Wildlife

Primates present in the national park include mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) with around 30 individuals split between one habituated and two unhabituated groups, and golden monkey (Cercopithecus kandti), an Albertine Rift Endemic whose range is now restricted to the Virungas and one other forest in Rwanda. The checklist of 76 mammal species includes black-and-white colobus, leopard, African bush elephant, giant forest hog, bushpig, buffalo, Cape bushbuck, black-fronted duiker, and several varieties of rodents, bats and small predators.

Of the Albertine Rift's endemic birds, the following were recorded in the national park during surveys in 2004: handsome spurfowl, dusky crimson-wing, red-throated alethe, Kivu ground thrush, Rwenzori turaco, Rwenzori batis, Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, collared apalis, mountain masked apalis, Archer's ground robin, stripe-breasted tit, blue-headed sunbird, regal sunbird, strange weaver, montane nightjar, red-faced woodland warbler and Grauer's swamp warbler.

Tourism

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Uganda's smallest national park, receiving one of the fewest annual visitor numbers of any national park in Uganda. Popular tourist activities include mountain gorilla tracking, golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking, nature walks including to the gorge platform, bird watching and meeting the Batwa community. Tourists visiting Mgahinga Gorilla National Park make a 9 hours drive from Kampala to reach the park. The park is also connected by daily domestic flights from Entebbe International Airport and on to Kihihi Airstrip, which land at Kisoro Airport.

History

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park was established in 1991 in an area that used to be a game reserve between the 1930s and 1950, but was partly converted to crop fields in lower altitudes. Biological surveys were initiated in 1989, wire traps destroyed, rangers trained and trees planted. Settlers were relocated to areas outside the national park's borders in the early 1990s

 

All About Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

At just 33.7km2, Mgahinga National Park is Uganda’s smallest national park. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in the southwestern corner of Uganda.

Mgahinga, Uganda’s smallest park is a preferred primate destination worth adding onto your Uganda safari. The park was gazetted in 1991 and has the land area coverage of 33.7sq.km, lying not far from Kisoro town. En-route to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, there are chances of enjoying exceptional views of Mt. Muhabura, Echuya Forest and Lake Bunyonyi, etc.

The Park covers the northern slopes of the three northernmost Virunga Volcanoes: Mt. Muhavura (4,127 m), Mt. Gahinga (3,474 m), and Mt. Sabinyo (3,645 m). The Park is about 10 km south of Kisoro and is bordered to the south by the Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda and to the west by the Virunga National Park of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is 33.7 sq. km and consists of the partly forested slopes of three extinct volcanoes. From far away, the huge cones of the Virunga volcanoes dominate the landscape and beckon you as you approach. When you reach the park you can get a great overview of the area by walking up the viewpoint, just 15 minutes from Ntebeko Gate.

The park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation area that spreads over the three countries. Each of these countries protects its own portion of the Virungas, in the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in DR Congo respectively. The three parks together form the 434-sq. km. ‘Virunga Conservation Area’ or VCA. Mgahinga is 33.7 sq. km, just 8% of the VCA. The entire Park is in Bufumbira County of Kisoro District.

Mgahinga Park has great biological importance because throughout the climatic changes of the Pleistocene ice ages, mountains such as these provided a refuge for mountain plants and animals, which moved up or down the slopes as climate became warmer or cooler. The Virungas are home to a large variety of wildlife, including about half the world’s critically endangered mountain gorillas.

Start here for basic information about the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Learn where Mgahinga National Park is in Kisoro District of Western Uganda. Find answers to the most frequently asked questions such as what to pack and how close you should get to wild animals. Are you planning a trip far in advance? Check our weather articles to learn what to expect in different seasons. And, don’t forget to check our park map.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park was established on May 9, 1991, following a long history of name and boundary changes. It is located in the southwestern corner of Uganda and is the smallest park in Uganda with an area of 33.7 km². It contains a range of montane forest and non-forest vegetation, a range of animal species (including the golden monkey, elephants, buffaloes, duikers), and is visited frequently by groups of mountain gorillas which cross the border from the adjacent national parks in the Democratic Republic of Congo (Parc National des Virunga) and Rwanda (Parc National des Volcans).

The park consists of the Ugandan slopes of three inactive volcanoes: Muhavura, Gahinga and Sabinyo. Due to El Niño, the park and its surroundings experienced a very wet season, with the highest peak of rainfall from December 1997 to February 1998. In April 1998, there were reports of several deaths of people who were swept away by run off from the slopes of the volcanoes. On April 13, 1998, a child of our porter drowned in a heavy downpour of rain.

Size:

Mgahinga National Park is 33.7km in size and this makes it the smallest national Park in Uganda.

Why Mgahinga Name?

This park takes its name from Gahinga which is a local word for the piles of volcanic stones cleared from farmland at the foot of the volcanoes.

History of Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the smallest of all Uganda’s national parks. The park was created to protect the mountain gorillas that roam freely within the Virunga region. The park is bordered by the Virunga National Park of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda. It was declared a game sanctuary by the British administration in 1930 and was gazetted as a national park in 1991. The park has only got one habituated trans- boundary gorilla group. The visitors can also enjoy the Batwa visit which is a much far fascinating tour with the Batwa guide to learn the secrets of the forest. The park’s star attraction is the mountain gorillas.

About the Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the luckiest and smallest parks in Uganda where the world’s critically endangered mountain gorillas are found and it happens to be part of the Virunga massif where more than 480 mountain gorillas park known to be living.

The park sits high in the clouds, at an altitude of between 2,227m and 4,127m. As its name says, it was created to give protection to the mountain gorillas that live in its dense forests, and it’s also an important habitat for the endangered golden Monkey. The national park has cultural significance, in particular for the indigenous Batwa pygmies. The tribe of hunter gatherers was the forest’s first people. Mgahinga has got the most striking features and its conical, extinct volcanoes that are part of the spectacular Virunga Range which lies along the border region of Uganda, Congo and Rwanda.

The national park also forms part of the much larger Virunga Conservation Area that includes adjacent parks in these countries. The volcanoes slopes have got many ecosystems and are biologically diverse and their peaks give a striking back drop to this gorgeous scenery.

Out of the mountain gorilla population that are found in the Virunga Massif, there are about 3 gorilla families that are known to be living in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Location:

The park is located about 519 kilometers from Kampala and it is a 9-10 hours’ drive.

Wildlife

This park was home to the Nyakagezi group of the rare Mountain Gorilla (Gorilla Gorilla Beringei,). This family moved into a territory in Rwanda in 2005 which saw the the cessation of Gorilla tracking activities at Mgahinga. The group does retrun to the reserve for periods of time where visitors wishing to visit this group can obtain permits only on the day of tracking. Other animals in the area include the golden monkey (endemic), giant forest hog, bushbuck and buffalo.

Climate and Weather

March, April, May and October to November are the 5 wetter months of the year, the months when the park experiences heavy rains and the ground often becomes slippery or muddy. The park’s temperature rise differs with altitude, with average day temperature of 20 degrees celsius and at night, there is a drop of up to 9 degrees celsius. At each elevation of 1000 meters, there is a drop of 6 degrees celsius.

Vegetation

Mgahinga gorilla national park’s volcano slopes contain varied ecosystems ranging from the montane woodlands, tropical forests and bamboo, moorland and tree heathers to the rare afromontane vegetation. Hence the park is ever wet and covered by mist; visitors need to prepare for damp weather conditions.

Mountain Gorillas

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to more than half of the world’s population of the endangered mountain gorilla. Fortunately for the gorillas are the main reason as to why the park was created by the Uganda government

 

Mount Gahinga

Mgahinga National Park derives its name from this volcanic mountain.This dormant/extinct volcano lies on the border between Uganda and Rwanda. An ascent of Mount Gahinga climbs from Ntebeko takes around 6 hours. Mgahinga National Park derives its name from this volcanic mountain.This dormant/extinct volcano lies on the border between Uganda and Rwanda. Mount Gahinga lies in between Sabinyo and Muhavura and rises up to 3,474 meters.

The word Gahinga comes from the local Kinyarwanda/Rufumbira dialect meaning “a small pile of stones”. Mount Gahinga has a swampy caldera on its peak believed to be as wide as180 meters.

The vegetation across the mountain can be described as afro-montane with bamboo composing the main vegetation. Like Muhabura and Sabyinyo, the bamboo forests on Mount Gahinga are a habitat of the endangered mountain gorillas that live within the park. There are several other species of animals and birds that form part of the Mount Gahinga ecosystem. The golden monkeys are notable to these.

An ascent of Mt. Gahinga climbs through bamboo forest to reach a lush swamp which lies in the crater at the summit. The round trip from Ntebeko takes around 6 hours.

Mountain Gahinga is a dormant volcano located in the Virunga Mountains, which is a volcanic mountain range spanning across the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Volcano is situated in the southwestern part of Uganda, near the borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is part of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, a protected area that is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered mountain gorillas.

Mount Gahinga stands at an elevation of approximately 3,474 meters (11,397 feet). It is characterized by its cone-shaped summit and verdant slopes covered with bamboo forests and afro-alpine vegetation. The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including the other Virunga volcanoes and the nearby Lake Mutanda.

The name “Gahinga” comes from the local language spoken by the Batwa pygmies, who were the original inhabitants of the region. “Gahinga” translates to “pile of stones” or “Small Mountain,” which is reflective of the mountain’s relatively modest height compared to its neighboring peaks.

Formation and History:

Mount Gahinga, like the other peaks in the Virunga Regional Mountains, was formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. It is part of the East African Rift System, a geological formation responsible for the creation of many of Africa’s prominent mountains and lakes. Over time, volcanic eruptions shaped the landscape and resulted in the formation of Mount Gahinga.

Gahinga a Natural Cover

Endangered Species: Mount Gahinga is home to several endangered species, including the mountain gorillas and the golden monkeys. The park is actively involved in their conservation efforts, and visitors have the opportunity to go on gorilla tracking or golden monkey trekking tours to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

In addition to the mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, Mount Gahinga is inhabited by other primate species such as the endangered chimpanzees and various species of monkeys. Guided primate walks and treks are available to see these primates up close.

Mount Gahinga boasts a rich diversity of bird species, making it a fantastic destination for birdwatchers. You can spot numerous colorful and rare bird species, including the Rwenzori turaco, crowned hornbill, Short-tailed Warbler, Red-headed Bluebill, Regal sunbird, blue headed sunbird and several Albertine Rift endemics. Knowledgeable guides can lead you on birding excursions, helping you identify and appreciate the avian diversity of the region.

Mount Gahinga is surrounded by communities with rich cultural heritage. You can engage in cultural experiences, such as visiting the Batwa pygmies and learning about their traditional way of life, participating in community walks, and experiencing traditional dances, music and art crafts by the local inhabitant Batwa people.

The mountain is part of the Virunga Mountain chain which are home to several volcanoes. If you’re up for a more challenging adventure, you can embark on a multi-day trek to climb one of the volcanoes, such as Mount Muhabura or Mount Sabinyo. These climbs offer breathtaking views and an exhilarating experience.

Best Trails and Hiking:

There are several trails available for hiking on Mount Gahinga, catering to different levels of difficulty and preferences. The most popular trail is the Gahinga Trail, which takes you to the summit of the mountain.

This trail usually takes around six to eight hours to complete round trip. Another notable trail is the Sabinyo Gorge Trail, which takes you through a beautiful gorge and offers scenic views. Gahinga’s slopes are covered in lush vegetation, including bamboo forests, montane forests, and heathland. The hike provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the other Virunga volcanoes and the nearby lakes. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, various bird species, and other primates

Cultural Experiences: Mount Gahinga is surrounded by communities with rich cultural heritage. You can engage in cultural experiences, such as visiting the Batwa pygmies and learning about their traditional way of life, participating in community walks, and experiencing traditional dances and music.

Volcano Climbing: Mount Gahinga is part of the Virunga Mountains, which are home to several volcanoes. If you’re up for a more challenging adventure, you can embark on a multi-day trek to climb one of the volcanoes, such as Mount Muhabura or Mount Sabinyo. These climbs offer breathtaking views and an exhilarating experience.

What to Do on the Mountain:

Besides hiking, Mount Gahinga offers other activities for visitors:

One of the main highlights is gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you can have an up-close encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas. Additionally, you can explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna, go bird watching, or engage in cultural experiences with the local Batwa community.

What to Pack:

When hiking Mount Gahinga, it’s important to pack appropriately. Here are some essential items to consider:

• Sturdy hiking boots
• Comfortable and lightweight clothing
• Rain jacket and waterproof pants
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Drinking water and snacks
• Backpack to carry your belongings
• Camera or binoculars for capturing the beautiful scenery

Practical Advice:

Here are a few practical tips for your Mount Gahinga adventure:

• Obtain the necessary permits and make any required reservations in advance.
• Hire a local guide or join a guided tour for a safer and more informative experience.
• Check the weather conditions before your hike and prepare accordingly.
• Start your hike early in the day to allow ample time to complete the trail.
• Follow the park’s rules and guidelines, especially when it comes to wildlife encounters.
• Respect the environment and leave no trace by avoiding littering and damaging vegetation.
• Inform someone about your hiking plans and estimated return time for safety purposes.

Remember to prioritize your safety and enjoy the unique natural beauty and experiences that Mount Gahinga has to offer.

 

Mount Muhavura

This classic volcanic cone is capped by a small but lake; a modest reward for a 5 hour trek that rises 1700m to over 41OOm. The word Gahinga comes from the local Rufumbira dialect meaning “a small pile of stones”

Mount Muhavura is also known as Muhabura. This is one of the eight volcanoes known as the virunga Ranges. It is an extinct volcano and lies on the border between Rwanda and Uganda.

Rising to 4,127 metres asl, Muhabura is the third highest of the eight major mountains of the Virunga ranges. It lies within part of the Albertine Rift, the western branch of the East African Rift. Muhabura lies in both Uganda and Rwanda. It lies partly in Volcanoes National Park (PNV) of Rwanda and in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda.

The name Muhabura comes from the local language, Kinyarwanda, which probably is derived from a historical use of the mountain to aid navigation. The park can be seen from many parts of Uganda and Rwanda because of its high slopes.

This classic volcanic cone is capped by a small lake. Seeing this lake is a modest reward for a 5 hour trek that rises 1700m to over 4100m. The mountain slopes are characterized by marvelous alpine vegetation.

The Muhuvura trail provides the quickest and shortest route to experience these dramatic plants while the View includes the five other Virunga volcanoes, the rift valley, Lake Edward and (in clear weather) the Rwenzori mountains. The 12km round trip takes around 8 hours. If you have your own equipment you should consider camping at the ranger post at the base of the volcano to make an early start (and improve your chances of clear views).

Things to Do in Mgahinga National Park

There are lots of things to do in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. From gorilla trekking to Volcano Hiking, Mgahinga is such a place where you can engage in several adventure activities

Gorilla Tracking

Gorilla Tracking is the most popular activity that is done in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Most travelers to Mgahinga visit the park for mountain gorilla trekking. There is one habituated gorilla family i.e Nyakagezi Gorilla Family.

Gorilla Trekking – Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Tracking the mountain gorillas in the Virungas ranks among the absolute highlights of an African safari. The exhilaration attached to the first-time encounter with these great apes on a wild safari is difficult to describe. Many travelers look for this lifetime experience and even book their tickets to the gorillas two years in advance in order to get their dream come true.

Gorilla tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a captivating and unforgettable experience which more than repays the effort needed to reach the bamboo forest. Sitting amidst the shaggy gorillas, up to three times bulky as the average man is a lasting memory that you will experience on your gorilla safari into the Virunga Region. Despite their fearsome and aggressive appearance, these gentle giants are very peaceful and gorilla trekking is very safe.

On a gorilla visit, most hikers are surprised with the unfathomable attitude of the great apes to human presence. This experience brings in something different from the usual wildlife encounters. These great apes can leave their daily job and take time to study the human presence with their soft brown eyes staring deeply as if seeking a connection with humans.

Mgahinga National Park has one habituated gorilla group that can be tracked by tourists. Gorilla tracking is the most thrilling tourist activity in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The habituated gorilla group in this park is called the Nyakagezi, which consists of 9 members, 2 silverbacks, 3 adult females, 2 juveniles, and 2 infants. This group is mobile and sometimes crosses into Rwanda and DRC, so check for updates from Uganda Wildlife Authority (see Contacts).

Gorilla tracking is an intensive experience that can take the whole day. The guide leads you through the gorilla’s world, explaining aspects of their ecology and behavior along the way. We must stress that, while you have a very good chance of seeing gorillas, success is NOT guaranteed! However, from the past sightings, there are high chances of meeting the mountain gorillas. When tracking the mountain gorillas, travelers should know that the mountain gorillas are wild creatures with no fixed routine, and finding them requires the skill and experience of your trackers and guides, as well as luck.

Registration and briefing for gorilla tracking in Mgahinga National Park commence at Ntebeko at 07.45.
Tracking starts at 08.30 and can take three to eight hours. The trackers and guides have helped to habituate the gorilla groups and know them intimately. They will take you to the area where they left the mountain gorillas the day before. Before leaving they may be able to suggest how long the hike might be.

Best time to trek gorillas in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is open to visitors throughout the year. But it is best done in June, July, August, and September then December, January, and February. During this period, gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is easier because it is a dry season and the habitat remains relatively drier thus making it simpler for visitors to hike through the dense jungles and steep slopes to search for mountain gorillas. However, March, April, May, and October, November are equally good for one to embark on gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park but these months are characterized by heavy rainfall, muddy and slippery steep slopes which make it challenging for one to hike while in search for these apes. Read More

Please Note

• While walking, please feel free to ask guides to slow down if they are going too fast and if you need a rest.
• Feel free to stop and look at birds or flowers, the guide will ensure that you don’t get left behind.
• Gorilla Tracking can be a strenuous walk, so go prepared. It is advisable that you:
• Wear shoes with good traction, suitable for steep muddy slopes
• Carry rain gear, sunscreen, and a hut, as the weather is unpredictable.
• Carry water and food
• Carry binoculars, you will see much more, you can hire from the park office
• When taking photos, remember your subjects are black animals in dim light, and flash is not allowed.

NB: Gorilla tracking is Uganda’s most sought-after tourism activity. You should book well in advance to ensure that permits for your requested dates are available.

What to pack for a gorilla trek in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park requires you to pack appropriately starting with essentials first. In your packing list for gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, consider the following a must to carry-waterproof hiking boots, gardening gloves, insect repellents, a camera with extra batteries, long-sleeved shirts/t-shirt, trousers, hat, sunscreen, first aid/medical kit, gorilla permit, valid visa/passport, a walking stick which you can find at the park headquarters a mention but a few.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking Rules

To protect the endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda, the following rules and regulations must be observed:

• No one with a communicable disease, such as flu or diarrhea, is allowed to visit the gorillas.
• Do not surround the gorillas but remain in a tight group.
• Leave a distance of at least 5m between you and the gorillas.
• If they approach you, move back slowly.
• Flash photography is strictly forbidden.
• Do not eat or smoke within 200m of the gorillas.
• If you need to sneeze or cough, turn away from the gorillas and cover your nose and mouth.
• Bury all human feces in a hole dug at least 30cm (one foot) deep and ensure that it is properly filled in afterward.
• All litter must be removed from the park for disposal.
• Do not spit on vegetation or soil while in the park.
• No person under 15 years is allowed to track gorillas.
• When with the gorillas, avoid making loud noises or sudden movements.
• Contact time with the gorillas is strictly limited to one hour.
• Please observe all instructions from your guide.

Good Manners for Gorilla Watchers

• Keep your voice down or be quiet. You will see and hear if you do.
• Don’t point or waive your arms- this can be seen as a threat. Move slowly.
• If approached by a gorilla, back away slowly to keep a 5m separation.
• Don’t use flash, this could threaten the gorillas and bother other visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Gorilla trekking within Mgahinga National Park in southwestern Uganda is the height of your Ugandan safari. The country and the park are recognized as very safe and secure places to be thus you will be in position to see gorillas in their peaceful environment.

When to go and see the mountain gorillas?

Mountain gorilla trekking can be carried out throughout the year though the best season   is June to September as well as from December up to February.

Which clothing is required during a gorilla safari?

You require good quality walking boots, warm layers of cloth for the cold evenings and clothing for wet weather since it becomes cold and wet at this high altitude.

How do mountain gorillas look like?

The males which are the Silverbacks are two times the size of the females and they grow up to 6 feet tall and even weigh 350-500 pounds. They are referred to as silver backs because they mature the hair on their back turns somewhat silver thus the name Silverbacks. The strength of the males is ten times stronger compared to the strongest boxer. They do posses long plus darker hair which compared to their lowland counterparts since they stay in colder climates and higher altitudes and the most interesting fact is that Gorillas share 98 percent of their genetic composition.

Are mountain gorillas a dangerous species?

Mountain gorillas are very strong though shy animals and are very threatened and they do attack so as to protect their very own. When the different mountain gorilla groups meet, there is a fight between the leader silverback gorillas to death.

How are the predators of mountain gorillas?

The main predators to mountain gorillas is human encroachment for settlement and there are additionally threatened by various diseases which are transmitted by human visitors.

Volcano Hiking

Though gorilla trekking is the park’s most popular activity, Mgahinga merits a visit simply to appreciate the scenery. A choice of hikes allows for all abilities, ranging from the 8 hour return trip to the summit of Mt. Muhabura, to gentle strolls across the lower slopes beneath the magnificent three peak backdrop

The Virunga Mountain (Volcano) chain looms large in your view as you wind your way down into the valley toward Kisoro. Most visitors are drawn to the region to visit the gorillas in the Bwindi ‘Impenetrable’ or Mgahinga National Parks. However, Bwindi tends to be favoured as the family of gorillas in Mgahinga likes to split their time in neighboring Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). However, there’s more than just gorillas on offer in Mgahinga and the park should be tried for some of the best views of the renowned beauty of southwest Uganda.

The hike starts from the Mgahinga National Park visitor’s centre, located about a 10 minute drive from Kisoro. Recently renovated, the centre features rock paths that meaner through the vegetation to the building. Beautiful rain chains conserve rainwater for gardening around the centre and under a high beamed log ceiling interactive displays and maps line the walls. Staffed by exceptionally knowledgeable Ugandan Wildlife Authority (UWA) guides you’ll first enter the main room and pay your fees and decide your trail.  There are a number of different types of hikes that can be done based on your ability, desire and speed.

Hiking Trails

There are several places in Uganda where hiking can be done. If you planning to take on a hiking safari in Uganda, Mgahinga is one of the places you should not miss! There are 3 volcanoes in Mgahinga that you can access from this park therefore the choice is always yours depending to the fitness and the amount of time you have. Hiking the Virunga Volcanies in Mgahinga can be fun and really rewarding because there are lots of attractions you will meet during your hike.

If you like hiking in some of the most pristine forests Africa has to offer Mgahinga shouldn’t be missed! There are lots of tours available to park. If you are just doing a day hike and are a moderately fit hiker you should try the Gahinga trail which will take you about six hours and climbs the base of Mount Gahinga. The border trail can also be done in a day and climbs the base of Mount Sabinyo and runs you right along the DRC border.  There is also the cave trail where you learn a bit more about the Batwa peoples who lived there and you get to investigate some caves.

Two trails – Mount Sabyinyo and Mount Muhavura – require more than a day covering 14km and 12 km respectively. They are also much steeper than the day hikes as you climb to the tops of each of these volcanoes. The views, though, cannot be beat! On the Sabinyo hike you get to stand in Uganda, DRC and Rwanda at the same time.

After you’ve decided, you’ll enter a large amphitheatre for briefing on the Park and the hike you’ve selected. You’ll want to have sturdy hiking boots and tuck your trousers into your socks to avoid safari ants. A raincoat is advisable if travelling during the rainy seasons and a bottle of water is necessary. Bring a packed lunch no matter the day hike you choose – and remember to bring a snack or fruit for your guide. The guides will also get an idea of what interests you, or your group  (birds, wildlife, insects and plant life abound!) so they can tailor the hike.  A guide always accompanies the visitors and sometimes it would be impossible to find the trail without them!

Park Fees

Park fees are $35 for adults foreign non-residents, $25 for foreign residents and 10,000 UGX for East African Citizens. Children are $20 / $10 / 5,000 UGX for the same categories above.

Mount Gahinga Hike

Most hikers usually go for Mt. Gahinga which is as high as 3,474m. This hike takes about six hours to both ascend and descend, once at the top you will find the crater filled with swamp and giant lobelia. Those who are lucky will be able to see the golden monkeys as they walk through that thick bamboo forest.

The Gahinga Trail starts in recently reclaimed farm land and winds up to the edge of virgin forest. The hike was steep in places but not uncomfortably so and while it didn’t rain it get damp as fog rolled in and out over the mountain.  The scenery was both breathtaking and intriguing. Giant bamboo looms large over the trail, jungle elephant  footprints cross the trail sunk deep in squiggy mud, earthworms as long as your forearm living above ground in the dark, wet environment and more birds that you could possibly catalogue.

Mount Sabinyo Hike

The other option is hiking Mt. Sabinyo which is 3,669m and to get to the top of this mountain requires eight hours since the distance from the base to the top is about 14km long round trip. As you hike, you will have to follow the route along the steep ridge up until you get to the peak.

Hiking to the sabinyo is 6-kilometer-long and it goes along an amazing mountain stream which meanders through that very dense forest covered by mainly the African-Montane kind of vegetation all the way to the gorge. This is a very rewarding nature walk, the hike may be tiring to a number of hikers but at the end of the trail, you will be amazed. On a very clear day, you will have a clear view of those ragged peaks of Sabinyo.

This hike usually takes about  8 hours because the truth is it is relatively hard to hike but what is more attractive about this hike is the fact that on many occasions hikers get to meet  primates like the Golden Monkeys, small antelopes like Duikers and  many other mammals. The bird watchers will really enjoy this nature walk as they will be able to see a number bird species and the commonest is the Rwenzori Turaco specie which is one of the commonest species therefore one of the many that you can never miss seeing.

The Sabyinyo gorge hike will take you through this really thick forest until you get to this really deep Sabinyo Gorge, it helps reveal the real height of Mt. Sabyinyo and it’s a really great destination for birding therefore chances of finding the Rwenzori Turaco are really high. You will go through Rugezi Swamp- also a great destination for those interested in bird watching.

Mount Muhabura

Mt. Muhavura is the third option available for the hikers. This is the highest peak of all and it lies at 4,127m high and the hike is planned for the same amount of time as Sabyinyo which is eight hours. This means, you need to be fit enough to catch up with the fast hiking exercise. When you reach the top, you will have a beautiful view of the Virunga Volcanoes, there is a clear view of Lake Edward, the great Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and also the Rwenzori peaks.

Nature walks in Mgahinga goes together with hiking because of the fact that this is a very hilly area and hiking is something that you can hardly avoid. There are several amazing places that you can always visit during your trip to Mgahinga national park. These are always guide nature walks, armed escorts are provided to walk along with you during your nature walk and so will the help of your guide, you will visit and see the scenery as well as the different tourism attractions in the area.

Golden Monkeys

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the only destination where Silver meets Gold. The park protects both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. The golden monkeys are an ancient group of monkeys that are only found in the Virunga

Mgahinga National Park offers the chance to track the golden monkeys (Ceropithecus Kandti) sometimes referred to as a distinctive race of the more widespread blue monkey C.mitis), a little known bamboo-associated taxa primate listed as ‘endangered’ by the World Conservation Union. Endemic to the Albertine Rift, the golden monkey is characterized as a bright orange-gold body, cheeks and tail, contrasting with its black limbs, crown and tail end.

Until a few years ago, this pretty monkey was common in Rwanda’s Gishwati Forest Reserve, most of which was chopped down by returned refugees in the aftermath of the 1994 genocide and unconfirmed sources indicate that a small population might occur further south in the same country’s Nyungwe Forest National Park. Fortunately, the golden monkey is the numerically dominant primate within this restricted range – a 2003 survey estimated a population of 3,000 – 4,000 in Mgahinga National Park.

These primates are endangered and endemic to this region, sharing their home with the world-famous Mountain Gorilla, as well as buffalo, forest elephant and other species of mammals. In the beginning and for many months to follow it was very difficult to even find the monkeys owing to the fact that unlike gorillas they are small, do not make nests and leave little evidence of their presence on the forest floor, and at times can be quiet especially in the presence of their main predator the eagle. Also, not been used to us they would just run away.

The group is very much used to our presence now, allowing us to have an insight into their daily lives. The monkeys dictate how the day is going to be, and no day is ever the same in the forest. We just never know how the working day is going to turn out, and this is what makes the experience so exciting. You will encounter challenges regularly. One of our biggest problems is the weather. Trekking at an altitude of around 2,500 meters you will encounter strong winds, heavy rainfall and extreme coldness, so is the best place to trek the golden monkey or gorillas though not reliable.

The weather really does make a difference to how the day is going to be. Wind makes it conducive to track the monkeys as trek the slopes, they stay quiet and in mid canopy because they have problems hearing predators and when the trees blow you do not know if it is monkey moving or wind blowing, or both. When it rains the monkeys take shelter and do not move, hence closer view of them. No matter how the weather conditions are, the forests walk every day, even public holiday is awesome. With all that, when it rains in the forest and the mist comes down among the moss and overhanging vegetation it is certainly the most beautiful place to be.

Golden Monkey Tracking Permit

For those going on a primate safari in Uganda, a golden monkey permit in Uganda costs $50 per person for foreign non residents, $40 per person for foreign residents and Shs 20,000 for East African Residents. This cost includes the park entry fee, the guide fee and the one-hour you spend with the golden monkeys. These permits can be booked on ground from the Park headquarters in Ntebeko Visitor Center. Tourists who wish to spend more quality time and understand the detailed information regarding the golden monkeys can visit this Park for the engaging golden monkey habituation experience that costs only $100 per person.

How the activity is conducted

Just like gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking starts with tourists arriving at the Park headquarters by 7:30am for pre-tracking briefing (on the dos and don’ts of tracking the golden monkeys). The actual trek begins at 8:00am. Hiking through the forests to sight the golden monkeys is not so strenuous like gorilla trekking because golden monkeys live in lower areas, so tourists do not track for more than 3 hours. When tourists encounter the golden monkey family, they are given one hour to spend with them (to take photographs and observe their behavior). With this activity, there is no minimum number of tourists who track each group and age limit is 12 years.

What to carry during golden monkey tracking.

There are several requirements that tourists need to have a memorable experience during golden monkey tracking. These include waterproof hiking boots, wear long sleeved shirt, long trousers, and carry a backpack for your lunch and documents. Also carry drinking water and snacks, carry a walking stick to support you during hiking, you can hire a porter to support you during hiking in slippery places and they carry your backpack, and do not forget to carry an insect repellant.

The Virunga Volcanoes

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to three of the eight conical Virunga Volcanoes. Two of these volcanoes are shared with the Volcanoes National Park Rwanda while the Sabinyo volcano is shared with Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo.

Mount Sabyinyo

Sabinyo has three peaks. Sabyinyo is a local word that comes from the word ‘Iryinyo’, meaning tooth. The borders of three countries converge on this summit and you will find yourself simultaneously in Rwanda, Congo and Uganda

 

 

Batwa Trail

The Batwa Trail leads from the base of Muhavura Cave. This walk is conducted by Batwa guides who provide insights into their traditional forest life and culture. The Batwa used to live with the gorillas in hamony within the Mgahinga Forests.

Have you heard about the “people of the forest”? Have you had the chance to meet them during your visit to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park? When you meet them, you will clearly see the forest in their eyes and lives. With the cultural trail in Mgahinga National Park, you will be able to experience the ancient ways of the Batwa people who once lived within the forest and also explore their ancient cultures.

The Batwa were the original inhabitants of the forests before Mgahinga and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park were gazetted into National Parks in 1991. The dense forests on the foothills of Virunga Volcanoes used to be their comfortable homes where they lived as hunter-gatherers and fierce warriors depending on the forest for food, herbal medicine and food.

The Batwa Trail is an activity that is always combined with gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park.

Highlights of the Batwa Trail

The Batwa Trail leads from the base of Muhuvura Cave. The walk is a living museum where you can learn about the Batwa People, a pygmoid tribe that used to live in the Mgahinga National Park. These people were hunter-gatherers and fierce warriors who depended on the forest for shelter, food and medicine. In creating the Mgahinga National Park, these people were forced out of the park and rehabilitated in the villages that surround the park.

Why the Batwa Trail

During the eviction, these people were not evicted and were forced into dropping their nomadic and bushmen lifestyle. Today these are some of the poorest Ugandans, many of them earning a living from working on local farms of other people. The Batwa Trail was developed to teach visitors about the lifestyle of these people – You will learn about how these people survived in the forest.

This walk is conducted by Batwa guides who provide insights into their traditional forest life and culture. The Batwa demonstrate their past hunting techniques; ways of gathering honey. The guides will point out the medicinal plants that were used and demonstrate how to make bamboo cups. Guests are finally invited to the sacred Ngarama Cave, once home to the Batwa King. The women of the community perform a cultural dance and you can participate in their dance.

Important Things to Know

This interesting Batwa cultural trail was launched on 7^th June 2011 as a way of preserving the Batwa culture and traditions and as a way of integrating conservation with cultural development. On top of tourists relishing this conventional cultural experience, it offers employment to those Batwa who are engaged in the day to day activities in the Batwa trail such as dancers and guides. After your thrilling gorilla trekking tour in Mgahinga or Bwindi National Park, you can engage in this splendid cultural trail and you will not regret every second of your time and is worth every penny spent. You would miss a lot of captivating things if you left Uganda without tasting the exhilarating feeling of the Batwa Cultural experience. During this invigorating trail, tourists are taken though the original Batwa grass-thatched huts, they will also demonstrate how those huts are constructed, will also showcase the traditional herbs that they used in the past and still use, hunting skills, demonstrations of how water is fetched using bamboo cups/mugs, skills of gathering honey and how to make fire by friction using sticks. Even when these people see or go to these forests, you can clearly see the pain in their eyes as they become strangers to their once cherished homes. The only chance they have to go back into the forest is as tour guides for the Batwa trail.

This incredible trail runs across the dense forest of Mgahinga National Park and pass by the foothills of Mount Gahinga and Mount Muhavura in Mgahinga National Park. The Batwa trail starts with the guide stopping and kneeling down at a certain hut to pray to the gods to bless the walk. This same spot is where the men in the ancient days used to kneel and pray to the gods before they venture into the forest to hunt.

As you continue with the walk, you will stop to pick some berries that the hunter of olden days used to consume as a meal before hunting. You will be taken to a natural Pharmacy (local herbs in the forest). Here you will learn about the different plants and roots that the Batwa used as medicine to stop bleeding after child delivery, herbs for malaria, blood pressure and other ailments/diseases. For example, the black cover of ant nests were used for treating skin fungal infections. I cannot exhaust all the plants, but just so you know, you will see a real pharmacy. Just natural herbs for almost all illnesses. You will also be shown the leaves that are always ground into paste and used to get rid of evil spirits. Surprisingly no plant within the forest is a waste or not important. What seems as a wild yellow fruit or plant, the Batwa see it as a delicious vegetable sauce or even ingredients of a natural soap. These friendly people will also demonstrate how to make bamboo cups and you will be totally touched by how they exhibit their skillful tactics.

You will be totally mesmerized and surprised after seeing them demonstrate the ancient ways of making fire by friction using sticks. You can even light a cigarette with the fire. Isn’t it incredible? Another thing you will be amazed with is the hunting and trapping techniques they will demonstrate.

As earlier mentioned, the Batwa were evicted from what they considered home after these Parks were gazetted in 1991. They are nowadays not allowed to do the things they loved most including collecting honey, firewood, medicinal plants and even fruits from the forest. It is only during this trail that the Batwa people are allowed to return to the forest (as guides) to demonstrate to tourists how they used to live in the forests. The climax of this wonderful cultural trail is the descent to the sacred Ngarama Cave-an underground cave located beneath Mount Mgahinga and is about 200m long. Ngarama Cave was once a royal residence for the former Batwa King, the court of law, the food store, the consecrate heart of the forest, store for looted treasures, the meeting place and their shelter/hiding place during battles. The most exciting moment of visiting this Cave is listening to the Batwa women sing sorrowful songs and dance to songs relating to their ancient ways of living and how they cherished the Forest before they were evicted from it.

It should be noted that the Batwa cultural trail is a celebration of the former forest culture of the “first people”. It is however impossible to disregard the fact that the Batwa life has tremendously changed due to the development of this cultural initiative. Unlike in the Past, the Batwa now live in permanent houses, some of their children now go to school and others are even employed which in turn improves their standard of living. This tour always takes 4 hours and costs $80 per person per day. Part of the money that you pay is kept by Uganda Wildlife Authority to support Batwa Development projects like constructing schools while the other percentage is paid to the guides so that they can be able to support their families. You will get the real hand-on information because the Batwa themselves are the tour guides.

In conclusion, the Batwa cultural trail is an incredible experience that you can engage in during your gorilla trekking experience. Besides the interesting activities they showcase including hunting skills, honey harvesting skills, demonstration of making bamboo cups, visit to the pharmacy and the walk to the sacred Ngarama cave, you will be supporting a community and improving their standard of living.

Bird Watching

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is ideal for birding. Bird through different places including the Buffalo Wall, forests, wetlands and other habitats. Some of the birds to see include ibis, speckled mous, fire finch and many others found in the area.

Garama Cave Exploration

The 342m long Garama Cave lies beneath a plateu northern edge of the park, 3km from Ntebeko. It is set in the former farmland zone but in earlier times, the cave forest when it was occupied periodically by Batwa who used it as a council chamber and a retreat.