7 Incredible Reasons to Visit Mgahinga National Park in Uganda

Introduction: Mgahinga National Park – Uganda’s Hidden Gem

Mgahinga National Park may be the smallest park in Uganda, but don’t let its size fool you. Tucked away in the Virunga Mountains of southwestern Uganda, this 33.7 km² treasure offers some of the most breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife, and rewarding adventures in East Africa.

From gorilla trekking to golden monkey encounters, from hiking extinct volcanoes to learning about the Batwa people’s heritage, Mgahinga is a park where every step feels like a discovery. At Amatsiko Tours, we help travelers uncover this jewel and connect deeply with both nature and culture.

1. Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park

One of the most thrilling reasons to visit Mgahinga is the chance to meet the Nyakagezi gorilla family, the only habituated group in this park. Unlike Bwindi, where multiple families live, Mgahinga offers an intimate, less-crowded trekking experience.

• Trekking starts at Ntebeko Visitor Information Center.
• Groups are limited to 8 visitors per day.
• Treks range from 2–6 hours depending on gorilla movement.
• Permits cost $800 (Foreign Non-Residents) as of August 2025.

👉 Learn more about our Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tours.

2. Golden Monkey Tracking

Mgahinga is the only place in Uganda where you can track golden monkeys. These rare primates, with their striking golden-orange fur, are found only in the Virunga range.

• Standard tracking gives you an hour with the monkeys.
• A Golden Monkey Habituation Experience allows up to four hours alongside researchers.

This activity is a fantastic addition to gorilla trekking, offering a full day of primate encounters.

3. Hiking the Virunga Volcanoes

Mgahinga National Park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, home to three extinct volcanoes:

• Mount Sabinyo (3,669m): A tough but rewarding hike where Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo meet.
• Mount Gahinga (3,474m): A gentler climb through bamboo forests.
• Mount Muhavura (4,127m): Known as “The Guide,” it offers panoramic views stretching to Lake Edward and the Rwenzori Mountains.

For adventurous hikers, climbing these peaks is an unforgettable experience.

4. The Batwa Cultural Trail

Long before the park was established, the Batwa pygmies lived in these forests as hunter-gatherers. Today, visitors can walk the Batwa Trail with community guides who share their traditions, music, and survival skills. This experience offers insight into Uganda’s cultural heritage while supporting Batwa livelihoods.

5. Birdwatching Paradise

With over 180 species, including the Rwenzori turaco, dusky turtle dove, and white-starred robin, Mgahinga is a dream for bird lovers. The varied ecosystems—from bamboo to montane forest—make it one of Uganda’s richest birding destinations.

6. Peaceful, Uncrowded Experience

Unlike more famous parks, Mgahinga remains wonderfully quiet. With fewer visitors, treks feel personal, the trails serene, and the interactions with wildlife more intimate. For travelers who want to escape the crowds, Mgahinga is ideal.

7. Accessibility and Connections

Mgahinga is located in Uganda’s Kisoro District, near the borders of Rwanda and DR Congo. This makes it easy to combine with:

• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (for more gorilla trekking).
• Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda).
• Queen Elizabeth National Park for safaris.

👉 Plan your visit with our Uganda Travel Itineraries.

Practical Information for Mgahinga National Park

• Getting There: 8–10 hours by road from Kampala/Entebbe, or a 1-hour flight to Kisoro.
• Best Time to Visit: June–September and December–February (dry seasons).
• Park Fees: $50 per person for entry (excluding permits).
• Minimum Age: Gorilla trekking (15 years), golden monkey tracking (12 years).

FAQs about Mgahinga National Park

Q: Is Mgahinga National Park safe to visit?
A: Yes. The park is secure, with experienced rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority guiding all treks.

Q: How does Mgahinga compare to Bwindi?
A: Bwindi has more gorilla families, but Mgahinga offers a quieter, more intimate experience with the Nyakagezi group and golden monkeys.

Q: Can I hike a volcano and see gorillas in the same trip?
A: Absolutely. Many travelers combine a gorilla trek with a Virunga volcano hike during their stay.

Q: Where can I stay near Mgahinga?
A: Options range from budget guesthouses in Kisoro to eco-lodges near the park, arranged through Amatsiko Tours.

Final Call to Action

Mgahinga National Park may be small, but its adventures are larger than life. From trekking rare gorillas and golden monkeys to standing on volcanic peaks and sharing stories with the Batwa, this is Uganda at its most magical.

👉 Book your Mgahinga National Park adventure with Amatsiko Tours today and turn your holiday into a journey of discovery, connection, and impact.