How many Gorillas are in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park? Nestled in the southwestern corner of Uganda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a breathtaking gem that forms part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, shared with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Covering 33.7 square kilometers, it may be Uganda’s smallest national park, but it is among the most scenic and biologically diverse.

The park is dominated by the three majestic Virunga Volcanoes—Mount Muhabura (4,127m), Mount Gahinga (3,474m), and Mount Sabyinyo (3,669m)—which create a dramatic and awe-inspiring backdrop. These extinct volcanoes are covered in lush, misty rainforests, bamboo forests, and golden moorlands, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Edward, and the Congo Basin.

Mgahinga is best known for its endangered mountain gorillas, specifically the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family, which roams freely within its dense forests. Seeing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a magical experience, enhanced by the serene, less-crowded trekking environment compared to Bwindi. The park is also home to the rare golden monkeys, whose vibrant fur and playful nature add to the park’s charm.

Beyond wildlife, Mgahinga is steeped in cultural richness. The Batwa pygmies, the indigenous forest dwellers, offer immersive cultural encounters, sharing their ancient traditions, songs, and knowledge of the forest.

Hiking and trekking in Mgahinga are unparalleled, with challenging yet rewarding trails leading to the volcanic peaks, offering breathtaking views of the Virunga ranges and distant landscapes. The Gorge Trail and Sabyinyo hike provide an incredible chance to walk in both Uganda and Rwanda.

With its untouched beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich culture, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a paradise for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and cultural explorers, making it a must-visit destination in East Africa.

How many Gorillas are in Mgahinga National Park?

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to a single habituated gorilla family, the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family, which consists of 9 individuals. This group includes several silverbacks, adult females, juveniles, and infants. Unlike Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which has multiple gorilla families, Mgahinga has only one group available for trekking.

Although Mgahinga’s gorilla population is smaller, the park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which spans across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This means that more than 600 mountain gorillas roam freely within this transboundary ecosystem. Some unhabituated gorillas occasionally cross into Mgahinga from neighboring parks, but they are not tracked for tourism purposes.

The Nyakagezi Gorilla family is unique due to its high number of silverbacks, which co-exist peacefully under the leadership of the dominant silverback. In the past, this group moved frequently between Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC, but it has now settled permanently in Mgahinga, making it a reliable trekking option for visitors.

Gorilla conservation efforts in Mgahinga are ongoing, with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) working alongside conservation organizations to protect these endangered primates. Through controlled tourism, anti-poaching patrols, and habitat preservation, the park ensures the long-term survival of mountain gorillas.

Despite having only one habituated gorilla family, Mgahinga offers an intimate and exclusive trekking experience, making it a prime destination for those seeking a less crowded and more immersive gorilla encounter.

Other activities done in Mgahinga beyond Gorilla Trekking

While gorilla trekking is the highlight of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, the park offers a variety of other exciting activities for visitors to explore its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage.

1. Golden Monkey Tracking

Mgahinga is one of the few places where you can track the endangered golden monkeys. These playful primates, known for their vibrant golden fur, inhabit the bamboo forests and offer a unique trekking experience.

2. Volcano Hiking

The park features three majestic volcanoes, all part of the Virunga Mountains:

• Mt. Sabyinyo (3,669m) – Offers breathtaking views and a chance to stand in Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC at the same time.

• Mt. Gahinga (3,474m) – Features a scenic crater swamp at the summit.

• Mt. Muhabura (4,127m) – The highest and most challenging hike, offering panoramic views of Lakes Edward and Albert.

3. Batwa Cultural Experience

The Batwa pygmies, the indigenous people of the forest, offer guided cultural experiences. Visitors can learn about their traditional hunting skills, herbal medicine, and ancient lifestyle, making for an insightful and immersive experience.

4. Nature Walks and Birdwatching

Guided nature walks, such as the Gorge Trail, allow visitors to explore Mgahinga’s rich biodiversity, including rare birds like the Rwenzori turaco and the Doherty’s bushshrike.

Mgahinga is a hidden gem for adventurers, offering thrilling wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and scenic landscapes beyond gorilla trekking.

How far is Mgahinga Gorilla National Park from Kampala?’

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located approximately 510 kilometers (about 317 miles) southwest of Kampala, Uganda’s capital. The drive typically takes around 8 to 10 hours depending on road conditions and traffic. The journey takes visitors through scenic landscapes, including lush countryside, rural villages, and the dramatic foothills of the Virunga Mountains.

There are several routes to reach the park, with the most common being via Kabale and Kisoro. The road from Kabale to Kisoro is paved and relatively smooth, but some parts closer to the park may be more rugged, especially during the rainy season.

For those short on time, there are flights from Entebbe to Kisoro, the nearest airport to Mgahinga, followed by a short drive to the park, which reduces travel time significantly.