SAFARI GUIDE TO UGANDA

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is part of the Virunga Mountains, a majestic range shared with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Covering just 33.7 square kilometers, it is Uganda’s smallest national park, yet it boasts incredible biodiversity and unique experiences for nature lovers and adventurers alike. The park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, and gorilla trekking is its main attraction, offering an intimate glimpse into the lives of these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

In addition to gorillas, Mgahinga is also home to golden monkeys, another rare primate species, and a variety of wildlife that inhabits its dense bamboo forests and alpine ecosystems. Visitors can also hike to the top of the volcanic peaks, with Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura providing challenging yet rewarding treks with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Mgahinga’s cultural significance shines through its connection to the Batwa people, the region’s indigenous forest dwellers, who offer guided walks to share their ancient traditions and knowledge of the forest.

Whether trekking through its dense forests in search of gorillas, exploring its volcanic peaks, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers an extraordinary wilderness experience in Uganda.

Where to Stay near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Explore these featured accommodations for travel in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

MOUNT GAHINGA LODGE

Luxury bandas and personalized service with views of the Virunga Volcanoes, just minutes from the trailhead.

IN DETAIL

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Gorilla Trekking: The park’s main attraction, gorilla trekking offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors hike through dense forests to track the endangered mountain gorillas and spend time observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Golden Monkey Tracking: Mgahinga is one of the few places in the world where you can track golden monkeys, a rare and vibrant primate species. These playful monkeys live in the park’s bamboo forests, offering a unique primate-watching experience.

Volcano Climbing: Adventurous visitors can trek up one of the park’s three extinct volcanoes—Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, or Mount Muhabura. These challenging hikes reward climbers with spectacular views of the surrounding Virunga Range and beyond.

Batwa Cultural Trail: Explore the rich heritage of the Batwa, the indigenous people who once lived in the forests of Mgahinga. The Batwa Cultural Trail is a guided experience where visitors learn about the Batwa’s traditional lifestyle, forest survival skills, and cultural practices.

Birdwatching: With over 180 bird species, Mgahinga is a haven for birdwatchers. The park’s diverse habitats, from bamboo forests to montane woodlands, are home to a variety of colorful and unique birds, including the Rwenzori turaco and Kivu ground thrush.

Nature Walks: Guided nature walks take visitors through different ecosystems within the park, offering opportunities to spot wildlife, enjoy scenic landscapes, and explore the flora and fauna that make Mgahinga unique.

I recently returned from spending an incredible nine days exploring Uganda, all organized by Hornbill. They were incredibly helpful in the pre-trip stage with visa support, suggested packing lists, and useful destination info. My on-trip experience couldn't have been better. We had several incredible safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and of course the ultimate bucket list item - gorilla trekking in Bwindi. Our guides Milton and Medi were super knowledgeable and friendly. I would recommend Hornbill to anyone looking for a well rounded and seamless travel experience in Uganda. Webale!

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