Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Where Gold Meets Silver
Overview
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a small but remarkable park located in southwestern Uganda, part of the larger Virunga Mountain range that stretches into Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It covers only 33.7 square kilometers, making it Uganda’s smallest national park, but it’s packed with breathtaking volcanic scenery, rare wildlife, and cultural significance. The park is best known for offering gorilla trekking and the chance to see both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in the same location.
Wildlife and Primates
Mgahinga is home to one habituated group of mountain gorillas, known as the Nyakagezi group, which is known for being stable and easy to track. The park is also a top destination for viewing the endangered golden monkey, a beautiful and rare species only found in the Virunga region.
Other wildlife includes forest elephants, buffaloes, bushbucks, and a wide variety of birds. The park has recorded over 180 bird species, including many Albertine Rift endemics.
Main Activities
Gorilla Trekking
Track the famous Nyakagezi gorilla group with experienced guides through thick forest and steep volcanic terrain. It’s a challenging but unforgettable experience.
Golden Monkey Tracking
This is one of the few places in the world where you can see golden monkeys. Treks are shorter and easier than gorilla treks, making them a great add-on.
Volcano Climbing
Hike one of the three volcanic peaks within the park: Mount Gahinga (3,474m), Mount Sabinyo (3,669m), and Mount Muhabura (4,127m). These offer stunning views over Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo.
Nature Walks and Bird Watching
Take guided forest walks through bamboo zones and montane forest, ideal for birders and nature lovers.
Batwa Cultural Experience
Visit the local Batwa community, the indigenous forest dwellers who once lived in the park. Learn about their traditions, hunting techniques, and music during a guided cultural walk.
Scenery and Landscape
Mgahinga sits within a dramatic volcanic landscape, with mist-covered mountains, bamboo forests, crater lakes, and deep gorges. The views are spectacular, and the air is fresh and cool due to the high altitude.
Best Time to Visit
The park can be visited year-round, but the best months are during the dry seasons: June to August and December to February. Trails are less slippery and easier to hike.
Getting There
Mgahinga is located near the town of Kisoro, about a 9- to 10-hour drive from Kampala. The nearest airstrip is in Kisoro, with scheduled flights available from Entebbe or Kajjansi.
Why Visit Mgahinga
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Track both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in one place
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Hike volcanic peaks with incredible views
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Less crowded than Bwindi, offering a quiet trekking experience
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Strong cultural connections with the Batwa people
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Ideal for combining with Rwanda or Congo safaris due to its border location