Fly-In Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Fly-In Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Experience the beauty of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park with a convenient Fly-In Safari, perfect for those who prefer to skip the long 8-9 hour drive from Kampala to Kisoro. With just a 2-hour flight, you’ll spend less time on the road and more time enjoying the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of this stunning park.

This exciting safari offers various activities, including mountain gorilla tracking, the Batwa cultural trail experience, and volcano climbing. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the few places where you can track the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. Plus, adventurers can explore the park’s three extinct volcanoes, which provide fantastic hiking opportunities.

About Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Uganda’s smallest national park, situated on the border with Rwanda. It forms part of the magnificent Virunga mountain range, alongside Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park features three extinct volcanoes: Muhavura, Gahinga, and Sabinyo, and is home to both the endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. Visitors can also spot various bird species, reptiles, and forest mammals during their exploration of this unique environment.

How Much Does a Fly-In Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Cost?

The cost of a Fly-In Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park varies depending on your travel style—luxury, mid-range, or budget—along with your itinerary and the number of days you plan to stay. The primary expense is the gorilla tracking permit, which costs:

• $800 for foreign non-residents
• $700 for East African residents
• UGX 300,000 for East African citizens

Additional costs include accommodation, which ranges from approximately:

• $100 for budget options
• $200 for mid-range stays
• $300 to $700 for luxury lodges

Return flights typically cost around $542. A popular itinerary for gorilla tracking in Mgahinga is a 3-day Fly-In Safari, with prices as follows:

• $2,200 for solo travelers
• $1,690 per person for two people sharing
• $1,670 per person for three sharing
• $1,650 per person for four sharing

These prices include the gorilla tracking permit, accommodation (budget range), transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle, return flights, an English-speaking driver-guide, and drinking water. Please note that tips, Uganda visa fees, international flights, and alcoholic drinks are not included.

If you’re ready to embark on this unforgettable adventure, contact us, and we’ll help you book your gorilla tracking experience in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park!

How to Book Your Fly-In Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Once you’ve confirmed your travel dates, simply share them with us. We will check the availability of gorilla tracking permits and flights for your route. After confirming availability, we’ll send you a confirmation and invoice for advance payment of the permits and flights. Once your payment is processed, we will secure both the permits and flights, officially confirming your Fly-In Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Activities to Experience on a Fly-In Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a treasure trove of wildlife and natural beauty, home to two rare and endangered primates: mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. With its three stunning volcanic peaks, the park offers incredible hiking adventures and breathtaking views.

Gorilla Tracking in Mgahinga

Gorilla tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is an unforgettable experience that starts daily at 7 AM. After a brief orientation, you’ll embark on a trek through the lush Gahinga forest in search of the endangered mountain gorillas. The park is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, the only habituated group available for tracking. Keep in mind that only eight permits are issued each day, so it’s essential to book your gorilla permit at least 2-3 months in advance to secure your spot.

Golden Monkey Tracking

Unique to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, golden monkey tracking is another exciting activity you won’t want to miss. Similar to gorilla tracking, this adventure begins with a briefing in the morning, followed by a trek through the forest to locate these playful and endangered monkeys. Golden monkey tracking permits are readily available and can be purchased upon arrival at the park headquarters.

Golden Monkey Habituation

For a more immersive experience, consider participating in golden monkey habituation. This activity allows you to spend extended time with semi-habituated golden monkeys as you engage in efforts to acclimate them to human presence. Like other tracking experiences, it begins with a morning briefing, followed by a trek into the forest. Permits for golden monkey habituation are also available for purchase at the park headquarters.

Bird Watching

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 127 species, including several Albertine endemics. Whether you’re an experienced birder or just starting, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to observe and photograph these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

Wildlife Viewing

In addition to primates, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to 76 species of mammals, including buffalo, elephants, giant forest hogs, bush pigs, duikers, leopards, civets, golden cats, jackals, and porcupines. Due to the park’s rugged terrain and the nocturnal nature of many of these animals, sightings can be rare. However, keep an eye out for animal tracks during your treks, and with a bit of luck, you might catch a glimpse of some wildlife.

Batwa Cultural Trail Experience

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Batwa people on the Batwa cultural trail. Guided by a knowledgeable Batwa guide, you’ll learn about traditional forest life before descending into the Garama cave, historically the home of the Batwa King. Enjoy traditional Batwa dances and gain insight into their fascinating history and customs.

Embark on a Fly-In Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for an unforgettable blend of adventure and cultural experiences, all set against the stunning backdrop of Uganda’s beautiful landscapes. Contact us today to start planning your trip!

Where to Stay on a Fly-In Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

When planning your stay near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, you have several excellent lodge options to choose from, including:

• Gahinga Lodge: A cozy retreat offering stunning views and comfortable accommodations.
• Lake Chahafi Resort: A beautiful lakeside resort perfect for relaxation after a day of adventure.
• Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge: A fantastic choice with spectacular scenery and close proximity to the park.
• Kisoro Travelers’ Inn: A budget-friendly option with essential amenities and a welcoming atmosphere.

Best Time to Book a Fly-In Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

The best time to book your fly-in safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is during the drier months, specifically from January, February, and June to early September. During these months, travel to the park is easier, and you’ll enjoy clearer views of mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, as the vegetation is less dense.

How to Get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

By Road: You can reach Mgahinga Gorilla National Park by road from Entebbe or Kampala, which takes approximately 8-9 hours. Your journey will take you through Kabale town, continuing on to Kisoro town. From Kisoro, it’s a short drive to your lodge near the park for an overnight stay. Alternatively, you can access the park from Kigali, Rwanda, which is only about a 2-3 hour drive away.

By Air: For a quicker option, consider flying from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi airfield in Kampala to Kisoro airstrip. Scheduled and chartered flights are available through domestic airlines like Aero Link and Fly Uganda. Be sure to coordinate with your tour operator for a seamless transfer from the airstrip to your chosen lodge.

Why Book Your Fly-In Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park with Excursia Adventures

At Excursia Adventures, we organize unforgettable fly-in safaris to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Our team is ready to assist you with the booking process, offering a variety of packages tailored to suit your budget, whether you prefer budget, mid-range, or luxury accommodations. We can also help with gorilla permits.

Don’t just take our word for it—check out our TripAdvisor reviews to see what our satisfied clients have to say about their experiences with us. We are committed to providing excellent service and ensuring your satisfaction throughout your safari. With our knowledgeable tour consultants ready to answer all your questions, you can trust us to deliver a memorable gorilla tour in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. Contact us today to start planning your adventure!