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5 Day Mgahinga Gorillas, Golden Monkey and Bunyonyi Safari

Overview

Our 5 Day Mgahinga Gorillas, Golden Monkey and Lake Bunyonyi Safari takes you to the picturesque Mgahinga National Park in southwestern Uganda. This park, though small and less frequented by tourists, is the only place in Uganda where mountain gorillas coexist with golden monkeys, giving rise to the saying, “Where Gold Meets Silver.” Designed for those with limited time but a desire to experience both gorilla trekking and golden monkey encounters, this safari also includes a visit to Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda’s deepest lake. The journey begins and ends in Entebbe, with a stop at the equator for a memorable photo opportunity.

Summary of the 5 Day Mgahinga Gorillas, Golden Monkey and Lake Bunyonyi Safari

Day 01: Pickup from your hotel and drive to Mgahinga National Park
Day 02: Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park
Day 03: Golden Monkey experience or Golden Monkey trekking
Day 04: Lake Bunyonyi boat excursion
Day 05: Drive back to Entebbe International Airport

Tour Summary

Destination: Uganda
Start and End: Entebbe (Uganda)
Activities: Gorilla tracking, golden monkey experience, Lake Bunyonyi canoeing
Transportation: Open-sided 4×4 vehicle & pop-up roof 4×4 vehicle
Inclusions: Airport transfers, accommodation, meals as per itinerary
Additional Options: Accommodation before and after the tour can be arranged at an extra cost
Considerations:
- Accommodation included
- Small group safari (Max 6 people per group)
- Depart any day
- Customizable tour
- Solo travelers welcome
- Age limit: 15 years and above

TRIP ITINERARY

Tour Plan

Day 1

Pick Up from the Airport/Hotel to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Your adventure starts with a pickup from your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala by our driver-guide, who will brief you on the journey ahead. You'll drive to Mgahinga National Park, making stops at Mpambire to witness traditional drum-making and at the equator crossing for photos. Lunch will be at either Agip Motel or Igongo Cultural Center in Mbarara, depending on timing. The scenic drive continues through Ntungamo's flatlands, Kabale's rolling hills, and finally to Kisoro District, where you'll settle in for the night at your lodge.

Accommodation: Kisoro Travellers Rest Inn
Meals: All meals included

Day 2

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga

After an early breakfast, you'll head to the park headquarters for a briefing. Your passport details will be checked to confirm your eligibility for gorilla trekking. A UWA ranger will guide you through the dos and don’ts before you begin your trek into the forest to find the Nyakagezi gorilla family, the only habituated group in Mgahinga. Once you find them, you'll have one hour to observe these magnificent creatures before returning to your lodge.

Accommodation: Kisoro Traveller’s Rest Inn
Meals: All meals included

Day 3

Golden Monkey Experience or Golden Monkey Trekking

After breakfast, you'll return to the park for either a full-day golden monkey habituation experience or a half-day golden monkey trekking adventure. After a briefing on how to behave around these primates, you'll embark on your trek. If you choose the habituation experience, you'll spend extended time with researchers; otherwise, you'll have one hour with the monkeys. Afterward, you'll return to your lodge for relaxation and dinner.

Accommodation: Kisoro Traveller’s Rest Inn
Meals: All meals included

Day 4

Lake Bunyonyi Boat Excursion

Following breakfast, you'll drive to Lake Bunyonyi, located in Kabale District. Known as Uganda's deepest lake, Lake Bunyonyi is an ideal place to relax after your gorilla trek. You'll enjoy a boat cruise exploring the various islands, each with its own unique history. Optional activities include hiking the surrounding hills or birdwatching.

Accommodation: Crater Bay Cottages or Similar
Meals: All meals included

Day 5

Drive Back to Kampala/Entebbe International Airport

After breakfast, you will embark on the return journey to Kampala or Entebbe International Airport, arriving in time for your late departure flight, thus concluding your 4-Day Mgahinga Gorilla and Golden Monkey Experience Safari.

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

Includes

Airport transfers on the first and last day
Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Services of an English-speaking driver/guide
Fuel for the entire trip
Accommodation and meal plan as per the itinerary
All Park entrance fees
Drinking water while in the vehicle

Excludes

Pre and post tour accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala
International airfares
Uganda Visa (USD50.00 which can be paid on arrival at the Airport

TOUR MAP

GENERAL FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the safari package include?

Our safari packages are designed to cover the key services needed for a comfortable and hassle-free trip. Depending on the itinerary, this may include accommodation, transportation, park entrance fees, professional guide services, meals and scheduled activities. A detailed list of inclusions will always be provided before you confirm your booking.

How do I book a safari with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Booking your safari is simple. Contact us with your preferred travel dates, number of travelers and the safari package you are interested in. Once availability is confirmed, we will send you a quotation and payment details. Your booking is secured once the required deposit has been received.

Can I customize my safari itinerary?

Yes. Every traveler has different interests, budgets and travel styles. Whether you would like to upgrade your accommodation, spend additional nights in a destination or add activities such as chimpanzee tracking, cultural visits or wildlife safaris, we can tailor the itinerary to suit your needs.

Are gorilla trekking permits included in the safari price?

Most of our gorilla trekking safaris include the cost of the gorilla permit. The permit is one of the most important parts of your trip and will be clearly listed in your quotation. If a permit is not included, we will explain this before you make your booking.

How far in advance should I book gorilla trekking permits?

We recommend booking gorilla permits at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak seasons from June to September or December to February. Permits are limited and can sell out quickly, particularly in popular trekking sectors.

What is the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking is available throughout the year in Uganda. Many travelers prefer the dry seasons from June to September and December to February because the trails are generally easier to navigate. However, the rainy seasons can also be rewarding, with fewer visitors and lush green scenery in the forest.

How difficult is gorilla trekking?

The difficulty of gorilla trekking varies depending on the location of the gorilla family being visited. Some treks may take less than an hour while others can last several hours through steep and forested terrain. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, but people of different ages and fitness levels successfully complete gorilla treks every day.

What should I pack for gorilla trekking?

For gorilla trekking, we recommend bringing sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, a lightweight rain jacket, gardening gloves, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, drinking water and a camera. Comfortable outdoor clothing is highly recommended as conditions in the forest can change quickly.

Do I need a visa to visit Uganda?

Most international travelers require a visa to enter Uganda. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, and our team will be happy to provide guidance on the application process and entry requirements before your trip.

What type of accommodation can I expect during my safari?

We offer carefully selected budget, mid-range and luxury accommodation options across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania. Our lodges and camps are chosen for their comfort, quality service, excellent locations and easy access to major safari attractions.

Are airport transfers included in the safari package?

Airport transfers are included in many of our safari packages. If they are not included, we can arrange private transfers for you. We will clearly explain all transportation arrangements before your arrival.

Is travel insurance required for a safari?

While travel insurance is not always mandatory, it is strongly recommended for all travelers. Comprehensive coverage can help protect you against unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, travel delays and lost luggage.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellation terms vary depending on the safari package, accommodation providers and permits involved. If you need to cancel your trip, please contact us as soon as possible and we will explain the options available based on our booking terms and conditions.

Can children join a safari in Uganda?

Many of our wildlife safaris are suitable for families traveling with children. However, some activities have age restrictions. For example, participants must be at least 15 years old to take part in gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

Can solo travelers book a safari?

Yes. We welcome solo travelers and can arrange both private and group safari experiences. Whether you are planning a gorilla trekking tour, wildlife safari or multi-country adventure, we can create an itinerary that matches your travel preferences.

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