Gorilla Permits Availability for June
December 9, 2024
Combine Mount Gahinga Hike with Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
December 9, 2024
Mount Gahinga Hiking & Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Experience the best of Uganda by combining a scenic hike up Mount Gahinga with an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. While Mount Gahinga is the smallest of the three Virunga Volcanoes, it offers an incredible experience. Standing at 3,474 meters above sea level, it is a dormant volcano nestled between Mount Muhavura and Mount Sabinyo, closer to the former. Hiking Mount Gahinga is considered one of the easier climbs, typically taking about 6 hours to ascend and descend.
At the summit, you will encounter a beautiful swampy crater lake, though it can be challenging to navigate for better views. The name “Gahinga” comes from the local language, meaning “Pile of Stones,” referring to the rocky landscape surrounding the mountain.
The Mount Gahinga Hiking Experience
Your hike starts early in the morning with a briefing at the park headquarters where guides and park rangers will inform you about the do’s and don’ts while hiking. You’ll be provided with walking sticks for the steep sections of the trail and we highly recommend hiring porters to assist you with carrying your belongings, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable hike.
Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
After hiking, continue your adventure by trekking the rare mountain gorillas in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Mgahinga is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family and this is the only gorilla group available for trekking in the park. As with gorilla trekking in Bwindi, it’s essential to book your permits in advance to secure one of the eight daily trekking slots. The cost for a gorilla trekking permit in Mgahinga is the same as in Bwindi:
The trekking experience starts with a morning briefing, followed by a trek into the forest in search of the Nyakagezi gorillas. Once you find them, you’ll be allowed one hour to observe their fascinating behavior up close.
Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost in Mgahinga
- USD 800 for Foreign Non-Residents
- USD 700 for Foreign Residents
- 300,000 UGX for East African Citizens
These permits provide access to the park for one day of trekking, with the chance to spend up to an hour with the gorillas. Trekking in Mgahinga is a memorable experience, as you’ll get an intimate look at these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
How to Get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Reaching Mgahinga National Park is simple, with the park located just a 45-minute drive from Kisoro Town. You’ll need to secure a Uganda visa ($30) upon arrival, either at Entebbe International Airport or any border entry point into Uganda. Our tours provide comfortable, all-inclusive transport in 4×4 vehicles, complete with air conditioning and bottled water for your convenience.
For a round-trip journey to Mgahinga, vehicle hire costs between USD 100-250 per day depending on the type of vehicle. For a three-day trip, the total cost for transport will be approximately USD 290.
Where to Stay: Lodging Options in and Around Mgahinga
There are various accommodation options in and around Mgahinga National Park. Whether you’re looking for luxury, mid-range or budget options, you’ll find something to suit your needs:
- Gahinga Lodge (Luxury): Starting from USD 400 per person per night
- Lake Chahafi Lodge and Lake Muhele Lodge (Mid-Range/Budget): Starting from USD 100 per person per night
- Budget options in Kisoro Town: Rooms starting at USD 50 per night, just a 30-minute drive to the park headquarters.
Some travelers may prefer to stay in nearby lodges in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is just an hour’s drive to Mgahinga.
Top Things to Do in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Besides Gorilla Trekking)
While you’re in Mgahinga, be sure to explore the additional activities that make this park a truly unique destination:
- Batwa Cultural Trail: Experience the traditional forest life of the Batwa people, including their traditional dances, fire-making skills and more. This activity costs USD 80 per person.
- Golden Monkey Tracking: A fun and exciting activity unique to Mgahinga, where you’ll track the endangered golden monkeys. Permits are available on arrival at the park.
- Golden Monkey Habituation: Spend more time with the golden monkeys in this special experience, allowing you to take part in their habituation process.
- Nature Walk in Gahinga Forest: Discover more about the local flora and fauna on a guided walk through the forest.
- Village Walk around Kisoro: Explore the local communities and learn about the daily life of the Bafumbira and Bakiga tribes, including local markets and cultural dances.
- Birding: Mgahinga is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 127 species, including many Albertine endemics.
Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking and Mount Gahinga Hike with Trek Africa Gorillas?
At Trek Africa Gorillas, we pride ourselves in creating unforgettable experiences in Uganda, including combining hiking Mount Gahinga with gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Our team of knowledgeable, friendly and experienced staff is committed to making your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible. We offer tailor-made itineraries, ensuring that every aspect of your trip is perfectly planned and hassle-free.
With our extensive experience and excellent reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and SafariBookings, you can be confident that your safari will exceed expectations. Get in touch with us today to plan your dream gorilla trekking and hiking adventure in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
