Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: A Haven for Mountain Gorillas in Uganda

February 5, 2025

Located in the southwestern part of Uganda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a small but mighty national park that is home to a thriving population of mountain gorillas. The park is situated in the Virunga Mountains, near the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors.

History and Geography

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park was established in 1991, and covers an area of approximately 38 square kilometers. The park is situated in the Virunga Mountains, a range of volcanic mountains that stretches across the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The park’s terrain is dominated by steep slopes, dense forests, and rugged volcanic landscapes. The park’s highest point is Mount Muhabura, which rises to an elevation of 4,127 meters above sea level.

Wildlife and Birdlife

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including:

Mountain gorillas: The park is home to a thriving population of mountain gorillas, with several habituated groups that can be tracked by visitors.

Golden monkeys: The park is one of the few places in the world where visitors can see golden monkeys, a rare and endangered species.

Buffaloes: The park is home to a large population of buffaloes, which can often be seen grazing in the park’s grasslands.

Elephants: The park is home to a small but healthy population of elephants, which can often be seen roaming through the park’s forests.

Antelopes: The park is home to several species of antelopes, including the rare and endangered Uganda kob.

The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 180 species of birds recorded. Some of the park’s most notable bird species include:

Rwenzori turaco: A rare and endangered species found only in the Virunga Mountains.

Golden-winged sunbird: A brightly coloured bird with a distinctive golden wing patch.

Regal sunbird: A brightly coloured bird with a distinctive regal crest.

Tourism and Activities

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a range of tourism activities and experiences, including:

Gorilla tracking: Visitors can track one of the park’s habituated gorilla groups, a truly unforgettable experience.

Golden monkey tracking: Visitors can track the park’s rare and endangered golden monkeys, a unique and exciting experience.

Hiking: The park offers several hiking trails, including the challenging but rewarding climb to the summit of Mount Muhabura.

Bird watching: The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 180 species of birds recorded.

Cultural visits: Visitors can visit one of the park’s several traditional communities to learn about their culture and way of life.

Accommodation

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the park’s most popular lodges and camps include:

Mount Gahinga Lodge: A luxury lodge located near the park’s entrance.

Mgahinga Community Campground: A budget-friendly campsite located near the park’s entrance.

Kisoro Travelers’ Rest Hotel: A mid-range hotel located in the nearby town of Kisoro.

Getting There

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in a remote area of southwestern Uganda, and can be difficult to access. The park is approximately 500 kilometers from Kampala, and the drive can take around 8-10 hours.

There are also several flights per week from Kampala to Kisoro, which take around 1 hour.

Conclusion

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a unique and unforgettable destination that offers a range of exciting tourism activities and experiences. The park’s stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for any serious safari enthusiast.