Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda’s Hidden Gorilla Trekking Destinan

Tucked in the far southwestern corner of Uganda, where the country meets Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, lies Mgahinga Gorilla National Park — a compact but stunningly beautiful protected area that forms part of the larger Virunga Volcanoes Conservation Area. Though it’s Uganda’s smallest national park at just 33.7 square kilometers, Mgahinga offers a world-class gorilla trekking experience that rivals any other destination in East Africa.

The park was established specifically to protect the endangered mountain gorillas that roam across the transboundary Virunga ranges. It is home to one habituated gorilla group — the Nyakagezi family — and is widely praised for its dramatic volcanic scenery, rich biodiversity, and peaceful, uncrowded trekking experience. For visitors looking for an alternative or complement to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga is an excellent choice.

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga: A Unique and Intimate Experience

Although Mgahinga has only one habituated gorilla family, the Nyakagezi group, this singular focus makes the trekking experience incredibly special. The group is well-known for its stability, playful juveniles, and charismatic silverbacks, especially the famous “Mark” who has led the group since taking over from his father, Bugingo.

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga is typically less crowded than in Bwindi, offering visitors a more personalized and tranquil encounter. Treks begin early in the morning with a briefing at Ntebeko Visitor Center, followed by a guided hike into the forest to track the gorillas. The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours depending on the gorilla movements and hiking conditions, but once located, visitors get to spend one precious hour in the presence of the gorilla family — observing their behavior, feeding habits, and complex social dynamics.

This Uganda gorilla trekking experience in Mgahinga is enhanced by the breathtaking backdrop of the Virunga Volcanoes, with forested slopes rising dramatically to meet the clouds. The scenery here is among the most striking of any gorilla trekking destination in Africa.

Mgahinga Gorilla Permits: Cost, Availability, and Booking Tips

Just like Bwindi, trekking mountain gorillas in Mgahinga requires a gorilla permit issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). As of 2025, the permit costs:

  • USD $800 for foreign non-residents

  • USD $700 for foreign residents

  • UGX 300,000 for East African citizens

Due to the limited number of trekking slots (only 8 permits per day, as there is one habituated family), early booking is essential — preferably at least 3 to 6 months in advance. Despite its smaller scale, Mgahinga permits often sell out, particularly during the dry seasons of June to September and December to February, which are the best months for trekking.

Beyond Gorillas: Other Activities in Mgahinga

While gorilla trekking in Uganda is the park’s flagship activity, Mgahinga offers much more than just gorilla encounters. Its volcanic terrain, montane forests, and alpine ecosystems provide excellent opportunities for hiking, golden monkey tracking, and cultural exploration.

1. Golden Monkey Tracking

Mgahinga is one of the few places in the world where you can track the rare golden monkey, an endangered primate species found only in the Virunga ranges. Permits for golden monkey tracking cost USD $100, and the experience adds a dynamic and colorful dimension to your primate safari.

2. Volcano Climbing

Mgahinga contains three of the extinct Virunga Volcanoes — Mount Muhabura (4,127m), Mount Gahinga (3,474m), and Mount Sabinyo (3,669m) — all of which can be climbed by adventurous travelers. These hikes offer panoramic views into Rwanda and DRC, high-altitude ecosystems, and challenging but rewarding terrain.

3. Batwa Cultural Experience

The Batwa pygmies, the original forest dwellers of the region, offer immersive cultural experiences that showcase their traditional knowledge, songs, dances, and forest survival skills. These tours are both educational and empowering, helping to preserve Batwa heritage and promote sustainable tourism.

Mgahinga’s Location and Accessibility

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park lies in the Kisoro District, about 510 km southwest of Kampala. It is reachable by both road and air:

  • By Road: A scenic but long 8-10 hour drive from Kampala via Kabale and Kisoro.

  • By Air: Daily scheduled flights from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro Airstrip reduce the travel time to just over an hour, followed by a short road transfer to the park.

For those already trekking in Bwindi’s Rushaga or Nkuringo sectors, Mgahinga is only a few hours’ drive away, making it a great extension or dual-gorilla trekking option.

Accommodations Near Mgahinga

Although the area around Mgahinga is less developed than Bwindi, it offers several comfortable lodges and camps catering to different budgets. Some popular options include:

  • Mount Gahinga Lodge – A luxury eco-lodge near the park entrance

  • Kisoro Tourist Hotel – Mid-range and centrally located in Kisoro town

  • Traveler’s Rest Hotel – Historic lodge where Dian Fossey once stayed

  • Community Campsites – Budget-friendly stays run by locals

Staying in the area also gives visitors a chance to enjoy the relaxed pace, cooler climate, and genuine hospitality of the Kisoro region.

Conservation and Community in Mgahinga

Mgahinga’s establishment was a vital step in the protection of mountain gorillas in the Virunga ecosystem. The park is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and gorilla tourism plays a critical role in funding conservation efforts and supporting nearby communities.

A percentage of every gorilla permit sold is directed toward local development — building schools, health centers, and improving infrastructure. Community tourism projects such as the Batwa Trail also ensure that the benefits of gorilla trekking reach indigenous people who once called the forest home. By choosing to trek in Mgahinga, you contribute directly to the survival of mountain gorillas and the well-being of the communities around the park.

Best Time to Visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Like most gorilla trekking destinations in Uganda, Mgahinga is best visited during the dry seasons:

  • June to September

  • December to February

During these periods, the forest trails are drier and easier to navigate, visibility is better, and wildlife viewing is more comfortable. However, Mgahinga’s higher altitude means it can be cooler and mistier even during dry months, so visitors should dress warmly and be prepared for sudden rain showers. The low seasons (March to May and October to November) are ideal for travelers seeking lower lodge rates and fewer crowds, though trekking can be more physically demanding.

Why Choose Mgahinga for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park may be small, but its impact on gorilla tourism in Uganda is significant. For travelers looking to escape the crowds, enjoy dramatic landscapes, and immerse themselves in a quieter but equally rewarding gorilla trekking experience, Mgahinga is a hidden treasure. With golden monkeys, volcano hikes, rich Batwa culture, and scenic beauty at every turn, the park offers an authentic and enriching East African adventure.

Whether you pair your visit with Bwindi or make Mgahinga your main destination, you’ll come away with unforgettable memories and the deep satisfaction of having witnessed one of nature’s most incredible species — the mountain gorilla — in one of its most breathtaking homes.