Mgahinga Gorilla National Park sits high in the clouds, at an altitude of between 2,227m and 4,127m. As its name suggests, it was created to protect the rare mountain gorillas that inhabit its dense forests, and it is also an important habitat for the endangered golden monkey. As well as being important for wildlife, the park also has a huge cultural significance, in particular for the indigenous Batwa pygmies.
This tribe of hunter-gatherers was the forest’s “first people”, and their ancient knowledge of its secrets remains unrivalled. Mgahinga’s most striking features are its three conical, extinct volcanoes, part of the spectacular Virunga Range that lies along the border region of Uganda, Congo and Rwanda. Mgahinga forms part of the much larger Virunga Conservation Area which includes adjacent parks in these countries.
The volcanoes’ slopes contain various ecosystems and are biologically diverse, and their peaks provide a striking backdrop to this gorgeous scenery.
Other landmarks on the path Southwest
- Kibale Forest National Park
- Bigodi Wetlands & Community Programs
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Maramagambo Forest
- Katonga
- Kisiizi Falls (listed below)
- Semuliki National Park
- Rwenzori Mountains National Park
The Kisiizi Falls are located in Kisiizi Parish in Nyarushanje Sub County in Rukungiri District of Western Uganda. The falls drop approximately 30 meters off a cliff at Kisiizi on the Rushoma River that snakes its way to Lake Edward.
Kisiizi has both historical and geographical significance.
Geographically, the falls are located in a forested area and gorge famous for birdlife including endemic species like the Ross Turaco, Double Toothed barbet, and the cinnamon Bee-eater. As a tourist area, it is famed for the scenic environment and trekking activities.
The monument at Kisiizi Falls overlooking the community present strong tourist potential because of the historical, geographical, and social significance, the falls are located along the tourist route linking the Virunga ranges famed for the Mountain Gorilla attraction, and the Ishasha sector of the Queen Elizabeth National Park. The location is attractive to nature lovers because of its rich concentration of bird species, site viewing, and nature trekking. Visitors can also enjoy canoeing along River Rushoma and a trek to the Top of the Falls.
