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Mount Muhavura
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Mount Muhavura, also known as Muhabura, is an extinct volcano in the Virunga Mountains on the border between Uganda and Rwanda. At 4,127 meters, it is the third highest of the eight major volcanoes in the Virunga chain and the highest point in Uganda's Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Its name means 'The Guide' in the local Kinyarwanda language, likely due to its perfectly conical peak being visible from far away, serving as a landmark. The volcano has a small crater lake, about 40 meters in diameter, at its summit. Mount Muhavura is geologically younger than its neighbors, Gahinga and Sabyinyo. Its slopes are steep and covered with diverse vegetation, ranging from montane forests to sub-alpine heath. The mountain is an important habitat for mountain gorillas and other wildlife. The challenging but rewarding climb of Muhavura provides dramatic panoramic views on clear days, encompassing the other Virunga volcanoes, Lake Edward, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- Location: Uganda
- Top sights: ngarama batwa cave · Uganda Wildlife Authority
- Nearby: Kisoro (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 17 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 17 | 17 | 17 | 18 | 17 | 17 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 127 | 127 | 206 | 183 | 142 | 74 | 45 | 92 | 139 | 190 | 218 | 154 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Reaching this prominent volcano in the Virunga Mountains from the Ugandan side involves coordinating with the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park headquarters, where you will secure trekking permits and a local guide.
Best season
The optimal time to visit is during the drier months, generally between December and February or June and August, as the challenging trails become exceptionally muddy and slippery during the rainy seasons.
Terrain & paths
The ascent is characterized by an incredibly steep, almost continuous climb through shifting ecological zones, transitioning from lush tropical forests at the base to rugged, rocky outcroppings near the summit.
What to bring
Proper preparation requires sturdy, waterproof hiking boots, tough gloves to protect your hands against sharp vegetation, thick hiking socks, layered clothing for shifting temperatures, and a substantial supply of drinking water.
Parking
Visitors can securely leave their vehicles at the Ntebeko visitor center or the designated park entrance, where park authorities ensure the safety of your transport while you are away traversing the mountain.
Safety
Because of the rapid gain in elevation and demanding physical output, hikers must be wary of altitude sickness, dehydration, and rapid weather shifts, keeping in close communication with the mandatory armed escorts.
Time needed
A standard hike to the crater lake at the peak and back to the starting point typically demands a full day of intense physical exertion, usually lasting around eight to ten hours depending on the group's pace.
Geography
Facts
- The summit of Mount Muhavura reaches 4,127 meters in elevation.
- Its name means 'The Guide' in the Kinyarwanda language.
- It has a 40-meter diameter crater lake at its summit.
- It is the easternmost volcano of the Virunga chain.
- The volcano forms part of the border between Rwanda and Uganda.
- Its last eruption is thought to have occurred in the Holocene.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Mount Muhavura (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How strenuous is the hike?
The hike is very steep and requires good fitness.
Do I need a permit?
Yes, access to the summit is paid and requires a permit.
Is there a best season?
The dry season from June to August is convenient for climbing.
What do I see from the summit?
You have a fantastic view of the Virunga volcanoes.
Do I need a guide?
Yes, guided tours are mandatory.
Mount Muhavura: where is it located?
Mount Muhavura is located in Uganda.
Mount Muhavura: what is there to see?
Highlights include ngarama batwa cave, Uganda Wildlife Authority.
Mount Muhavura: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Mount Muhavura: why is it worth visiting?
Mount Muhavura, also known as Muhabura, is an extinct volcano in the Virunga Mountains on the border between Uganda and Rwanda.
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Nearby cities
Moyo
Moyo is a significant city in Uganda, known for its vibrant culture and economic importance in the region.
Kisoro
Kisoro is a significant city in Uganda, known for its vibrant culture and economic importance in the region.
Kinigi
This base camp for tourists is located right next to the Volcanoes National Park and benefits massively from ecotourism.
Lake Mutanda
A picturesque freshwater lake framed by the majestic Virunga Volcanoes, offering absolute tranquility.
Rwaza
An important historical place in the north, looking back on a long mission history and the construction of old churches.
Burera
The administrative center of a northwestern district, located right next to the spectacular twin lakes and nearby volcanoes.
Kivuruga
A significant rural commercial center on the north-south transport axis, characterized by agricultural markets.
Rutshuru
Rutshuru is located in a fertile volcanic region north of Goma in North Kivu.
Mukamira
A bustling trading town on the main axis between Musanze and Lake Kivu, surrounded by green volcanic slopes.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site in Uganda, world-famous for its mountain gorillas and dense, misty ancient forests.
Nyabihu
A cool mountain town on the edge of the volcanic chain, where the country's best dairy products are made.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Mount Sabyinyo Peak
The rugged peak of the Sabyinyo volcano.
Kigezi Highlands
A hilly mountain region in the southwest, known for terraced farming.
Wambe Forest
A protected forest area near Bwindi National Park.
Kigezi Valleys
Deep, green valleys between the mountains of the Kigezi region.
Bwindi Forest
An UNESCO World Heritage rainforest famous for its mountain gorillas.
Kigezi Terraces
Artificially created slopes in the hilly landscape of the southwest.
🗺️
Muhabura
A dormant volcano on the border with Uganda, known for its crater lake.
Mount Gahinga
A smaller volcano in the Virunga chain, known for its moorland landscapes.