Fly-in Safaris from Masai Mara Game Reserve to Mgahinga for Gorilla Trekking
You can go on a special safari from Masai Mara in Kenya to Mgahinga in Uganda. It costs between $5000 and $10,000, depending on how long you stay in Kenya and Uganda and where you stay. First, you explore Masai Mara, seeing animals like rhinos, wildebeests, leopards, and zebras. It’s the best place to watch the wildebeest migration, a big event where many wildebeests cross rivers. Then, you fly from Masai Mara to Mgahinga to see mountain gorillas. These gorillas are endangered, and there’s only one family you can visit. To see them, you need a permit, and there are only eight permits per day. You need to book early because they’re popular.
Masai Mara is a famous place for safaris in Kenya. You can do many things there like going on drives to see animals, visiting the Masai people to learn about their culture, watching birds, and seeing the wildebeest migration. After Masai Mara, you fly to Uganda from Kisumu. From there, a special plane takes you to Mgahinga. It’s important to plan this in advance so that the planes are ready for your trip.
Booking a Direct Flight to Masai Mara and Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
If you want to go on a safari in both Masai Mara and Uganda for gorilla trekking, you have to plan ahead. First, you need to buy a permit for gorilla trekking in Uganda at least six months before your planned trek. These permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The cost varies depending on whether you’re a foreign non-resident, a foreign resident, or an East African citizen. Once you decide on the dates for your trek and confirm availability with us, you’ll need to make the full payment to secure your permit. Without payment, no permit will be booked for you. After purchasing the permit, we’ll send you a copy.
Combining Masai Mara Safari with Gorilla Trekking
It’s crucial to ensure that the dates you book for your gorilla trek in Uganda align with your travel dates for the Masai Mara safari. This synchronization ensures you get the best experience from both safaris without any clashes.
Rules and Regulations for Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga
When you go gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park, there are rules in place to protect the gorillas and ensure a safe experience for tourists. These rules must be followed by everyone, and local guides enforce them. Here are the rules:
- Silence During Trek: Keep quiet or speak softly during the trek. Gorillas prefer a calm environment, and noise can disturb them.
- Toilet Use: If you need to use the toilet, ask for a machete to dig a hole in the bushes. After using it, cover it properly to prevent gorillas from getting infected.
- Limited Group Size: Only eight people are allowed to trek gorillas per day. It’s essential to book your permits in advance.
- Time Limit with Gorillas: After finding the gorillas, each group can spend only one hour with them. This helps maintain their natural behavior and reduces the risk of disease transmission.
- Leave No Trace: Take all your rubbish back with you and don’t litter the national park.
- No Flash Photography: Flash photography is prohibited as it can scare the gorillas.
- Avoid Staring or Wearing Sunglasses: Staring at gorillas, especially in the eyes, can be perceived as a challenge. Also, avoid wearing sunglasses to prevent gorillas from feeling threatened.
- Guidelines if Approached by Gorilla: If a gorilla approaches you, don’t turn your back, don’t run, and lower yourself in a submissive posture until it passes.
- Minimize Noise and Movements: Turn off your phones or put them on silent to minimize noise. Avoid making abrupt movements.
- Stay with the Group: Always stay with your group and follow the guide’s instructions to ensure safety, as other animals inhabit the park.
By following these rules and guidelines, you can have a memorable and safe gorilla trekking experience in Mgahinga National Park.
