Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga National Park: A Sanctuary in the Clouds

Overview:

Nestled high in the clouds, Mgahinga National Park is a haven for biodiversity, cultural heritage, and adventure. Sitting at altitudes ranging from 2,227m to 4,127m, the park is named after the rare mountain gorillas it protects and is a critical habitat for the endangered golden monkey. With three Virunga volcanoes, diverse ecosystems, and awe-inspiring caves, Mgahinga offers an array of experiences, from gorilla trekking to hiking and cultural encounters.

Gorilla Trekking Safari:

2 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari in Mgahinga National Park:

• An alternative gorilla trekking destination complementing Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
• Offers a unique and challenging gorilla trekking adventure with less crowd.
• The park is home to the Nyakagenzi gorilla family and is known for its steep terrain.

Biodiversity and Landscape:

• Flora: The park’s slopes host various ecosystems, including bamboo-covered forests, creating a biologically diverse landscape.
• Fauna: Apart from mountain gorillas, the park is home to elephants, leopards, buffalos, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and over 180 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics.

Cultural Significance:

• The park is of great cultural significance, particularly for the indigenous Batwa pygmies.
• The Batwa Pygmy trail includes a visit to Garamba Cave, showcasing the tribe’s ancient knowledge and practices.

2 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari in Mgahinga National Park

Activities at Mgahinga National Park:

1. Mountain Gorilla Tracking:

• Only one habituated gorilla family, Nyakagenzi, can be tracked daily.
• The challenging terrain and less crowded environment make the gorilla trekking experience unique.

2. Golden Monkey Trekking:

• Mgahinga is the sole destination for golden monkey trekking.
• The activity follows similar procedures to gorilla trekking and offers entertaining encounters with acrobatic golden monkeys.

3. Batwa Trail and Garamba Cave:

• Explore the cultural significance of the park through the Batwa Pygmy trail.
• The trail includes a visit to Garamba Cave, showcasing the Batwa’s ancient practices.

4. Hiking Volcano Mountains:

• Hike to the peaks of Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabinyo, and Mount Gahinga.
• The challenging hikes reward visitors with beautiful waterfalls, diverse bird species, and stunning view.

Bird Watching:

1. • • A birder’s paradise with approximately 180 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics.

• Popular bird species include Kivu Ground Thrush, Rwenzori Turaco, and White-starred Robin.

2. Border Trail Hike:

• A 10km hike along the border offering great views of the gorge, peaks, and chances to see golden monkeys and forest elephants.

Gorilla Permits:

• Gorilla permits cost $800 per person and are recommended to be booked 2 months in advance.
• Limited to one habituated gorilla family (Nyakagenzi), with only 8 people allowed to trek daily.

Accommodation:

• Various accommodations, including luxury lodges, midrange options, tented camps, and budget lodging, are available near Ntebeko’s entrances and in Kisoro town.
• Notable facilities include Virunga Lodge, Ikoro Lodge, and Kisoro Traveler’s Hotel.

Getting to Mgahinga National Park:

From Kampala:

• The 510km journey passes through Kabale and Kisoro, taking approximately 8 hours.
• An alternative scenic route follows the shoreline of Lake Bunyonyi from Kabale to Muko before rejoining the main road.

From Kigali - Rwanda:

• A roughly four-hour drive via Gatuna or Cyanika border, passing through Kabale, Kisoro town.
• The park can also be reached by air using daily flights from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro airfield.

Contact us to book your next journey!