Exclusive Trekking Experience with the Mishaya Gorilla Family

Exclusive Trekking Experience with the Mishaya Gorilla Family

Exclusive Trekking Experience with the Mishaya Gorilla Family — Are you wondering if it’s possible to have a private trek with the Mishaya Gorilla Family? The answer is yes, you can reserve all the permits and trek this unique group exclusively. Here’s how you can make it happen with Trek Africa Gorillas.

Meet the Mishaya Gorilla Family in Bwindi

The Mishaya Gorilla Family is a splinter group that broke away from the Nshongi Gorilla Group in 2010. The split was led by the dominant silverback, Mishaya, who took seven members with him. Known for its resilient and aggressive nature, this group has grown over the years, attracting new members and becoming a favorite for trekkers seeking a more dynamic and exciting encounter.

How to Book a Private Gorilla Trek with the Mishaya Group

If you’re planning to trek the Mishaya Gorilla Family privately—whether as a solo traveler or with your own group—you can reserve all the available permits for the day. Here’s what you need to know:

• Permit Costs:
  • Foreign Non-Residents: $800 per person
  • Foreign Residents: $700 per person
  • East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 per person
• Group Size: The Mishaya Gorilla Family trek is limited to 8 permits per day. To secure an exclusive experience, you’ll need to purchase all 8 permits for a total cost of $5,700 for foreign non-residents.
• Advance Payment: You can secure the permits by paying 100%, 70% or 30% of the total amount upfront. It’s recommended to book at least 3 to 4 months in advance, especially during peak seasons when permits sell out quickly.

Key Tips for Planning an Exclusive Mishaya Gorilla Trek

1. Booking All Permits in Advance

To ensure a private experience, you must block all 8 permits for the Mishaya Gorilla Family on your chosen trekking date. This guarantees that no other tourists will join your trek. Contact us to handle the booking process and secure your permits seamlessly.

2. Reserve a Private Lodge in Rushaga or Nkuringo

For a complete private experience, consider booking an entire lodge in the Rushaga area. This adds an extra layer of exclusivity to your safari. Some luxury options in Rushaga include:

• Four Gorillas Lodge
• Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Gorilla Valley Lodge

If you prefer, you can stay in the nearby Nkuringo sector, which offers top-tier accommodations like:

• Gorilla Heights Lodge
• Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge
• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

3. Travel Options to Reach Rushaga

Getting to Rushaga can be a long journey but we have options to make it easier:

• By Air: You can fly to Kisoro Airstrip, which is close to Rushaga. This cuts down the travel time from Entebbe or Kampala (8–9 hours by road) to just a 2-hour drive from Kisoro Airstrip to your lodge.
• By Road: If you prefer a road trip, you can drive from Entebbe/Kampala or take a shorter route from Kigali, Rwanda via the Cyanika border, which is about a 4–5 hour drive.
• Vehicle Recommendation: We recommend using a 4×4 Land Cruiser for a comfortable and safe journey, especially on the rugged roads leading to the park.

How to Get to Rushaga for Trekking

By Air

The quickest way to reach Rushaga is by flying. Aerolink offers domestic flights to Kisoro Airstrip. From Kisoro, it’s about a 1-hour drive to your lodge in Rushaga. Our professional guide will pick you up from the airstrip and transfer you to your accommodation.

By Road

You can also reach Rushaga by road. Here are your options:

• From Entebbe/Kampala: It’s an 8–9 hour drive via Kabale Town. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for a smoother journey.
• From Kigali, Rwanda: For a shorter route, drive through the Cyanika border. The journey from Kigali takes about 4–5 hours, passing through Kisoro Town.

What to Pack for Trekking the Mishaya Gorilla Family

If you’re planning to trek the Mishaya Gorilla Family exclusively and wondering what to wear, here’s a handy checklist to help you stay comfortable and prepared for this exciting adventure:

1. Warm, Long-Sleeved Sweater: The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest can get quite chilly, so a warm, long-sleeved sweater will help you stay comfortable.
2. Two Pairs of Long Trousers: Opt for long pants to protect your legs from insects and thorny bushes. Lightweight, quick-drying fabric is ideal.
3. Waterproof Hiking Boots: The terrain can be muddy and uneven, so sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are a must for better grip and comfort.
4. Hat and Sunglasses: These are optional but can be useful, especially if it’s sunny. They’ll protect you from the sun and help with visibility.
5. Camera with Extra Batteries: Capturing your encounter with the gorillas is a must. Bring extra batteries and remember to turn off the flash to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
6. Binoculars: The forest is home to many bird species and other wildlife. Binoculars will give you a closer look at these amazing creatures.
7. Gardening Gloves: These will protect your hands when gripping branches and vines during the trek.
8. Raincoat: Bwindi is a rainforest and rain showers can happen unexpectedly. A lightweight, waterproof raincoat is essential.
9. Insect Repellent: Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects with a good repellent.
10. Sunscreen: Though optional, sunscreen is recommended if you’re trekking during sunny weather to prevent sunburn.
11. Neutral-Colored Clothing: Avoid bright colors as they may disturb the gorillas. Steer clear of black and blue shades, which attract tsetse flies. Neutral colors like khaki, brown or green are best.

Best Time for an Exclusive Mishaya Gorilla Trek

The best time to trek the Mishaya Gorilla Family exclusively is during the dry months of January, February, June to early September. These months offer better trail conditions and clearer views of the gorillas since the vegetation is less dense.

Why Book Your Private Gorilla Trek with Trek Africa Gorillas?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we are experts in crafting personalized, exclusive experiences for our clients. Here’s why you should book your trek with us:

• Quick Response: We pride ourselves on responding to inquiries within 20 minutes, so you’ll never have to wait long for answers.
• Tailor-Made Itineraries: Our professional consultants create customized travel plans based on your preferences, ensuring a seamless experience.
• Experienced Guides: Our safari guides are knowledgeable and fluent in multiple languages, making your trek informative and enjoyable.

Ready for an unforgettable, private trekking experience with the Mishaya Gorilla Family? Contact us today to start planning your exclusive adventure!