Combining gorilla trekking with a hike up Mount Sabyinyo in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda, offers an extraordinary adventure. The park, located on the border of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is unique because it allows tourists to experience both activities during the same safari.
Mount Sabyinyo Overview
Mount Sabyinyo, an extinct volcano, is part of the Virunga mountain range, which includes Mounts Gahinga, Muhabura, Karisimbi, Bisoke, and Mikeno. “Sabyinyo” comes from the Kinyarwanda word for “old man’s teeth,” inspired by the mountain’s jagged peaks. The mountain stands at 3,669 meters and marks the border of the three countries.
Hiking Mount Sabyinyo
The hike up Mount Sabyinyo is a challenging yet rewarding journey that takes around 8 hours round-trip. It begins at 8 a.m. from the park headquarters, where hikers are provided with a guide. The trail passes through diverse habitats, including bamboo zones, rainforests, heather, and Afromontane zones, where you can spot wildlife like golden monkeys, forest elephants, buffaloes, and mountain gorillas. The hike features handmade wooden ladders to assist with the steep ascent.
Reaching the summit at 3,669 meters, you are rewarded with panoramic views of Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC, including Lake Kivu, Lake Bunyonyi, and the Virunga volcanoes. The hike costs between $50-80 for a permit, and it offers a chance to set foot in all three countries at once.
Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
After a hike, you can go gorilla trekking in the same park. Mgahinga is one of only four locations in the world where you can see the critically endangered mountain gorillas, alongside Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in the DRC, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda.
Mgahinga is home to around 80 mountain gorillas, with one habituated group, the Nyakagyezi family, available for tourists. Due to the limited number of permits (only 8 per day), booking in advance is recommended. Trekking occurs year-round, but the dry seasons (December-February and June-October) are ideal. Visitors are briefed at the Ntebeko gate before embarking on the trek, which allows an hour with the gorillas for observation and photography.
Other Activities in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Golden Monkey Trekking: The park is one of the few places where you can see endangered golden monkeys.
- Nature Walks: Explore different forest trails, including swamps, plantations, and the shores of Lake Mutanda. Nature walks offer a chance to see various bird species, plants, and other wildlife.
- Batwa Cultural Experience: The Batwa Trail offers insights into the lives of the indigenous Batwa people, showcasing their traditional hunting, gathering, and survival skills.
- Bird Watching: Mgahinga is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 100 species, including the Rwenzori turaco, Archers’ Robin-Chat, and many more.
Accommodation Options in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Mount Gahinga Safari Lodge: A luxury lodge at the foot of three volcanoes, offering stunning views and comfort.
- Amajambere Iwacu Camp: A budget option near the park office with dormitories and camping facilities.
- Chameleon Hill Lodge: Situated near Lake Mutanda, this lodge offers beautiful views and opportunities for nature walks.
- Traveler’s Nest Hotel: One of Uganda’s oldest hotels with rooms featuring fireplaces.
- Nkuringo Safari Lodge: Located near Lake Mutanda, this lodge offers affordable accommodation and camping activities.
- Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge: A luxury lodge in Kisoro town, near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, with easy access to Mgahinga.
Combining gorilla trekking with a hike up Mount Sabyinyo allows visitors to immerse themselves in Uganda’s rich natural beauty and diverse wildlife, creating a unique and memorable experience.