Mountain Gahinga is one of the eight mountains in the vast Virunga massif, which sprawls through three countries in the east and central part of Africa, namely the Republic of Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mount Gahinga is located in the far edges of the southwestern part of Uganda, a landlocked country east of the continent of Africa, surrounded by South Sudan, Tanzania, Rwanda, Kenya and Democratic Republic of Congo. Uganda is cool, secure and affordable, with hiking adventures ranked among the best for those on adventure vacations, study tours, mountaineering, summer holidays or just relaxation.

The other volcanic ranges include the highest Mount. Karisimbi at 4,507m, Mount. Mikeno at 4,437m, Mount. Muhabura at 4,127, Mount Bisoke at 3,711metres, Mount. Sabyinyo at 3,671 meters, Mount Nyiragongo; one of the most active volcanoes in the world at 3,470 meters and mount. Nyamuragira at 3,058 meters. Gahinga Mountain is at 3,470 meters. It is one of the favorite hiking spots in the pearl of Africa, not restricted to fitness level, experience or age. However, hikers are advised to be in good health to be sure of success and free from diseases like Asthma, TB, blood pressure, etc., in addition to a winning spirit. Everyone in the adventure ends with an unforgettable experience.

Mountain Gahinga is located near Mgahinga gorilla national park, between Mount Sabinyo and Mount Muhabura in Kisoro district, a misty tropical forest hosting a quarter of total mountain gorilla species around the Virunga network of mountains. The name “Gahinga” is got from a local native word meaning pile of stones. It has a magnificent caldera, of about 180m wide. A variety of vegetation covers the mountain slopes and makes the best of hiking experience. There are mainly sub-alpine vegetation and bamboo plants preferred by the primates as food. The mountain is also a habitat for variety of primates such as the mountain Gorillas, black and white Colobus monkeys, Vervet monkeys and baboons among others.

Hiking.

This is an easy adventure, requiring only physical fitness and a positive mind. The adventure starts with an early morning briefing at the park headquarters, thereafter head to the start of an actual experience. The ranger guide will pass on all the trekking guidelines, history of the mountain and what to look out for during the hiking exercise. With a hiking stick, all trekkers will start the journey to the summit, with stopovers at different spots to take photos, have a little breather and watch the breathtaking sceneries such as the summits of other mountains, and Mountain Rwenzori. Hiking is on foot, for over 6 hours.

Start with tackling the bamboo plantation at the base, and then ascend as it gets steeper, while facing the caves, rocks and shallow craters. Descending is much easier and more fun, as you walk through the ladders to avoid sliding.

Cost of hiking mount. Gahinga.

Only those with the hiking permit are allowed to engage in this activity. The hiking permit costs only 75usd paid on the same hiking day. Meaning you will have no stress of early booking or even worry about no refund in case of cancellation. This can also be booked in the same Gorilla trekking safari. The money is paid to the park authorities at the park headquarters.

Best time to visit.

The best time to hike Gahinga Mountain is when it is dry. This is between June to September and December to February. The wet months come with difficulty of slippery grounds and abrupt showers that interfere with the activities.

Other activities besides hiking Mount. Gahinga include tracking the endangered mountain Gorillas in the Mgahinga gorilla national park, bird watching, guided Batwa trail, Golden monkey trekking and nature walks among others.

It is such a great experience hiking to the summit of Gahinga Mountain in the vast Virunga conservation area. It is a simple, exciting and unforgettable adventure, tailored to one’s fun and forever memories.