Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park vs. Volcanoes National Park

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park vs. Volcanoes National Park: What You Need to Know

If you’re planning a gorilla trekking adventure, both Mgahinga National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda are incredible options. Nestled in the stunning Virunga Mountain Range, these parks offer a chance to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and extinct volcanoes. While both parks provide unforgettable experiences, there are key differences that might help you choose which one suits your travel plans best.

Gorilla Trekking Experience: Mgahinga vs. Volcanoes

Both Mgahinga and Volcanoes National Park are home to mountain gorillas and the trekking experience in both parks is incredibly rewarding. The vegetation in both parks is similar, with lush bamboo forests providing a beautiful backdrop for your trek. This makes it easier to spot gorillas and take clear, stunning photos.

That said, the trekking experience can differ slightly due to the parks’ unique features. Mgahinga is known for its rugged terrain, with three extinct volcanoes (Muhavura, Gahinga and Sabinyo) adding to the adventure. Volcanoes National Park, on the other hand, is home to five volcanoes and offers a more established trekking route with more options for shorter or longer treks depending on your preference.

Accessibility: Getting to Mgahinga vs. Volcanoes National Park

Both parks can be easily accessed via Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. This has become the most common entry point for visitors, as it’s just a 4–5 hour drive to Mgahinga National Park from Kigali, which is much more manageable than the former 10-hour journey from Entebbe to Mgahinga.

For Volcanoes National Park, the drive from Kigali is also quick and straightforward, taking around 2–3 hours. If you’re coming from Kigali, both parks are easily accessible with the added convenience of the East African Tourist Visa, which allows you to visit both Uganda and Rwanda on the same trip.

Affordability: Gorilla Permit Costs Compared

Cost is a key consideration when deciding between the two parks. Mgahinga National Park is the more affordable option for gorilla trekking.

• Mgahinga Gorilla Permit:
  • $800 for foreign non-residents
  • $700 for residents
  • UGX300,000 for East African citizens
• Volcanoes Gorilla Permit:
  • $1500 for a single trek

The difference in price comes from the policies of Uganda and Rwanda, with Rwanda charging higher fees to promote its tourism sector.

Despite the price difference, the experience you get with the gorillas in both parks is equally magical. In both parks, you’re allowed a one-hour encounter with the gorillas, regardless of which park you visit.

Gorilla Families and Trekking Permits

One of the biggest differences between the two parks is the number of gorilla families available for trekking. Volcanoes National Park has over 12 gorilla families, which means more availability and flexibility with your trek. Every day, 96 permits are available for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes.

In contrast, Mgahinga National Park has just one gorilla family, with only 8 permits available each day. This makes trekking in Mgahinga a more exclusive experience but it also limits availability.

Success Rates: Chances of Seeing Gorillas

The good news is that both parks offer an exceptional chance of seeing gorillas. In both Mgahinga and Volcanoes, the success rate for spotting gorillas is about 98%, meaning that you’re very likely to have a close encounter with these magnificent creatures. Whether you choose Mgahinga or Volcanoes, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

Trek Length and Difficulty: How Far Will You Walk?

The distance you will need to walk during your trek depends on the specific gorilla family allocated to you that day. Both parks try to match trekkers with a family that suits their fitness level but the behavior of the gorillas can affect how far you walk. Some days, the gorillas may be closer to the starting point, while other days, they may be farther away.

Lodging Options: Where to Stay in Mgahinga or Volcanoes

Both parks offer a variety of lodging options, from budget to luxury. However, Volcanoes National Park is known for its luxury accommodations, making it the ideal choice for travelers seeking a more lavish stay. High-end lodges like Virunga Lodge, Bisate Lodge and One & Only Gorilla Forest Lodge are among the best in Africa, offering exceptional service and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

While Mgahinga has a range of comfortable mid-range and budget-friendly lodges, it doesn’t have quite the same number of high-end options as Volcanoes.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga or Volcanoes

The best time to trek gorillas in both Mgahinga and Volcanoes is during the dry season, which runs from June to August and December to February. During these months, rainfall is lower and the trails are less slippery, making for a more enjoyable trek.

If you visit during the wet season (March to May and November), the weather can be unpredictable but you may find discounted rates on accommodation.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trek with Trek Africa Gorillas?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we pride ourselves in tailor-made safaris that fit your unique interests and preferences. Our professional team is always ready to assist you with your travel plans, answering questions and ensuring that every detail of your trip is taken care of, from permits to accommodations.

We offer a range of gorilla safari packages, including options for Mgahinga and Volcanoes National Park, such as our 3-day Mgahinga Gorilla Safari or 4-day Gorilla Safari in Rwanda.

No matter which park you choose, your gorilla trekking experience will be unforgettable. Contact us today to start planning your adventure!