
Mgahinga National Park
Mgahinga National Park is Uganda’s National Park located in south western part of Uganda in Kisoro District covering an average area size of 33.7 kilometers square and the Park was gazetted as National Park in 1991. Mgahinga National Park is a home of over 76 mammals’ primates such as golden monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, among others and 180 Bird species such as
The Park is a sanctuary of natural beauty and biodiversity renowned for its majestic volcanic landscapes and rare Mountain gorillas. It’s part of the larger Virunga massif, a transboundary conservation area shared between Uganda, Rwanda, and The Democratic Republic of Congo.
Mgahinga National Park is a home of three dormant volcanoes namely, Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabyinyo which dominate the park’s skyline and offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes.
The Park is most renowned for its most attraction and population of endangered mountain gorillas one of the rarest primate’s species. These gentle giants inhabit the dense montane forests of the Virunga Massif, and trekking to observe them in their natural habitat is a highlight for visitors to the park.
Mgahinga National Park is also a home of other primates such as golden monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, and various species of forest birds. The park’s diverse ecosystems, ranging from montane forests to bamboo thickets and alpine meadows, provide habitat for a rich array of flora and fauna. Apart from the Park being famous for Mountain Gorillas. It offers guided cultural encounters with the indigenous Batwa pygmies, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. Visitors can learn about their traditional way of life, cultural practices, and deep connection to the forest through guided tours and cultural experiences.
CLIMATE IN MGAHINGA NATIONAL PARK.
Mgahinga National Park experiences a diverse climate due to its varying altitude and proximity to the equator. The Park experience two distinct rainy seasons and two dry seasons. Where by the long rainy season occurs from march to may while a short one occurs from September to November. During these months the park tends to have higher precipitation levels, with occasional heavy downpours.as for The Parks dry season are from December to February and June to August these are normally characterized by lower rainfall levels.
ATTRACTIONS IN MGAHINGA NATIONAL PARK.
MOUNTAIN GORILLAS.
Mgahinga’s National park is a home to a population of endangered mountain gorillas. observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a primary attraction, drawing visitors from around the world. the opportunity to embark on a guided mountain gorilla trekking adventure.
VOLCANIC PEAKS.
The park is dominated by three dormant volcanoes: Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo. These dramatic formations offer scenic views and opportunities of Hiking to the summits of these volcanic peaks offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including neighbouring volcanoes and the Virunga Massif.
BATWA CULTURE
The park is dominated by three dormant volcanoes: Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo. Hiking to the summits of these volcanic peaks offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including neighbouring volcanoes and the Virunga Massif.
PRIMATES
Mgahinga national Park is not just a home of mountain gorillas but also a home to several other primates such as Golden Monkey’s, montane forest, bamboo belt, bush babies among others.
CAVES
Mgahinga National Park is also home to several caves, including the Garama Cave, which holds cultural and historical significance for the Batwa people. Guided tours of these caves offer insights into the region’s geological history and cultural heritage.
BAMBOO FORESTS
The park’s montane forests, including bamboo forests are not only stunningly beautiful but also provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including gorillas, monkeys and other more.
ACTIVITIES IN MGAHINGA NATIONAL PARK
MOUNTAIN GORILLAS TREKKING
Mgahinga national park is a home to habituated groups of mountain gorillas. Trekking allows visitors to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, contributing to conservation efforts and local communities.
VOLCANO HIKING
Mgahinga is a home of volcanic peaks like Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo— hiking these volcanoes offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the chance to stand on the borders of Uganda, Rwanda and democratic republic of Congo simultaneously. These volcanic peaks offer challenging yet rewarding hiking experiences, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy stunning vistas.
BIRD WATCHING
Mgahinga national park with over 180 bird’s species recorded, including forest birds, montane species, and migratory birds. The Rwenzori Turaco, African Paradise Flycatcher, and Olive Woodpecker, among others. park is a paradise for bird watchers, guided tours offer insights into the park’s avian diversity.

CULTURAL ENGAGEMENT WITH BATWA’S
Learn about the cultural heritage and traditional way of life of the indigenous Batwa pygmies through guided cultural encounters. Visitors can participate in Batwa-led tours, storytelling sessions, and cultural performances to gain insights into the Batwa’s deep connection to the forest.
GOLDEN MONKEY TRACKING
Join a guided golden monkey tracking excursion to encounter the endangered golden monkeys in the forest. Mgahinga National Park is renowned for its population of golden monkeys, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe these playful and charismatic primates.
BEST TO VISIT MGAHINGA NATIONAL PARK.
The best time to visit mgahinga national park in Uganda is during the dry seasons, from June to august and December to February. These periods offer better wildlife viewing opportunities and more pleasant hiking conditions. However, gorilla trekking which is a major attraction in the park can be done all year around.