Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, Mgahinga is Uganda's second mountain gorilla habitat, offering a more intimate gorilla trekking experience...

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park at a Glance

Location
Southwestern Uganda (Gorillas & Mountains), Uganda, East Africa
Coordinates
-1.361786, 29.648722
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
High
Best Time to Visit
June to September and December to February (dry seasons) for gorilla trekking and wildlife.

Getting to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Nearest airport: Sasakwa, 546 km away.

Weather & Climate in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

The warmest temperatures in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park occur in February, averaging 13.9°C (up to 17.7°C). The coolest conditions are in June at 12.9°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 20.8mm. Average humidity: 64.7%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 13.4°C (rainfall: 116.2mm)
  • February: 13.9°C (rainfall: 120.6mm)
  • March: 13.7°C (rainfall: 165.1mm)
  • April: 13.3°C (rainfall: 145.0mm)
  • May: 13.3°C (rainfall: 85.6mm)
  • June: 12.9°C (rainfall: 25.5mm)
  • July: 13.3°C (rainfall: 20.8mm)
  • August: 13.7°C (rainfall: 55.8mm)
  • September: 13.4°C (rainfall: 142.6mm)
  • October: 13.5°C (rainfall: 171.4mm)
  • November: 13.0°C (rainfall: 194.0mm)
  • December: 13.1°C (rainfall: 192.2mm)

Best Time to Visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

The best months to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are January, February, April, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 13.41°C, rainfall 116.2mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 77.9%
  • February: Good, temperature 13.92°C, rainfall 120.6mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 76.3%
  • March: Poor, temperature 13.67°C, rainfall 165.1mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 78.9%
  • April: Good, temperature 13.29°C, rainfall 145mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 84%
  • May: Good, temperature 13.35°C, rainfall 85.6mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 82%
  • June: Good, temperature 12.87°C, rainfall 25.5mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 73%
  • July: Good, temperature 13.25°C, rainfall 20.8mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 64.7%
  • August: Good, temperature 13.74°C, rainfall 55.8mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 67.8%
  • September: Good, temperature 13.41°C, rainfall 142.6mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 76.7%
  • October: Poor, temperature 13.52°C, rainfall 171.4mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 78.2%
  • November: Poor, temperature 12.98°C, rainfall 194mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 82.8%
  • December: Poor, temperature 13.07°C, rainfall 192.2mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 81.8%

Wildlife in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Home to 74 recorded species including 41 iconic birds, 16 waterbirds, 13 birds of prey, 2 primates, 2 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Based on average temperature of 13.4°C, typical conditions, humidity 77%.

  • Layered clothing - recommended for 13°C temperatures
  • Fleece or warm jacket - essential for cool mornings and evenings
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

50 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

Similar Parks in Southwestern Uganda (Gorillas & Mountains)

Visitor Tips - Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga offers a unique opportunity to track both mountain gorillas and the vibrant golden monkeys, often within the same misty Virunga peaks. We love its intimate, less-crowded feel compared to other gorilla destinations, allowing for a truly personal and profound wilderness experience. The landscapes are breathtaking, and the chance to witness these incredible primates in their natural habitat is simply unforgettable.

Gate Times

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park generally opens its gates at 7:00 AM and closes at 7:00 PM daily. However, permits for gorilla and golden monkey trekking are strictly timed, usually commencing early morning around 8:00 AM. We strongly recommend booking all permits well in advance, especially for the dry seasons from June to September and December to February, as availability is limited and essential for entry to these activities.

Tipping

Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated by the dedicated staff. For your gorilla trekking guide and the rangers, we suggest around $15-20 USD per person per trek. Porters, who are invaluable for navigating the steep and often muddy trails, should receive $10-15 USD. At lodges, a general staff tip of $5-10 USD per guest per day, placed in a communal box, is a good guideline. Always tip discreetly and in local currency or USD.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Uganda

Travel advisory for Uganda

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park FAQs

What makes Mgahinga the ultimate destination for a dual primate safari, and how can I best experience both gorillas and golden monkeys?

Mgahinga is uniquely the only park in Uganda where you can track both endangered mountain gorillas and the endemic golden monkeys. Visitors typically purchase separate permits for each activity, often undertaking them on consecutive days to fully appreciate both distinct primate encounters amidst the park's stunning volcanic landscapes.

How does the mountain gorilla trekking experience in Mgahinga differ from other Ugandan parks, particularly regarding group size and encounter intimacy?

Mgahinga offers a uniquely intimate gorilla trekking experience, primarily tracking the habituated Nyakagezi family, which is known for its relatively accessible range. With fewer habituated groups than Bwindi, permits are limited, ensuring smaller trekking groups and a more personal encounter with these magnificent primates.

What is the best time of year to visit Mgahinga for primate trekking, and what kind of terrain should I be prepared for?

The dry seasons (June to September and December to February) are generally preferred for easier trekking conditions, though Mgahinga can be visited year-round. Expect challenging, muddy, and steep volcanic terrain at high altitudes, requiring good physical fitness and appropriate hiking gear regardless of the season.

What are the current permit costs for gorilla and golden monkey trekking in Mgahinga, and how far in advance should I secure them?

As of 2024, a gorilla trekking permit costs $800 USD, while a golden monkey tracking permit is $60 USD for foreign non-residents. Due to high demand and limited availability, especially for gorilla permits, it is crucial to book at least 6-12 months in advance through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or a reputable tour operator.

Are there other notable activities or natural attractions in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park besides primate tracking?

Absolutely! Mgahinga offers challenging hikes up three of the Virunga volcanoes – Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhavura, and Mount Sabyinyo – providing breathtaking panoramic views. You can also embark on the cultural Batwa Trail, an immersive experience learning about the indigenous forest-dwelling Batwa people's traditional way of life.

Recommended Books

  • Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa by Chris & Mathilde Stuart - Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe - Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Lonely Planet East Africa by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon - Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide) by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking - Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Bradt Guide: Uganda by Philip Briggs - The definitive guide to Uganda - gorilla trekking, Queen Elizabeth NP, Murchison Falls, and chimp tracking. Detailed practical information from Africa's leading guidebook author.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.