Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in Uganda’s southwest corner in the Kisosro district, is a unique and captivating destination known for its rich biodiversity, including the endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. The park, covering only 33.9 km2, is part of the larger Virunga Conservation area shared by Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Key features and attractions of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:

1. Volcanic Landscape: The park is characterized by three extinct volcanoes – Mt. Muhavura, Mt. Gahinga, and Mt. Sabinyo, which add to the scenic beauty of the landscape.
2. Biodiversity: Mgahinga is home to a variety of ecosystems, including bamboo forests, Albertine Rift montane forests, Ruwenzori-Virunga montane moorlands, and an alpine zone at higher elevations. The park hosts 76 mammal species, including mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, leopards, elephants, and various species of antelope.
3. Gorilla Trekking: The park offers a unique and unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. The Nyakagezi habituated gorilla troop, with 9 members, is open for trekking. The trek starts at 8 a.m. with a briefing at Ntebeko Headquarters and can last the entire day, depending on the gorilla group’s location.
4. Golden Monkey Trekking: Mgahinga is the only place in Uganda where you can trek golden monkeys. The golden monkeys are endemic to the Albertine Rift and are known for their vibrant orange-gold fur. Trekking permits are available, and the activity typically lasts between 30 minutes to 3 hours.
5. Hiking: The park offers various hiking options, including trails to Mt. Gahinga, Mt. Sabinyo, and Mt. Muhavura. These hikes range in difficulty and duration, providing opportunities for different fitness levels.
6. Guided Nature Walks: Nature walks in Mgahinga are often combined with hiking due to the steep terrain. Guided by armed escorts and knowledgeable guides, visitors can explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna.
7. Batwa Cultural Trail: This cultural experience introduces visitors to the Batwa people, an indigenous tribe that once lived in the forest. The trail explores their history, traditional homesteads, and cultural practices.
8. Bird-Watching: Despite having a less diverse bird species list compared to other parks, Mgahinga is a birding destination with species like the Kivu Ground Thrush, Rwenzori Turaco, and various sunbirds.
9. Accommodation: There are several accommodation options near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, catering to different budgets. Some of the lodges include Chameleon Hill Lodge, Mount Gahinga Lodge, and Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.
10. Best Time to Visit: While the park is open year-round, the dry season is recommended for gorilla trekking to ensure better trail conditions. The months of April to mid-May and October to November are considered ideal for bird-watching.
11. Access: Mgahinga can be reached by road from Kampala, taking approximately 9-10 hours. Alternatively, charter flights can be arranged from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Kisoro Air Field.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a unique blend of adventure, wildlife, and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.