How to plan a Fly-in Adventure to Mgahinga National Park

If you want to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park without spending a long time on the road, you can plan a fly-in adventure with Iconic Africa Safaris. Instead of an 8-9 hour drive, you’ll only need 2 hours by flying. This safari offers various activities like Mountain Gorilla tracking, experiencing the Batwa culture, and climbing volcanoes.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Uganda’s smallest national park, located on the border with Rwanda. It’s part of the Virunga ranges, along with Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in DR Congo. The park has three extinct volcanoes: Muhavura, Gahinga, and Sabinyo. Besides mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, you can spot birds, reptiles, and other forest mammals here.

Cost of a Flying Safari to Mgahinga National Park

The cost of a flying safari depends on your travel style – luxury, mid-range, or budget – your itinerary, and the number of days. The biggest expense is the Gorilla tracking permit, which costs USD 800 per person for Foreign Non-Residents, USD 700 for East African Residents, and USD 77 for East African Citizens. These costs have increased from July 1st, 2024, to June 30th, 2026. Rest of Africa citizens get a discount, paying only USD 500. Other expenses include accommodation (budget: USD 100, mid-range: USD 200, luxury: USD 300-USD 700), transport, and return flights (USD 542). The most common itinerary, the 3 Days Fly-in Mgahinga Gorilla Tracking, costs USD 2300 for a solo traveler, USD 1790 per person for two people sharing, USD 1770 per person for three people sharing, and USD 1750 per person for four people sharing. This price includes a Gorilla tracking permit, accommodation (budget range), transport in a 4×4 Safari vehicle, return flights, an English speaking Driver guide, and drinking water. It excludes tips, Uganda Visa, flights, and alcoholic drinks.

How to Book a Flying Safari to Mgahinga National Park

To book a flying safari, share your planned travel dates with Iconic Africa Safaris. They’ll check for availability of gorilla tracking permits and flights. Once available, you’ll receive a confirmation and an invoice for advance payment. Once payment is made, both permits and flights will be secured in advance, confirming your booking for a flying safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Activities on a Flying Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Gorilla Tracking in Mgahinga

If you’re up for an adventure, head to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for a once-in-a-lifetime experience: gorilla tracking. Every morning at 7 am, the journey begins with a briefing. Then, it’s off to trek through the Gahinga forest in search of the rare and endangered mountain gorillas. In this park, there’s one special gorilla family you might meet, the Nyakagezi gorilla family. But remember, only eight permits are available each day, so it’s smart to book yours 2-3 months ahead.

Golden Monkey Tracking

Another incredible activity in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is golden monkey tracking. Like gorilla tracking, it starts in the morning with a briefing before setting off into the forest. Golden monkeys are endangered, and this is one of the few places you can see them in their natural habitat. The good news is, permits are usually available when you arrive at the park headquarters.

Golden Monkey Habituation

For a deeper experience with golden monkeys, you can join the habituation process. This means spending more time with these monkeys, helping them get used to humans. Like golden monkey tracking, it starts in the morning with a briefing and then a walk through the forest to find these special creatures. And just like tracking, permits are easy to get when you arrive.

Birding

If you love birds, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a paradise. With over 127 species, including some found only in this region, it’s a birdwatcher’s dream. As you explore the park, keep your eyes and ears open for the colorful and unique birds that call this place home.

Wildlife Viewing

While gorillas and golden monkeys steal the spotlight, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is also home to a variety of other animals. From buffaloes to elephants to leopards, there’s a chance you might spot some of these fascinating creatures during your trek or hike. But remember, they’re wild animals, so it’s best to admire them from a safe distance.

Batwa Cultural Trail Experience

For a different kind of adventure, immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Batwa people. Led by Batwa guides, you’ll learn about their traditional forest life and customs. The highlight of the trail is descending into Garama cave, the historic home of the Batwa King. Here, you can also enjoy traditional Batwa dances, adding a cultural dimension to your safari experience.

Where to Stay on a Flying Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

If you’re planning a flying safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, you have several lodging options nearby. These include Gahinga Lodge, Lake Chahafi Resort, Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge, and Kisoro Travelers’ Inn, among others. These lodges provide comfortable accommodations close to the park, allowing you to easily access its wonders.

Best Time to Book a Flying Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

The best time to book your flying safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is during the drier months. These months typically fall between January, February, June, and early September. During this time, the weather is more stable, making it easier to travel to the park. Additionally, the vegetation is not as dense, offering clearer views of the mountain gorillas and golden monkeys that call the park home.

How to Get to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

There are two main ways to reach Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: by road or by air.

By Road: You can access the park via the main highway from Entebbe or Kampala, which takes approximately 8 to 9 hours to drive. Along the way, you’ll pass through Kabale town before reaching Kisoro town. From Kisoro town, you’ll continue driving towards your lodge, which is located close to the park for an overnight stay. Alternatively, you can also reach the park from Kigali, Rwanda, which is about a 2 to 3-hour drive away.

By Air: Flying is another convenient option to reach Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. You can take a flight from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala’s Kajjansi airfield to Kisoro airstrip, which provides access to the park. Scheduled and chartered flights are available, operated by domestic airline operators like Aero link and Fly Uganda. Once you land at the airstrip, your tour operator will arrange for a transfer to the lodge where you’ll be staying during your visit to the park.