The Nyakagezi Gorilla Family
A single habituated mountain-gorilla group ranges across the Virunga massif — fewer trekkers, drier terrain than Bwindi, and unmatched volcanic backdrops when conditions align.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
A small park dominated by three Virunga volcanoes, home to mountain gorillas and the only park in Uganda where you can track golden monkeys.
Overview
Mgahinga is Uganda's quiet alternative to Bwindi — smaller, higher and dramatically framed by three Virunga volcanoes that march along the Rwandan border. A single habituated gorilla family, the Nyakagezi group, roams freely across the three countries (Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC) and when they're home, the trekking is exceptional. Add habituated golden monkeys found nowhere else in Uganda, a half-day immersion with the indigenous Batwa, and the option to summit Mt Sabyinyo straddling all three borders — Mgahinga is small but layered, and well worth the effort.
Mgahinga at a Glance
- Location
- Southwestern Uganda
- Size
- 33.7 km²
- Altitude
- 2,227 — 4,127 m
- Best Time to Visit
- June–August & December–February
Key Attractions
Habituated Golden Monkeys
A vibrant, endemic monkey species found only in the Virunga bamboo zone. The morning trek is far easier than gorilla tracking and the photography is sensational.
Three Virunga Volcanoes
Mt Sabyinyo, Mt Gahinga and Mt Muhabura — three dormant volcanoes that define the park, each climbable as a full-day summit hike with extraordinary triple-country views.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bwindi has 20+ habituated families and near-certain tracking. Mgahinga has one family that occasionally crosses into Rwanda or the DRC — we secure a permit only when our local team confirms the group is currently in Uganda.