Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Go gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for an intimate encounter with  the one and only Nyakagyezi gorilla family in their natural habitat. Although smaller and quieter than its famous neighbour Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers an equally magical gorilla trekking experience. For travelers seeking an intimate, peaceful, and scenic encounter with mountain gorillas, this park is a perfect choice. The  small gorilla park is nestled in the far southwestern corner of Uganda in Kisoro district and is  one of the Uganda’s most scenic and least crowded wildlife destinations

At Superfine Safaris Limited, we organize well-planned gorilla trekking safaris to Mgahinga, ensuring that every visitor enjoys a smooth, rewarding, and unforgettable journey. Our 3 days Mgahinga Gorillas and golden monkey trekking safari reward you with an intimate encounter with the two primates in the shortest time possible

About Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park covers just 33.7 square kilometers, making it Uganda’s smallest national park. However, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in beauty and biodiversity. The park forms part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which spans Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In addition to wildlife, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park  is dominated by three extinct volcanoes which are , Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga and Mount Sabinyo

These dramatic peaks create a breathtaking backdrop for gorilla trekking and give the park its slogan: “Where Gold Meets Silver.” The “gold” refers to the rare golden monkeys found here, while the “silver” symbolizes the majestic mountain gorillas.

Gorilla Families in Mgahinga

Unlike Bwindi, which has many habituated gorilla groups, Mgahinga is home to one fully habituated gorilla family known as the Nyakagezi Gorilla Group.

The Nyakagezi Gorilla Family

This family is famous for being lively, mobile, and highly entertaining. Nyakagyezi family consist of  a silverback, adult females, juveniles and playful infants. Because there is only one habituated family in the park, permits are limited to only 8 visitors per day, making the experience more exclusive and personal.

What Makes Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Special?

1. Less Crowded Experience

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park receives fewer visitors compared to Bwindi or Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. This guarantee travelers a more peaceful gorilla trekking adventure, more private and immersive gorilla encounter and  less congestion. Mgahinga Gorilla Park is the best destination for travelers who prefer the off the beaten path adventures

2. Spectacular Volcanic Scenery

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga is not just about gorillas but also about the journey through bamboo forests, montane woodlands and dramatic volcanic slopes. The breathtaking  scenery adds an extra layer of excitement to the trek.

3. Combination of Gorilla and Golden Monkey Trekking

Mgahinga is the only park in Uganda where visitors can enjoy both Mountain gorilla trekking and Golden monkey tracking.  The 3 Days Mgahinga Gorillas and Golden monkey trekking tour is teh ebst package for you. The combination of two primates makes Mgahinga an excellent destination for primate lovers who want to maximize their wildlife experience.

What to expect on the Gorilla Trekking Day in Mgahinga

Starting the Day

Your gorilla trekking adventure begins early in the morning at the park headquarters in Ntebeko. Here travelers are registered and briefed on the rules and regulations of gorilla trekking. Also, travelers are allocated to Nyakageyzi gorilla family for trekking. After registration, armed rangers and expert trackers will lead you into the forest in search of the gorillas.

The actual Trek

After briefing and registration, the actual gorilla trek to search for  the endangered gorillas starts. The length and difficulty of the trek depend on the location of the gorillas on that day. The trekking time can take between 1 hour to four hours or more depending on the location of gorillas that day.  The terrain may include steep slopes, dense vegetation, and muddy paths, but the excitement of meeting gorillas makes every step worthwhile

The Magical Hour with Gorillas

Once the gorillas are found, you are allowed to spend one full hour observing them at close range. Enjoy  seeing gorillas feeding, grooming, playing, take photos and videos for memory. Also, you will be amazed observing how the powerful silverback protects his family members. This hour is often described as one of the most emotional and life-changing wildlife moments in the world.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permits for Mgahinga

To trek gorillas in Mgahinga, every visitor must have a valid gorilla trekking permit. Just like in Bwindi Forest, each gorilla permit in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park costs  $800 for foreign non residents, $700 for foreign residents and 350,000 for East African citizens. Due to limited gorilla permits (only 8), early booking is essential. At Superfine Safaris Limited, we assist you in permit reservations.   Gorilla safari planning, accommodation bookings , transportation and guiding among others

Best Time to Visit Mgahinga for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga can be done all year round. However, the best periods are during the dry seasons in June to September and December to February. The dry season is characterised by less muddy trails, better photography opportunities and easy hikes . On the other hand, the rainy seasons (March–May and October–November) are also good for budget travelers, as the park is quieter.

Where to Stay in Mgahinga

There are several excellent accommodation options near the park, ranging from budget to luxury. Popular choices include:

• Mount Gahinga Lodge
• Travelers Rest Hotel Kisoro
• Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp
• Lake Chahafi Resort

Superfine Safaris Limited helps you choose accommodation that matches your budget and comfort preferences.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

Proper preparation is key to enjoying your trek. Among the things to pack for gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park include

• Hiking boots
• Long-sleeved shirt and trousers
• Rain jacket
• Gardening gloves
• Insect repellent
• Drinking water and snacks
• Camera with extra batteries

How to Get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga can be accessed by:

Road

• Approximately 9–10 hours’ drive from Kampala or Entebbe
• 3–4 hours from Kigali, Rwanda (most convenient option)

Air

• Scheduled flights from Entebbe to Kisoro Airstrip
• Followed by a short transfer to the park

Superfine Safaris Limited organizes both road and air transport depending on your travel plans.

Why Trek Gorillas in Mgahinga with Superfine Safaris Limited?

At Superfine Safaris Limited, we specialize in crafting seamless gorilla trekking experiences. We offer:

• Expert safari planning
• Guaranteed permit booking
• Professional driver-guides
• Comfortable safari vehicles
• Customized itineraries
• Excellent customer care

Whether you are a solo traveler, couple, family, or group, we design trips that match your interests and budget.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a rare and rewarding adventure. With its spectacular volcanic landscapes, peaceful atmosphere, and exclusive trekking experience, Mgahinga offers something truly special for nature lovers. If you are planning a gorilla safari in Uganda, let Superfine Safaris Limited guide you to this remarkable destination. We turn dream trips into lifelong memories.

Book Your Mgahinga Gorilla Trekking Safari Today!

Contact Superfine Safaris Limited for personalized itineraries, gorilla permits, and expert travel arrangements.