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Safari to See Gorillas in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Are you planning a safari to see gorillas in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park? Curious about the cost of a gorilla trip to this stunning destination? Excursia Adventures can help you organize an unforgettable 1-day or 3-day gorilla trekking experience. The approximate price of a 3-day Mgahinga gorilla trek includes vehicle hire, fuel, driver-guide allowances, gorilla permits, and accommodation. Let’s dive into the details!
Why Visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park?
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is part of the Virunga volcanic mountain chain, shared by Rwanda, Congo, and Uganda. Known for its mountain gorilla safaris, Mgahinga is Uganda’s smallest national park, bordered by Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda.
The park is home to three of the six Virunga Mountains: Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo, and Mount Muhabura. Beyond its dramatic volcanic landscapes, Mgahinga is a tropical rainforest featuring lowland evergreen forests, montane rainforests, and bamboo forests. It’s also a sanctuary for endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
What Does Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Entail?
Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here’s what to expect:
- Early Start: Your day begins at the park headquarters with a briefing on the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking.
- Guided Trek: Experienced guides and park rangers lead you through dense rainforests and up mountain slopes to find the gorillas.
- One Hour with Gorillas: Once you locate the Nyakagezi gorilla family (the only habituated family in Mgahinga), you’ll spend an hour observing their behavior, from feeding to social interactions.
- Certificate of Completion: After the trek, you’ll receive a certificate to commemorate your adventure.
Mountain gorillas share 99% of human DNA, making them fascinating to watch. Only 8 visitors are allowed to trek each day to minimize human impact and protect these incredible animals.
What’s the Cost of Gorilla Permits in Mgahinga National Park?
To trek gorillas in Mgahinga, you’ll need a valid gorilla permit issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Permit costs vary based on residency:
- Foreign Non-Residents: USD 800 per person
- Foreign Residents: USD 700 per person
- East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 per person
Permits are limited and sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. Contact Excursia Adventures to secure your permits and plan your trek.
What’s Included in the Cost of a 3-Day Mgahinga Gorilla Trek?
A 3-day gorilla trekking safari to Mgahinga typically includes:
- Transportation: Comfortable 4×4 vehicles with an experienced driver-guide.
- Fuel: Covers the round trip to and from Mgahinga.
- Gorilla Permits: Essential for your trekking experience.
- Accommodation: Options range from budget to luxury lodges near the park.
- Driver-Guide Allowance: USD 50 per day for professional guidance.
For groups, the cost per person decreases, making it a more affordable adventure.
What Does Transportation Cost to Mgahinga National Park?
Planning a trip to Mgahinga National Park? Transportation costs are a key part of your budget and include vehicle hire, driver-guide fees, and fuel for the round trip. Here’s a breakdown:
- Vehicle Hire: Ranges from USD 100–250 per day, depending on the type of vehicle you choose.
- Fuel Costs: Approximately USD 290 for the round trip to Mgahinga.
- Driver-Guide Allowance: Included in your package for a seamless experience.
We use comfortable 4×4 vehicles equipped with AC and drinking water to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
To enter Uganda, you’ll need a visa, which costs USD 50 and can be obtained at Entebbe International Airport or any border entry point. Mgahinga National Park is just a 45-minute drive from Kisoro town, making it easily accessible by road.
Don’t forget to secure your gorilla trekking permit in advance, as it’s required for entry into the park.
What’s the Cost of Accommodation in Mgahinga National Park?
Mgahinga offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget, from budget-friendly lodges to luxury retreats. Most lodges are located on the outskirts of the forest, offering stunning views of the rainforest and volcanic mountain ranges.
Luxury Lodges
- Gahinga Lodge: Starts at USD 400 per person per night.
Mid-Range and Budget Lodges
- Lake Chahafi Lodge and Lake Muhele Lodge: Range from USD 100 per person per night.
Affordable Options in Kisoro Town
If you prefer to stay in Kisoro town, just 30 minutes from the park, you can find hotels for as low as USD 50 per room.
Staying Near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Some travelers choose to stay in lodges or camps in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is about 1 hour from Mgahinga.
Why Book Your Mgahinga Gorilla Safari with Excursia Adventures?
At Excursia Adventures, we organize unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Mgahinga National Park and beyond. Here’s why travelers trust us:
- Expert Planning: Over a decade of experience organizing safaris in Uganda and East Africa.
- Tailored Packages: We offer discounted packages and custom itineraries to suit your budget and interests.
- Local Knowledge: Our team is made up of passionate Ugandans who know the region inside out.
- Highly Rated: Check out our excellent reviews on TripAdvisor to hear from other travelers.
Our team combines youthful energy with seasoned expertise to ensure your safari is authentic, memorable, and hassle-free.
Book Your Mgahinga Gorilla Safari Today!
Ready to see the majestic mountain gorillas in Mgahinga National Park? Contact Excursia Adventures for discounted packages, tailored itineraries, and expert guidance. Let’s make your dream gorilla trekking adventure a reality!
