Fly to Kisoro and Trek Gorillas in Mgahinga National Park

Fly to Kisoro and Trek Gorillas in Mgahinga National Park

Experience an unforgettable adventure by flying to Kisoro and trekking the famous Nyakagezi gorilla family in Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This unique park, Uganda’s smallest, is nestled on the border with Rwanda and part of the renowned Virunga range, shared with Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in DR Congo. The park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, along with a variety of other wildlife such as birds, reptiles and forest mammals.

Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure Awaits

Trekking the mountain gorillas of Mgahinga is an extraordinary experience. Whether you’re traveling as a group or solo, Trek Africa Gorillas ensures you have the chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. To trek gorillas in Mgahinga, you’ll need a gorilla permit, which costs:

• USD 800 for Foreign non-residents
• USD 700 for Foreign residents
• 300,000 Uganda Shillings for East African citizens

This permit allows you to spend one hour with the gorillas, creating lasting memories of this rare encounter.

Planning Your Mgahinga Gorilla Trek: Key Things to Know

1. Secure Your Gorilla Permit Early

Mgahinga has only 8 gorilla permits available each day. It’s crucial to book your permit well in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. You can pay a deposit of 30%, 70% or 100% of the permit cost to confirm your booking. For best availability, we recommend booking 3-4 months in advance. Don’t wait—contact us today to ensure you get your permit.

2. Where to Stay Near Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga offers a range of accommodation options. For a more luxurious stay, consider Gahinga Lodge, Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge or Lake Chahafi Resort. If you’re on a budget, camping is the best option. All accommodations provide full board meals, ensuring a comfortable stay after your trek.

3. Comfortable Travel Options: Flying or Driving

For a smooth journey, consider traveling in a 4×4 Land Cruiser, which offers comfort on the rugged roads leading to the park. Alternatively, flying to Kisoro Airstrip can save you time. From the airstrip, it’s only a 2-hour drive to your lodge, significantly reducing the long road trip from Entebbe (approximately 8-9 hours).

How to Get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

By Road

From Entebbe/Kampala, it’s about an 8-9 hour drive to Kisoro, passing through Kabale town. From Kisoro, a short drive will take you to your lodge. Alternatively, you can travel from Kigali, Rwanda, which is a 2-3 hour drive to the park.

By Air

Flying is a quicker option. Scheduled and chartered flights are available from Entebbe or Kampala to Kisoro Airstrip, operated by domestic airlines like AeroLink and Fly Uganda. From Kisoro, you’ll be transferred to your lodge for a 2-hour drive.

What to Pack: Essential Gear for Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga

Here’s a handy list of items to pack for your trek:

• Long-sleeved sweater (the park can get chilly)
• 2 pairs of long trousers
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Hat and sunglasses (optional, depending on weather)
• Camera with long-lasting batteries (remember to turn off the flash)
• Binoculars (for bird watching and primates)
• Gardening gloves (helpful for holding branches)
• Raincoat (unpredictable rainforest showers)
• Mosquito repellent
• Sunscreen (optional, depending on season)

Avoid bright colors, as they can scare away the gorillas. Neutral colors are ideal and stay away from black or blue, as they attract Tsetse flies.

Best Time to Visit Mgahinga for Gorilla Trekking

Mgahinga is open for trekking year-round but the best times to visit are between June to August and December to February. These months experience the least rainfall, making the trails less slippery. During March to May and November, expect more rainfall, though you’ll often find discounts at some lodges.

Why Book Your Mgahinga Gorilla Safari with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Trek Africa Gorillas is your go-to partner for unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences. We’re highly rated on TripAdvisor and our experienced team creates eco-friendly and luxurious safaris that support wildlife conservation and local communities. We offer more than just gorilla trekking—enjoy chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris, mountain hiking, boat cruises and cultural encounters across top African destinations like Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana and Namibia.

Ready to embark on a gorilla trekking adventure? Contact us today to book your trip to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and make lasting memories.