Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is the country’s smallest national park, covering just 33.7 square kilometers. Despite its size, the park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which extends into Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is home to the rare and endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. The park is characterized by three extinct volcanoes—Mt. Muhabura (4,127m), Mt. Gahinga (3,474m), and Mt. Sabyinyo (3,669m)—offering breathtaking landscapes and thrilling trekking opportunities.

Activities in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

1. Gorilla Trekking

Mgahinga is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, which is habituated for tourism. Gorilla trekking involves hiking through dense forests to observe these incredible primates in their natural habitat. The experience lasts between 2 to 6 hours and allows visitors to spend an hour with the gorillas.

2. Golden Monkey Tracking

Mgahinga is the only place in Uganda where golden monkeys can be tracked. This unique activity takes visitors into the bamboo forests to observe these playful and fast-moving primates. The trek lasts about 3-4 hours, making it an exciting and less strenuous alternative to gorilla trekking.

3. Volcano Hiking

The park offers three volcano hikes:

• Mt. Sabyinyo (3,669m) – A challenging climb that takes visitors to the peak, where they can stand in Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC at the same time.
• Mt. Muhabura (4,127m) – A steep climb offering panoramic views of the Virunga region.
• Mt. Gahinga (3,474m) – A relatively easier hike passing through bamboo forests and ending at a scenic crater swamp.

4. Batwa Cultural Experience

The Batwa people, indigenous forest dwellers, offer guided cultural experiences where visitors learn about their traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle. The tour includes a visit to ancient caves, traditional dance performances, and storytelling sessions.

5. Nature Walks and Bird Watching

Guided nature walks through the montane forests provide opportunities to see unique flora, waterfalls, and diverse birdlife. The park has over 180 bird species, including the Rwenzori turaco, crowned hornbill, and black-headed waxbill.

Conclusion

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a hidden gem, offering a mix of wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and thrilling hikes. Whether trekking gorillas, tracking golden monkeys, or hiking volcanoes, visitors are guaranteed an unforgettable adventure in this scenic and biodiverse park.