Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a protected area in southwestern Uganda part of the Virunga mountains. It is known for having lush green landscapes, dense forests, and diverse wildlife. Mgahinga is particularly famous for the population of mountain gorillas tracked by tourists. Apart from the gorillas, they can also engage in seeing different bird species, and golden monkeys.

Mgahinga is a haven for nature enthusiasts and rewards people interested in Eco-tourism by offering opportunities for trekking, hiking, and experiencing the beauty of the Pearl of Africa in true wilderness.

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is an unforgettable experience that allows you to get up close to the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Trekking involves hiking through lush forests to Virunga mountains under the guidance of experienced guides who are familiar with these gorilla movements.

Trekking is physically demanding as the terrain can be steep and challenging but the reward is the opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their family groups. Once you locate your allocated group, you are allowed to spend a maximum of one hour observing their behaviors, interactions, and daily activities. This encounter with gorillas offers a unique insight into their social structure and natural behaviors.

It is important to note that gorilla trekking is regulated to minimize the disturbance to gorillas and their natural environment. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is an awe-inspiring adventure that provides a deep connection to these endangered creatures while contributing and giving back to the local communities.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in southwestern Uganda renowned for its diverse ecosystems and most notably for being home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population.

The park has lush rainforests, mist-covered hills, and a unique biodiversity making it a prime destination for eco-tourism and wildlife enthusiasts. This place offers great significance for conservation efforts, offering visitors a chance to engage in gorilla trekking and experience the beauty of the pristine natural habitat.

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable national park.

Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to get up close and personal with critically endangered mountain gorillas. Trekking these gorillas is so much exhilarating and unforgettable adventure that immerses you into the heart of rainforests to encounter these creatures.

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable national park starts in the morning with a short briefing that happens at the park headquarters. Here, you are briefed on how you should behave once you encounter these creatures. You are allocated groups and assigned to trek different gorilla families in different sectors within the park.

You are sent into the lush rain forests, hiking and passing through steep terrain, muddy paths, and lush vegetation. This activity can take stretch from 30 minutes to about 2 hours depending on where these endangered creatures will be found.

Once you encounter them, you are given one hour to be in their presence as you observe their behavior and ways of doing different things.  You are allowed to take a few photos during this encounter.

During this encounter with the gorillas, you will feel emotionally connected to them which forms a unique personal connection with the gentle giants.

How to book for a gorilla permit in Uganda.

Booking a gorilla permit is done by following a few steps which include.

Choose the date and group.

Decide on a date you would like to encounter gorillas plus the location within Bwindi that you would like to do trekking. Bwindi has several sectors to choose from.

If you are doing gorilla trekking in Mgahinga, you only need to select the date because there is only one location with one habituated gorilla family.

Contact the appropriate authority.

You can get into the Uganda Wildlife Authority by contacting them through their official website, email, or phone.

Check availability.

You are supposed to inquire about the availability of permits for your desired date because permits are so limited. You are advised to always book in advance especially if you are planning to come in during the peak seasons. Booking the gorilla permits is only done through a local trusted and registered tour company.

Pay the permit fee and receive your confirmation.

Once you confirm the availability, you are required to pay a certain amount of money as a booking fee through a tour company to the Uganda Wildlife Authority office. After the payment, you will receive a confirmation of your payment. Gorilla permit costs range from nationality and region. Foreign nonresident visitors pay USD 800, foreign residents pay USD 700, and East African citizens pay UGX 300,000.

Plan your trip and pick your permit.

You can now plan your trip accordingly including accommodation, transportation, and any other activities you would like to engage in. You are required to pick up your permit before the day of your trek.

What you need to pack

  • Long-sleeved shirt and trousers.
  • Waterproof and warm jacket
  • Garden gloves
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Binoculars and camera
  • Packed food and water to stay hydrated.
  • Walking stick
  • Hiking boots
  • Necessary documents like gorilla permits

Rules and regulations for gorilla trekking

  • Do not take photos with a flashlight.
  • Maintain a safe and reasonable distance away from the gorillas
  • Do not chew or eat in the presence of gorillas
  • Do not try to touch the gorillas because it makes them feel insecure.
  • Avoid crowdedness and do not spend too much time in the presence of the gorillas
  • If you need to cough or sneeze, you are supposed to excuse yourself away from these gorillas.
  • Stay together with your assigned gorilla trekking group.