From Nyamunyonyi Tourism Resort to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one hour and thirty minutes drive. It is a protected area in southwestern Uganda that covers an area of 33.7 square kilometers. It is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which also includes two adjacent national parks in neighboring countries: Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The park is named after the three dormant volcanoes within its boundaries: Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo. It is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, which are one of the main attractions for visitors to the park. In addition to gorilla trekking, the park also offers opportunities for golden monkey tracking, volcano hiking, and bird watching.
The park is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, and there are several lodges and campsites within and around the park for visitors to stay in. The best time to visit the park is during the dry season, which runs from June to August and December to February.
To make your visit to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park an unforgettable experience, choose Nyamunyonyi Tourism Resort a budget-friendly resort. Relish in comfortable amenities, delicious meals, and warm hospitality, ensuring a restful and rejuvenating stay after a day of adventure. The main attraction here is undoubtedly the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas. With only around 1,000 individuals left in the wild, seeing these incredible creatures up close is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Get ready to traverse through dense forests, climb treacherous slopes, and be rewarded with the mesmerizing sight of gorillas in their natural habitat.
But Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is more than just gorillas. The Park is home to a wide diversity of flora and fauna, with several primate species, including golden monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, and blue monkeys. Bird enthusiasts will also be delighted with over 79 species, some of which are endemic to the region, such as the Rwenzori Turaco.
Embark on an unforgettable hiking adventure and challenge yourself as you conquer one of the three volcanoes that dominate the park’s landscape – Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabinyo. Each volcano offers a unique and rewarding experience, from the thrilling summit views to the exhilarating sense of achievement. The park’s rich volcanic soil supports a variety of vegetation, creating a breathtaking mosaic of greenery against the backdrop of the towering peaks.
For cultural enthusiasts, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is an excellent opportunity to learn about the indigenous Batwa tribe, who have lived in harmony with the forest for centuries. Engage in cultural tours and witness their traditional dances, hear captivating stories, and gain insight into their deep bond with nature.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is not merely a destination for tourists; it also plays a crucial role in conservation efforts. By visiting the park, you are contributing to the protection and preservation of this fragile ecosystem and its inhabitants. The Park is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and various local and international conservation organizations working together to safeguard its rich biodiversity.
Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a world-class destination that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. The park’s exceptional beauty, unique wildlife, and rich cultural heritage will captivate your senses and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Embark on this extraordinary journey and discover the untamed wonders of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and let our tour guides at Nyamunyonyi give the best experience.
5 days
Continues
English, Runyakitara, Luganda, Swahili
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, bordering Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park is known for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, which can be tracked on guided hikes. Here are some highlights of a tour of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:
Overall, a tour of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers the opportunity to explore some of the most stunning landscapes in Uganda and encounter some of its rarest and most fascinating wildlife.
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and meet your tour guide. Transfer to your hotel in Kampala or travel directly to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, depending on your flight arrival time.
After breakfast, drive to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, a journey that takes about 8-9 hours from Kampala. Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight to Kisoro airstrip, which is closer to the park. Check into your lodge and relax.
After an early breakfast, proceed to the park headquarters for briefing before beginning the gorilla trekking experience. You will be assigned a gorilla family to track, and once you locate them, you will spend up to one hour with the gorillas before returning to the park headquarters. In the afternoon, you can take a nature walk to explore the park’s scenery.
Today, you will trek golden monkeys in the park. The trek lasts between 2-4 hours, and once you locate the monkeys, you will spend up to one hour with them. Return to the lodge for lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing or visiting a nearby community.
After breakfast, embark on a hike up Mount Sabyinyo, which offers stunning views of the park and the surrounding countryside. The hike takes about 6 hours and is suitable for experienced hikers. Alternatively, you can choose to take a nature walk in the park.
After breakfast, drive back to Kampala, stopping along the way to take in scenic views and stretch your legs. Arrive in Kampala in the evening and check into your hotel.
Depending on your flight schedule, you can choose to spend the day exploring Kampala or transfer directly to Entebbe International Airport for your flight home.
