Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

At the southwestern tip of Uganda, where the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo meet, lies Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Covering just 33.7 square kilometres, it is Uganda’s smallest national park, yet it is one of its most remarkable. Set within the larger Virunga Mountain range, the park is home to three extinct volcanoes—Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo—whose forested slopes create a stunning backdrop for every adventure. Mgahinga is one of the few places in the world where you can track endangered mountain gorillas and observe rare golden monkeys in their natural habitat. The bamboo forests echo with birdsong, while giant lobelias, ancient trees, and volcanic landscapes make every trail feel different. Beyond wildlife, the park is deeply connected to the history of the Batwa people, the original forest inhabitants, whose stories and traditions offer visitors a unique cultural experience. Exploring Mgahinga can be physically demanding. Gorilla treks, volcano hikes, and forest walks often involve steep climbs and uneven paths, but the journey rewards you with breathtaking views stretching across three countries and unforgettable encounters with nature. A little-known fact about Mgahinga is that it is the only national park in Uganda where visitors can legally track both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys on the same safari. It also forms part of the greater Virunga Conservation Area, a transboundary ecosystem that plays a vital role in protecting some of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas. Although compact in size, Mgahinga offers an extraordinary blend of wildlife, culture, and volcanic scenery, making it a destination that leaves visitors with lasting memories of Uganda’s highlands.