National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is situated on the slopes of Mts. Muhabura and Gahinga in the southwestern corner of Uganda, bordering Rwanda and Zaire.
A joint commission has been set up by Uganda, Rwanda and Zaire to protect the mountain gorilla in the Virunga Mountains where the borders of the three countries meet.
Gorillas are much less likely to be sighted here than in the Volcano National Park in Rwanda or in Rahuzi-Biega National Park or Djomba Gorilla Sanctuary in Zaire. The Ugandan side of the mountains is dryer, providing less moisture to grow the vegetation gorillas prefer eating. However, the clearer skies provide breathtaking views of this, the most beautiful part of Uganda.
Gorillas are usually not spotted in one day; you must allow three days of searching to better insure success. If gorillas are found, it is difficult to approach closely or to spend much time with them; they are not habituated to humans as are gorillas in Rwanda and Zaire. Even if gorillas are not encountered, the hike through this peaceful scenic region of friendly people is well worth the effort.
From Kisoro, hike to the village of Giterderi, about a two-hour walk from Kisoro. Most people camp there for the night. The following morning, hike for about two hours to the area where the gorillas may be found. Return to camp just before dark.
This trek is recommended for only the hardiest of travel¬ers. The hike from base camp can take up to ten hours and a’1 participants must be in good shape. However, the cost of the treks is a fraction of that charged in Rwanda and Zaire.
Other wildlife in this 17-square-mile (44 km2) reserve includes blue monkey, black and white colobus monkey, bufia10andbushbuck.
OMMODATION - CLASS D: * Traveller’s Rest is the best hotel in the area, providing basic rooms with private facilities.
CAMPING: By permission of the land owner. There are no facilities.