Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

At around 33.7 km², Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the smallest national park in Uganda (established in 1991). It belongs to the Virunga Volcanoes protected area, the greater part of which is spread across the states of Rwanda and Congo. On Ugandan territory lie the three volcano peaks Mt Sabinyo (3,645 m), Mt Gahinga (3,474 m) and Mt Muhavura (4,127 m), the latter also being the highest point of the park. Because of the altitude, the climate is cool-temperate and very humid. At higher elevations there can even be the occasional frosty night.

Besides Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, tourists in Uganda have the opportunity for gorilla trekking only here. However, the conditions are more difficult. In the meantime two gorilla families have become habituated to humans: Nyakagezi (regular treks) and Hirwa (since around 2020). The blog of “WildlifeDirect” and the association “Berggorilla & Regenwald Direkthilfe e. V.” provide information on the current situation and the condition of the gorillas (you will find internet links at the end of the page).

In addition to gorilla trekking, the rainforest here also offers the opportunity to view its species-rich fauna and flora on various walking trails. Anyone who is well trained can climb to the highest peaks of the park.

500 km have to be driven from Kampala, 213 km from Mbarara and 70 km from Kabale. The longest part of the routes is tarmac. As with Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the same applies here to the time of travel: go as soon as you have managed to obtain a permit for gorilla trekking! Otherwise, travel outside the main rainy seasons (April/May and October/November) is somewhat more pleasant. You will find hotels and campsites right at the entrance gate and in the nearby towns of Kisoro and Kabale.

Further links

• Website of “WildlifeDirect”
• Website of the association “Berggorilla & Regenwald Direkthilfe e. V.”
• Website of the Uganda Wildlife Authority