What to do after Gorilla Tracking in Mgahinga. Gorilla tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of Uganda’s most thrilling and humbling wildlife experiences. Nestled in the southwestern corner of the country, this park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area and offers a chance to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat—a moment that often feels like stepping into a wildlife documentary. But what happens after you’ve had your awe-inspiring hour with the gorillas?

Many travelers are surprised to learn that the adventure doesn’t end with gorilla tracking. Mgahinga and its surroundings are brimming with activities that enrich your experience, from cultural encounters to scenic hikes and relaxation options. If you’re wondering what to do after gorilla tracking in Mgahinga, here are some unforgettable ideas.

1. Hike One of the Virunga Volcanoes

Mgahinga is home to three extinct volcanoes—Mount Sabinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura—each offering a unique hiking challenge and spectacular views.

• Mount Sabinyo (“Old Man’s Teeth”) offers a dramatic, jagged summit that gives you the rare chance to stand in three countries—Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC—at once. The hike is steep and rugged but worth the effort.

• Mount Gahinga  (In the small pile of stones) is the easiest climb of the three, making it ideal for a post-trek adventure if you still have energy to burn. Along the way, you’ll pass through bamboo forests, which are home to golden monkeys.

• Mount Muhabura (The Guide) is the tallest and most strenuous but rewards climbers with breathtaking panoramic views and a crater lake at the summit.

These hikes typically take a full day, so be sure to rest up after gorilla tracking before attempting one.

2. Golden Monkey Tracking

If you’re still in the mood for primate encounters, golden monkey tracking is an excellent follow-up. These lively, endangered monkeys are native to the bamboo forests of the Virungas and are only found in this region.

Unlike gorillas, golden monkeys are agile and social, often seen leaping between trees in large groups. The tracking experience is lighter and more playful, offering a contrasting but equally memorable wildlife adventure.

3. Visit the Ngarama Batwa Trail Experience

Before the park was designated a protected area, the Batwa people—hunter-gatherers and some of the forest’s oldest inhabitants—called these forests home. Today, the Batwa Trail Experience offers a rare opportunity to learn about their culture, traditions, and survival skills.

Led by Batwa guides, the trail takes you through forests, sacred sites, and caves. You’ll see how the Batwa hunted, cooked, and performed rituals. The experience is deeply moving and educational, often cited by visitors as a highlight of their trip.

4. Relax at Lake Mutanda

After days of trekking, you might be ready for a slower pace. Lake Mutanda, just a short drive from Mgahinga, is a perfect place to unwind. Set against a backdrop of volcanoes and lush hills, the lake is ideal for:

• Canoe rides in traditional dugout canoes

• Birdwatching (kingfishers, herons, and more)

• Swimming (it’s one of Uganda’s bilharzia-free lakes)

• Reading, journaling, or simply enjoying the view

Several eco-lodges along the lake offer serene accommodations, perfect for reflecting on your gorilla adventure.

5. Explore Kisoro Town

The nearby town of Kisoro is a great place to immerse yourself in local life. Visit the bustling market, try local Ugandan cuisine, or pick up handcrafted souvenirs. Popular dishes include matoke (steamed plantains), groundnut stew, and roasted goat.

If you’re interested in community tourism, local NGOs also offer guided village walks or volunteer opportunities, which allow you to engage meaningfully with local residents.

6. Take a Scenic Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

If you haven’t had enough of gorillas, or if you want to see another side of Uganda’s biodiversity, take a drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park—just a few hours away. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site with multiple gorilla families and is also home to a wide range of bird species, butterflies, and forest elephants.

Even if you don’t go gorilla tracking again, hiking through Bwindi’s dense, ancient forest is an experience in itself.

7. Photography and Storytelling

With all the incredible experiences you’ve gathered, this is the perfect time to sort through your photos, journal your memories, or even start a travel blog. Mgahinga provides dramatic backdrops and emotional moments—ideal for storytelling, whether for personal keepsakes or public sharing.

Gorilla tracking in Mgahinga is just the beginning of a journey filled with nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you crave more physical challenges, want to connect with local communities, or simply need a place to rest and reflect, the region has something for everyone. Extending your stay beyond the gorilla trek ensures a deeper, richer travel experience that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

So don’t just pack your bags after seeing the gorillas—stay, explore, and let Mgahinga surprise you.