Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park to See Mountain Gorillas

A visit to Mgahinga National Park offers a unique opportunity to trek and see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Located in the far southwestern corner of Uganda, this park shares borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. As part of the Virunga Mountains—a volcanic mountain range spanning Rwanda, Congo, and Uganda—Mgahinga National Park is renowned for its exceptional gorilla safaris and breathtaking scenery.

Despite being Uganda’s smallest national park, Mgahinga holds great significance. It is bordered by Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in Congo, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. The park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas and the elusive golden monkeys, all amidst a stunning array of tropical rainforests, mountain bamboo, and montane rainforests.

How is Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park?

Mgahinga is home to the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family, the only gorilla group open for trekking in the park. Like Bwindi, it’s essential to book your trek in advance through a reliable tour operator to secure one of the eight available permits per day. The cost of a Gorilla Trekking Permit for Mgahinga is the same as in Bwindi: USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, and 300,000 Uganda shillings for East African residents.

Gorilla treks in Mgahinga only take place in the morning, starting with a briefing at the park headquarters. From there, you’ll hike through the forest in search of the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family, where you’ll spend an hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural environment.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park

If you’re planning a budget gorilla safari to Mgahinga National Park, the experience offers incredible value. Trekking in Mgahinga allows you to see mountain gorillas in their natural surroundings, where you can watch their daily behaviors, interactions, and social structure. Mountain gorillas share about 99% of human DNA, making this a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Nyakagezi is the only habituated gorilla family available for trekking, and only eight visitors are permitted to trek with the gorillas each day. Once you find the gorillas, you’ll have one hour to observe them. The trek begins early in the morning with a briefing on the dos and don’ts while in the forest, followed by the hike to find your gorilla group. Guides and park rangers will be with you throughout the experience.

How Much Does a Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost in Mgahinga National Park?

A valid gorilla permit is required for all trekkers in Mgahinga National Park. The cost for a gorilla trekking permit is:

• USD 800 for Foreign Non-Residents
• USD 700 for Foreign Residents
• 300,000 Uganda Shillings for East African Citizens

On the day of your trek, you’ll head to the Park Headquarters for a briefing on the guidelines for trekking and interacting with the gorillas. Accompanied by experienced guides and rangers, you’ll embark on your trek into the forest. Expect steep climbs and dense foliage, but the reward is a lifetime experience of being within 5–7 meters of these amazing creatures. After your hour with the gorillas, you’ll return to the starting point to receive a certificate for successfully completing the trek.

How Much Does Transportation to Mgahinga National Park Cost?

When planning your trip to Mgahinga National Park, transportation costs include vehicle hire, driver guide fees, and fuel for the round trip. Vehicle hire rates typically range from USD 100–250 per day, depending on the type of vehicle you choose. For a three-day trip, expect to pay around USD 290 for the round trip.

To enter Uganda, you’ll need to secure a Uganda visa for USD 30 at Entebbe International Airport or any border point into Uganda.

Mgahinga National Park is just 45 minutes from Kisoro town by road, and we use comfortable 4×4 vehicles with air-conditioning and drinking water for your journey. Our all-inclusive packages ensure a smooth and enjoyable road trip to the park. Don’t forget, securing your gorilla permit for trekking is a must before entering the park.

Accommodation Options in Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga National Park offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay during your visit. Most lodges are located on the outskirts of the park, offering stunning views of the forest and surrounding mountain ranges.

Luxury Accommodation

For those seeking a more luxurious stay, Gahinga Lodge is a top choice. This upscale lodge provides an intimate experience and costs approximately USD 400 per person per night.

Mid-Range and Budget Accommodation

For more affordable options, Lake Chahafi Lodge and Lake Muhele Lodge cater to both mid-range and budget travelers. Rates start at USD 100 per person per night.

Budget-Friendly Options in Kisoro Town

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay, you can opt for hotels in Kisoro town, which is just a 30-minute drive to the park headquarters. Room rates in Kisoro can be as low as USD 50 per night.

Additionally, some travelers choose to stay in lodges or camps in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is about 1 hour’s drive to Mgahinga.

Other Activities to Enjoy in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

In addition to gorilla trekking, Mgahinga offers several exciting activities to make your visit even more memorable.

Batwa Cultural Trail Experience

The Batwa Cultural Trail offers an immersive experience where you’ll be guided by Batwa locals. Learn about the traditional forest life of the Batwa people, who once lived in Mgahinga Forest. Enjoy traditional dances, fire-making demonstrations, and authentic insights into the Batwa’s rich history. The activity costs USD 80 per person.

Nature Walk in Gahinga Forest

After your gorilla trek, enjoy a nature walk through the lush Gahinga Forest. This is an excellent way to explore the diverse tree species and wildlife that inhabit the forest.

Village Walk Around Kisoro

Take a village walk through the local communities of Kisoro. Visit local markets and engage with the Bafumbira and Bakiga tribes to learn about their day-to-day life. Enjoy traditional cultural dances, local food, and arts along the way.

Golden Monkey Tracking

Golden Monkey Tracking is another exciting activity you can enjoy in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This trek takes you through the forest in search of these endangered primates. Permits for golden monkey tracking are readily available and can be purchased at the park headquarters.

Golden Monkey Habituation

For a more in-depth experience, try Golden Monkey Habituation, where you’ll spend time with semi-habituated golden monkeys. This activity allows you to actively participate in making these monkeys more comfortable with human presence. Permits are available at the park and can be purchased on arrival.

Bird Watching

Mgahinga is a paradise for bird lovers, with over 127 bird species, including many Albertine Rift endemics. Birding enthusiasts will find plenty to explore within the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Visit Mgahinga National Park to See Mountain Gorillas in the Wild with Excursia Adventures

Excursia Adventures offers incredible gorilla trekking experiences in Mgahinga National Park and throughout Uganda and East Africa. Our team of passionate, local experts ensures you have an unforgettable adventure, whether you’re looking for a customized trip or a discounted package.

We are proud of our excellent TripAdvisor and SafariBookings reviews, where you can read about the experiences of other travelers who have journeyed with us. Our team, made up of dynamic young staff and experienced managers, is dedicated to providing authentic, memorable experiences for every guest.

Contact us today to book your gorilla trekking safari in Mgahinga National Park and create lasting memories in one of Uganda’s most unique and beautiful destinations!