Embarking on a captivating journey, Gorilla tracking in Mgahinga National Park unfolds amidst the picturesque landscapes of southwestern Uganda, nestled along the border with Congo and Rwanda. Encompassing an area of approximately 33.7 square kilometers, this park serves as a haven for mankind’s closest relatives, the endangered mountain gorillas. These magnificent creatures traverse the lush forest in search of sustenance, rendering Mgahinga Gorilla National Park an unparalleled destination that beckons travelers from various corners of the globe, making it a highlight of any Uganda Gorilla Safari.
The allure of Mgahinga lies not only in the captivating mountain gorillas but also in its expansive rainforest adorned with a diverse array of tree species. Renowned for their herbivorous diet, the gorillas find an abundant food supply within the park. This unique feature sets Mgahinga apart, even enticing gorillas from neighboring regions in Congo and Rwanda to migrate to this rich habitat. While the gorilla population may not be as numerous as in other parks, the ease of spotting them in their natural habitat makes Mgahinga an ideal destination for gorilla tracking.
A visit to Mgahinga unfolds an adventure steeped in natural beauty, marked by a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guided by well-trained experts, a day-long trek through the verdant forests introduces visitors to the intricacies of gorilla behavior. The experience is nothing short of a lifetime encounter with these remarkable primates.
Typically commencing at the Ntebeko Entrance gate around 8:00 am, the Gorilla trekking experience allows visitors to spend a maximum of one hour in the presence of these majestic creatures. This time constraint ensures both the well-being of the gorillas and the enchanting experience for the visitors.
The optimal period to embark on a Gorilla Safari in Mgahinga is during the two dry seasons when the park is easily accessible. These seasons, spanning mid-December to the end of February and June to October, offer the advantage of traversing the thick forests with ease, as paths are less muddy compared to the rainy season. Nevertheless, Gorilla tracking remains feasible throughout the year.
For those traveling by road, the journey to Mgahinga involves a scenic drive from Kampala, passing through Kabale to Kisoro, taking approximately 8 hours. Alternatively, air travel offers a swift option. Boarding a plane from Entebbe to Kisoro Airstrip, located in close proximity to the park, ensures a quick and efficient journey, taking approximately 1 hour. Trek Africa Expeditions extends assistance in booking scheduled flights from Entebbe to Kisoro airstrip.
Mgahinga National Park offers an array of accommodations catering to visitors’ comfort and relaxation. In Ntebeko, options include Volcanoes Mount Gahinga Safari Lodge and Amajambere Iwacu Camp. Near Lake Mutanda, lodges such as Lake Mutanda Chameleon Hill Lodge provide serene retreats. In Kisoro, Traveler’s Rest Hotel and River Mucha Hotel stand as welcoming options. Trek Africa Expeditions orchestrates Gorilla and Golden Monkey tracking safaris to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every traveler.