Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the smallest of Uganda's three gorilla parks, and it sits in the far south-west corner of the country where Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo meet. Its name refers to the volcanoes of the Virunga range that rise above the forest. The park is known for one habituated gorilla family, for golden monkeys and for a landscape that feels very different from the rest of Uganda.
The gorillas of Mgahinga
Mgahinga is home to one habituated mountain gorilla family, the Nyakagezi group, which moves through the forest on the volcano slopes. Because there is only one family, the park receives far fewer trekkers than Bwindi, and the groups are smaller. Reported permit numbers are limited to a small number of visitors per day, and the trek is often described as more intimate than the larger gorilla parks.
The permit cost for Mgahinga is reported at $800 per person in the high season, with a lower rate of about $600 in April, May and November. These figures come from published operator sources and should be confirmed with the Uganda Wildlife Authority or your operator before you budget, because permit prices can change. Book well ahead, because permits sell out for the best months.
What a gorilla trek involves
A gorilla trek starts with a briefing at the park headquarters, where rangers explain the rules and assign groups. Trekkers are normally allowed one hour with the gorillas once they reach the family, and the walk to find them can take anywhere from under an hour to several hours depending on where the group has moved. Reported permit numbers for Mgahinga are small, with up to eight permits available each day for the single habituated family, so the groups stay small. The forest is steep and wet, and the terrain is hard going in places, so wear long trousers, gaiters or sturdy boots and carry a waterproof layer. Porters are available to carry bags for a fee, which many trekkers find worthwhile on the steeper sections, and they also help people on the slippery ground. Do not use flash, and follow the guide, who decides when the group is close enough to watch safely.
Golden monkeys
Mgahinga is also one of the best places in Uganda to see golden monkeys, a rare primate that lives in the bamboo forests of the Virunga volcanoes. They are known for their golden-orange fur and their playful behaviour, and they move through the bamboo in family groups. A golden monkey permit allows a visit to a habituated group, and the experience is shorter than a gorilla trek but still memorable.
Reported golden monkey permit costs are around $100 per person for a one-hour visit, with longer habituation experiences available at a higher price. Check the current rates with the park before you book, because they are set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and can change.
The landscape and the volcanoes
Mgahinga is made up of volcanic slopes, bamboo forest and high-altitude grassland. The volcanoes rise sharply from the surrounding farmland, and the views from the park can be dramatic on clear mornings. Hikers can climb the volcanoes in the park, with routes that suit different fitness levels. The climb takes most of a day, and the weather can change quickly at altitude, so carry warm and waterproof clothing.
The park is small, so the scenery changes quickly. Within a day it is possible to walk through forest, bamboo and open grassland, and to see views across into Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Getting there
Mgahinga is far from Kampala, and most visitors reach it by road from Kisoro, the nearest town. The journey from Kampala takes most of a day, and the roads are winding in places, so allow generous time and arrange a driver. Many travellers combine Mgahinga with Bwindi, which lies to the north, to make a longer gorilla trekking trip.
Cross-border travel into Rwanda or the Democratic Republic of the Congo requires valid documents and the right visas, so check the requirements before you plan any route that uses the borders.
Planning a visit
Permits and lodges should be booked before you fix flights or onward travel, because Mgahinga has limited accommodation and the permits can sell out. Choose a lodge near the park gate to reduce early-morning travel. Pack for cold and wet conditions even in the dry season, because the altitude brings cool mornings and sudden rain.
Respect the rules that protect the gorillas and golden monkeys. Keep a distance of at least seven metres from gorillas, avoid eating or drinking near them, and stay with your guide. Visitors who are unwell should not trek, because gorillas can catch human illnesses.
Who Mgahinga suits
Mgahinga suits travellers who want a small-group gorilla experience, primate enthusiasts who want to add golden monkeys to a gorilla trek, and hikers interested in volcanoes. It suits less well travellers who want a beach or a wide range of big game, because the park is focused on primates and volcanic landscapes.
Frequently asked questions
Is Mgahinga better than Bwindi for gorillas? Neither is better overall. Mgahinga is smaller and more intimate, while Bwindi has more habituated families and more trekking choice.
Can I see golden monkeys and gorillas on the same trip? Yes. Many travellers book both, although they require separate permits.
How fit do I need to be? Gorilla treks involve steep and muddy ground, so a reasonable level of fitness helps. The guides can adjust the pace.
Is there an age limit? Children under a set age are not permitted on gorilla treks. Check the current rule with the park before booking.
When is the best time to visit? The drier months are generally the most comfortable for trekking, and the low-season months offer lower permit prices.
Planning a gorilla trek in Uganda? See our Uganda gorilla trekking tours, or tell us your dates and we will arrange the permit, the drive and the lodge. Our planning guide shows how to order a gorilla trip with the rest of your itinerary.