Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park is done each day, all year round. With a valid gorilla trekking permit per person in a group of at most 8 members in the group, only 1 hour is allocated to stay up close with the gorillas in their habitat in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The best time to go gorilla trekking is during the 2 dry seasons, which endures between June-September & December to February

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park takes you to the Southwestern corner of Uganda in Kisoro District. Established in 1991, the park covers an area of approximately 33.7 square kilometers (13 square miles) and is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which spans across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Dominated by the striking volcanic mountains of the Virunga range, including the iconic Mount Muhavura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabinyo, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is not only a haven for nature lovers but also a vital habitat for the endangered mountain gorillas. This park is renowned for its unique ecosystems, cultural significance, and diverse wildlife, making it an exceptional destination for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.

Gorilla trekking Permit in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park costs $800 per person for Foreign Non Residents,  $600 (USD) per person for Foreign Residents,  while Ugandan residents and East African Citizens(Uganda, Kenya Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Congo, Southern Sudan) pay shs. 250,000 UGX per person. The Mountain Gorilla trekking Permit For Mgahinga Gorilla National park rates covers; guide fees, park entrance for a full day (24 hours), & Community development contribution.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park  one out of the World’s 4 Mountain Gorilla national Parks protecting the endangered Mountain Gorilla. The park  shelters 80 mountain gorilla members, yet only one habituated gorilla family- The Nyakagezi gorilla family group/troop is open for tracking. Dating back, the Nyakagezi was the only habituated family in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, until 2019, when the Hirwa group from Rwanda crossed to Uganda This increased the number of Gorilla tracking enthusiasts from 8 to 16 per day.

Gorilla tracking is only possible, after acquiring a gorilla trekking permit, which is obtained from Uganda Wildlife Authority(UWA) . Gorilla trekking permits can be obtained directly at individual basis, or through a trusted (reliable) tour operator, and Gorilla trekking is recommended to persons 15 years of age and above, below which is not allowed.

Gorilla trekking Experience in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

One of the main attractions of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the opportunity to trek and observe the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The park is home to a portion of the famous Nyakagezi Gorilla Group, which consists of a small population of these magnificent primates. Guided gorilla trekking experiences allow visitors to encounter these gentle giants up close while supporting conservation efforts.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park starts by 0700 hrs, when visitors will be arriving for registration. All visitors must submit their Valid passports or Identity cards along with the gorilla trekking permits for that specific date so as to be allowed access to track gorillas. After registering, the ranger guides will address the visitors about the gorilla trekking rules & regulations to be followed during Gorilla trekking, plus what to expect before when they are found  as stated in the gorilla trekking rules and regulations.

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga gorilla National Park may last from 1to 6 ours depending on her the Gorilla family group may have relocated from the previous position, when it was last tracked.

All Gorilla trekking junkies, are allowed spend at most 1 hour in the presence of the endangered mountain Gorillas, upon finding them. Visitors allowed to take Videos & photos (without flashlights), interact, and watch them play, while they are up close (face to face) with the gorillas.

Thereafter, Gorilla trekking certificates, will be issued to each visitor, who has taken part in the Gorilla trekking experience.

Trekking Routes in Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers several exciting trekking routes that provide visitors with opportunities to explore its unique landscapes, volcanic peaks, and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re interested in summiting a volcanic mountain, exploring lush forests, or learning about local culture, these trekking routes cater to different levels of experience and interests.

1. Mount Sabinyo Trek (3,669 meters)

Mount Sabinyo, also known as “Old Man’s Teeth” because of its serrated peaks, is one of the most popular trekking routes in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This trek takes hikers to the top of the extinct volcano, where they can stand at the point where Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo meet.

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Duration: 8-10 hours round trip
• Distance: About 14 km (8.7 miles)
• Highlights:
  • Three summits, each offering increasingly stunning views of the surrounding countries and landscapes.
  • The summit provides a unique opportunity to stand in three countries at once.
  • Abundant wildlife along the trail, including various bird species and small mammals.

This trek requires a good level of fitness due to steep climbs and ladders that aid in reaching the final summit. The scenic beauty along the way, combined with the thrill of standing at the tri-national border, makes it one of the must-do treks in the park.

2. Mount Gahinga Trek (3,474 meters)

Mount Gahinga, the smallest of the three volcanic peaks in Mgahinga, offers a relatively easy hike compared to Mount Sabinyo. The trek to the summit takes you through beautiful bamboo forests, home to the endangered golden monkeys.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 6-7 hours round trip
• Distance: About 8 km (5 miles)
• Highlights:
  • Bamboo forests that are prime habitats for golden monkeys.
  • Scenic views of the Virunga Mountains and the rolling hills of Kisoro District.
  • Mount Gahinga’s summit features a large swamp-filled crater, a unique sight after the challenging climb.

This trek is perfect for those who want to experience the park’s diverse ecosystems without the more demanding climbs of Mount Sabinyo or Mount Muhavura.

3. Mount Muhavura Trek (4,127 meters)

Mount Muhavura is the highest of the three volcanic peaks in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and offers the most strenuous but rewarding trek. The summit of Mount Muhavura provides panoramic views of the Virunga Mountains, the Rwenzori Range, and even Lake Edward in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Duration: 8-10 hours round trip
• Distance: About 12 km (7.5 miles)
• Highlights:
  • Spectacular views from the summit, including a stunning crater lake.
  • Rich biodiversity along the way, including different types of vegetation as you ascend through the various altitudinal zones.
  • A relatively less frequented trail, offering a quieter trekking experience.

The trek to Mount Muhavura is demanding, with steep ascents, but the breathtaking views from the summit make it well worth the effort for experienced hikers.

4. The Batwa Trail – Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park
   

For those interested in cultural trekking experiences, the Batwa Trail provides an immersive journey into the history and culture of the Batwa people, an indigenous community that once lived in the forests of Mgahinga. The Batwa were hunter-gatherers and are known as the “keepers of the forest.”

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Duration: 3-5 hours
• Distance: Varies, depending on the route
• Highlights:
  • Learn about the Batwa people’s traditional way of life, including hunting techniques, medicinal plant usage, and forest survival skills.
  • Visit sacred sites, including the Garama Cave, where the Batwa would hold traditional ceremonies.
  • A performance of Batwa music and dance, offering insight into their rich cultural heritage.

The Batwa Trail is not only a trek but also a cultural tour that helps support the Batwa community, making it a meaningful experience for visitors.

5. Golden Monkey Tracking

Golden monkey tracking offers a shorter, less strenuous trekking option and is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the few places in the world where you can see the endangered golden monkeys in their natural habitat.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 2-4 hours
• Distance: Varies depending on the location of the monkeys
• Highlights:
  • The chance to observe playful golden monkeys, known for their bright orange-gold fur.
  • Trek through beautiful bamboo forests, a prime habitat for these primates.
  • A shorter trek, making it ideal for those with limited time or looking for a less demanding activity.

Golden monkey tracking is often combined with other activities like the Batwa Trail or shorter nature walks, offering a diverse day of exploration in the park.

6. Nature Walks

For visitors who prefer a more leisurely experience, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers guided nature walks through its beautiful landscapes. These walks vary in difficulty and duration and provide an excellent opportunity to learn about the park’s flora and fauna while taking in its stunning scenery.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Highlights:
  • Explore the park’s lower slopes and bamboo forests.
  • Spot wildlife, including small mammals, birds, and butterflies.
  • Learn about the unique ecosystems and conservation efforts in the park.

Nature walks are a great way to appreciate the natural beauty of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park at a slower pace, making them suitable for all ages.