Flying Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Flying Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Experience the thrill of a Flying Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you can skip the long 8–9 hour drive and reduce your travel time to just 2 hours. This unique safari offers you the chance to explore the breathtaking beauty of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park while engaging in exciting activities like mountain gorilla tracking, immersing yourself in the Batwa cultural trail experience and climbing stunning volcanoes. Mgahinga is one of the two national parks in Uganda where you can observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, making it an adventure seeker’s paradise.

About Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Nestled on the border of Uganda and Rwanda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the smallest national park in Uganda and a part of the spectacular Virunga Mountain range, which includes Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in DR Congo. The park is characterized by three extinct volcanoes: Muhavura, Gahinga and Sabinyo. Home to the endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, Mgahinga also boasts diverse wildlife, including various bird species, reptiles and forest mammals, enriching your visit with exciting wildlife sightings.

Getting to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

By Air

For a quicker route, consider flying from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi airfield to Kisoro airstrip. Domestic airline operators like Aerolink and Fly Uganda offer both scheduled and chartered flights. Ensure to coordinate with your tour operator for a transfer from the airstrip to your lodge.

By Road

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is accessible via a scenic drive of approximately 8–9 hours from Entebbe/Kampala. Your journey will take you through Kabale town and onward to Kisoro town. From Kisoro, you’ll proceed to your chosen lodge for an overnight stay. Alternatively, the park can also be accessed from Kigali, Rwanda, which is about 2–3 hours away.

Activities to Do on Your Flying Safari

At Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, you can enjoy tracking two rare and endangered primates: mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. Both species can be observed in their natural habitats. Additionally, the park offers three stunning volcanic peaks to hike, rewarding you with breathtaking views and exhilarating adventures.

Gorilla Tracking

Gorilla tracking in Mgahinga is a daily activity, starting at 7 a.m. with a briefing. Afterward, you’ll trek through the Gahinga forest in search of the endangered mountain gorillas. The park is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family and only 8 permits are available daily for this unforgettable experience. It is recommended to book your gorilla permit at least 2–3 months in advance to ensure availability.

Golden Monkey Tracking

Golden monkey tracking is a unique activity that takes place exclusively in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Similar to gorilla tracking, this experience begins with a morning briefing before you head out into the forest to search for these endangered monkeys. Golden monkey tracking permits are readily available and can be purchased upon arrival at the park headquarters.

Golden Monkey Habituation Experience

Golden Monkey Habituation is a unique experience available only in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This exciting adventure allows you to spend quality time with semi-habituated golden monkeys while participating in activities designed to acclimate them to human presence. Your day begins with a morning briefing, followed by a trek through the forest in search of these endangered primates. Golden monkey habituation permits are readily available and can be easily purchased upon arrival at the park headquarters.

Bird Watching

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is renowned as one of Uganda’s premier bird-watching destinations. The park is home to over 127 bird species, including several Albertine endemics, making it a paradise for avid birders and nature enthusiasts.

Wildlife Viewing

The park boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, with 76 mammal species, including buffaloes, elephants, giant forest hogs, bush pigs, duikers, leopards, civets, golden cats, jackals and porcupines. However, due to the challenging terrain and the nocturnal nature of many of these animals, sightings can be rare. While trekking or hiking, you might come across animal footprints and if you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of these elusive creatures. Remember, they are wild animals, so it’s best to maintain a respectful distance.

Batwa Cultural Trail Experience

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Batwa people by embarking on the Batwa Cultural Trail. Accompanied by a knowledgeable Batwa guide, you’ll learn about traditional forest life before descending into the historic Garama Cave, once the home of the Batwa King. This experience also includes the opportunity to enjoy captivating traditional dances performed by the Batwa community.

Best Time to Book a Flying Safari

The ideal time to book a flying safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is during the drier months of January, February and from June to early September. During these periods, the roads are more accessible and the vegetation is less dense, providing clearer views of mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.

Accommodation Options Near Mgahinga

When planning a flying safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, consider staying at one of the nearby lodges. Options include:

• Gahinga Lodge
• Lake Chahafi Resort
• Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge
• Kisoro Travelers’ Inn

These accommodations offer comfortable options for your stay, ensuring a relaxing experience after your adventurous days.

Flying Safari Costs and Inclusions

The cost of a flying safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park varies depending on your travel style—luxury, mid-range or budget—as well as your chosen itinerary and duration of stay. The primary expense is the gorilla tracking permit, which is priced at USD 700 for foreign non-residents, USD 600 for East African residents and USD 70 for East African citizens.

Accommodation options range from budget lodges at approximately USD 100 per night to mid-range options at USD 200 and luxury accommodations between USD 300 and USD 700. The return flights are around USD 542.

A popular itinerary for a 3-day fly-in gorilla tracking safari costs approximately:

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

This price is all-inclusive, covering your gorilla tracking permit, budget accommodation, transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle, return flights, an English-speaking driver-guide and drinking water. Note that tips, Uganda visas, international flights and alcoholic drinks are not included. Contact us for assistance in booking your unforgettable gorilla tracking experience in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

How to Book Your Flying Safari

Once you’ve confirmed your travel dates, share them with us. We will check the availability of gorilla tracking permits with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and secure flights with Aerolink. After confirming availability, we’ll send you a confirmation and invoice. Once you make the advance payment for your permits and flights, we will finalize the bookings, ensuring your flying safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is confirmed.

Why Book Your Safari with Trek Africa Gorillas

Trek Africa Gorillas is your trusted partner for booking a flying safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. We offer a range of packages, from budget-friendly options to luxurious experiences, including gorilla permits. Our commitment to excellent service and customer satisfaction means you can relax and enjoy a memorable safari holiday in Uganda. Our team of experienced tour consultants is always ready to assist with any questions you may have about your upcoming adventure.

Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable experience in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park!