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.
Activities at Mgahinga National Park:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
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- 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.
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- 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 $700 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 Traveller’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.