Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:

Perched in the cloud-kissed heights of the Virunga Massif, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a compact yet captivating destination where misty peaks, ancient volcanoes, and rare wildlife converge in dramatic style. Spanning 34km² and rising from 2,227m to 4,127m, this park is Uganda’s smallest — yet it delivers some of the most exclusive and unforgettable experiences in East Africa.

Protected since 1930 and officially declared a national park in 1991, Mgahinga is a sanctuary of biodiversity and culture, where each trail leads to wonder.

Mgahinga Climate and Altitude

The temperature in the park varies with elevation:

• Daytime: ~20°C (68°F)

• Night (Lower Slopes): ~9°C (48°F)

For every 1,000m ascended, temperatures drop by approximately 6°C (11°F), creating a range of microclimates and a rich variety of flora and fauna.

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Top Experiences in Mgahinga National Park

🦍 Gorilla Trekking

Step into the realm of giants with a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family—the park’s sole habituated group. Treks begin at 9 AM and vary in length depending on the gorilla’s location. Once found, you’ll spend a magical hour observing their behavior, just 7 meters away.

Nyakagezi Group Composition:

• 5 silverbacks

• 2 adult females

• 3 young gorillas

Though they occasionally cross into Rwanda, this group has been resident in Uganda since 2012. If they do move after permit purchase, the Uganda Wildlife Authority guarantees a refund or a transfer to Bwindi.

Trekking is a physical and emotional adventure—prepare well, dress appropriately, and expect to be moved.

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🐒 Golden Monkey Trekking

Descend into the bamboo forests to meet the vibrant and lively golden monkeys, endemic to the Virunga region. With their striking gold-orange fur and curious nature, they make for a fascinating and photogenic subject.

Two options are available:

• Standard Trek: 1-hour encounter

• Habituation Trek: Join researchers for an extended, immersive experience

Less strenuous than gorilla trekking, this is a great complement to your wildlife adventure.

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⛰️ Volcano Hiking & Summit Adventures

Mount Sabyinyo (3,669m) – “Old Man’s Teeth”

Named for its jagged peaks, Sabyinyo offers a rugged, thrilling climb with three distinct summits. At the final peak, you’ll stand in Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC—simultaneously.

• Duration: 8 hours round-trip

• Distance: 14 km

• Highlights: Narrow ridges, steep ascents, stunning vistas

Mount Gahinga (3,474m)

This gentler hike takes about 6 hours round-trip, winding through a beautiful bamboo forest to a summit with a lush crater swamp. Ideal for moderate hikers seeking serenity and sweeping views.

Mount Muhavura (4,127m) – “The Guide”

Towering above the landscape, Mt. Muhavura offers panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes, Rwenzori Mountains, and even Lake Edward on a clear day.

• Duration: 8 hours

• Distance: 12 km

• Note: No summit facilities—camping at the base the night before is recommended.

Bring: tent, food, water, and sleeping gear.

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🐦 Birding in Mgahinga

With over 79 species recorded, including Albertine Rift endemics, Mgahinga is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Follow trails through montane forests, bamboo zones, and the gorge between Sabyinyo and Gahinga, spotting gems like:

• Olive Thrush

• Regal and Blue-headed Sunbirds

• Rwenzori Batis

• Bronze Sunbird

• Cape Robin-chat

Birding here offers more than checklists—it’s an immersion in lush, serene landscapes alive with song.

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Where to Stay: Accommodation Options

Luxury Stay: Mount Gahinga Lodge

A tranquil haven just outside the park gate, Mount Gahinga Lodge combines comfort, conservation, and community. Its beautifully landscaped grounds attract local wildlife and its community initiatives support the indigenous Batwa people through:

• A dedicated cultural center

• Dance and music integration projects

• A vocational training facility

Other Recommended Stays

• Lake Mutanda: Chameleon Hill Lodge, Lake Mutanda Resort, Ikoro Hotel, Gahinga Rest Camp

• Lake Bunyonyi: Arcadia Cottages

All offer access to the park via scenic day trips.

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When to Visit Mgahinga National Park

Gorilla trekking is possible year-round, but the dry months are preferred for easier hiking:

• Best Time: June–September and December–February

• Rainy Seasons: March–May and September–November

The rainy months offer fewer crowds, more flexible permits, and a raw, wild beauty that makes encounters even more intimate.

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Getting There

🚗 By Road

Drive 9–10 hours (540km) from Kampala to Kisoro, passing:

• The Equator (perfect photo op)

• Stunning terraced hills and crater lakes

• The dramatic Kigezi Highlands

✈️ By Air

Take a 1-hour domestic flight from Entebbe or charter from Kajjansi Airstrip to Kisoro Airstrip. Your driver-guide will meet you on arrival and escort you to your lodge and onward adventures.

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Experience Mgahinga With Outback Adventure Safaris

Whether you seek the thrill of standing in three countries, the quiet wonder of mountain gorillas, or the serenity of a bird-filled gorge, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park delivers an unmatched blend of nature, culture, and adventure.

Let Outback Adventure Safaris craft your bespoke itinerary—from luxury stays to seamless logistics—so you can focus on what truly matters: the magic of the moment.