Mulehe gorilla lodge Midrange

Ichumbi hotel Midrange

Ikoro resort hotel Midrange

Lake Mulehe safari lodge Midrange

Travellers Rest Hotel Midrange

Mgahinga gorilla triangle lodge Budget

Mucha riverside Budget

Neeza eco lodge Budget

Gahiza island retreat Budget

Mondi lodge Budget

Mt. Muhabura Climbers Rest Camp Backpacking

Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp Camping

Advice and tips for the best gorilla tracking tour in Uganda

These are tips and travel advices about what you must know before planning your Gorilla tracking trip to Uganda, this section covers gorilla tracking tips, visas, currency and so much more.

Best time to visit Mgahinga Gorilla national park for Gorilla tracking in Uganda

Mgahinga Gorilla national park and Bwindi impenetrable forest national park are located in the same geographical region and share the same weather and seasons, the best time to visit both parks for gorilla tracking in Uganda is the same remains the dry seasons of June – September and December to February, wet seasons are also possible.

How to get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

To get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, there are several transportation options available. The park is situated in the Virunga Mountains and is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which also includes national parks in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Here are the different ways to reach Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:

1. By Air:The nearest international airport to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Entebbe International Airport in Uganda's capital city, Kampala. From Entebbe, you can take a domestic flight to Kisoro Airstrip, which is the closest airstrip to the park. Several airlines operate domestic flights between Entebbe and Kisoro, including Aerolink Uganda and Fly Uganda.

1. By Road:If you prefer traveling by road, there are two main routes to reach Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:

From Kampala: The most common route is to drive from Kampala to Kisoro, which takes approximately 8-9 hours. The journey passes through Kabale town and offers scenic views of the countryside. From Kisoro, it's a short drive to the park entrance.

From Kigali (Rwanda): Another option is to travel from Kigali, the capital of Rwanda. The drive from Kigali to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park takes around 4-5 hours. You will need to cross the border at Cyanika or Katuna and proceed to Kisoro before reaching the park.

It's important to note that road conditions in some areas may be challenging, especially during the rainy season. It is advisable to use a 4x4 vehicle for better maneuverability.

3. By Public Transport:For budget travelers, public transport options are available but may require more time and patience. From Kampala, you can take a bus or shared taxi (known as matatu) to Kisoro. The journey can take up to 10-12 hours, depending on the road conditions and traffic. From Kigali, you can take a bus or shared taxi to Cyanika or Katuna border crossing, and then proceed to Kisoro.

Once you reach Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, there are various activities to enjoy, including gorilla trekkinggolden monkey tracking, volcano hiking, bird watching, and cultural encounters with the Batwa people.


Top safaris

Gorilla

2 Days Gorilla trekking in Uganda

Explore Idea

From

1446

Per person

Gorilla leg

1 Days Gorilla tracking in Mgahinga gorilla national park

Explore Idea

From

1104

Per person

Gorilla up in a tree

2 Days Gorilla Trekking Uganda Air Transfer

Explore Idea

From

2064

Per person

Female gorilla

3 Days Double Gorilla Tracking in Mgahinga and Bwindi impenetrable forest national park

Explore Idea

From

2837

Per person

sleeping gorilla

3 Days Gorilla Tracking and Lake Mutanda Adventure Tour

Explore Idea

From

1588

Per person

Gorilla sleeping

3 Days Mount Mgahinga Gorilla Trekking Mid Range Tour

Explore Idea

From

1935

Per person

lion

7 Days Gorilla tracking, Lake Bunyonyi and Queen Elizabeth National park

Explore Idea

From

2988

Per person

safaris

Other toursit destinations in Uganda

Kampala city

Kampala city

Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, is a dynamic and rapidly growing urban center that offers a perfect blend of culture, history, adventure, and modernity. With its rolling hills, lush vegetation, and friendly people, Kampala welcomes visitors to experience the heart and soul of Uganda.

Explore park
Kabale round about

Kabale town

Kabale town is a charming destination that has earned the nickname "The Switzerland of Africa." This picturesque town, surrounded by lush green hills and cool, misty weather, offers travelers a perfect escape into nature, culture, and adventure.

Explore park
Water buck in Kidepo Valley NP

Kidepo valley national park

Kidepo Valley National Park lies in the rugged, semi-arid valleys between Uganda's borders with Sudan and Kenya, some 700kilometers from Kampala.

Explore park
Murchison falls

Murchison falls national park

Murchison Falls National Park lies at the northern end of the Albertine Rift Valley, where the sweeping Bunyoro escarpment tumbles into vast, palm-dotted savanna. First gazetted as a game reserve in 1926, it is Uganda's largest and oldest conservation area, hosting 76 species of mammals and 451 birds.

Explore park
Mountain Elgon

Mount Elgon National Park

At 4,000km² Mount Elgon has the largest volcanic base in the world. Located on the Uganda - Kenya border it is also the oldest and largest solitary, volcanic mountain in East Africa. Its vast form, 80 kilometers in diameter, rises more than 3,000 meters above the surrounding plains.

Explore park
Rwenzori Mountain

Rwenzori mountains national park

Rwenzori Mountains National Park protects the highest parts of the 120km long and 65km wide Rwenzori mountain range. The national park hosts 70 mammals and 217 bird species including 19 Albertine Rift endemics, as well as some of the world's rarest vegetation.

Explore park
hot springs in Semliki national park

Semliki National Park

Semuliki National Park sprawls across the floor of the Semuliki Valley on the remote, western side of the Rwenzori. The park is dominated by the easternmost extension of the great Ituri Forest of the Congo Basin. This is one of Africa's most ancient and bio-diverse forests; one of the few to survive the last ice age, 12-18,000 years ago.

Explore park
Rhino at Zziwa

Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a protected area located in Nakasongola district, Uganda. It was established in 2005 with the primary objective of reintroducing and conserving the endangered southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) in Uganda.

Explore park
Water buck pian upe

Pian Upe Game Reserve

Pian Upe Game Reserve is a highly desired tourist destination located in the Karamoja region of northeastern Uganda. This expansive reserve covers an area of approximately 2,788 square kilometers, making it the second-largest protected area in the country.

Explore park
Young gorilla in Bwindi

Bwindi impenetrable forest national park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park lies in southwestern Uganda on the edge of the Rift Valley. Its mist-covered hillsides are blanketed by one of Uganda's oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests, which dates back over 25,000 years and contains almost 400 species of plants.

Explore park
Chimpanzee in Kibale

Kibale forest national park

Kibale Forest National Park contains one of the loveliest and most varied tracts of tropical forest in Uganda. Forest cover, interspersed with patches of grassland and swamp, dominates the northern and central parts of the park on an elevated plateau.

Explore park
Zebras in lake mburo national park

Lake Mburo national park

20% of the park's entrance fee is used to fund local community projects such as building clinics and schools. Lake Mburo National Park is a compact gem, located conveniently close to the highway that connects Kampala to the parks of western Uganda.

Explore park
birds on the source of the Nile

The source of the Nile

The source of the Nile, alluded to hazily in the ancient writings of Ptolemy, stood as one of the great geographical mysteries of the Victorian Age. Closer to home, the Nile downriver from Jinja, Uganda, offers some superb white water rafting and game fishing.

Explore park
hot springs sempaya

Sempaya Hot springs

Sempaya Hot Springs, also known as Semuliki Hot Springs, is a natural wonder located in the Semuliki National Park in western Uganda. These hot springs are renowned for their unique geological features and therapeutic properties, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

Explore park
Sipi falls

Sipi falls

Sipi Falls is a stunning waterfall located in eastern Uganda, near the town of Kapchorwa. It is considered one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the country and draws tourists from all over the world. The falls are part of the Sipi River, which originates from Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano that straddles the border between Uganda and Kenya.

Explore park
Plane sunset

Entebbe international airport

Entebbe International Airport is the main international airport serving Uganda. The airport is an important gateway to Uganda and the surrounding region.

Explore park
Lake Mutanda

Lake Mutanda

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the wonders of Lake Mutanda, what makes it a must-visit destination, and how Musana Tours and Travel can help you curate an unforgettable adventure.

Explore park
Kisoro

Kisoro town

Kisoro town should be on your must-visit list. At Musana Tours and Travel, we specialize in creating unforgettable experiences for travelers, and Kisoro promises just that—an unforgettable adventure filled with nature, wildlife, and authentic cultural experiences.

Explore park
Kid on a canoe on Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi

Known as the “Place of many little birds,” Lake Bunyonyi is located in southwestern Uganda near the border of Rwanda. Its tranquil waters, stunning landscapes, and unique islands make it a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Explore park
Bridge on the Nile

Jinja city

Jinja City, perched on the northern shores of Lake Victoria in eastern Uganda, is a true gem for travelers looking for adventure, nature, and a taste of Uganda’s rich culture

Explore park
Entebbe city

Entebbe City

Entebbe, a vibrant city located along the shores of Lake Victoria, is one of Uganda’s most captivating destinations. Its scenic beauty, historical significance, and proximity to Uganda’s only international airport make it a key gateway to the rest of the country.

Explore park
shoebill stork in Mabamba swamp

Mabamba Swamp

Mabamba Swamp stands out as a remarkable wetland, teeming with birdlife and other wildlife. Located along the northern shores of Lake Victoria, this swamp is one of Uganda’s most important bird-watching sites.

Explore park
Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake, is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of the world. Spanning three countries, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, this vast body of water offers unparalleled beauty, cultural richness, and abundant wildlife.

Explore park
River Nile

River Nile

The River Nile, the longest river in the world, holds a mystique that captivates explorers, travelers, and historians alike. Spanning over 6,600 kilometers, the Nile flows through 11 countries in northeastern Africa before emptying into the Mediterranean Sea.

Explore park
Fort portal

Fort portal 

Fort Portal, the tourism capital of Uganda, is a beautiful, serene city located in the western part of the country, lying at the base of the legendary Rwenzori Mountains.

Explore park
Karuma Falls

Karuma Falls

Karuma Falls is a stunning natural marvel renowned for its roaring rapids and awe-inspiring beauty. Located within the Karuma Wildlife Reserve, this site offers an immersive blend of scenic landscapes, adventure, and wildlife.

Explore park
Lion

Queen Elizabeth national park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is understandably Uganda's most popular tourist destination. The park's diverse ecosystems, which include sprawling savanna, shady, humid woodland forests, sparkling lakes and fertile wetlands, make it the ideal habitat for classic big game, ten primate species including chimpanzees, mankeys, baboons and over 600 species of birds.

Explore park
Hippos at Kazinga channel

Kazinga channel

The Kazinga channel, connecting Lake Edward to Lake George, forms a vital artery for wildlife in the region. Its serene waters and lush banks teem with life, making it a dream destination for nature lovers, bird enthusiasts, and safari adventurers.

Explore park
Bigodi wetland sanctuary

Bigodi wetland sanctuary

Uganda’s allure as the "Pearl of Africa" lies in its rich ecosystems and stunning landscapes, and the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is a shining example. Located near Kibale Forest National Park in western Uganda, this sanctuary offers a captivating mix of wildlife, community tourism, and conservation.

Explore park

News and updates

A unique canoeing experience in East Africa

Canoeing in East Africa offers travelers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the region's spectacular landscapes while immersing themselves in the local cultures. Imagine gliding across serene waters, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, and engaging with vibrant communities that have lived along these waterways for generations.

Explore blog

Mon Dec 02 2024

Accommodation options in Lake Mburo National Park

From luxury lodges that redefine indulgence to budget-friendly campsites where adventure takes center stage, Lake Mburo National Park offers a range of stays that cater to all tastes and budgets. Here’s a detailed look at the accommodation options that promise to make your visit unforgettable.

Explore blog

Sun Dec 01 2024

Rwanda’s most scenic destinations

Compact and easy to navigate, Rwanda offers seamless travel experiences, allowing you to explore its natural beauty and cultural heritage without the hassle of long journeys. Let’s embark on a virtual tour of Rwanda’s most scenic destinations and uncover why this East African gem is worth your visit.

Explore blog

Sun Dec 01 2024

More blogs
Let's chat