Seeking for a short gorilla trek? The 2 Day Gorilla Trek in Mgahinga is one of the best packages for you. It takes you to the southwestern part of Uganda in Mgahinga, a park that is part of the Virunga Massif.

2 Day Gorilla Trek in Mgahinga

This protected area is amongst the most scenic spots in East Africa. With this package, you will land in Rwanda and cross borders to Uganda’s Mgahinga.

Day1:Kigali–Cross toMgahinga National Park

On arrival, you will meet and greet with our Safari guide. Transfer to Kigali city for a stopover. If you have more time, you will start with a city tour visiting its main points of interest like the Kigali genocide memorial site, Presidential Palace and more.

Have lunch and later embark on a drive to Mgahinga National Park, crossing via the Cyanika border. Arrive in the evening. Dinner and overnight at Kisoro Tourist Hotel Travellers Rest Hotel

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga National Park

Early in the morning get prepared for an enthralling Gorilla tracking experience in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. After briefing, you will start the journey to the Jungle in search of the Mountain Gorillas. This is one of the most enchanting Wildlife encounters in Uganda.

After the Gorilla trek, the next step is to embark on a drive back to Kigali for drop-off at the airport. End of Safari.

The Package includes:

Gorilla permit
Airport pick and drop
Ground Transportation
English-speaking driver guide.
Accommodation
Mineral water

It excludes:

Airfares
Visa Fees for Rwanda
Personal Insurance
Personal expenses.
Tipping fees.

over view of 2 Day Gorilla Trek in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park,

The 2 Day Gorilla Trek in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, offers an incredible opportunity to experience mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This park is part of the Virunga Mountain range, shared with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and is one of the few places where you can track these magnificent creatures. Here’s a detailed guide to the 2 Day Gorilla Trek:

Overview

gorilla happiness — Gorilla Tracking. The unique opportunity to see gorillas in their natural habitat is unforgettable, some even say life changing. Encounters with gorillas as

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the smallest national park in Uganda, covering about 33.7 square kilometers. Despite its size, it is part of a larger ecosystem known as the Virunga Conservation Area, which includes parks in Rwanda and the DRC. The park is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla group, which is known for its frequent cross-border movements.

Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Preparation

– Morning Departure from Kigali: Many tours start with a pick-up from Kigali, Rwanda, due to its proximity to Mgahinga. The drive to the park typically takes about 3-4 hours.
– Border Crossing: Cross the Uganda-Rwanda border at Cyanika. Ensure you have the necessary travel documents and visas.
– Arrival in Kisoro: Upon arrival in Kisoro, the nearest town to Mgahinga, you will check into your accommodation. Options range from budget lodges to more luxurious options.
– Afternoon Activity:
– Batwa Cultural Experience: Spend the afternoon learning about the indigenous Batwa people, the original inhabitants of the forest. The Batwa trail offers insights into their traditional way of life, including hunting, gathering, and their spiritual connection to the forest.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking

– Early Morning Start.
– Breakfast and Briefing: After an early breakfast, drive to the park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing. Rangers will provide important information on the trekking guidelines and safety measures.
– The Trek:
– Hiking Start: The trek begins around 8:00 AM. Depending on the location of the gorilla group, the hike can last from 1 to 6 hours. The terrain can be steep and challenging, with dense vegetation and varying weather conditions.
– Gorilla Encounter: Upon locating the Nyakagezi group, you will have one hour to observe and photograph the gorillas. Watching these gentle giants in their natural environment is a breathtaking experience. The gorillas may be seen feeding, playing, and interacting with each other.
– Return to Headquarters:
– Certificate of Participation: After the trek, return to the park headquarters where you will receive a certificate acknowledging your participation in the gorilla trek.
– Drive Back to Kigali: After the trek, return to your accommodation in Kisoro for lunch, and then drive back to Kigali, arriving in the evening.

What to Bring

– Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect against stinging nettles and insect bites.
– Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip.
– Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket or poncho, as the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable.
– Water and Snacks: Staying hydrated and energized is crucial, so bring plenty of water and some high-energy snacks.
– Camera and Binoculars: For capturing the unforgettable sights. Flash photography is not allowed.

Key Highlights

– Gorilla Encounter: The primary highlight is the intimate encounter with the mountain gorillas. This is a rare and unforgettable experience.
– Scenic Landscapes: The trek offers stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes, lush forests, and diverse flora and fauna.
– Cultural Insights: The Batwa cultural experience provides a deep understanding of the traditional lifestyle and history of the indigenous people.

Conservation and Community Impact

Gorilla trekking permits are priced at $700 per person (as of 2024). These fees support the conservation of the gorillas and their habitat, as well as benefit the local communities through development projects and employment opportunities. The revenue generated helps fund anti-poaching efforts and habitat restoration initiatives.

Tips for a Successful Trek

– Fitness Preparation: Ensure you are in good physical condition to handle the demanding hike.
– Respect Guidelines: Follow all instructions from the guides and maintain a respectful distance from the gorillas.
– Positive Attitude: The trek can be physically demanding and unpredictable, so staying patient and positive will enhance your experience.

The 2 Day Gorilla Trek in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers an unparalleled wildlife adventure, combining the thrill of tracking mountain gorillas with the beauty of the Virunga landscape and the cultural richness of the Batwa people. This experience is not only a personal adventure but also a contribution to the conservation of one of the world’s most endangered species.

https://www.silverbackgorillatours.com/uganda/mgahinga-gorilla-national-park