For adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path challenge, the Mount Muhabura hike in Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park delivers an unforgettable experience. Rising to 4,127 meters, Muhabura meaning “the guide” in the local Kinyarwanda language is the third-highest peak in the Virunga Massif, a volcanic range spanning Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This extinct volcano offers stunning views and a rewarding ascent for those ready to tackle its slopes.
The full-day trek begins at 7:00 AM from the Ntebeko Visitor Center with a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. The 6 to 8 hour round trip weaves through bamboo forests and montane landscapes, where golden monkeys and vibrant birdlife thrive. At the summit, a tranquil crater lake crowns the peak, surrounded by panoramic vistas of the Virunga volcanoes and, on clear days, Uganda’s distant Lake Bunyonyi.
Travelers can reach Mgahinga from Kisoro, a charming town accessible by a 1 to 2 hour drive from the park or a domestic flight from Entebbe to Kisoro airstrip. The best months to hike are June to September and December to February, when dry weather eases the steep climb, though rain gear and sturdy boots are must-haves year-round due to sudden showers.
Mount Muhabura combines physical challenge with natural splendor, making it a standout destination for global explorers eager to conquer a lesser-known volcanic gem in East Africa.