3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS IN MGAHINGA GORILLA NATIONAL PARK

Let’s travel with you to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwest Uganda. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, naturally situated in the southwest of Uganda, is a true haven of spectacular beauty and abundant variety. The 33.7 square kilometer park is a portion of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which also comprises national parks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. Beautiful scenery, endangered mountain gorillas, and a wide variety of exotic flora and wildlife are found in Mgahinga. It offers an intriguing journey through the heart of Africa’s wilderness.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is situated within Kisoro District in southwestern Uganda, bordering both Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It derives its name from the local term “Gahinga,” meaning “piles of volcanic stones,” reflecting the park’s stunning volcanic terrain. The park is predominantly volcanic in nature and is home to three striking volcanic peaks including Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabinyo. These majestic mountains are part of the Virunga Mountain Range, and they make for a remarkable backdrop to the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Mountain gorillas, one of the most famous residents of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, are among the park’s amazing array of wildlife. The Nyakagezi group, which is led by the dominant silverback dubbed Mark and the second silverback named Ndugute, is the only habituated gorilla family found in the park. Among the 76 wildlife species that Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is renowned for harboring are elephants, bush pigs, bushbacks, giant forest hogs, leopards, and buffalo. The list also includes approximately 180 bird species, 14 of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift, including the Kivu ground thrush and the turaco.

The park’s diverse bird population makes it a haven for birdwatchers. The beautiful turaco, Rwenzori batis, and crowned hornbill are just a few of the roughly 180 bird species that have been identified here.

Mgahinga’s volcanic topography supports a wide variety of rare plant species. The park is well known for its stunning collections of groundsels and enormous lobelias, which are especially stunning in bloom. As hikers explore the trails, they are treated to breathtaking views thanks to these plants, which flourish in the highest elevations of the park.

A variety of tourist activities are offered at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park so that visitors can fully appreciate the splendour and beauty of this untouched haven. Gorilla trekking, in which guides take groups of people far into the jungle to watch and find out about these fascinating creatures’ life, is undoubtedly the most popular activity. Tracking golden monkeys is another exhilarating activity that offers an opportunity of seeing these amusing primates in their natural environment.

For adventure enthusiasts, the park offers hiking opportunities, with the trails varying in difficulty. Ascending Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabinyo, or Mount Muhabura is a challenging yet rewarding experience, offering panoramic views of the Virunga Mountain Range and the surrounding lush valleys. The Batwa Trail offers a cultural experience, introducing visitors to the indigenous Batwa pygmies and their traditional way of life.

Visiting the Batwa Pygmies and Bakiga

The older inhabitants known as the Batwa “Pygmies,” who relied on hunting for a living, are housed as well in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. A must-visit in their communities for tales, traditional dances, and also integrating with their distinct cultures, the Bakiga are among the other settlers since they coexist with wildlife and natural plants and offer unique cultural experiences and traditions.

Deep-rooted within the dense rainforests of Central Africa, is a notable community of Batwa pygmies with interesting history and unique way of living. These people are an indigenous group that primarily moved into the Great Lakes region of Central Africa, including Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They are thought to be one of the African continent’s oldest still-existing populations, with a history that dates back 50,000 years. Being skilled hunters and gatherers who depend on their natural surroundings to survive, the Batwa have a special relationship with the forest that has shaped their cultural identity. They can find food, medicinal herbs, building materials for tools and shelter in the forest.

Their spiritual practices, which centre on loving and protecting the forest, are a reflection of their close relationship to nature.

Practical Information

Getting there

The distance from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in the southwestern part of Uganda, near the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is approximately 499 kilometres (310 miles) via the most commonly travelled route. The journey typically takes about 9–10 hours by car.

Gorilla Permits

Gorilla trekking permits, which are essential for the experience, should be secured in advance through the Uganda Wildlife Authority. It’s advisable to have the permits booked 30 days prior to the trip.

Visitors should be up-to-date on vaccinations, particularly for yellow fever, and consider taking malaria prophylaxis. Travelers should also check current health and travel advisories.

A natural wonderland, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park provides a rare opportunity to see some of the most amazing wildlife on Earth and become immersed in local communities’ culture. For anyone looking to embark on a memorable journey into the heart of Africa’s untamed wilderness, it is a vital destination since it is a site where conservation and adventure coexist.

Gorilla Trekking Guidelines

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a unique and memorable experience, but it also comes with specific guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of both the gorillas and the visitors. These guidelines are designed to minimize the impact of human activity on the gorilla habitat and reduce the risk of disease transmission between humans and gorillas. Here are the general guidelines for gorilla trekking in Mgahinga:

• Obtain a Permit. You must obtain a gorilla trekking permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) in advance. It’s advisable to book your permit well in advance, as there is limited availability, and the demand can be high.

• Age and Health Requirements. Visitors must be at least 15 years old to participate in gorilla trekking. You should be in reasonably good health, as the trek can be physically demanding due to steep terrain and dense vegetation.

• Trekking Groups. Gorilla trekking groups are limited to a maximum of 8 visitors per gorilla family per day and the tracking lasts for 60 minutes. This helps minimize stress on the gorillas and reduces the risk of disease transmission.

• Keep a Safe Distance. You should maintain a minimum distance of 7 meters (about 23 feet) from the gorillas at all times. This is to protect both you and the gorillas from potential disease transmission.

• Stay in a Group. You must stay with your group and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the trek. This helps minimize your impact on the gorillas and their habitat.
• No Flash Photography. The use of flash photography is strictly prohibited during gorilla trekking, as it can disturb the gorillas. You can use non-flash cameras and video recording devices, but silence them before approaching the gorillas.

• Do Not Litter. You must not leave any trash or litter behind in the park. All waste, including tissue paper, should be carried out with you.

• No Eating or Drinking. Eating and drinking are not allowed in the presence of gorillas to prevent any food or drink items from being dropped and potentially consumed by the gorillas.

• Follow Trekking Duration. Gorilla treks typically last between 1 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family. You must adhere to the designated trekking duration.
• Do Not Touch the Gorillas. It’s strictly forbidden to touch the gorillas, as this can transmit diseases between humans and gorillas. Maintain a respectful distance.

• Cover Your Mouth and Nose. If you need to cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with your elbow to prevent the spread of any potential diseases.

• Stay Calm and Quiet. While observing the gorillas, speak in hushed tones and avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might startle them.

By following these guidelines, you can have a safe and enjoyable gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park while also contributing to the conservation of these magnificent animals and their habitat.

Accommodation

Visitors to Bwindi have a range of accommodation options to choose from, catering to various budgets and preferences. These include luxury lodges, mid-range camps, and budget-friendly options, all designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty of the park while providing comfort and essential amenities.

Activities;

• Mountain Gorilla tracking
• Mountain climbing
• Cultural explorations
• Birding
• Golden Monkey tracking

Price (per person): Starting from US$1,500 (Inclusive Gorilla tracking permits)