Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

This is Uganda’s smallest national park (33.7 km2) in the south-western part of the country. It is linked to two other Virunga Parks i.e Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda and the Virunga National Park of the Democratic Republic of Congo (former Zaire) to form a single conservation area in the Virunga Mountains. The Virunga Volcanoes host more than half of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas (the remainder are found in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest).

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to three extinct Virunga volcanoes; Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhabura and Mount Sabinyo. The park is mostly covered with Afro-montane tropical rain forest.

The park has a montane forest belt, a bamboo zone, an ericaceous belt and an alpine zone. In the saddles between the volcanoes lie three extensive swamps. Apart from the endangered mountain gorillas, the park supports a high level of endemism, including the rare golden monkey, and Black-fronted Duiker, as well as the side-strapped Jackal. Some 185 species of birds have been recorded, including 12 endemic to the region, such as several bandsome francolin, the Rwenzori Turaco and the side breasted tit.

Both the Batwa and Bafumbira people live adjacent to the park, and benefit from some of the park fees under the on-going programme to involve local people in conservation. Human pressure on the park has been intense in recent years, but local development programmes are assisting sustainable local projects.

Things to Do in Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is an exhilarating experience for outdoor-oriented people. Gorilla trekking is the prime activity but a number of other hikes showcase the park’s dramatic views, lush vegetation and interesting wildlife. Though most travelers take a gorilla safari to this national park, there are several other adventures that you do within the park. These include;

Full-day climbs to the summits of Mount Muhabura and Mount Gahinga are challenging, but offer spectacular views. A 13-km nature trail provides the opportunity of seeing some of the special flora and fauna in the park.

A visit to the Pygmy villages neighboring the park.

Where to Stay in Mgahinga National Park

Overnight camping is not allowed on the mountains, but is possible within the park at Ntebeko Camp near the Garama Cave. Bring your own tent and food. There is also a campsite near the departure point for the Mt. Muhabura climb. Hotel accommodation is available in Kabale or Kisoro.

How to Reach the Park

The park booking office is located in Kisoro, and all the permits must be obtained before leaving for the park. It is an hour’s drive by 4WD vehicle, or a three-hour hike for Kisoro to the park headquarters at Ntebeko Camp.

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