Planning Your Fly-In Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Planning Your Fly-In Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

If you’re looking to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park but prefer not to spend the long 8-9 hour drive from Kampala or Entebbe, a fly-in safari is the perfect solution. This option dramatically reduces your travel time to just 2 hours, allowing you to maximize your time enjoying the park’s incredible offerings. With a flying safari, you can dive into activities such as mountain gorilla tracking, experiencing the Batwa cultural trail, and climbing majestic volcanoes.

About Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Nestled on the border with Rwanda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Uganda’s smallest national park and part of the renowned Virunga mountain range, which also includes Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in DR Congo. The park features three extinct volcanoes—Muhavura, Gahinga, and Sabinyo—and is a sanctuary for the endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. You can also spot various bird species, reptiles, and forest mammals during your visit, making it a diverse and exciting destination.

How Much Does a Fly-In Safari Cost?

The cost of a fly-in safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park can vary based on your travel style—luxury, mid-range, or budget—as well as your itinerary and the duration of your stay. The most significant expense will be the gorilla tracking permit, priced at USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for East African foreign residents, and USD 75 for East African citizens.

Accommodation options range from budget stays at around USD 100 to mid-range options for USD 200, and luxury lodges from USD 300 to USD 700 per night. Round-trip flights typically cost about USD 542.

For a popular 3-day fly-in safari that includes gorilla tracking, the pricing is as follows:

• Solo traveler: USD 2,300
• 2 people sharing: USD 1,790 per person
• 3 people sharing: USD 1,770 per person
• 4 people sharing: USD 1,750 per person

These prices are 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. Please note that tips, Uganda visas, international flights, and alcoholic beverages are not included. For assistance with booking your unforgettable gorilla tracking experience in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, contact us today.

How to Book Your Fly-In Safari

Once you have your travel dates in mind, share them with us so we can check the availability of gorilla tracking permits and flights to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. After confirming availability, we’ll send you a confirmation and invoice. Once you make an advance payment for the permits and flights, we’ll secure your bookings, ensuring you’re all set for your fly-in safari.

Activities on Your Fly-In Safari

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to two rare and endangered primates: mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. Both species can be tracked and observed in their natural habitats. Additionally, the park’s three volcanic peaks offer breathtaking hiking opportunities, promising stunning views and exciting adventures.

Gorilla Tracking in Mgahinga

Gorilla tracking in Mgahinga takes place daily, starting with a briefing at 7 AM. Afterward, you’ll trek through the Gahinga forest in search of the endangered mountain gorillas. The park is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, with only eight permits available for tracking each day. To ensure you don’t miss out, it’s highly recommended to book your gorilla permit at least 2-3 months in advance.

Golden Monkey Tracking

Golden monkey tracking is a unique experience offered exclusively in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Like gorilla tracking, it begins with a morning briefing before you set off to find these charming and endangered monkeys. Golden monkey permits are readily available and can be purchased upon your arrival at the park headquarters.

Golden Monkey Habituation in Uganda

Golden monkey habituation is a unique experience offered exclusively in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This exciting activity allows you to spend quality time with semi-habituated golden monkeys while participating in efforts to help them acclimatize to human presence. The experience begins with a morning briefing, followed by a trek through the lush forest in search of these endangered monkeys. Golden monkey habituation permits are readily available and can be easily purchased upon your arrival at the park headquarters.

Bird Watching

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, boasting over 127 bird species, including several Albertine endemics. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just starting, the park provides an incredible opportunity to observe a variety of fascinating birdlife amidst stunning natural scenery.

Wildlife Viewing

Home to 76 mammal species, including buffaloes, elephants, giant forest hogs, bush pigs, duikers, leopards, civets, golden cats, jackals, and porcupines, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers thrilling wildlife viewing opportunities. However, due to the challenging terrain and the nocturnal nature of many species, sightings can be rare. During your hikes, you may come across animal tracks, and with a bit of luck, you might catch a glimpse of some of these elusive creatures. Just remember, they are wild animals not accustomed to human presence.

Batwa Cultural Trail Experience

Embark on the Batwa Cultural Trail and be guided by a knowledgeable Batwa guide who will share insights into the traditional forest life of the Batwa people. This enriching experience culminates in a descent into the Garama Cave, which historically served as the home of the Batwa King. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy vibrant traditional dances and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Batwa community.

Where to Stay on Your Fly-In Safari

If you’re planning a fly-in safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, there are several accommodation options nearby, including:

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

Each of these lodges offers a unique experience, allowing you to relax and recharge after your adventurous days in the park.

Best Time to Book Your Fly-In Safari

The ideal time to book a fly-in safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is during the drier months of January, February, and from June to early September. During these periods, travel to the park is easier, and visibility for spotting mountain gorillas and golden monkeys is greatly improved due to the lower vegetation.

How to Get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

By Road

You can reach Mgahinga Gorilla National Park by road, taking the main highway from Entebbe or Kampala, which typically takes around 8-9 hours. The route will lead you through Kabale town and onward to Kisoro town. From Kisoro, it’s a short drive to your lodge near the park for an overnight stay. The park is also accessible from Kigali, Rwanda, which is just a 2-3 hour drive away.

By Air

For a quicker journey, consider flying from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi airfield in Kampala to Kisoro airstrip. Both scheduled and chartered flights are available through local airlines such as Aero Link and Fly Uganda. Be sure to coordinate with your tour operator for a transfer from the airstrip to your chosen lodge.

Why Book with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we specialize in planning unforgettable fly-in safaris to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Contact us for expert advice on the booking process, and explore our range of safari packages, which cater to budget, mid-range, and luxury travelers. With us, you can look forward to a memorable Ugandan safari experience, complete with gorilla permits and exceptional service. Our dedicated team of tour consultants is here to answer all your safari questions and ensure your adventure is seamless from start to finish.