Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Gorilla Trek from Kigali invites you on a memorable gorilla trekking safari in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, starting from Kigali, Rwanda. The adventures offer the rare opportunity to track and observe the endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda’s lush forests, surrounded by the majestic Virunga volcanoes.
The trip includes a scenic drive from Kigali, professional guides, and a thrilling trek through the forest to encounter the gorillas up close.
Things To Do in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, offers a variety of exciting activities for nature enthusiasts. The park is renowned for gorilla trekking, where you can observe the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat1. Additionally, you can embark on golden monkey tracking to see these rare primate. For adventure seekers, hiking the Virunga Volcanoes—Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo, and Mount Muhabura—provides breathtaking views and a challenging experience. The Batwa Trail offers a cultural encounter with the indigenous Batwa people, showcasing their traditional forest life3. Bird watchers will also find the park a paradise, with numerous bird species to spot. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, culture, or adventure, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park has something for everyone.
Gorilla Trekking
The park's most famous activity, gorilla trekking offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see mountain gorillas in the wild. Accompanied by trained rangers, trekkers navigate the dense forest to spend an hour observing a habituated gorilla family.
Volcano Hiking
Adventure seekers can hike the three dormant volcanoes—Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhavura. Each hike offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and across the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Golden Monkey Trekking
Mgahinga is one of the few places where you can track the endangered golden monkeys. These playful and energetic primates live in the bamboo forests, and watching them leap from tree to tree is a unique experience.
Batwa Cultural Experience
Learn about the indigenous Batwa pygmy community, one of Africa’s oldest tribes. On this cultural tour, you can explore their former forest home and discover their unique traditions and survival techniques that are deeply connected to the forest.
Bird Watching
Mgahinga is home to over 180 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics. Enthusiasts can explore the park’s diverse ecosystems to spot rare and colorful species like the Ruwenzori Turaco, Doherty's Bushshrike, and African Olive Pigeon.
Nature Walks
Take a peaceful guided walk through the lower slopes of the park, which offers opportunities to see smaller wildlife and plant species. Nature walks are a great way to enjoy the park’s serene beauty, listen to the sounds of the forest, and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Cave Exploration
Explore the historic Garama Cave, a sacred place for the Batwa people. The cave was once used as a shelter and a battleground, and today, visitors can learn about its historical significance while admiring the natural underground formations.
Wildlife Viewing
Although less common than gorillas, Mgahinga is home to other mammals such as buffalo, bushbucks, and various small primates. You may also spot duikers and jackals during your trek.
Community Tourism
Engage with local communities surrounding Mgahinga to learn more about their culture, livelihoods, and conservation efforts. Visitors can visit local markets, craft shops, and schools, fostering a deeper connection with the people who call this region home.
Gorilla Tours from Kigali to Mgahinga
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a gorilla tour from Kigali to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This journey typically starts with a pickup from your hotel in Kigali, followed by a scenic drive through the picturesque landscapes of Rwanda. Along the way, you might stop at the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo for some stunning photo opportunities.
Upon reaching Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, you’ll be briefed at the Ntebeko Visitor Information Centre before starting your trek through the bamboo forests. The trek can be challenging but incredibly rewarding as you search for the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Once you find them, you’ll have the chance to spend up to an hour observing these magnificent creatures.
2 Days Mgahinga Gorilla Trek from Kigali
Book for this Two-days gorilla trekking tour in Uganda's Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
3 Days Mgahinga Gorilla Trek from Kigali
This Three-days gorilla trekking will let you track the gorillas and get up close to them.
4 Days Gorilla Trek Safari from Kigali
The Four-days gorilla trekking tour will let you experience the thrill of gorilla trekking.
2 Days Gorilla Habituation Experience in Mgahinga from Kigali
Embark on a Two-days safari in Uganda for gorilla habituation experience.