Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Located in the south Western park of Uganda. Uganda is known as the “Pearl of Africa” due to its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. One of the most famous national parks in the country is Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This park is located in southwestern Uganda and covers an area of 33.7 square kilometers. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas and is a popular destination for gorilla trekking.

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

One of the main attractions of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is gorilla trekking. This activity involves hiking through the forest in search of the mountain gorillas. The trek can take anywhere from 1-6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. Once you find the gorillas, you will have an hour to observe them and take photos.

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a unique experience that should not be missed. The park has only one gorilla family, which makes it a more exclusive and intimate experience. The gorillas in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are part of the larger Virunga Massif, which includes other gorilla families in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Other Wildlife in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

While gorilla trekking is the main activity in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, there are other wildlife species to see. The park is home to several other primates, including the golden monkey and the black and white colobus monkey. You may also see forest elephants, buffalo, and various bird species.

Hiking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is not just about gorilla trekking. The park offers several hiking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. One popular trail is the Mount Sabinyo hike, which takes you to the summit of the mountain. The hike is challenging but rewarding, with views of the Virunga Massif and the Rift Valley.

Another popular hike is the Gahinga trail, which takes you through bamboo forests and provides a chance to see the golden monkeys. The Batwa Trail is a cultural hike that takes you through the traditional lands of the Batwa people. The Batwa are a marginalized indigenous group that has been living in the forest for centuries. The hike provides an opportunity to learn about their culture and way of life.

Accommodation in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park has several accommodation options, ranging from budget to luxury. There are lodges and campsites within the park, as well as accommodation options in the nearby towns of Kisoro and Ntebeko. Some lodges offer gorilla trekking packages that include accommodation, meals, and transportation to and from the park.

How to Get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, near the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park is about 8 hours by road from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. The closest airport is Kigali International Airport in Rwanda, which is about 2.5 hours by road from the park.

Visitors to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park must obtain a gorilla trekking permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The permit costs $700 per person and is valid for one trekking session. It is recommended to book your permit in advance, as they are limited and can sell out quickly.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in gorilla trekking and hiking. The park offers a unique and intimate experience with the endangered mountain gorillas, as well as opportunities to see other wildlife and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. With several accommodation options and hiking trails, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a great destination for travelers of all budgets and interests.

While visiting the park, it’s important to remember that the mountain gorillas are an endangered species and their habitat must be protected. Visitors are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the gorillas and their habitat. These rules include keeping a safe distance from the gorillas, staying in designated areas, and not littering or disturbing the environment.

In addition to protecting the gorillas, visiting Mgahinga Gorilla National Park also supports the local communities. The park provides employment opportunities for the local people, and some lodges offer cultural experiences that allow visitors to learn about the traditions and way of life of the Batwa people.

In conclusion, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a beautiful and unique destination in Uganda that offers visitors the chance to see the endangered mountain gorillas up close and experience the stunning natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re interested in gorilla trekking, hiking, or cultural experiences, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park has something for everyone. Book your gorilla trekking permit in advance and start planning your trip to this amazing destination today.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Activity tariff