How Much Does Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Cost?

How Much Does Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Cost? Your Complete Guide to Planning a Gorilla Tour

Planning a trip to see the endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park? One of the most important questions travelers ask is: How much does gorilla trekking in Mgahinga cost? This guide covers everything you need to know—from permit prices and transportation to accommodation and extra activities.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in Uganda’s far southwest near the borders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, offers one of the most intimate and unique gorilla trekking experiences in East Africa. The park is part of the Virunga Mountains—a chain of volcanic peaks shared between the three countries—and is home to the elusive Nyakagezi gorilla family, as well as golden monkeys and other rare wildlife.

Gorilla Trekking Costs in Mgahinga National Park

The total cost of a gorilla trekking tour in Mgahinga depends on a few key factors: your accommodation level (budget, midrange, or luxury), transportation method, and how many days you plan to spend in the park.

• Budget tours start around USD $1,290 per person (based on two people sharing).

• Solo travelers can expect to pay around USD $1,900.

• Luxury packages can range from USD $3,600 to $5,100+, depending on the lodge and added experiences.

All packages typically include the gorilla trekking permit, transportation, guide fees, accommodation, meals, and park entry.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Cost for Mgahinga

To track mountain gorillas in Mgahinga, you’ll need a gorilla trekking permit issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Permit prices are as follows:

• Foreign Non-Residents: USD $800

• Foreign Residents: USD $700

• East African Citizens: UGX 300,000

Permits should be booked well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the peak seasons (June–September and December–February). Only 8 permits are issued per day in Mgahinga, since the park hosts just one habituated group.

The Gorilla Trekking Experience in Mgahinga

Your trek begins early in the morning with a briefing at the park headquarters near Kisoro town. Trained rangers and trackers will guide you through the dense rainforest in search of the Nyakagezi gorilla group.

Once you locate the gorillas, you’ll be allowed to spend one hour in their presence—watching them feed, interact, and move through the forest. It’s a powerful, once-in-a-lifetime experience that brings you within 5–7 meters of these gentle giants.

At the end of your trek, you’ll receive a certificate to commemorate your encounter with the mountain gorillas.

Getting to Mgahinga: Transport Costs and Options

Traveling to Mgahinga involves both road and optional air travel. Most visitors arrive via Kisoro, a town about 45 minutes from the park headquarters.

• Vehicle hire (4×4 with driver-guide): USD $100–$250 per day

• For a 3-day gorilla tour, transport costs are approximately USD $290

• Uganda visa: USD $50 (available on arrival or online via eVisa)

• Self-drive or guided tours: Trek Africa Expeditions offers all-inclusive trips with professional guides, drinking water, and comfortable 4×4 vehicles

Alternatively, scheduled domestic flights from Entebbe to Kisoro Airstrip are available, followed by a short transfer to the park.

Accommodation Options in and Around Mgahinga National Park

There are several places to stay near Mgahinga, ranging from budget lodges to luxury eco-lodges with stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes.

• Luxury: Gahinga Lodge (~USD $400+ per person per night)

• Midrange to Budget: Lake Chahafi Lodge and Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge (~USD $100 per person)

• Budget stays in Kisoro town: Starting from USD $50 per night, just a 30-minute drive to the park

• You can also stay in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, about 1 hour away by road

Other Activities in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

While gorilla trekking is the main highlight, Mgahinga offers several other enriching activities for those wanting to spend more time in this peaceful park.

1. Golden Monkey Tracking and Habituation

• Track the playful and rare golden monkeys, another endangered primate species found only in the Virunga Mountains.

• Tracking experience: Guided hikes with a chance to spend one hour with the monkeys.

• Habituation experience: Spend more time observing and helping researchers acclimate golden monkeys to human presence.

2. Batwa Cultural Trail

• Learn about the forest-dwelling Batwa pygmies, the original inhabitants of the Mgahinga Forest.

• Explore ancient caves, traditional hunting techniques, music, and dance on this rich cultural immersion.

• Cost: USD $80 per person

3. Nature Walks in Gahinga Forest

• Discover the forest on foot, guided by experts who will teach you about indigenous trees, medicinal plants, bird species, and smaller wildlife.

4. Village Walk in Kisoro

• Visit local markets, meet community members, and experience the traditions of the Bafumbira and Bakiga tribes, including their food, crafts, and dance.

5. Birdwatching

• With over 120 bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics, Mgahinga is a birder’s paradise.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Mgahinga Gorilla Tour?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we create unforgettable gorilla trekking adventures in Mgahinga, Bwindi, and across East Africa. Our team combines youthful energy with years of field experience to craft personalized itineraries that go beyond expectations.

We’re passionate about sustainable tourism and authentic local experiences. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group, we offer flexible packages that suit your style and budget.

We’re also proud to be highly rated on TripAdvisor and Trustpilot, with glowing reviews from past clients. Get in touch with us today to learn more about gorilla trekking in Mgahinga and receive a tailor-made quote for your trip.

Ready to plan your once-in-a-lifetime gorilla adventure in Mgahinga?
Contact Trek Africa Expeditions for updated pricing, permit availability, and expert advice on building your perfect Uganda safari.