Stunning Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla Park, Uganda

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla Park – Uganda

Mgahinga Park Gorilla Tours: Guaranteed Sightings and Easy Access

Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, nestled amidst the Virunga Volcanoes, is a prime spot for mountain gorilla trekking. While Bwindi Impenetrable Forest often garners the most attention for gorilla tracking, Mgahinga’s easier terrain and less crowded trails offer a unique and intimate experience. The park is home to the friendly Nyakagezi gorilla family, known for their accessibility and guaranteed sightings.

Why Mgahinga Gorilla Park for Your Safari?

• Affordable Gorilla Permits: At $700, Uganda’s permit price (January 2024), including Mgahinga, is significantly lower than Rwanda’s, offering the same quality experience.
• Safe and Serene: Mgahinga ensures a safe trekking experience with no reported security issues.
• Rich Biodiversity: Apart from gorillas, engage in golden monkey trekking, volcano climbs, hiking trails, and cultural encounters with the Batwa people.
• Accessibility: A 3-hour drive from Kigali or a 90-minute flight from Entebbe makes Mgahinga easily accessible.

Unique Aspects of Nyakagezi Gorilla Family

This family, consisting of nine gorillas, including four silverbacks, is led by the oldest, Bugingo, believed to be over 54 years old. Unlike traditional gorilla groups where ousted silverbacks leave, Bugingo remains a part of the family, adding a fascinating dynamic to their social structure. The Nyakagezi, once known for crossing into the neighboring Congo, have settled permanently in Mgahinga since 2012, often found near the ranger station.

Gorilla Trekking Experience

Booking your gorilla permit through a Uganda Tour Operator Association (AUTO) member such as us ensures a hassle-free experience. The tour operator does all the legwork and will collect permits from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Reservations office in Kampala before heading to the park, as they are not available onsite. To participate in trekking, you need to be at the reception by 7:30 am for document verification and briefing. The trek usually lasts for an average of five hours, but it can be shorter or longer depending on the route. Professional guides and an armed guard will lead the way to ensure your safety throughout the trek. During the trek, you will pass through local villages and gardens, which will give you a glimpse into the lifestyle of the community.

Practical Information, Trek Preparation and Tips

Ensure you have the right gear for trekking and understand the importance of porters during your journey. Familiarize yourself with gorilla trekking rules and regulations for a respectful encounter.

• Gear: Similar to gorilla trekking elsewhere, bring a packed lunch, water, a rain jacket, and sturdy footwear. Comfortable, waterproof shoes are recommended as the terrain can be muddy. A natural trekking pole will be provided, so there’s no need to bring your own.
• Porters: Available at a small charge, porters can carry your bags, leaving your hands free for the trek.
• Gratuities: While not mandatory, tipping your guide, ranger, and porter is a nice gesture to show appreciation for their assistance.
• Fitness Level: The trek can be moderately challenging, so being in good physical condition is beneficial.

Read our practical gorilla trekking advice for more information.

Permit Processing and Practicalities

Due to the remote location of Mgahinga Park, permit processing is handled in Kisoro. It’s important to understand that the permit card from UWA alone is not sufficient; you must visit the Kisoro office first.

The Trek Experience

Visitors are guaranteed to see gorillas as trackers locate them early in the morning. The trek to the gorillas is not overly challenging, but fitness is a factor. Along the route, guides share their extensive knowledge about not just gorillas but the entire ecosystem. Learn about the gorilla trekking experience, what to expect, and how to prepare for your trip.

After the Trek

After spending an hour with the gorillas, the return trek follows a different path, leading through local communities. This part of the journey offers an insight into the fertile land of the area and the variety of vegetables grown by the locals.

Enjoy the Unique Experience

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla Park is an unforgettable experience. With fewer tourists, it offers a serene and intimate encounter with these majestic creatures.

Getting to Mgahinga Gorilla Park

Mgahinga is accessible via Kigali Airport, a convenient 3-hour drive, or a direct flight from Entebbe. Consider exploring nearby attractions like Queen Elizabeth Park and Kibale Forest for chimpanzee tracking.

Choose Lifetime Experience Safaris for Your Gorilla Trek

Lifetime Experience Safaris, since 2010, offers luxury and mid-range Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Mgahinga. Our packages provide stress-free experiences, combining luxury accommodations, personalized services, and thrilling activities. Our knowledgeable driver guides ensure a warm Ugandan welcome and an introduction to the extraordinary adventures that Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, offers.