The Virungas are home to more than half of the world's population of the endangered mountain gorilla. 380 individuals roam the slopes of the volcanoes while the remaining 340 live nearby in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Fortunately for the gorillas, Mgahinga's small area is supplemented by those of two larger, adjoining parks in Rwanda (Volcanoes NP) and DR Congo (Virunga NP).
Though Mountain gorilla tracking is the Mgahinga park's most popular Safari activity, Mgahinga merits a visit simply to appreciate the scenery. A choice of hikes
allows for all abilities, ranging from the 8 hour return Family tour to the summit of Mt. Muhabura, to gentle strolls across the lower slopes beneath the magnificent three peak backdrop.
The park contains at least 39 species of mammal and 79 birds. Larger mammals include elephant, leopard, buffalo and bush pig but these are rarely seen. Mgahinga's most famous resident is the mountain gorilla. Less famous but equally rare and deserving of protection is the golden monkey which is found only in the Virungas and in one other forest in Rwanda.Notable bird species include the Rwenzori turaco, crowned hornbill, black kite and crowned crane.
Mgahinga Peaks - alternative hiking
The peaks Mgahinga hasthreevolcanic peaks, Muhubura(4127m), Sabyinyo (3669m) and Mgahinga (3474m). These can all be climbed. Though no specialist equipment is required, a reasonable level of fitness is necessary if you intend to enjoy the experience.
Batwa Trail and Garama Cave
The Batwa Trail leads from t he base of Muhuvura Cave. This walk is conductoed by Batwa guides VI insights into their traditional forest life and culture. The 342m long Garama Cave lies beneath a platee northern edge of the park, 3km from Ntebeko. It i~ former farmland zone but in earlier times, the cave forest when it was occupied periodically by Batwa as a council chamber and a retreat after raiding their neighbours.
Gorilla Tracking
Mgahinga's most exciting and memorable activity is tracking the mountain gorilla in thick jungle. The park has one habituated gorilla group (Nyakagyezi) which is visited by tourists. This consists of 11 members; 2 silverbacks, 3 adult females, 4 juveniles and 2 infants. This group is mobile and sometimes crosses into Rwanda and DRC, so check for updates from Uganda Wildlife Authority (see contacts). Registration and briefing for gorilla tracking commences at Ntebeko at 07.45. Tracking starts at 08.30 and can take three to eight hours.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is blessed with a unique bird fauna; 79 bird species have thus far been recorded within the park, including several species endemic to the East Congo Montane region.For the Virunga Conservation Area as a whole, over 295 species in the Virungas are endemic to the Albertine Rift Afromontane region representing 59% of the total of known endemic species.
Remember to contact the Park Management for a guide who will take around for a good viewing of birds, do not forget your binoculars!!
For budget camping safaris in Mgahinga there is ample space at the park gate and Mt. Gahinga Rest Camp for Camping', besides that, there is also excellent traditional Bandas managed by the local community.
Kisoro Town which is 14 kms to the gate of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers a wide range of accommodation facilities ranging from the basic Camp-site to the luxurious full board hotels and lodges; these include Traveler's Rest, Sky Blue, Mt. Gahinga Rest Camp, Virunga Hotel, Mgahinga Safari Lodge, Rugigana Campsite and Mubano Hotel among others.
Mgahinga Hotel lodge Camp Accommodation
Red Chilli gorilla Camp – The Luxury gorilla camp is located at the starting point for trekking the Mountain Gorilla at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mount Gahinga Rest Camp – Lodge - In the shadow of the dramatic Virunga volcanoes, the camp is located almost right next to the park headquarters. This intimate lodge offers stunning views of the nearby Kisoro volcano and an excellent base
Mgahinga Safari Lodge - range with 7 rooms, it is the ideal starting place for gorilla tracking Safari. It is just 45 minutes drive; or by boat, to the Mgahinga National Park Headquarters, The luxury lodge is an oasis in the middle of paradise. You will find Mgahinga Safari Lodge in a picturesque mountain area located on a peninsular in Lake Mutanda and situated in the three-county-corner Uganda/ Rwanda/ Congo.