Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of Uganda’s most scenic and unique protected areas, offering mountain gorilla trekking, active volcanoes, and breathtaking landscapes. Located in the southwestern corner of Uganda, the park forms part of the Virunga Conservation Area, a transboundary ecosystem shared with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Though small in size, Mgahinga provides a highly rewarding wildlife experience, combining endangered species encounters, volcanic hiking adventures, and cultural exploration in a pristine natural setting.

Location and General Overview

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park lies in southwestern Uganda, in Kisoro District, bordering Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park covers approximately 33.5 square kilometers, making it Uganda’s smallest national park. Despite its size, it is part of a critically important ecosystem that connects Virunga National Park in DRC and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, ensuring the survival of endangered species, including the mountain gorilla.

The park is roughly 9–10 hours’ drive from Kampala or can be accessed via nearby Kisoro town. Its location on the edge of the Virunga volcanoes gives it dramatic scenery, including volcanic peaks, crater lakes, and dense montane forests.

Volcanoes and Landscapes

Mgahinga is dominated by three extinct and dormant volcanoes:

• Mount Sabinyo – known for its jagged summit marking the Uganda-Rwanda-DRC border

• Mount Gahinga – gentle slopes covered in bamboo forests

• Mount Muhabura – the tallest peak at 4,127 meters, offering panoramic views of the region

The park’s landscapes include bamboo zones, montane forest, swamps, and crater lakes, creating diverse habitats for wildlife. These dramatic volcanic features make Mgahinga a paradise for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

Mountain Gorillas

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to habituated mountain gorilla families, offering one of Uganda’s most intimate gorilla trekking experiences. Gorilla trekking here allows visitors to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat while contributing to conservation and community support programs.

Due to the park’s small size, trekking groups are limited, creating a more personalized and serene gorilla encounter compared to larger parks. Visitors may witness gorillas feeding, playing, grooming, and caring for their young—a truly life-changing experience.

Golden Monkeys

In addition to gorillas, Mgahinga is one of the few places in Uganda to track golden monkeys, an endangered primate species with vibrant orange and black fur. These playful monkeys inhabit the bamboo forests of the Virunga volcanoes, and tracking them provides a lighter, exciting alternative to gorilla trekking.

Golden monkey treks are generally easier than gorilla treks, making them suitable for families, moderate fitness levels, and photography enthusiasts.

Other Wildlife

While primates dominate the park’s wildlife scene, Mgahinga also hosts:

• Bushbucks and duikers

• Sitatunga antelope in swampy areas

• Forest elephants (rarely)

• Numerous small mammals and amphibians

The park’s rivers, bamboo zones, and montane forests create habitats for diverse species, making it a hotspot for ecotourism and wildlife conservation.

Birdlife

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is rich in bird species, with over 180 recorded species, including many Albertine Rift endemics.

Notable birds include:

• Rwenzori turaco

• African green broadbill

• Great blue turaco

• Black-fronted duiker

• Dusky crimsonwing

Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings along forest trails, crater lakes, and bamboo zones.

Hiking and Volcano Trekking

Mgahinga offers a range of hiking and trekking experiences, with trails through bamboo forests, montane forests, and volcanic slopes.

Popular hikes include:

• Mount Muhabura hike – a challenging trek to the summit with panoramic views

• Mount Gahinga trek – moderate hike through bamboo forests to the summit crater

• Mount Sabinyo trek – a strenuous but rewarding hike to a jagged volcanic peak

These treks allow visitors to experience the park’s dramatic scenery while spotting wildlife and enjoying the natural environment.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Mgahinga experiences a cool montane climate, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 22°C. Mist, rainfall, and cool winds are common, particularly at higher elevations.

Best time to visit:

• Dry seasons: June–September and December–February – ideal for trekking, gorilla encounters, and volcano hikes

• Wet seasons: March–May and October–November – forest is lush and vibrant, though trails may be slippery

Why Visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park?

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a unique blend of wildlife, volcanoes, and culture. From intimate gorilla encounters and golden monkey tracking to challenging volcano hikes and scenic crater lakes, the park provides unforgettable experiences in a less crowded, serene setting.

For travelers seeking intimate wildlife encounters, adventure, and spectacular landscapes, Mgahinga is a must-visit destination on any Uganda or East African safari circuit.