Skip to content 
3 Day Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park Overview
Unleash your inner adventurer with our captivating 3 Day Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park. Select your path to the park: a scenic road journey or a thrilling flight that begins with a photo-worthy stop at the equator. The real magic unfolds with the encounter of mountain gorillas – an awe-inspiring moment forever etched in the tapestry of your memories.
Safari Summary
- Day 1: Transfer from Entebbe Airport to Mgahinga National Park
- Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Experience
- Day 3: Departure
3 Day Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park Details
Day 1: Transfer from Entebbe Airport to Mgahinga National Park
Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, your tour guide will be ready to welcome you to Uganda, marking the beginning of your exciting gorilla trekking adventure. Depending on your preference, you’ll have the option to choose between a scenic road trip or a domestic flight to Mgahinga National Park. If you opt for the flight, you’ll enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Uganda’s diverse landscapes as you head to Kisoro Airstrip, the nearest airstrip to the park. Alternatively, the road trip offers a chance to soak in the local culture and scenery as you journey through towns and countryside.
Upon reaching Mgahinga, you’ll be greeted by the park’s captivating natural beauty. Nestled within the Virunga Massif, the park is a haven of volcanic mountains and lush forests. Check in your chosen accommodation. After settling in, indulge in a delicious lunch featuring Ugandan cuisine. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax and acclimatize to the park’s altitude. Take a leisurely walk around the lodge’s surroundings, appreciating the tranquil ambiance and possible wildlife sightings. As the day comes to a close, enjoy a delightful dinner, sharing stories and anticipation for the remarkable gorilla trekking experience awaiting you on the morrow.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga
With the dawn in Mgahinga, your anticipation rises as you rise early for an exceptional day. A fulfilling breakfast prepares you for the next adventure. At the park headquarters, experienced rangers provide a thorough briefing, highlighting gorilla trekking guidelines and stressing the need to respect these magnificent animals and their environment. The heart of the day’s adventure lies ahead – your gorilla trekking experience. Each trek is a unique journey as you traverse the lush forests of Mgahinga, led by skilled trackers who are intimately familiar with the gorillas’ habitats. The duration of the trek varies greatly, ranging from as little as 30 minutes to several hours, contingent on the location of the gorilla family on that particular day. This unpredictability only adds to the thrill, making every step an exciting discovery.
As you find yourself in the presence of a mountain gorilla family, a profound sense of awe washes over you. The encounter is both humbling and exhilarating, and you’ll have the rare privilege of spending up to an hour observing these gentle giants. As you quietly observe their interactions and behaviors, you’ll also have the chance to capture precious photographs that immortalize this remarkable moment.
After your gorilla trek, return to your accommodation for a well-deserved lunch, allowing you to rejuvenate your body and mind while reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve just completed. The afternoon offers relaxation and exploration opportunities. You also have the option to dive into a captivating cultural journey alongside the Batwa pygmies, the original inhabitants of this land. Immerse yourself in their vibrant heritage as you explore their ancestral way of life, their captivating music and dance rituals, and their intimate bond with the surrounding forest. Engage in hands-on experiences that unveil their history, survival techniques, and the contemporary hurdles they navigate. This enlightening experience unveils the intricate interplay between humans and nature, leaving you with a profound appreciation for this delicate connection.
As the sun sets, come together at your lodge for a satisfying dinner, marking the end of a day filled with wonder and adventure. Engage with fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter as you recap the remarkable moments. The day’s activities not only forge a close connection with the gorillas but also offer a deeper understanding of the park’s ecological importance and its inhabitants. With the day’s memories etched in your mind, you’ll retire to your accommodation, eagerly anticipating the adventures that await on the next day of your gorilla trekking journey.
Day 3: Departure
On the final day of your exhilarating gorilla trekking adventure, begin with a satisfying breakfast that readies you for the journey ahead. As you bid farewell to your accommodation, memories of your time in Mgahinga National Park accompany you, creating a bittersweet yet gratifying feeling. With your belongings packed and gratitude in your heart, the choice of transportation back to Entebbe Airport awaits. Depending on your preference, there are two distinct routes, each offering its own unique allure.
If you choose the road transfer, you’ll embark on a scenic journey that traverses Uganda’s diverse landscapes. Along the way, an iconic landmark beckon: the equator. Pause for a photo opportunity at this geographical divide, capturing the essence of your journey in a single image. Your road trip may also encompass a stop at either Lake Mburo National Park or Queen Elizabeth National Park, providing a chance to glimpse Uganda’s wildlife. Lake Mburo showcases the likes of zebras and impalas against a stunning backdrop, while Queen Elizabeth National Park teems with possibilities of spotting elephants, buffaloes, and more. This option extends your adventure, allowing you to immerse yourself in Uganda’s natural beauty once more.
Alternatively, if time constraints or personal preference lean toward a quicker return, a domestic flight awaits. Flying from Kisoro Airstrip to Entebbe offers captivating aerial vistas, reminding you of the vast and diverse landscapes that have enchanted you throughout your journey.
As you journey back to Entebbe, take the opportunity to reflect on the incredible encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and newfound insights that have enriched your 3-day gorilla trekking escapade. The journey itself becomes a continuation of your adventure, whether you choose to savor the road’s scenic delights or soar through the skies. As you depart Uganda, the memories you’ve woven into your heart will stay with you, a testament to the profound experiences shared with the gorillas and the natural wonders of the country.
Important Information
– Other tourist activities in Mgahinga National Park include; bird watching, golden monkey tracking, and hiking.
– Gorilla trekking permits cost $700, you will need to obtain a gorilla trekking permit in advance, which can be purchased through Laba Africa the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
– The best time for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons of December to February and June to September, offering comfortable weather and better accessibility to the gorillas.
– It’s essential to be physically fit and have suitable trekking gear for the expedition. Pack essentials like water, snacks, hiking shoes and a rain jacket. A small fee can be paid to porters to help you carry luggage during the trek hence reducing on the burden.
– This itinerary can be customized according to your tastes and preferences.
