Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Uganda’s smallest national park, located in Kisoro District in the southwest corner of the country. Nestled within the magnificent Virunga Mountain Range, the park shares borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is home to three prominent extinct volcanoes—Mount Muhavura, Mount Sabinyo, and Mount Gahinga.

The name “Mgahinga” is derived from the local term “Gahinga”, referring to the piles of volcanic stones cleared from farmland at the volcanoes’ base. Originally declared a game sanctuary by the British administration in 1930, the area was officially gazetted as a national park in 1991.

Mgahinga sits at an altitude between 2,227 and 4,127 meters, creating a cool, misty atmosphere in the cloud-covered mountains. The park was established primarily to protect the rare and endangered mountain gorillas that inhabit its dense forests. It is home to one habituated transboundary gorilla group that occasionally crosses borders into Rwanda. In addition to gorillas, the park provides a safe haven for the endangered golden monkey, making it a unique destination where visitors can trek both species.

Beyond its rich biodiversity, Mgahinga is culturally significant. It is home to the Batwa pygmies, indigenous forest dwellers often referred to as the “first people” of the forest. Their traditional knowledge and deep connection to the land add a fascinating cultural dimension to the park experience.

The park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which spans across Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. The dramatic volcanic peaks and diverse ecosystems on their slopes offer breathtaking scenery and exceptional biodiversity, making Mgahinga a true gem among Uganda’s national parks.

Gorilla Tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, much like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is renowned for gorilla tracking. The park is home to one habituated gorilla family, which is open to gorilla tourism. This unique gorilla group previously ranged across the shared borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, but in recent years, it has settled within Mgahinga, allowing for more consistent trekking experiences.

In the past, permits for trekking this group could only be booked on-site. However, visitors can now conveniently secure permits in advance through the Uganda Wildlife Authority headquarters in Kampala.

Beyond gorilla trekking, Mgahinga also draws adventure seekers interested in hiking its three extinct volcanoes—Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhavura, and Mount Sabinyo. These scenic peaks offer exhilarating hikes and panoramic views of the Virunga mountain range.

The park is also the best place in Uganda for golden monkey tracking. These playful and endangered primates are unique to the Albertine Rift region, and Mgahinga provides a rare opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat.

Cultural tourism is another highlight of Mgahinga. Visitors can engage in the Batwa Trail Experience, a cultural encounter led by the indigenous Batwa pygmies. Once forest-dwelling hunter-gatherers, the Batwa guide tourists through their ancestral lands, including caves they once called home, sharing their deep knowledge of the forest and traditional way of life.

With its blend of wildlife, adventure, and culture, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a truly enriching experience for every traveler.

Activities – Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

1. Gorilla Trekking
The park is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, the only habituated group in Mgahinga. Trekking to see these endangered mountain gorillas is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The trek through dense forests is both thrilling and rewarding as you spend an hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

2. Golden Monkey Tracking
Mgahinga is the best place in Uganda to track the endangered golden monkey. These fast-moving, playful primates are endemic to the Albertine Rift and provide a unique and lively tracking experience.

3. Volcano Hiking
Adventure seekers can hike any of the three extinct volcanoes within the park:

• Mount Muhavura (4,127m) – The highest, offering panoramic views of Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo.

• Mount Sabinyo (3,669m) – Its jagged peak allows hikers to stand in all three countries at once.

• Mount Gahinga (3,474m) – A gentler hike through bamboo forests.

4. Batwa Cultural Trail
Discover the history and traditions of the Batwa pygmies—the original forest dwellers. Led by Batwa guides, this cultural trail includes cave visits, traditional music and dance, storytelling, and demonstrations of hunting and gathering skills.

5. Bird Watching
Mgahinga is a birding haven with over 180 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics like the Rwenzori turaco and the handsome francolin.

6. Nature Walks
Enjoy guided walks through the park’s lush vegetation, bamboo forests, and montane ecosystems while learning about local flora, fauna, and unique volcanic features.

How much is Gorilla Trekking safari in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park?

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a bucket-list experience and among Uganda’s top wildlife adventures. The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Mgahinga is USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. This permit grants you one hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family, guided by expert Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers.

In addition to the permit, a typical gorilla trekking safari package may cost between $1,200 to $2,000+ per person depending on the duration, level of accommodation (budget, mid-range, or luxury), transportation, meals, and optional activities. Most packages include park entry fees, guided trekking, 4×4 transport, and sometimes cultural experiences like the Batwa trail.

It’s advisable to book your permit in advance, especially during peak seasons (June–September and December–February). Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga offers a quieter, more exclusive experience compared to the more visited Bwindi, making it ideal for those seeking a serene and less crowded encounter with these majestic primates.

Golden Monkey Tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Golden Monkey Tracking is one of the most exciting and unique primate experiences offered in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These endangered and lively primates are endemic to the Albertine Rift and are characterized by their striking golden-orange fur, playful nature, and agility through the bamboo forests.

The golden monkeys live in large troops of up to 100 individuals and are relatively easy to locate, making tracking less strenuous compared to gorilla trekking. The experience begins with a briefing at the Ntebeko Visitor Center, followed by a guided hike through the forested slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes. Trekkers can spend up to one hour observing the monkeys as they forage, play, and interact in their natural habitat.

The cost of a golden monkey tracking permit is USD 60 per person, making it a more affordable but equally enriching alternative to gorilla trekking. There is also an option for a Golden Monkey Habituation Experience at USD 100, which allows for a more in-depth and extended interaction.

Golden Monkey Tracking is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone interested in primates and conservation. It also complements other park activities, making Mgahinga a diverse and rewarding destination.

How to get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, in Kisoro District, near the borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park is accessible by both road and air, depending on your preference and schedule.

By Road

From Kampala, Uganda’s capital, it’s approximately 510 km (about 9–10 hours) by road. The route passes through Kabale and Kisoro, with scenic views of rolling hills and lakes. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season. The road from Kisoro town to the park gate (Ntebeko Visitor Center) is about 14 km and takes roughly 45 minutes.

From Rwanda, travelers can access the park via the Cyanika border post, which is just 10 km from Kisoro. This makes it a convenient option for those flying into Kigali.

By Air

Scheduled and chartered flights are available from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kisoro Airstrip, which is just about 14 km from the park. From the airstrip, it’s a short drive to the park entrance.

Whether by road or air, getting to Mgahinga is part of the adventure—with breathtaking landscapes all along the way.

Where to stay in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Accommodation around Mgahinga Gorilla National Park caters to all budgets—from luxury lodges to mid-range and budget-friendly options. Most lodges are located in or near Kisoro Town, or closer to the Ntebeko Entrance Gate, offering easy access to gorilla and golden monkey trekking activities.

Luxury Lodges

• Mount Gahinga Lodge – A high-end eco-lodge nestled at the base of the Virunga Volcanoes. It offers stunning views, cozy bandas, personalized service, and cultural experiences with the local Batwa community.

• Gorilla Heights Lodge – Located on a hill with panoramic views of the park and surrounding volcanoes. Offers luxurious rooms, a wellness center, and fine dining.

Mid-Range Options

• Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge – Overlooks Lake Mulehe, about 30 minutes from the park. Comfortable rooms, great food, and beautiful views.

• Travellers Rest Hotel – A historic lodge in Kisoro once visited by Dian Fossey. It offers cozy rooms and a relaxed atmosphere.

Budget Lodges

• Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp – Located right at the park gate, ideal for budget travelers and those interested in community tourism.