Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of Uganda’s smallest national parks — but don’t let its size fool you. This jewel in the Virunga Mountains is brimming with activities beyond its famous mountain gorilla trekking.
While most travelers come here for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the Nyakagezi gorilla family, there’s so much more to explore. Whether you’re interested in culture, hiking, birdwatching, or golden monkeys, Mgahinga offers an enriching experience for every type of visitor.
Here’s a detailed guide on what you can do in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park besides gorilla trekking.
Golden Monkey Tracking: Meet the Park’s Other Primates
If you thought gorillas were the only stars of Mgahinga, think again. The park is also home to a thriving population of golden monkeys, an endangered primate species found only in the Virunga region.
Golden monkey tracking is a delightful experience, especially for photographers and primate enthusiasts. With their striking golden-orange fur and playful behavior, these monkeys are a joy to watch as they leap through the bamboo forest.
The tracking usually starts at Ntebeko Visitor Center and lasts about 2–4 hours, offering a lighter and more accessible alternative to gorilla trekking.
Volcano Hiking: Conquer the Virunga Peaks
For the adventurous, hiking one of the three extinct volcanoes in the park is an unforgettable challenge. Each peak offers something unique:
Mount Sabinyo (3,669 m) gives you the rare opportunity to stand at the point where Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo meet. Its jagged peaks and ladders make it the most exciting climb of the three.
Mount Gahinga (3,474 m) is less demanding and features a scenic crater swamp at the summit, perfect for a moderate day hike.
Mount Muhabura (4,127 m), the highest of the three, offers sweeping views of the Virungas and beyond — even to Lake Edward and the Rwenzoris on a clear day.
Hiking these volcanoes is physically demanding but incredibly rewarding, with panoramic vistas and a sense of accomplishment waiting at the top.
The Batwa Cultural Trail: Discover the Forest’s Ancient Inhabitants
Long before Mgahinga became a national park, it was home to the Batwa, a community of forest-dwelling hunter-gatherers who lived in harmony with nature.
The Batwa Cultural Trail offers a rare chance to walk with Batwa guides and hear their stories, witness traditional hunting techniques, and visit sacred sites like the Garama Cave.
This experience is more than just a cultural show — it’s a deeply moving insight into how conservation efforts have impacted indigenous communities, and how they’re working to preserve their heritage today.
Birdwatching: A Paradise for Avian Enthusiasts
Mgahinga is also a hotspot for birdwatching, with more than 180 bird species recorded, including Albertine Rift endemics.
Look out for the iconic Rwenzori turaco, the handsome francolin, and the colorful sunbirds that thrive in the park’s varied habitats. Whether you’re a serious birder or just love nature, the park’s montane forest and bamboo zones offer rewarding birding opportunities year-round.
Nature Walks: Quiet Time in the Forest
If you’re looking for a slower-paced activity, guided nature walks in the park are ideal. These walks let you appreciate the smaller details of the forest — its plants, insects, and sounds — that you might miss during more intense treks.
You can also walk to viewpoints that showcase the rolling Kigezi Highlands, the Virunga volcanoes, and even glimpses into neighboring Rwanda and Congo.
While gorilla trekking remains the crown jewel of Mgahinga, it’s only the beginning of what this park has to offer. From the shimmering fur of golden monkeys to the cultural richness of the Batwa trail and the breathtaking heights of the Virunga volcanoes, Mgahinga is full of surprises.
If you’re planning a trip, consider staying longer and experiencing more of the park’s activities. You’ll leave not just with memories of gorillas, but with a deeper appreciation for Uganda’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife.
