Hiking the volcanoes of Mgahinga National Park.
Hiking the volcanoes of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the Park’s most exciting and rewarding adventures. The Park is home to three extinct volcanic mountains, Mount Muhavura, Mount Sabyinyo, and Mount Virunga, with each offering unique challenges and views. Mount. Muhabura is the highest, while Mount Sabinyo’s summit is a unique point where Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC converge. Gahinga is the smallest, with a crater lake at its summit.
Mount Muhabura, meaning “the Guide,” is the highest and offers a step but rewarding climb, with panoramic views of the Virunga ranges and Crater Lake at its summit.
Mount Sabinyo, known as “Old man’s teeth,” provides the most adventurous hike with rugged ridges marking the border between Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC. Summiting it means standing in three countries at once.
Mount. Gahi, the smallest of the three feature a gentler climb through bamboo forests and scenic vegetation perfect for moderate hikers.
Duration of the hike
The duration of volcanic hikes in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park depends on which peak you choose to climb. Generally, each hike takes between 6 and 9 hours forround-tripd trips. Most Gahinga offers the easiest and shortest hike, lasting about 6 hours, while Mount Sabinyo and Mount Muhabura are more challenging, taking around 8 to 9 hours due to their steep slopes and rugged terrain. All hikes start early in the morning and are guided by trained Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers to ensure safety and an informative Hike.
BEST TIME FOR HIKE
The best time to hike the Volcanoes in Mgahinga is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. During these months, the trails are drier and less slippery, making climbing easier and more enjoyable. The clear skies also provide excellent visibility and a stunning region. Light rain can occur at any time, so hikers should always be prepared for sudden weather changes.
What to pack for the hike?
For a comfortable and safe Hike: long-sleeved shirts and trousers, hiking boots, a warm sweater, a hat, sunglasses, a guitar,o t hick socks to prevent mud, insects, and debris from entering your boots.
Day Pack Essentials
Carry a small, lightweightwaterprooff day pack for personal items such as a reusable water bottle, energy snacks, a camera, insect repellent, sunscreen, a small first aid kit and sun screen, small first aid kit and Gloves.
