Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a must-visit destination in Uganda, offering the rare chance to trek and see endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The park is part of the stunning Virunga Mountains, where you can hike volcanic peaks like Mount Muhavura and Mount Gahinga. Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga is less crowded than in other parks, giving you a more intimate experience with these incredible animals. A gorilla trekking permit costs $800 as of 2024, making it more affordable than in neighboring Rwanda. Besides gorillas, you can also track golden monkeys, a unique species found in this region. The golden monkey trekking permit is $100, offering a different but equally thrilling wildlife experience. Additionally, the Batwa cultural trail lets you explore the rich heritage of the Batwa people, who have lived in these forests for generations. Visiting Mgahinga not only provides an unforgettable adventure but also supports crucial conservation efforts.

Gorilla Trekking

The main attraction in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the opportunity to track the Nyakagezi gorilla group, the only habituated group in the park. Gorilla trekking here offers a more intimate experience compared to the larger Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, with fewer visitors and a greater chance of spending extended time with the gorillas. The trek can be challenging, involving steep and sometimes slippery trails, but the reward of encountering these gentle giants in their natural habitat is unparalleled. Nyiragongo Expedition provides expert guides to lead the trek, ensuring a safe and educational experience for all participants.

Golden Monkey Tracking

Mgahinga is also renowned for its golden monkeys, a rare and endangered primate species that is endemic to the Virunga volcanic mountains. Tracking these playful creatures is a unique experience, as they are known for their lively and acrobatic behavior. The golden monkey tracking experience is less demanding than gorilla trekking, making it suitable for a broader range of visitors. Nyiragongo Expedition organizes these treks, offering visitors a chance to learn about the conservation efforts aimed at protecting these beautiful primates.

Volcano Climbing

For adventurous visitors, Mgahinga offers the opportunity to climb one of the three volcanic peaks within the park: Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhavura. Each peak presents a different level of challenge, with Mount Muhavura being the highest and most demanding climb. These hikes provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the Virunga ranges and, on a clear day, Lake Edward and the Rwenzori Mountains. Nyiragongo Expedition provides the necessary equipment and experienced guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable climb.

Batwa Cultural Experience

The Batwa pygmies, the indigenous people who once lived in the forests of Mgahinga, offer visitors a glimpse into their traditional way of life through the Batwa Trail experience. This cultural tour includes demonstrations of traditional hunting and gathering techniques, storytelling, and performances of traditional dances and songs. It is a fascinating way to learn about the Batwa’s connection to the forest and their efforts to preserve their culture. Nyiragongo Expedition can arrange this cultural experience, providing a deeper understanding of the park’s human heritage.

Bird Watching

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with over 180 bird species recorded, including several Albertine Rift endemics. Birdwatchers can expect to see species such as the Rwenzori turaco, the mountain masked apalis, and the Shelley’s crimsonwing. The varied habitats within the park, from bamboo forests to montane woodlands, offer a rich birding experience. Nyiragongo Expedition’s guided birding tours allow visitors to explore the park’s avian diversity, with opportunities to spot both common and rare species.

Park Entrance Fees and Regulations

Entrance to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park requires a permit, which is a crucial part of managing and protecting the park’s delicate ecosystems. The gorilla trekking permit, which also grants access to the park, is priced at $800 per person, a fee that contributes directly to conservation efforts. Golden monkey tracking permits are available for $100 per person. General park entrance fees are $40 for foreign non-residents, $30 for foreign residents, and UGX 20,000 for East African citizens. Nyiragongo Expedition assists in securing these permits in advance, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free entry into the park.

The best time to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, when the trails are more accessible, and the weather is favorable for outdoor activities. Nyiragongo Expedition offers year-round trips but recommends visiting during these periods for the best experience.

Mgahinga can be accessed by road or air. The park is about 10 hours by road from Kampala, Uganda’s capital. The journey offers stunning views of the Ugandan countryside, with several interesting stops along the way. For those preferring to fly, Nyiragongo Expedition can arrange domestic flights from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro airstrip, which is a short drive from the park. Whether you choose to drive or fly, the journey to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park sets the stage for an unforgettable wildlife adventure in one of Uganda’s most unique and scenic national parks.