Mount Gahinga lies on the border of Uganda and Rwanda, between Mount Muhabura and Mount Sabyinyo. It is the smallest of the Virunga volcanoes, standing at 3,474 meters. The name “Gahinga” comes from a local word meaning small piles of volcanic stones.
Gahinga is the youngest of the Virunga volcanoes. While the other mountains are very old, Gahinga is believed to be only about a century old. At its summit, there is a caldera 180 meters wide, formed after an eruption before the mountain became extinct. The slopes are covered by bamboo forests, home to golden monkeys, mountain gorillas, and other primates.
Hiking Mount Gahinga
Mount Gahinga offers one of the easiest hikes in the Virunga range and does not require prior hiking experience. In Uganda, it is accessed through Mgahinga National Park, while in Rwanda it can be hiked from Volcanoes National Park.
The hike begins at 7:00 am with a briefing at the park headquarters. Rangers explain the hiking trails, safety rules, and what to expect. The climb takes about 6 to 8 hours. Along the way, hikers may see golden monkeys, gorillas, bush duikers, colobus monkeys, and several bird species.
Other Attractions & Activities
- Mountain gorillas: Around 80 gorillas live in Mgahinga National Park. The Nyakagezi family is the only habituated group open to visitors. Tourists spend one hour with the gorillas after tracking them.
- Wildlife: Other animals in the area include elephants, leopards, bushbucks, golden cats, hyenas, geckos, and snakes.
- Golden monkeys: Golden monkeys are a highlight of the bamboo forests. They live in large groups, feeding on bamboo and moving quickly through the trees.
Activities around Mount Gahinga
- Golden monkey & gorilla trekking: Gahinga is the best place in Uganda to see golden monkeys. Trekkers can combine gorilla trekking with golden monkey trekking. Permits cost 800 USD for gorillas and 60 USD for golden monkeys.
- Batwa trail experience: The Batwa were the original forest dwellers of the Virungas. On the Batwa trail, they demonstrate hunting tools, honey gathering, herbal medicine, and traditional dances. Visitors can also buy their handmade crafts to support the community.
- Bird watching: Mgahinga has about 115 bird species, while the wider Virunga area hosts around 250. Birds to see include the double-collared sunbird, paradise flycatcher, olive woodpecker, firefinch, and grey-capped warbler. The best birding months are April to May and October to November.
When to hike Mount Gahinga
The mountain can be hiked year-round, but the dry seasons from June to September and December to February are the best. Trails are less slippery during these months, making hiking easier and views clearer.
Cost of hiking Mount Gahinga
The permit costs 80 USD per person. Porters can be hired for about 15 to 20 USD to help carry luggage.
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