Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla is one  Uganda's smallest national park. However, it is also one of the most dramatic for the park lying  on the northern slopes of Mts.
Muhavura, Mgahinga and Sabyinyo, three volcanoes that create an unforgettable regional backdrop. These peaks are three of the six Virunga volcanoes that mark the southern limit of the Albertine Rift Valley and are divided between Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo. The Virungas are home to more than half of the world's population of the endangered mountain gorillas. 380 individuals roam the slopes of the volcanoes while the remaining 340 live nearby in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Fortunately for the gorillas, Mgahinga's small area is supplemented by those of two larger, adjoining parks in Rwanda (Volcanoes NP) and DR Congo (Virunga NP).
Though gorilla tracking is the park's most popular activity, Mgahinga merits a visit simply to appreciate the scenery. A choice of hikes allows for all abilities, ranging from the 8 hour return trip to the summit of Mt. Muhavura, to gentle strolls across the lower slopes beneath the magnificent three peaks.
The park experiences two rainy seasons; March-May and September-November. October is the wettest month, with 250mm of rain and July the driest with just 10mm.
Access to the park
It takes 8 hours from Kampala which is 540km in the south western direction, excluding rest stops, passing via Kabale and Kisoro. The 80km section between Kabale and Kisoro is a winding, mountainous drive on murram that takes at least 2 hours, while the park gate at Ntebeko lies a bumpy 14km (30 minutes) south of Kisoro. Charter flights can be arranged from Entebbe or Kampala (Kajjansi) to Kisoro airstrip.
Accommodation
At Ntebeko, the Volcanoes Camp provides upmarket accommodation while camping and basic cottages are provided in the Community Campground. And there are also lodges in Kisoro depending on where one wishes to stay.
Flora and fauna
Mgahinga's slopes are covered with a series of distinct altitudinal bands of vegetation. The lowest zone is covered with  grass and bush which was initially  encroached and cleared by farmers and is now regenerating. Undisturbed vegetation starts with Mantana woodland, followed by the bamboo zone, mantana forest and the Ericaceous zone which contains giant tree heathers. The sequence culminates with the spectacular alpine zone which occurs only on East African Mountains above 3000m and includes bizarre giant forms of lobelia and groundsel.
The park has over 39 species of mammal and 79 birds. Larger mammals include elephant, leopard, buffalo and bush pig but rarely seen. Mgahinga's most famous resident is the mountain gorilla. Less famous but equally rare and deserving of protection is the golden monkey which is found only in the Virungas and in one other forest in Rwanda. The most prominent and notable bird species include the Rwenzori turaco, crowned hornbill, black kite and crowned crane.
Local people and tribe
The district ( Kisoro) has a high  populated with 331 people per square kilometre km. There are two main ethnic groups. The most numerous are the Bafumbira who are primarily farmers. The Batwa, who once practiced a subsistence hunter-gather life in the forest, form a minority group.
The peaks
Mgahinga has three volcanic peaks, Muhubura (4127m), Sabyinyo (3669m) and Mgahinga (3474m). These can all be climbed.
Though no specialist equipment is required, a reasonable level of fitness is necessary if you intend to enjoy the experience.
The names of the three peaks come to life in translation. Muhavura means 'the guide' and its towering cone is a prominent landmark. During the 19th Century its crater still glowed to provide a natural light house for travellers. The rim of the older Sabyinyo has weathered into a ring of stubby peaks, earning it the title 'Old Man's Teeth'. These imposing cones overshadow the stumpy Mt. Mgahinga which is named for the local practice of tidying the volcanic rocks that clutter farmland into 'small piles of stones' - or gahingas.
Mt. Sabyinyo
Sabinyo has three peaks. An ascent leads first to Peak 1 before climbing towards Peak 2 along a narrow ridge that overlooks breathtaking drops into deep gorges on each side. Peak 3 is reached by a steep and muddy scramble. The borders of three countries converge on this summit and you will find yourself simultaneously in Rwanda, Congo and Uganda. The 14km round trip takes about 8 hours.
Mt. Gahinga
An ascent of Mt. Gahinga climbs through bamboo forest to reach a lush swamp which lies in the crater at the summit. The round trip from Ntebeko takes around 6 hours.
Mt. Muhavura
This classic volcanic cone is capped by a small but pretty crater lake; a modest reward for a 5 hour trek that rises steeply for  1700m to over 4100m. The real incentives for the climb are the  mountain's marvellous alpine vegetation and superb panoramas. The Muhuvura trail provides the quickest and shortest route to experience these dramatic plants while the View includes the five other Virunga volcanoes, the rift valley, Lake Edward and (in clear weather) the Rwenzori mountains. The 12km round trip takes around 8 hours. If you have your own equipments and food, you should consider camping at the ranger post at the base of the volcano to make an early start (and improve your chances of clear views).
Buffalo Wall and Bird Watching
Farmland along the northern edge of the park is guarded by a dry stone wall that keeps buffalo in the park and out of crops. The trail along the wall is ideal for birding. Guide will escort you between 17.00-18.00 if you book by 10.00 the A stroll towards the Democratic Republic of Congo through a wetland area where ibis, speckled mouse, fire finch are found.
Batwa Trail and Garama Cave
The Batwa Trail leads from the base of Muhuvura Cave. This walk is conducted by Batwa guides who provide insights into their traditional forest life and culture.
The 342m long Garama Cave lies beneath a plateau near the northern edge of the park, 3km from Ntebeko. It is set in the former farmland zone but in earlier times, the cave lay deep in the forest when it was occupied periodically by Batwa who used it as a council chamber and a retreat after raiding their neighbours. Today the cave provides an atmospheric a performance of Batwa music at the end of the Batwa Trails.
Gorilla Tracking
Mgahinga's most exciting and memorable activity is tracking the mountain gorilla in thick jungle. The park has one habituated gorilla group (Nyakagyezi) which is visited by tourists. This consists of 11 members; 2 silverbacks, 3 adult females, 4 juveniles and 2 infants. This group is mobile and sometimes crosses into Rwanda and DRC. Registration and briefing for gorilla tracking commences at Ntebeko at 07.45.
Tracking starts at 08.30 and can take three to eight hours.
Gorilla tracking is Uganda's most sought after tourism activity. You should book well in advance to ensure that permits for your requested dates are available.
Requirements for gorilla trekking

• Solid walking shoes or boots
• Rain gear and hat
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Drinks and snacks
• Binoculars
• Camera

Porters are available at a modest cost.