Mount Gahinga, located in the Virunga Mountain range, is one of the most rewarding hikes for adventurers seeking an unforgettable experience in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Standing at 3,474 meters (11,396 feet) above sea level, Mount Gahinga is the smallest of the eight volcanic peaks in the Virunga chain, yet it offers a challenging and scenic adventure.
The hike to the summit takes around 3 to 4 hours, with beautiful views along the way, and the opportunity to encounter various primates, including Golden Monkeys. If you’re lucky, you may also spot Mountain Gorillas and other wildlife in the area. This 3-day hiking adventure is ideal for nature lovers and can be customized to start and end in either Entebbe/Kampala or Kigali.
Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel or airport in Kampala/Entebbe. From there, you’ll embark on an exciting drive to Kisoro, a town located near Mount Gahinga. Along the way, you’ll stop at the Equator for a photo opportunity and enjoy an en-route lunch. The drive offers plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs and take in the stunning landscapes of Uganda.
After a hearty breakfast at the lodge, you’ll head to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for a briefing before setting off on the hike. The trek up to the summit of Mount Gahinga typically takes around 3-4 hours. Along the way, you’ll have time for rest breaks and enjoy the unique scenery. Once at the summit, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
After descending, you’ll return to the lodge to relax, enjoy dinner, and rest. Depending on the time and your energy levels, you can also visit a local Batwa community for a cultural experience, where you’ll learn about their rich heritage.
On the final day, you’ll enjoy breakfast at the lodge before starting the journey back to Kampala/Entebbe. If you’re continuing your adventure, you can choose to end your trip in Kigali and take part in a morning Gorilla trek or Golden Monkey trek in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, before heading to Kigali for your flight or to your hotel.
Trek Africa Expeditions is a local tour operator based in Uganda, specializing in customized hiking and adventure tours throughout Africa. We take pride in offering personalized services and creating unforgettable experiences for our clients. Our dedicated team of professional tour consultants is available to assist with any questions you may have and will work with you to create a tailored itinerary.
Our knowledgeable safari guides, who speak a variety of languages, will accompany you on your hike to ensure a safe and enriching experience. We strive to make every part of your journey seamless and enjoyable, with all logistics taken care of in advance.
Ready to embark on your Mount Gahinga Volcano adventure? Get in touch with us today to book your hike and experience the beauty of the Virunga Mountains!