Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a park located in the southwestern corner of Uganda. It’s a significant habitat for the endangered mountain gorilla and is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which spans across three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- Size and Location: Mgahinga Gorilla National Park covers approximately 33.7 square kilometers. It’s situated in the Kisoro District of Uganda, bordering Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- Mountain Gorillas: While Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda is more famous for gorilla trekking, Mgahinga is also a habitat for a number of mountain gorilla families. Tourists can take guided treks to see these magnificent creatures in the wild.
- Golden Monkeys: Apart from gorillas, Mgahinga is also home to the endangered golden monkeys. There are trekking opportunities to see these lively and colorful primates.
- Volcanoes: The park includes three of the eight Virunga Volcanoes: Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo. These can be climbed, with each offering its own unique experience and view.
- Cultural Significance: The park is of cultural significance to the indigenous Batwa people. They were the forest’s “first people”, and their ancient knowledge of its secrets remains unrivaled. There are cultural heritage programs where visitors can experience the Batwa’s traditional lifestyle.
- Biodiversity: The park boasts a variety of habitats, from bamboo forest to alpine moorland. This supports a variety of bird species, smaller mammals, and beautiful flora.
- Conservation: Given the park’s small size and the endangered status of its gorilla population, conservation efforts are crucial. The park, along with its counterparts in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, works to protect the gorillas from threats such as habitat loss and poaching.
Contact us
