3 Days Mgahinga Gorilla Trekking from Kigali; Embark on a thrilling 3-day Mgahinga Gorilla Trekking adventure with Gorilla Trek from Kigali, starting from Kigali, Rwanda, and crossing into Uganda for an unforgettable experience. Located in southwestern Uganda,See more
3 Days Mgahinga Gorilla Trekking from Kigali; Embark on a thrilling 3-day Mgahinga Gorilla Trekking adventure with Gorilla Trek from Kigali, starting from Kigali, Rwanda, and crossing into Uganda for an unforgettable experience. Located in southwestern Uganda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area and offers an intimate and exciting gorilla trekking experience, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.
See lessDuration
3 Days
Language
Englisn, French, Swahili
Travel Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival and Kigali Exploration
Day 2
Gorilla Trekking Adventure
Day 3
Exploring Nature and Return to Kigali
Highlights
Include/Exclude
- Tranportation
- Meals
- Accommodation
- Airfare
- Alcohol
- Others not mentioned
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why start from Kigali for gorilla trekking in Mgahinga?
Starting from Kigali, Rwanda, offers a shorter and more convenient route to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park compared to traveling from Uganda’s capital, Kampala. The drive from Kigali to Mgahinga is about 4-5 hours, making it an ideal option for travelers looking to save time while enjoying a scenic journey through beautiful landscapes.
2. Do I need a visa to enter Uganda from Rwanda?
Yes, you will need a visa to enter Uganda from Rwanda. However, you can apply for an East African Tourist Visa, which allows multiple entries into Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for 90 days. This is the best option if you plan to visit more than one of these countries.
3. What is the best time of year for gorilla trekking in Mgahinga?
Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga can be done year-round, but the best times are during the dry seasons, which occur from:
- June to September
- December to February
4. How difficult is the gorilla trek?
The difficulty of the trek depends on the location of the gorilla family. The trek can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, involving hiking through hilly, sometimes steep terrain. A reasonable level of physical fitness is required, but the experience is highly rewarding, and the park guides are there to assist if needed.
5. What should I wear for gorilla trekking?
It's important to dress appropriately for comfort and safety. Here are recommended items:
- Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
- Long-sleeved shirt and long trousers to protect against scratches and insect bites
- Rain jacket or poncho, as weather conditions can change rapidly
- Gloves for handling vegetation
- Hat and sunscreen for sun protection
- Insect repellent to protect from mosquitoes and other insects
6. Is there an age limit for gorilla trekking?
Yes, participants must be 15 years or older to participate in gorilla trekking. This rule is in place to ensure the safety of both the gorillas and trekkers.
7. How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Mgahinga?
A gorilla trekking permit for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park currently costs $700 per person for foreign non-residents. The permit includes park entry fees and is valid for one day of trekking. This fee goes toward conservation efforts and supporting local communities.
8. Can I combine gorilla trekking with other activities in Mgahinga?
Yes, Mgahinga offers a variety of other activities that can complement your gorilla trekking experience, including:
- Golden monkey tracking: Another primate adventure to observe the playful golden monkeys.
- Volcano hiking: Trek up one of the three dormant volcanoes—Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhabura, or Mount Sabyinyo.
- Batwa cultural trail: Learn about the traditions and way of life of the indigenous Batwa people.