Virunga Hotel and Campsite - Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Virunga Hotel and Campsite is a camp near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Location
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Southwestern Uganda (Gorillas & Mountains), Uganda, East Africa
Coordinates
-1.282196, 29.689766
Activities
camp

Wildlife Near This Lodge

542 species observed within 20 km, 30 mammals, 213 birds.

  • Eastern Gorilla (Mammalia, 337 observations)
  • Blue Monkey (Mammalia, 98 observations)
  • L'Hoest's Monkey (Mammalia, 77 observations)
  • Coarse Chameleon (Reptilia, 59 observations)
  • Johnston's Chameleon (Reptilia, 58 observations)
  • Variable Sunbird (Aves, 43 observations)
  • White-eyed Slaty-Flycatcher (Aves, 42 observations)
  • Streaky Seedeater (Aves, 38 observations)
  • Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater (Aves, 35 observations)
  • Bronze Sunbird (Aves, 34 observations)

Best Time to Visit Virunga Hotel and Campsite

The best months to visit Virunga Hotel and Campsite 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%

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of accommodation and facilities does Virunga Hotel and Campsite offer for visitors to Mgahinga?

Beyond basic camping pitches for those with their own gear, Virunga Hotel and Campsite also provides simple rooms or pre-erected safari tents for rent. Guests can expect shared ablution blocks with hot water, a communal dining area, and a campfire spot for evening relaxation.

How convenient is Virunga Hotel and Campsite for gorilla trekking and other activities in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park?

The campsite is strategically located very close to the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park gate, making it an ideal base for early morning gorilla and golden monkey trekking briefings. Its proximity minimizes travel time, allowing guests more rest before their primate encounters or volcano hikes.

When is the best time of year to stay at Virunga Hotel and Campsite for optimal gorilla trekking conditions?

The dry seasons, from June to August and December to February, are generally considered the best times for gorilla trekking from Virunga Hotel and Campsite. During these months, trails within Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are less muddy and slippery, offering easier hiking conditions and clearer views.

What are the typical transportation options for reaching Virunga Hotel and Campsite from major Ugandan hubs?

Most visitors arrange private transfers or utilize scheduled bus services from Kampala or Entebbe to Kisoro town, followed by a short boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) or pre-arranged vehicle transfer to the campsite. The journey from Kampala typically takes 8-10 hours by road.

What kind of overall experience and safety measures can guests expect when staying at Virunga Hotel and Campsite?

Guests can anticipate a rustic, authentic safari camp experience with a focus on nature and community interaction, rather than luxury. The campsite maintains security personnel and is located in a safe area, though standard precautions for personal belongings are always advised.

Other Safari Lodges in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Parks in Southwestern Uganda (Gorillas & Mountains)

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Uganda

Travel advisory for Uganda