Where Volcanoes Meet Gorillas. Uganda's smallest national park with golden monkeys, mountain gorillas, and volcanic peaks
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Uganda's smallest national park, covering just 33.7 square kilometers in the southwestern corner of the country. The park protects the Ugandan portion of the Virunga Mountains, a chain of eight volcanic peaks.
Established in 1991, Mgahinga forms part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area that spans Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park's three volcanic peaks - Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo - create a spectacular backdrop.
Despite its small size, Mgahinga is rich in biodiversity and cultural significance. It's home to the endangered mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and numerous other species adapted to the afro-montane ecosystem.
Mgahinga offers a unique combination of gorilla tracking, golden monkey tracking, and volcano hiking in one compact area. The park's dramatic landscapes range from bamboo forests to alpine meadows on the volcanic slopes.
The park is part of the habitat of the endangered mountain gorilla, though gorilla groups are transboundary and may move between Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC. When present, gorilla tracking in Mgahinga offers a more intimate experience with smaller groups.
Mgahinga is one of only two places in Uganda where visitors can see golden monkeys, an endangered primate species endemic to the Virunga region. The park also hosts 76 mammal species and 185 bird species.
The Batwa pygmies, original inhabitants of these forests, offer cultural experiences that provide insight into their traditional forest-based lifestyle and relationship with mountain gorillas.
Mgahinga offers three main experiences, each centered around the park's unique features:
Track endangered golden monkeys in bamboo forests
Hike Mount Muhabura, Gahinga, or Sabyinyo
Track mountain gorillas when groups are present
Cultural experience with Batwa pygmies
510 kilometres (317 miles)
33.7 sq km (13.0 sq mi)
2,227 to 4,127 meters (7,306 to 13,540 ft)
1991
Mount Muhabura (4,127m)
Mount Gahinga (3,474m)
Mount Sabyinyo (3,645m)
76 mammal species
185 bird species
Endangered golden monkeys
Mountain gorillas (transboundary)
Hike along the Congo border with views of all three countries
Learn about Batwa forest culture and traditions
Spot Albertine Rift endemics and montane species
Enjoy panoramic views of the Virunga volcanoes
Track endangered golden monkeys through bamboo forests, spending one hour observing these beautiful primates with their distinctive golden-orange fur.
Challenge yourself with hikes up volcanic peaks, passing through different vegetation zones from bamboo forest to alpine meadows with spectacular views.
Experience the culture of the Batwa pygmies, learning about their traditional forest lifestyle, medicinal plants, and harmonious existence with wildlife.
Subscribe to our newsletter to get exclusive gorilla trekking deals, safari specials, and East Africa travel tips delivered to your inbox.