Combine Hiking Mount Muhavura with Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga

Combine Hiking Mount Muhavura with Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga

If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, combining hiking Mount Muhavura with gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the perfect choice. Located on the border of Rwanda and Uganda, Mount Muhavura stands at 4,127 meters (13,540 feet) above sea level, making it the highest peak in the Gahinga Range. The hike to the summit takes about 5 hours, making it a challenging but rewarding trek. Upon reaching the top, you’ll be greeted by a stunning crater lake and breathtaking views of the Virunga Mountains.

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga National Park is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, the only group available for gorilla trekking in the park. This family is known for their fascinating behaviors, and trekking to see them is a rare and magical experience. Just like gorilla trekking in Bwindi, permits for Mgahinga are limited, with only 8 available per day, so booking your trek well in advance is essential.

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga begins with a briefing at the park headquarters in the morning. Afterward, a guide will lead you on a trek through the forest in search of the mountain gorillas. Once you find them, you’ll be allowed to observe these magnificent creatures for an hour, learning about their behavior, family structure, and conservation efforts.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga

Gorilla trekking permits in Mgahinga are priced the same as those in Bwindi:

• USD 800 for Foreign Non-Residents
• USD 700 for Foreign Residents
• 300,000 UGX for East African Residents

Once you secure your permit, you can look forward to a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the mountain gorillas.

How to Combine Hiking Mount Muhavura with Gorilla Trekking

There are several ways to combine hiking Mount Muhavura with gorilla trekking in Mgahinga. You can either start with gorilla trekking in the morning and hike Mount Muhavura afterward, or reverse the order. Both options offer a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and wildlife encounters.

Transportation and Costs to Mgahinga

Getting to Mgahinga National Park is relatively easy, as it’s located just a 45-minute drive from Kisoro town. You’ll need to arrange transportation, with vehicle hire ranging from USD 100 to USD 250 per day, depending on the type of vehicle. A round-trip from Kisoro for a 3-day trip costs approximately USD 290.

Additionally, if you’re traveling from Entebbe or Kigali, you’ll need to secure a Uganda visa for USD 50. Excursia Adventures offers comfortable 4×4 vehicles with air conditioning and drinking water to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to the park.

Accommodation in Mgahinga National Park

There are a variety of accommodation options around Mgahinga National Park, ranging from budget to luxury. Some popular choices include:

• Gahinga Lodge (Luxury – USD 400 per night)
• Lake Chahafi Lodge (Mid-range – USD 100 per night)
• Lake Muhele Lodge (Budget/Mid-range – USD 100 per night)
• Hotels in Kisoro town also offer budget-friendly options starting at USD 50 per night, with a 30-minute drive to the park.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, there are lodges in the nearby Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, just about an hour’s drive from Mgahinga.

Other Activities in Mgahinga National Park

In addition to gorilla trekking and hiking Mount Muhavura, Mgahinga National Park offers several other exciting activities:

• Golden Monkey Tracking: Unique to Mgahinga, this activity allows you to track the endangered golden monkeys through the forest.
• Golden Monkey Habituation: Spend extended time with the semi-habituated golden monkeys, learning more about their behavior.
• Batwa Cultural Trail: Experience the traditional lifestyle of the Batwa people who once lived in the forest, including traditional dances and fire-making demonstrations.
• Nature Walks: Explore the beautiful Gahinga Forest and learn about its diverse flora and fauna.
• Village Walk in Kisoro: Discover the local cultures of the Bafumbira and Bakiga tribes and enjoy traditional dances and local foods.
• Bird Watching: Mgahinga is home to over 127 bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Why Book With Excursia Adventures?

Excursia Adventures is a trusted tour operator based in Uganda, offering tailored experiences that combine hiking Mount Muhavura with gorilla trekking in Mgahinga. Our team is dedicated to providing you with a seamless and unforgettable adventure. We offer discounted packages, expert guides, and personalized service. With glowing reviews on TripAdvisor and SafariBookings, Excursia Adventures is known for creating authentic experiences in East Africa.

Contact us today to plan your dream trip, combining hiking Mount Muhavura with gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park!