Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Where gold meets silver.
Nestled in the far southwest corner of Uganda, where the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo converge, lies one of Africa’s smallest but most magical parks—Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. A place of mist-shrouded volcanoes, ancient forest, and sacred stories, it offers an intimate and unforgettable encounter with nature and culture.

Mgahinga may be compact, but its spirit is mighty. Here, you can trek through bamboo and cloud forest to meet the majestic mountain gorillas, follow golden monkeys as they leap through the canopy, and hike volcanic peaks with sweeping views across three countries. It’s a park that offers rare encounters, meaningful moments, and big rewards for those who venture off the beaten path.

Trek with Gorillas in the Shadow of Volcanoes

Mgahinga is home to one habituated gorilla family, the Nyakagezi group, known for its playful juveniles and strong silverbacks. Gorilla trekking here is often quieter than in Bwindi, making for a more peaceful, personal, and uncrowded experience. As you hike through the forest with expert guides, every step builds anticipation—until the moment you come face to face with the gorillas and everything else fades away.

With the dramatic backdrop of the Virunga Volcanoes, the experience is not just about the wildlife—it’s a journey into awe.

Track the Golden Monkeys

One of the only places on Earth where you can see both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, Mgahinga is a true primate paradise. These vibrant, curious monkeys live in the bamboo zones of the forest and are known for their expressive faces and lightning-fast agility. Golden monkey tracking is a joyful, high-energy experience—less intense than gorilla trekking, but no less rewarding.

Volcano Hiking Adventures

Mgahinga’s dramatic volcanic terrain invites you to go higher. The park is part of the Virunga Massif, and ambitious hikers can climb one of three extinct volcanoes:

Mount Sabinyo (3,669m) – Known as the “Old Man’s Teeth,” this rugged climb rewards hikers with panoramic views and the rare chance to stand in three countries at once.
Mount Gahinga (3,474m) – A gentler hike through bamboo forest to a beautiful crater swamp.
Mount Muhabura (4,127m) – The highest of the three, with steep slopes and epic summit views for the adventurous.

These hikes are challenging but unforgettable, offering a bird’s eye view of one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.

Sacred Culture of the Batwa

For centuries, the Batwa people called this forest home. Visiting their community and learning their stories is a deeply moving part of any Mgahinga experience. Through songs, traditional dances, and forest walks, the Batwa share their deep connection to the land and their resilience in preserving their culture. It’s a powerful reminder that conservation and community are forever intertwined.

Activities in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Gorilla trekking (Nyakagezi group)
Golden monkey tracking
Volcano hiking (Sabinyo, Gahinga, Muhabura)
Birdwatching
Batwa cultural trail
Nature walks and scenic viewing
Photography and forest immersion

How to get there

By air: Fly from Entebbe to Kisoro Airstrip, then transfer to the park (approx. 1 hour).

By road: Approximately 9–10 hours’ drive from Kampala or 4–5 hours from Lake Bunyonyi or Queen Elizabeth (southern sector).

Climate

Due to its high elevation (2,200–4,127m), Mgahinga has a cool, temperate climate. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 23°C. Rain can fall year-round, particularly from March to May and September to November—making good hiking shoes and warm layers essential.

Best Time To Visit

Dry seasons (June–August and December–February) are best for trekking and hiking, but the park is open and rewarding year-round. With fewer crowds than neighbouring parks, even peak season here feels peaceful.

Facts

Small but extraordinary, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a place for those who seek something different—raw nature, sacred culture, and quiet beauty. Whether you’re standing with one foot in three countries, locking eyes with a gorilla, or listening to Batwa elders share forest stories, you’ll feel the deep, timeless magic of this land.

Established in 1991 – Protects Uganda’s portion of the Virunga Volcanoes and its gorillas and golden monkeys.
Size: 33.7 square kilometres (13 square miles) – Uganda’s smallest national park.
Part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area shared with Rwanda and DRC.
Biodiversity: Over 76 mammal species and 180 bird species recorded.
Unique selling point: The only park in Uganda where you can see both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.
Top experiences: Gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking, Batwa cultural visits.

Most Common Animals

Mountain gorilla
Golden monkey
Black-and-white colobus monkey
Red-tailed monkey
Forest buffalo
Bushbuck
Duiker
Side-striped jackal
Serval cat (rare)
Over 180 bird species, including Rwenzori turaco, crowned hornbill, and the scarlet-tufted malachite sunbird