Getting to Mgahinga National Park from Kisoro Kisoro Town. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located 14 kilometers (9 miles) from Kisoro, a small town in southwestern Uganda. The journey to the park involves a rough uphill drive, which typically takes about 45 minutes. It is highly recommended to use a 4WD vehicle for this road, especially during the Wet seasons, which occur between February to May and September to November. The steep and sometimes muddy conditions make a 4WD essential during these periods for a safe and smooth journey.

The park is approximately 510 kilometers (317 miles) from Uganda’s capital, Kampala. Traveling by road from Kampala to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park takes at least 9 hours, depending on the conditions and traffic. For those coming from other national parks in Uganda, Mgahinga can also be accessed by road from Queen Elizabeth National Park, located about 310 kilometers (193 miles) away. This drive takes around 6 hours. Another nearby destination, Lake Mburo National Park, is approximately 316 kilometers (196 miles) away, and the drive from there to Mgahinga usually takes between 5 to 7 hours, depending on road conditions.

Given the park’s remote location, the roads leading to it can be challenging, but the journey rewards travelers with stunning landscapes and the opportunity to explore one of Uganda’s most treasured conservation areas. Mgahinga is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, known for its population of mountain gorillas. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and golden monkey tracking. A visit to this park is a true wilderness adventure, offering a serene escape and an opportunity to connect with nature at its most pristine.

What is the cheapest way to get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park from Kisoro Town?

To get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park from Kisoro Town affordably, you have a couple of options, depending on your budget and preference for comfort or adventure. One of the most popular and cheapest ways is by using boda-bodas, which are motorcycle taxis commonly found across Uganda. Boda-bodas are a budget-friendly choice, costing only a few dollars for the ride, and they offer a direct, quick way to reach the park. The trip by boda-boda is usually quite scenic, giving you a chance to experience the beautiful landscape of the region up close. However, keep in mind that it may not be the most comfortable ride, especially if you’re carrying luggage or traveling during the rainy season when the roads could become slippery or muddy.

Another affordable option is to hire a car from Kisoro Town. While this can be slightly more expensive than using a boda-boda, it’s still reasonably priced, especially if you’re traveling in a group. Sharing the cost of the car with others can make it an economical choice. The hired vehicle, whether a small sedan or a 4×4, provides more comfort, protection from the elements, and extra space for luggage. This option is particularly good if you want to travel more conveniently and have control over your schedule.

In either case, the distance between Kisoro Town and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is relatively short, around 14 kilometers, so both boda-boda rides and hired cars can get you there in about 30 minutes. The choice between a boda-boda and a hired car depends on your comfort preferences, budget, and how adventurous you feel.

How Much is a trip to see gorillas in Mgahinga From Rwanda?

To see gorillas in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, you’ll need a gorilla tracking permit. The cost varies based on your residency: $800 for non-residents, $600 for foreign residents, and 300,000 UGX for East African citizens (from Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, and South Sudan). This fee covers a one-hour encounter with the gorillas, and the permit is valid for a single day’s trek. Only 8 permits are available daily to track the Nyakagezi gorilla group, the only family in the park open for trekking. Permits are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s recommended to book months in advance. Encounter Africa Safaris can assist with the booking process, securing your permit through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

Gorilla tracking tours in Mgahinga range from budget to luxury options. Budget tours cost around $1,200 per person for two people and include budget accommodation and transportation in a 4×4 vehicle. Mid-range tours offer upgraded lodges, and luxury tours provide high-end accommodations like Icumbi Hotel, Ikoro, or Lake Mulehe Lodge cost from $1400 per person.

Generally, a gorilla trekking safari in Mgahinga from Rwanda ranges from USD 1300 to USD 1600 per person on full board basis. This price includes pick up and drop off to and from Rwanda, full board accommodations, tourist vehicle, professional safari guide, transportation during the entire trip, gorilla tracking permit, drinking water and snacks, fuel/gas for the car.

How long do i need to do a gorilla trekking safari in Mgahinga from Rwanda?

A gorilla trekking safari in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park from Rwanda can be completed in just two days, making it an ideal option for travelers with limited time.

On Day One, you will transfer from Rwanda to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The journey typically begins from Kigali, and you’ll travel through the beautiful landscapes of Rwanda, crossing into Uganda via the Cyanika or Katuna border. The drive takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on border crossing times and road conditions. Once you arrive at your accommodation near Mgahinga, you can rest and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

On Day Two, you’ll embark on the highly anticipated gorilla trekking experience. After an early breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a briefing, where you’ll learn about the gorilla family you’ll be tracking, the Nyakagezi group, and the guidelines for the trek. The trek can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. Once you find the gorillas, you will spend one hour observing and photographing them in their natural habitat. After the trek, you’ll return to your lodge for lunch and then proceed back to Rwanda, arriving in the late afternoon or evening.

Why book a gorilla trekking safari in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park with Kenlink Tours

Booking a gorilla trekking safari in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park with Kenlink Tours guarantees an exceptional experience. Kenlink Tours is known for its expert knowledge of Uganda’s wildlife and offers personalized safari packages tailored to your needs. They handle every detail, from securing gorilla trekking permits to providing experienced local guides who ensure you have the best chance of spotting the Nyakagezi gorilla group. Their commitment to sustainable tourism and respect for local communities enhances your journey, allowing you to engage in eco-friendly travel while supporting conservation efforts.

Kenlink Tours also offers flexible itineraries, including multi-country safaris across Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo, ensuring a seamless travel experience. Their dedication to customer service ensures a memorable and hassle-free adventure in the heart of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.