Mgahinga Gorilla
National Park
Explore the forest home of the endangered mountain gorilla in Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Mgahinga Gorilla Safaris
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the forest home to the endangered mountain gorilla, as well as the golden monkey and 12 endemic bird species including the Rwenzori turaco, Lagdens bushshrike, and scarlet-tufted malachite sunbird.
The park lies in the southwestern corner of Uganda, enveloped by the Virunga Mountains. In addition to its wildlife, Mgahinga is famed for its trio of picturesque, extinct volcanoes: Mt Muhavura, Mt Gahinga and Mt Sabinyo.
Visitors mostly come for the gorilla trekking but a trip to the park also offers rewarding forest walks and wonderful mountain hikes.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is contiguous with the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Together, they make up the Virunga conservation area where the majority of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas are protected.
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- Picturesque but extinct volcanoes
- Home to endangered mountain gorillas
- 12 endemic bird species including the Rwenzori Turaco
- Forest walks and mountain hikes
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Best Time To Visit Mgahinga National Park
Visit the park between June and August or December and January for prime time gorilla trekking. These months correspond to Mgahinga’s dry season, which is when the trails will be drier and therefore much easier to follow.
Unsurprisingly, this is peak season so the park will be busier and gorilla permits in high demand. This isn’t something you’ll need to worry about though, as we’ll ensure everything is organised for your trek way ahead of time.
It is still possible to track gorillas during Mgahinga’s rainy season (February to May and September to November), but it’s significantly harder to hike on wet trails. If you are prepared to deal with the weather, you’ll be treated to stunning views once the clouds lift. The rainy season is also the best time to see the beautiful range of migratory birds in Mgahinga National Park.
Best Time To Visit Mgahinga National Park
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Mgahinga Gorilla National Park NEED TO KNOW
Am I guaranteed to see gorillas in Mgahinga National Park?
We can’t say you’re absolutely guaranteed to see gorillas in the park, but your chances are incredibly high thanks to the knowledge and experience of the trekking guides. They know the animals intimately and are well-versed in their behaviours and movements. You can certainly be confident in a sighting thanks to their exceptional skill.
Do I have to be fit to trek the Virunga Mountains?
Make no mistake, gorilla trekking is a physically strenuous activity so good fitness is required. This doesn’t mean you need the strength and stamina of a professional athlete, but be aware that you could be on your feet for two to eight hours. It’s also important to remember the terrain will be uneven and challenging at times. However, this activity is far easier during the dry season when you don’t have thick, muddy trails to contend with.
What is the accommodation like in Mgahinga National Park?
There is a good range of accommodation available in Mgahinga National Park so you’re sure to find something perfectly in line with your tastes and budget. Safari lodges are by far the most popular option, with luxurious, upmarket facilities on offer as well as simpler alternatives.
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A print anthology of safari and wilderness travel with over 220 pages of travel inspiration.