Mgahinga gorilla National Park : home of african Gorillas

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (33.7 sq km) is Uganda's smallest national park and one of the most dramatic as it lies on the northern slopes of mountains Muhabura, Mgahinga and Sabinyo – the three Volcanoes that create a spectacular view. It forms part of a cross-border system of contiguous reserves in Rwanda, Uganda and DRC (Congo) extending over some 430 sq km of the higher Virungas. Mgahinga is the most scenic park in Uganda, with panoramic views extending northward to Bwindi, and a southern skyline dominated by the steep volcanic cones of the Virungas, arguably the most memorable sights in East Africa.
The Virungas accommodate more than half of the world population of the endangered mountain gorilla. 380 individuals occupy the Volcanoes slopes while the remaining 340 live nearby in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. Mgahinga is supplemented by the two larger adjoining parks in Rwanda (Volcanoes NP) and DR Congo (Virunga NP).

Flora and Fauna of Mgahinga National Park

A series of distinct altitudinal bands of vegetation cover the slopes of Mgahinga. The lowest zone is characterized with grass and bush which was formerly encroached on by farmers but now regenerating. Virgin vegetation begins with montane forest and Ericaceous zone which is made of giant tree heathers. This sequence translates into the spectacular alpine zone which is found only on East African Mountains above 3000m and includes bizarre giant forms of lobelia and groundsel.
Mgahinga Gorilla Park harbors at least 39 mammal and 79 bird species. Bigger mammals, though rare, include elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and bush pig. Its most famous resident is the mountain gorilla. The golden monkey is less famous and rare but deserves protection. Some notable birds in this park include Rwenzori Turaco, Crowned Hornbill, Black Kite and Crowned Crane.

The Mgahinga Peaks
Mgahinga consists of 3 volcanic peaks, Muhabura (4,127m), Sabinyo (3,669m) and Mgahinga (3,474m). To climb all these peaks you do not need specialist equipment. A reasonable level of fitness is necessary if you are to enjoy the mountain climbing experience. The three names are locally translated thus:-

1. Muhabura means the ‘guide' and its towering cone is a prominent landmark. Its crater, during 19th century, glowed to provide a natural lighthouse for travelers.
2. The rim of the older Sabinyo has weathered into projections earning it a name ‘Old man's teeth'. The imposing cones overshadow the stumpy Mt Mgahinga.
3. The volcanic rocks that clutter farmland into ‘small piles of stones' – or Gahingas.

Mt Sabinyo

Sabinyo consists of 3 peaks. A climb leads first to Peak 1 before ascending towards Peak 2 along a narrow ridge that overlooks breathtaking deep into deep gorges on either side. Peak 3 is accessed by a steep and muddy scramble. The Uganda, Rwanda and Congo borders converge on this summit. A round trip of 14 km takes about 8 hours.

Mt Mgahinga

To climb Mt Mgahinga you will traverse the bamboo forest and reach a lush swamp lying in the crater at the summit. A round trip from Ntebeko takes around 6 hours.

Mt Muhavura

The volcanic cone is capped by a small spectacular crater lake. To access it you need to undertake a 5 hour trek that rises steeply for 1700m to over 4100m. The superb panoramas and the marvelous alpine vegetation make a mountain climb rewarding. An ascent of Mt Muhavura following the Muhuvura trail provides a view of the five other Virunga volcanoes, the rift valley, Lake Edward and, in clear weather, the Ruwenzori Mountains.

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla Park

 
Mgahinga Gorilla Park is famous for mountain gorilla trekking tours. One gorilla family has been habituated to human contact – the Nyakagyezi Group, which is visited by tourists. It consists of 11 members: 2 silverbacks, 3 adult females, 4juveniles and 2 infants. This group keeps on shifting between Congo, Rwanda and Uganda. You have to keep updated on their daily movements from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Normally registration and briefing for gorilla tracking begins at Ntebeko at 07.45. Gorilla trekking begins at 08.30 and can take 3 to 8 hours.

Checklist of what to take

1. Solid walking shoes or boots
2. Sunscreen
3. Rain gear and hat
4. Insect repellant
5. Drinks and snacks
6. Binoculars
7. Camera

You can have the assistance of porters at a modest fee.

Gorilla Rules

1. A visitor with a communicable disease, such as flu or diarrhea, is not allowed to visit the gorillas
2. You don't have to surround the gorillas but remain in a tight group
3. A distance of 5m between you and the gorillas is necessary
4. If the gorillas approach you move backward slowly
5. Flash photography is strictly not allowed
6. Don't smoke or eat within 200m of the gorillas
7. In case you need to sneeze or cough, turn away from the gorillas and cover your nose and mouth
8. Don't spit on vegetation or soil while in the park
9. Bury all human faeces in a hole dug at least 30cm (1ft) deep and make sure it is properly covered afterwards
10. All litter must be removed from the park for disposal
11. A person of under 15 years is not allowed to track the gorillas
12. You are allowed to stay in contact with the gorillas for only 1 hour
13. When with the gorillas, desist from making loud noises or sudden movements.

UGANDA WILDLIFE SAFARIS
GORILLA TREKKING TOURS
RWANDA SAFARIS
UGANDA RWANDA CHIMPANZEE TREKKING
BIRDING TRIPS
CULTURAL TOURS

 

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