3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari in Mgahinga National Park
Mgahinga is home to a single habituated transboundary gorilla group. The Batwa, who were self-sufficient, offer fascinating tours, sharing their forest secrets with visitors.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, sitting at altitudes between 2,227m and 4,127m, was created to protect the rare mountain gorillas in its lush forests. Additionally, it plays a vital role in conserving the endangered golden monkey.
Beyond its ecological importance, the park holds immense cultural significance, particularly for the indigenous Batwa pygmies, who were the forest’s original inhabitants. Their ancient wisdom of the forest remains unmatched.
Mgahinga’s most prominent features are its three conical, dormant volcanoes, part of the stunning Virunga Range that spans the border regions of Uganda, Congo, and Rwanda. Mgahinga is a part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, encompassing neighboring parks in these countries. The volcanoes’ slopes support diverse ecosystems and wildlife, providing a breathtaking backdrop to this scenic wonder.
Mgahinga is home to over 76 mammal species, including elephants, giant forest hogs, bush pigs, bushbucks, buffalos, and leopards. It boasts a bird checklist of over 180 species, with 14 endemic to the Albertine Rift, such as the Kivu ground thrush and turaco.
Our 3-Day Gorilla Tour in Mgahinga is ideal for those who prefer an easier gorilla experience or want to pair it with golden monkey trekking in Uganda. You can start the trip from either Kampala or Entebbe, but we can also arrange it to commence in Kigali, Rwanda, to shorten the travel time.
SAFARI OVERVIEW
Day 1: Pickup and Transfer to Mgahinga
- Your guide/driver collects you from your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe.
- Receive a comprehensive trip overview and have your questions addressed.
- Embark on a picturesque drive to Mgahinga, passing through rolling hills and captivating landscapes.
- Witness local activities and the distinctive Ankole cattle.
- Explore the art of traditional drum making at Mpambire and straddle the equator.
- Enjoy lunch in Mbarara before continuing to Kisoro, the portal to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Park and Batwa Trail
- After an early breakfast, depart for the park headquarters.
- Receive a thorough briefing on gorilla trekking and essential guidelines.
- Trek through bamboo forests in pursuit of the Nyakagezi gorilla group.
- Admire the diverse wildlife and the striking Virunga Volcanoes.
- Experience the awe-inspiring presence of the mountain gorillas.
- Optionally, embark on the Batwa Trail, guided by Batwa experts to learn about their rich history and culture.
Day 3: Transfer back to Kampala or Entebbe
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
- Your guide/driver picks you up, signaling the start of the return journey.
- As you travel back to Entebbe or Kampala, relish the mesmerizing landscapes and observe local life along the way.
