MGAHINGA GORILLA NATIONAL PARK
OVERVIEW
The Park covers an area of 33.7 sq. km, just 8% of the VCA. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park consists of the partly forested slopes of three extinct volcanoes. From far away, the huge cones of the virunga volcanoes dominate the landscape and beckon you as you approach. Mgahinga Park has great biological importance because throughout the climatic changes of the Pleistocene ice ages, mountains such as these provided a refuge for mountain plants and animals, which moved up or down the slopes as climate became warmer or cooler. Location: In the far southwestern corner of Uganda about 554 km drive from Kampala via Kisoro, bordering Rwanda and Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west, The Park covers the northern slopes of the three northernmost Virunga Volcanoes: Mt. Muhavura (4,127 m), Mt. Gahinga (3,474 m), and Mt. Sabinyo (3,645 m). The Park is about 10 km south of Kisoro. Each of these countries protects its own portion of the Virungas, in the Parc National des Volcans and Parc National des Virunga respectively. The three parks together form the 434-sq. km. ‘Virunga Conservation Area’ or VCA. Wildlife: The Virungas are home to a large variety of wildlife, including about half the world’s critically endangered mountain gorillas. Birds: The park is blessed with a unique bird fauna; some of them are Ibis, Whydah, Speckled Mousebird, and Fire Finch, Stonechat, Grey Capped Warbler, Waxbills, and Yellow-Vented Bulbul. Access: The Park can be reached by road through Kabale and Kisoro 510 km from Kampala. Accommodation: there are luxury lodges, rest camps and campsites. To do: gorilla tracking, hiking birding and cave expedition. |
Serengeti National Park
The Park covers an area of 33.7 sq. km, just 8% of the VCA. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park consists of the partly forested slopes of three extinct volcanoes. From far away, the huge cones of the virunga volcanoes dominate the landscape and beckon you as you approach. Mgahinga Park has great biological importance because throughout the climatic changes of the Pleistocene ice ages, mountains such as these provided a refuge for mountain plants and animals, which moved up or down the slopes as climate became warmer or cooler. Location: In the far southwestern corner of Uganda about 554 km drive from Kampala via Kisoro, bordering Rwanda and Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west, The Park covers the northern slopes of the three northernmost Virunga Volcanoes: Mt. Muhavura (4,127 m), Mt. Gahinga (3,474 m), and Mt. Sabinyo (3,645 m). The Park is about 10 km south of Kisoro. Each of these countries protects its own portion of the Virungas, in the Parc National des Volcans and Parc National des Virunga respectively. The three parks together form the 434-sq. km. ‘Virunga Conservation Area’ or VCA. Wildlife: The Virungas are home to a large variety of wildlife, including about half the world’s critically endangered mountain gorillas. Birds: The park is blessed with a unique bird fauna; some of them are Ibis, Whydah, Speckled Mousebird, and Fire Finch, Stonechat, Grey Capped Warbler, Waxbills, and Yellow-Vented Bulbul. Access: The Park can be reached by road through Kabale and Kisoro 510 km from Kampala. Accommodation: there are luxury lodges, rest camps and campsites. To do: gorilla tracking, hiking birding and cave expedition. |
Serengeti National Park
Best Time To Visit
December to March: Calving season is the ideal time to witness the birth of thousands of young animals. It’s also when predators are most active, hunting vulnerable newborns.
April to June: The migration begins, as large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other species start moving northward across the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing lands.
July to October: Peak migration season, especially notable for the dramatic and dangerous crossings of the Mara River, where many animals fall prey to crocodiles.
November: Short rains signal the return of the herds to the Serengeti after months away, revitalizing the landscape and offering another spectacular wildlife display.
HOW TO GET THERE
By Road: The Serengeti is accessible by a roughly 7-hour scenic drive from Arusha, allowing travelers to pass through various landscapes, including villages and countryside along the way. It’s a great option for those who enjoy road trips and want to see more of the Tanzanian landscape before arriving at the park.
By Air: For a faster, more convenient option, regular flights operate from Arusha to multiple airstrips within the Serengeti. These flights significantly reduce travel time, offering stunning aerial views of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes.
TIPS FOR VISITORS
- Pack Smart: Bring lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for varying temperatures, along with a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Stay Hydrated: Make sure to carry plenty of water, especially during extended game drives to stay refreshed.
- Respect Wildlife: Always observe animals from a safe distance and avoid interacting with or feeding them.
- Follow the Rules: Listen carefully to your guide and follow all park regulations for both your safety and the preservation of the environment.
