Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: is located in South western parts of the country and its Uganda’s smallest park. Additionally, it sits high in the clouds, at an altitude of between 2,227m and 4,127m. The park is also a habitat to the remaining mountain gorillas in Uganda and the world at large. In fact, it lies close to Bwindi, another home to the remaining endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda. The major primates in this park include Mountain Gorillas and the Golden Monkey. Furthermore, the park is contiguous with Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and the southern sector of Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Things to do in Mgahinga Gorilla national park
Gorilla trekking
The park is generally a home to some of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas making gorilla trekking a must do activity. In fact, the habituated gorilla family in this park is called the Nyakagezi. However, due to their constant movement it is advisable to check the current location of the gorillas first. In addition, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind before you go for gorilla trekking. While walking, feel free to ask the guides to slow down if they are going too fast and you’re free to have a rest. Depending on how far the gorillas moved, your reward for the trek maybe a silverback. However, it’s not a guarantee that you will see the gorillas since they travel long distances in search for food.
Golden monkey trekking
This is the second thrilling activity in this park next to the Gorilla trekking. In fact, these primates are small and fast which makes golden monkey trekking an interesting activity. The trekking takes about 4 hours per session during which you are given a golden opportunity to view and take memorable pictures of these primates.
Batwa trail experience
The Batwa or African pygmies lived and thrived in these forests and mountains as hunter gatherers. However, they were later displaced but some of them still live around the park to participate in the tourism industry as porters and guides. They are also entitled to a portion of the tourism proceeds and a tip for their guide services will be welcome.
Note that, batwa trail experience is an activity that takes you through their history and transition over time. Besides, the Garama Cave, a very sacred piece of Batwa history is a good place to start. It is in this cave that they were able to hide from Bantu invasion many years back. The ease with which they bustle through the forest and glide uphill is awe striking and a reminder that east or west, home is best.
Volcano Climbing
Volcano climbing is a big attraction here since the park has 3 dormant volcanoes. Mt. Muhabura is the tallest at (4,127) meters above sea level with 36 meters wide Crater Lake on its summit. Gahinga (3,473) meters above sea level is the lowest and easy to hike about 6-8 hour. Sabinyo has a toothed summit a reason why it’s referred to as an old man’s teeth by the locals. Visitors hike past several deep gorges and ravines before standing in a great location where the three countries Rwanda, Uganda and DR Congo borders meet.
Bird watching
Many bird species are found in this park, over 180 bird species and birding in the area can be all year round. Some of the birds include; the Dusky turtle dove, Brown-crowned Tchagra, Bronze sunbird. Black-headed waxbill, Streaky seed eater, Handsome francolin, Kivu ground thrush, Cinnamon bracken warbler. Greater double collard sunbird, Rwenzori turaco, Rwenzori batis, Shelly’s dusky crimsonwing. Archer’s robin chat, Olive pigeon, Western green tinker bird, White-starred robin. Brown woodland warbler, Striped breasted tit, not to mention but a few. You will also enjoy a good list of the Albertine rift endemics in this area especially on the gorge trail.
Hiking & nature walks
One of the best mountain hikes within the park is the peaks of mount Sabinyo which provides a good birding opportunity and the chance to find the Rwenzori Turaco. Mount Muhabura stands at 4127 meters and also provides the most outstanding views than any other mountain in Uganda. Hiking Muhabura takes 8-10 hours and you will be rewarded with views when you climb to the Peak of this Mountain. Some of these include; the Virunga Massif, the magnificent Queen Elizabeth National Park and Lake Edward. Gahinga means “pile of stones” in the local dialect (Rukiga) and this Mountain stands at 3474 meters above sea level. Hiking this mountain takes 6-7 hours and highlights into the Peak of this Mountain covered by a swamp (was once an incredible Crater Lake).
Wildlife
The park is home to over 76 species of mammals, although they are difficult to glimpse in the wild forest vegetation. Some of these include; giant forest hogs, bush pigs, forest buffaloes, elephants, bushbucks. Golden cats, side striped jackals, black fronted duikers, South African porcupines, etc.
Garama cave exploration
Proceed to the Garama Cave the residence of the King of the Batwa People. As a matter of fact, no outsider was allowed to enter although you had a special permission. The cave was also used by the Batwa people to hide from their enemies. You enter down, darkness embraces you and you hear mournful chants of the Batwa women mourning the loss of the beloved forest.
When to go for gorilla trekking
This park can be visited all year round however, the best time to go gorilla trekking here are the warmest and driest months. On the other hand, in the dry months, gorillas move further in search of food. Therefore hikes may involve longer treks. Besides, gorilla trekking is also possible during the wet season since this season offers abundant food and hikers may experience shorter hikes.
Where to stay while at Mgahinga national park
Luxury
- Mount Gahinga Lodge
Mid-range
- Traveller’s Rest Hotel-Kisoro
- Mucha Hotel-Kisoro
Budget
- Amajembere Iwacu Community Camp
- Kisoro Tourist Hotel
Some of our Primate safaris
3 Days Gorilla Trekking Experience in Uganda.
4 Days Gorilla and Chimpanzee Tracking Safari Uganda.
6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari.
7 Days Uganda Primates and Wildlife Safari.
8 Days Uganda Primates & Wildlife Safari.
9 Days Uganda Gorillas-Chimpanzee & Wildlife Safari.
10 Days Wildlife & Primates Uganda Safari.
Our Special Safaris
