Crowned the land where 'Golden Meets Silver', Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a beautiful national park in Uganda covering just 34 square kilometres — the smallest national park in the country — occupying the southwest corner where the borders of Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo meet in the peaks and valleys of the Virunga.
Mgahinga is the second place to track mountain gorillas in Uganda and the only national park in Uganda with a population of endangered golden monkeys. The park's landscape encompasses three conical extinct volcanoes, and its montane woodland, montane forest and large swathes of bamboo forest are sanctuary to a large population of golden monkeys and the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family — the only habituated gorilla family in the park.
Traditionally used as an overflow gorilla trekking destination for Bwindi, Mgahinga has grown in its own right. The increase in Rwandan gorilla permit costs to USD 1,500 per person has prompted many visitors to cross the border to Mgahinga where gorilla trekking costs USD 800 per person (2026). The park's proximity to Lakes Mutanda and Bunyonyi makes it possible to spend an entire week in the far southwest of Uganda as a self-contained destination.
Geography
Mgahinga comprises three extinct volcanoes forming part of the Virunga Massif. Altitude ranges from 2,227m to 4,127m above sea level. The park was gazetted as a protected area in 1930. Temperatures vary with altitude — roughly 20°C at lower slopes at night, dropping 6°C for every 1,000 metres gained.
Flora, Fauna and Birdlife
There are 76 recorded mammal species. The Nyakagezi Gorilla Family is known for its previous tendency to move between Uganda and Rwanda. The golden monkeys — found only in the Virungas with a population of 3,000–4,000 — have about 60 individuals habituated to human contact in Mgahinga. Other notable species include black-and-white colobus monkeys, leopards, elephants, giant forest hogs, bushpigs, black-fronted duikers and cape buffaloes.
The park is home to 115 bird species including 12 Albertine Rift endemics. Notable species include the Ibis, Pin-tailed Whydah, Speckled Mousebird, Stone Chat, Grey-capped Warbler, Waxbills, Yellow-vented Bulbul, Firefinch, White-naped Raven, Black Kite, Rwenzori Turaco, Blue-headed Coucal, Paradise Flycatcher, Rwenzori Batis, Double-collared Sunbird and Rwenzori Nightjar among others.
Safari Activities
Gorilla trekking is the headline activity, with guided treks leading through lush forest to find the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family. Once located, visitors spend one unforgettable hour observing them groom, feed and interact in the wild. Golden monkey trekking is the only such experience in Uganda — these energetic primates live in bamboo forests at lower altitudes, making the trek relatively accessible. Visitors spend one hour watching them jump through trees, eat bamboo and move in playful groups.
Volcano hiking offers the chance to summit Gahinga, Sabyinyo or Muhabura — at the top of Mount Sabyinyo visitors stand simultaneously in Uganda, Rwanda and Congo. The Batwa Cultural Trail is a guided walk through the forest learning the ancient way of life of the Batwa people, including their hunting techniques, fire-making, bamboo use and food storage in caves such as the Garama Cave, concluding with traditional songs and dances that share their deep connection with the forest.
With 115 species including Albertine Rift endemics, birding is excellent — the gorge trail between Gahinga and Sabyinyo is a favourite spot for bird enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit
The dry months (June–September, December–February) are best for trekking when trails are dry and easier to walk. Rainy months (March–May, November) bring muddy trails but fewer visitors, lower lodge prices and excellent birdwatching as migratory species arrive.
Getting There
Mgahinga is located approximately 14 km from Kisoro town on rough roads, and approximately 510 km from Kampala. By road the journey from Kampala takes 9–10 hours via Kabale (434 km) and then Kisoro (76 km further), with an alternative scenic route passing Lake Bunyonyi. From Kisoro to the Ntebeko main park entrance is approximately 14 km.
Where to Stay
Accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury include Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Nkuringo Safari Lodge, Travellers' Nest Hotel, Mt. Mgahinga Rest Camp and Mountain Mgahinga Lodge.
