Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Where Volcanoes Meet Gorillas. Uganda’s smallest national park with golden monkeys, mountain gorillas, and volcanic peaks

Overview

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Uganda’s smallest national park, covering just 33.7 square kilometers in the southwestern corner of the country. The park protects the Ugandan portion of the Virunga Mountains, a chain of eight volcanic peaks.

Established in 1991, Mgahinga forms part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area that spans Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park’s three volcanic peaks – Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo – create a spectacular backdrop.

Despite its small size, Mgahinga is rich in biodiversity and cultural significance. It’s home to the endangered mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and numerous other species adapted to the afro-montane ecosystem.

Volcanic Wilderness

Mgahinga offers a unique combination of gorilla tracking, golden monkey tracking, and volcano hiking in one compact area. The park’s dramatic landscapes range from bamboo forests to alpine meadows on the volcanic slopes.

The park is part of the habitat of the endangered mountain gorilla, though gorilla groups are transboundary and may move between Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC. When present, gorilla tracking in Mgahinga offers a more intimate experience with smaller groups.

Unique Wildlife Experiences

Mgahinga is one of only two places in Uganda where visitors can see golden monkeys, an endangered primate species endemic to the Virunga region. The park also hosts 76 mammal species and 185 bird species.

The Batwa pygmies, original inhabitants of these forests, offer cultural experiences that provide insight into their traditional forest-based lifestyle and relationship with mountain gorillas.

Park Highlights

  • Home to endangered golden monkeys
  • Volcano hiking on three volcanic peaks
  • Mountain gorilla tracking (when groups are present)
  • Batwa cultural experiences

Best Time to Visit

  • June to August & December to February (Dry seasons)
  • Best conditions for hiking and tracking
  • March to May & September to November (Wet seasons)
  • Lush vegetation but trails can be muddy

Main Park Activities

Mgahinga offers three main experiences, each centered around the park’s unique features:

Golden Monkey Tracking

Track endangered golden monkeys in bamboo forests

Volcano Hiking

Hike Mount Muhabura, Gahinga, or Sabyinyo

Gorilla Tracking

Track mountain gorillas when groups are present

Batwa Trail

Cultural experience with Batwa pygmies

Quick Facts

Distance from Entebbe International Airport

510 kilometres (317 miles)

Size

33.7 sq km (13.0 sq mi)

Elevation

2,227 to 4,127 meters (7,306 to 13,540 ft)

Year Established

1991

Volcanic Peaks

Mount Muhabura (4,127m)
Mount Gahinga (3,474m)
Mount Sabyinyo (3,645m)

Wildlife Population

76 mammal species
185 bird species
Endangered golden monkeys
Mountain gorillas (transboundary)

Other Activities

Border Trail Hike

Hike along the Congo border with views of all three countries

Batwa Cultural Experience

Learn about Batwa forest culture and traditions

Bird Watching

Spot Albertine Rift endemics and montane species

Scenic Viewpoints

Enjoy panoramic views of the Virunga volcanoes

What to Expect on Your Visit

1

Golden Monkey Tracking

Track endangered golden monkeys through bamboo forests, spending one hour observing these beautiful primates with their distinctive golden-orange fur.

2

Volcano Hiking

Challenge yourself with hikes up volcanic peaks, passing through different vegetation zones from bamboo forest to alpine meadows with spectacular views.

3

Cultural Immersion

Experience the culture of the Batwa pygmies, learning about their traditional forest lifestyle, medicinal plants, and harmonious existence with wildlife.