Hiking-Gahinga Mountain. It stands an elevation of 3474 meters above sea level. It is mostly covered by Bamboo Forest which offers an opportunity to view Golden monkeys and Mountain
Gorillas while on the trail since bamboo is a delicacy to these adorable creatures. During the Hike, a variety of bird species are to be encountered since the Park boosts of 79 species among which 16 are Albertine rift endemics. Scenic landscapes that offer views of the three mountains namely; Gahinga, Muhavura and Sabinyo and the crater while at the summit are inevitable to miss. On a lucky day, other wildlife to encounter are Bushbucks and buffalos among others.
All hikes resume from Ntebeko Visitor’s Centre.
Preparation for the hike
You are highly advised to wear nature blending clothes for which they should be trousers, long sleeved shirts or blouse, hiking shoes, a hat, gloves, gaiters, walking sticks and rain gear. Carry Packed lunch and enough water for drinking as your Ranger guide at an appropriate time will stop for a picnic lunch break.
Hiring a porter to carry your backpack and offer you a pull or push during the hike is highly recommended. It is one way of supporting the community as it is the only job the locals get in a week or two to sustain their families.
Hike duration
Gahinga hike takes 6-10 hours depending on your experience. It is rated as a moderate hike compared to Sabinyo and Muhavura mountains. Those hiking for the first time, it’s a good challenge to take on. An estimate of 8 Kilometers is to be covered.
What to see during the Hike
Beautiful Sceneries. Gahinga mountain unlocks stunning views of other chains of the Virunga mountains like Muhavura and Sabinyo. While on the summit, down the rift valley are views of lake Mutanda and the vast agricultural fields that offer a greenery landscape entwined in highlands and valleys. Parts of Rwanda too can be sighted.
Wildlife. Along the trail on a lucky day, you may encounter Mountain Gorillas and Golden Monkeys since you pass through their feeding territories of the bamboo zone. Other wildlife to encounter is the Albertine endemic bird species, animals like Buffalos and Bushbucks, Rock hyrax among others.
Vegetation zones, Unique and high-altitude vegetation zones like the bamboo forest cover, Montane Forest and Afromontane among others can be seen while on the hike.
Best time to Hike Mount Gahinga
The dry season is the best time to hike unlike the wet when the trails are slippery and muddy. Months of the dry season are January, February, June, July, August and September. You are as well most likely to have clear scenic views of the far horizon with less fog.
Cost of the Hike
The cost per person hiking Mount Gahinga is 100 United States Dollars. This includes the entrance to the park and the activity, guided and guarded by a ranger with security personnel.