Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Visitor Centre
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Visitor Centre provides entry for gorilla and golden monkey tracking plus volcano hikes in Uganda's southwest corner near the Rwanda and DRC borders.
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Overview and significance
Volcanoes National Park is a national park in northwestern Rwanda. It covers 160 km2 (62 sq mi) of rainforest and encompasses five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains, namely Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga and Sabyinyo. It borders Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. It is home to the mountain gorilla and the golden monkey, and was the base for the primatologist Dian Fossey.
History and heritage
Its historical story is also significant: the park dates to 1925, as a small area bounded by Karisimbi, Bisoke and Mikeno, intended to protect the gorillas from poachers. Its historical story is also significant: in 1958, 700 ha (2.7 sq mi) of the park were cleared for a human settlement.
Features and attractions
Habitats may include savanna, wetland, forest or escarpment depending on the site. Wildlife viewing is never guaranteed; the landscape itself is part of the experience.
Activities and experiences
Common experiences include guided game drives, birdwatching, nature walks and photography arranged with authorised guides or lodges. Some sites offer boat trips or specialised tracking subject to permits.
Visitor information
Confirm park fees, entry gates, guide requirements, vehicle rules and opening arrangements with the managing authority before travel. Stay on designated tracks and follow ranger instructions at all times.
This editorial information is a starting guide. Verify current visitor rules, fees and access with the official operator.