Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Uganda’s smallest national park, covering just 33.9 km². Located in Kisoro District in the southwestern corner of the country, it’s part of the Virunga Conservation Area, which includes Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Virunga National Park.
Mountain Gorilla Tracking: The park is home to the Nyakagezi group, Uganda’s only habituated mountain gorilla family. This group is known for its high concentration of silverbacks and is the main attraction for visitors.
Golden Monkey Tracking: Mgahinga is one of the few places where you can track the endangered golden monkeyy, an Albertine Rift endemic.
Volcano Hiking: The park encompasses three extinct volcanoes—Mount Muhabura (4,127 m), Mount Gahinga (3,474 m), and Mount Sabinyo (3,645 m). Hiking these peaks offers panoramic views and a chance to explore diverse ecosystems.
Batwa Cultural Experience: Engage with the Batwa people, the indigenous forest dwellers, to learn about their traditional lifestyles and deep connection to the forest.
REQUIREMENTS FOR GORILLA TRACKING
Age Limit
- Minimum age for gorilla tracking is 15 years.
- This is due to the strenuous nature of the hike and the potential to carry communicable diseases to gorillas
- Physical Fitness
- The trek can be demanding, involving hiking through thick forest and rugged terrain for 2 to 6 hours (sometimes more).
- Moderate to good fitness is recommended. Porters are available to help with bags or even to assist with the hike if needed.
- Health Requirements
- Do NOT track if sick (especially with flu, cough, or diarrhea). Gorillas are highly susceptible to human diseases.
- If you’re visibly ill, park authorities may deny you access without a refund. Gear Checklist
- Hiking boots (sturdy and waterproof)
- Rain jacket (Bwindi is a rainforest)
- Long trousers and long-sleeved shirt (for protection from thorns and insects)
- Gardening gloves (helpful while grabbing vegetation)
- Insect repellent
- Drinking water (at least 2 litres)
- Snacks or packed lunch (especially for longer treks)
- Camera (without flash)
- Gorilla Trekking Rules
- Maintain a distance of at least 7 meters (21 feet) from the gorillas.
- No flash photography.
- Speak in a low voice.
- Stay in a tight group while with gorillas.
- Do not eat or drink in front of the gorillas.
- No smoking or littering inside the park
Booking
Gorilla tracking permits should be booked in advance at least 3 to 6 months this is, because of the high demand for Gorilla permits
- Timing
- Treks start early in the morning (around 7:30–8:00 AM), following a briefing at the park headquarters.
- Be prepared for early wake-up and transport to the briefing center (especially in Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, or Ruhija sectors).
