What is the Fair Price for a 4-Day Mgahinga Gorilla and Golden Monkey Safari?

What is the Fair Price for a 4-Day Mgahinga Gorilla and Golden Monkey Safari?

The price of a 4-day Mgahinga Gorilla and Golden Monkey Safari is influenced by several key factors, including transportation costs, accommodation, meals and permits for both golden monkey trekking and gorilla trekking. Additional costs such as guide allowances and service fees are also included. This safari offers an incredible opportunity to visit Mgahinga National Park, known for its rare mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, making it a unique destination for primate enthusiasts.

Explore Mgahinga National Park: A Primate Paradise in Southwestern Uganda

Located in Kisoro District in southwestern Uganda, Mgahinga National Park is one of the country’s smallest national parks, yet it’s rich in wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Situated at the border between Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the park forms part of the Virunga Mountains. It is home to three active volcanoes: Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo and Mount Muhabura, which provide the backdrop for this incredible wildlife haven.

Mgahinga National Park is known for harboring the endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, two of the most fascinating primate species in the world. The park’s diverse ecosystems, including montane rainforests and bamboo forests, make it an exceptional location for trekking and wildlife viewing.

Understanding the Costs: Golden Monkey and Gorilla Trekking Permits

Golden Monkey Trekking in Mgahinga National Park

Golden monkeys are one of Uganda’s unique primates, found only in the Virunga Mountains (which span Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC). These golden-colored monkeys live in troops and are often seen in the forests of Mgahinga National Park. The trekking experience is a thrilling way to observe these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

• Trekking Permits:
  • USD 100 for Non-foreign residents
  • USD 90 for Foreign residents
  • UGX 40,000 for East African citizens

The trek starts early in the morning with a briefing at the park headquarters. From there, you’ll be guided through the forest to find the golden monkeys, where you’ll spend one hour observing them. With only two habituated groups in the park, this activity offers a rare and personal experience.

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga National Park is also home to the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family, the only habituated gorilla group available for trekking. The park’s gorilla trekking experience is among the best in the world, offering an intimate look into the daily lives of these endangered creatures.

• Gorilla Trekking Permits:
  • USD 800 for Foreign Non-Residents
  • USD 700 for Foreign Residents
  • UGX 300,000 for East African citizens

Each trekking group is limited to just eight visitors per day, ensuring an exclusive experience. Treks begin early in the morning with a briefing, followed by a hike through the dense rainforest. Once you find the gorillas, you’ll be able to spend one hour observing them from a safe distance of 5 to 7 meters. The experience is unforgettable, providing a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and behavior of these amazing animals in the wild.

Transportation Costs and How to Reach Mgahinga National Park

When planning your 4-day Mgahinga Gorilla and Golden Monkey Trekking Safari, transportation costs are an essential part of the overall budget. The price of transportation includes vehicle hire, driver-guide allowances and fuel costs for the entire trip. Depending on your choice of vehicle, the cost for vehicle hire typically ranges from USD 50 to USD 250 per day. All of our vehicles are 4×4 to ensure a smooth and safe journey, as the roads to Mgahinga National Park can be rugged.

Accessing Mgahinga National Park by Road

• From Kigali, Rwanda: Mgahinga National Park is just a 4-hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda. You can start your journey from Kigali Airport or your hotel, enjoy a brief city tour and cross the Chanika border into Kisoro, Uganda. Afterward, you can enjoy lunch and overnight accommodation before continuing to the park.
• From Entebbe/Kampala, Uganda: If you are traveling from Entebbe or Kampala, it’s about a 9-10 hour drive via the Kampala-Mbarara-Kisoro highway.

Flying to Mgahinga National Park

If you prefer a quicker option, you can fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Kisoro Airstrip. The flight takes approximately 2 hours and the fare is around USD 300 per adult, one way. Scheduled flights are available daily with Aerolink Uganda and charter flights can also be arranged. For an unforgettable experience, you can even opt for a flying golden monkey safari to explore the unique wildlife of Mgahinga National Park.

Accommodation Options and Pricing Near Mgahinga National Park

During your 4-day safari, you’ll need to stay at least 3 nights near Mgahinga National Park. The park offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets, with most lodges located on the outskirts of the park, offering stunning views of the forest and the surrounding mountain ranges.

• Luxury Options:
  • Gahinga Lodge: USD 400 per person per night
• Mid-Range and Budget Options:
  • Lake Chahafi Lodge
  • Lake Mutanda Lodge
  • Lake Muhele Lodge
    Prices for these lodges range from USD 80 to USD 150 per person per night.

You can also opt to stay in Kisoro town, which is only 30 minutes’ drive from the park headquarters. Some visitors also choose to stay in lodges or camps in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, as it’s just 1 hour’s drive to Mgahinga National Park.

Why Book Your 4-Day Mgahinga Gorilla and Golden Monkey Safari With Trek Africa Gorillas?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we organize authentic and memorable experiences for visitors to Mgahinga National Park. Whether you’re interested in golden monkey tracking or gorilla trekking, we offer tailor-made safaris to match your preferences and budget.

Our team consists of passionate Ugandan experts with years of experience, dedicated to ensuring you have the best safari experience possible. We are proud to be highly rated on TripAdvisor, with many satisfied travelers sharing their positive experiences with us.

Contact us today for discounted packages and to learn more about the fair prices for a 4-day Mgahinga Gorilla and Golden Monkey Safari!