January is one of the best months to visit Mgahinga National Park because it falls within the dry season. The trails are dry and less muddy, making it easier to enjoy outdoor activities such as gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, and hiking.
The month is mostly dry, though light showers may occur. Daytime temperatures range between 18°C and 24°C (64°F–75°F), while night temperatures can drop to between 9°C and 12°C (48°F–54°F). The pleasant weather makes January ideal for exploring the park’s attractions and wildlife.
Booking permits
Because January is part of the high season, it is important to book your trekking permits early. Obtain them through the Uganda Wildlife Authority at least three months before your travel date, as permits tend to sell out quickly during this period.
Gorilla trekking in January
Gorilla trekking in January involves hiking through the forest with the help of an experienced guide to find the mountain gorillas. Once you find them, you can spend up to one hour observing them in their natural habitat. Each trekking group allows a maximum of eight people, and the entire experience can take between two and eight hours, depending on where the gorillas are located.
Batwa trail experience
The Batwa trail experience is another activity worth enjoying during this month. Visitors get to meet the Batwa people, learn about their traditional lifestyle, beliefs, and deep connection with the forest.
Volcano hiking
Hiking the volcanoes is also a great adventure in January. Mount Gahinga, standing at 3,474 meters, takes about six hours for a round trip. Mount Sabyinyo, which is 3,645 meters high, takes about eight hours for a round trip. Mount Muhabura, the highest at 4,127 meters, takes between eight and ten hours to climb and features a crater lake at its summit.
Accommodation options
There are plenty of accommodation facilities available in January, ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly options. Travelers can choose according to their comfort and budget preferences.
What to pack
When visiting Mgahinga in January, pack comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and warm clothing for the cool mornings and evenings. Being prepared ensures a comfortable and enjoyable safari.
Getting to Mgahinga
The park can be accessed either by road or by air. By road, it takes about nine hours to drive from Kampala, Uganda’s capital, and about four hours from Kigali, Rwanda. By air, you can take a scheduled or chartered flight from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Kisoro Airstrip, followed by a short road transfer to the park.
In summary, January is a great month to explore Mgahinga National Park. The dry weather, clear trails, and wide range of activities make it the perfect time for adventure and discovery.
