TALK TO AN EXPERT +256 716 068 279 WHATSAPP OPEN NOW.

Home / Travel News, Stories & Tips / Wildlife Beyond Gorillas / Best nature walks in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Updated

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, on the slopes of the Virunga volcanoes near Kisoro, has much more than gorilla trekking. Guided walks include the Sabinyo Gorge trail, the Batwa trail through the forest with Batwa guides, golden monkey tracking in the bamboo zone, and full-day volcano climbs. The views across the volcanoes to Rwanda and Congo are among the best in Uganda.

Walks and hikes

The Sabinyo Gorge trail climbs through montane forest and bamboo into a gorge below Mount Sabyinyo, good for birds such as the Rwenzori turaco. Volcano hikes go to the summits of Gahinga, Sabyinyo and Muhabura, each a long, steep day. Lower-level walks along the park boundary give views and birding without the climb.

Wildflowers on the lower slopes of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Wildflowers on the slopes of Mgahinga. Photo: Nina R from Africa, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Primates and culture

Golden monkey tracking is a lively half-day activity in the bamboo zone. The Batwa trail, led by Batwa guides, shows how the forest people lived, hunted and gathered honey before the park was created, and ends at Garama Cave.

Booking activities

Book activities at the park office near Ntebeko gate. A ranger guide is required. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. See our guides to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, golden monkey tracking, the Batwa trail and hiking in Uganda.

Guesthouse with gardens and forest near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Accommodation near Mgahinga. Photo: SuSanA Secretariat, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Frequently asked questions

What can I do in Mgahinga besides gorilla trekking?

Golden monkey tracking, the Batwa trail, the Sabinyo Gorge walk and volcano hikes.

Which volcano is the easiest to climb?

Gahinga is the shortest; Muhabura is the highest and hardest.

What is the Batwa trail?

A guided cultural walk with Batwa guides through their former forest home.

Do I need a guide?

Yes, all activities are guided.

Ready to experience Uganda’s mountain gorillas in 2026? Secure your gorilla permits early and let us craft a seamless safari tailored to your travel style, preferred trekking sector, and accommodation level. From luxury lodges to well-designed midrange journeys, every detail is handled for you. Every itinerary is carefully planned to maximize your time in the forest while ensuring comfort, safety, and unforgettable encounters.

Have questions about gorilla permits, travel dates, or the best itinerary for you? Speak with a safari expert and get clear, honest guidance to plan your trip with confidence.

When is the last time you had an adventure? African Gorillas!!! Up Close With Uganda’s Wild Gorillas Touched by a Wild Gorilla: An Unforgettable Encounter Inside Gorilla Families: Bonds, Hierarchies & Jungle Life Face to Face With a Silverback: The Wild Encounter You’ll Never Forget