Table of Contents
It occupies 33.7 sq km. This is Uganda’s smallest national park. On the other hand, it is the only dramatic park that lies on the Northern slopes of Mount Muhavura. Mgahinga and Sabyinyo are the three volcanoes that create a great background in southwestern Uganda. They mark the end of the Albertine rift valley and separate Uganda, D .R Congo, and Rwanda. This area is a habitat to the largest number of mountain gorillas.
Even if gorilla tracking is the main activity in the park, the gorillas are only tracked when they migrate to its premises. There is also a provision for mountain hiking on Mt Muhabura to the gentle slopes beneath the magnificent three peak backdrop. This area receives rain from March to May, then from September to November.
Accessibility
This park is 540km from Kampala capital. On a fair day, the journey takes 8to10 hours. The drive to this park is on a winding road, especially from Kabale to Kisoro. It starts from Kampala to Mbarara to Kabale to Kisoro to Mgahinga. There is an alternative charter flight which can be arranged from Entebbe or Kajjansi. The plane flies you to Kisoro airstrip.
Fauna and flora
The slopes of Mgahinga are covered with lush vegetation. The lowest zone is an area of grass and bush which was formerly encroached and cleared by farmers and is now regenerating. This Mountain national park has mountain woodland, bamboo zone, montane forest, and the Ericaceous zone, which contains giant tree heathers.
This beautiful prehistoric park is home to 39 mammal species like elephants, leopards, buffalo, bush pigs, to mention but a few. This is also home to primates like Mountain gorillas, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, de Brazza’s monkey, vervet monkey, and several others
Activities
Gorilla tracking
This park is a habitat to some families of Mountain gorillas; however, due to some reasons like a reduction in food, dying of some family members, they migrate easily to Parc National des Volcans. This means that their permits are sold if the gorillas are available in the park.
Mountain climbing
Mgahinga Volcanoes Mountain has three Peaks that can be hiked, that is to say, Muhabura, Sabyinyo, and Mgahinga. Sabinyo is on the Rwanda section, Mt Gahinga on the Uganda section. When you stand at any of these peaks, you find yourself looking into Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. This activity is worth a try.
Bird watching.
This park is blessed with rich avian life. Most birders prefer taking a safari to Mgahinga National Park because of the variety of birds that it is endowed with. There is also the Buffalo wall, which is a strategic point for birders.
Guided Batwa trail walk
This is done by a Batwa Guide. This person takes you from the base of Muhavura to Garama cave. You get to know the traditions of the forest human habitats and their lifestyle. This guide takes you beneath a plateau near the northern edge of the park. It is 3km from Ntebeko. It lay deep in the forest where the Batwa used to host their council chamber meetings. The stories behind these human forest inhabitants are very interesting.
Accommodation
The Volcanoes Camp, Traveler’s hotel, Mgahinga safari lodge, Mountain Gahinga Rest camp
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Mgahinga Gorilla National Park special for visitors?
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the most beautiful and unique parks in Uganda. Although it is the smallest national park in the country, it offers incredible natural scenery and rare wildlife experiences. The park lies within the larger Virunga Mountains, which stretch across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Visitors are drawn to the park for its misty volcanoes, lush forests, and peaceful atmosphere. It is especially famous for its mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.
What animals can visitors see in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park?
The main highlight of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the chance to see endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Gorilla trekking is one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences in Africa. Visitors can also track the rare golden monkeys that live in the bamboo forests of the park. Other animals include forest elephants, bushbucks, and a variety of small mammals. The park is also home to many colorful bird species, making it a wonderful destination for birdwatchers.
What activities can visitors enjoy in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park?
Visitors to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park can take part in several exciting activities. Gorilla trekking is the most popular experience, allowing travelers to spend time observing these gentle giants in the wild. Golden monkey tracking is another unique activity offered in the park. Hiking enthusiasts can also climb one of the park’s volcanic mountains, such as Mount Sabinyo. Cultural visits to the Batwa community give travelers a chance to learn about the traditional forest dwelling people of the region.
When is the best time to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park?
The best time to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. During these months, the forest trails are less muddy and trekking conditions are easier. The weather is usually clearer, allowing visitors to enjoy beautiful views of the volcanic mountains. Wildlife tracking activities are also more comfortable during the dry season. However, the park can be visited throughout the year for gorilla trekking.
Where is Mgahinga Gorilla National Park located and how can visitors get there?
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in southwestern Uganda near the borders of Rwanda and Democratic Republic of the Congo. The park is about a nine, to ten, hour drive from the capital city, Kampala. Many visitors reach the park as part of a safari that includes nearby destinations such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Domestic flights are also available to nearby airstrips for travelers who prefer a faster journey. Its location in the Virunga region makes it an important destination for wildlife and nature lovers.
Still have questions?
Our local safari experts are happy to help you plan the perfect African safari.
