Mgahinga gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in southwestern Uganda and encompasses three inactive volcanoes: Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura. Mgahinga derives this name from a local word in Rufumbira, meaning a pile of volcanic stones. It is bordered by Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Mgahinga gorilla national park is considered Uganda’s smallest national park, which was established in 1991. It should be noted that around 1989, biological surveys were made, rangers went through training, trees were planted, wire traps were destroyed, and settlers were relocated outside the park land by the 1990’s, hence being gazetted as a national park in 1991. The national park boasts over 180 bird species with 14 endemic Albertine rifts and 76 mammal species. Tourists are welcome at any time of the year to visit this national park where “Gold meets Silver.” It’s protected by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

Things to do in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Gorilla Trekking

Mgahinga gorilla national park has only one gorilla family called Nyakagezi, and it is accessible to all tourists vising this particular national park. Most tourists prefer visiting this group as there is less congestion and it is strategically situated.

Golden Monkey Tracking

This activity mainly takes around 4 hours as you trek through the forest in search of these primates. Habituated families are mostly six in number, and these are used to human presence. This is also one of the adventurous activities one should not miss on their visit to Mgahinga. These monkeys are fast movers, so it is always fun seeing them swinging from one tree to another.

Mountain Climbing

This is done on Mount Gahinga with the help of a ranger guide. Tourists who would like to hike to this mountain should be physically fit with proper hiking shoes, a raincoat, enough drinking water, probably 5 litres, a cap, and a potter, if possible, to carry belongings. There’s nothing rewarding like reaching the top and observing the neighbouring mountains like Sabyinyo and Muhavura.

Birding in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

This is a great deal for tourists who are interested in bird watching. Notable birds include Rwenzori Turaco, Handsome Francolin, Archer’s robin chat, Striped-breasted tit, Cape Robin, Olive Pigeon, Streaky Seed Eater, and Dusky Turtle Dove, among others.

Batwa Community Visit in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Embark on a thrilling experience as you visit the Batwa culture around the park. Listen to captivating stories about their existence in this forest and their survival skills over the years. Decide to crown the day by participating in their traditional folk song conducted by the Batwa children and women.