Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga gorilla National park

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga gorilla National park : Mgahinga gorilla national park is the smallest national park located in southwestern region in Kisoro district and covers a total area of 33.7 square kilometers. The park is a home to  primates like mountain gorillas , golden monkeys, other animals like forest elephants , buffaloes , giant forest hogs , bushbucks , bush pigs, duikers , different vegetation types  and bird species. Its one of the most visited parks due to its primate species .

GORILLA TREKKING

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga is the main activity done in  the park all year round . Gorilla are trekked in families and the only family trekked in Mgahinga national park is Nyakagyezi . This gorilla family is the only  habituated gorilla family in Mgahinga national park for purposes of mountain gorilla trekking . The family has 9 members currently .

The trekking experience starts early in the morning at the park offices where you are briefed about the rules , regulations and expectations about the gorilla trekking . You are then grouped in groups of 8 and then assigned a ranger after which you will head into the forest for trekking

During the trekking , you will be able to view other primates like golden monkeys , mammals like giant forest elephants , bush pigs , buffalos , different bird species , plant and tree species . once the gorilla are found you will be allowed to spend time with them in their natural environment which gives you an opportunity to observe their behaviors , habits , watch them carry out their daily activities like feeding , breast feeding , playing , grooming young ones and take photos  . After the trekking you are then awarded a certificate .

Cost of Gorilla trekking permits in Mgahinga national park

Gorilla trekking permits are documents issued to any visitor above the age of 15 years by Uganda Wildlife Authority allowing him or her to visit the habituated gorilla family in Mgahinga gorilla national park . A single gorilla trekking permit in Mgahinga national park for foreign non residents is USD 800 , USD 700 for foreign residents and UGX 300,000 for East African Citizens .

Best time for gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park     

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga national park can be done anytime throughout the year but the best time is during the dry /peak season in the months of June , July , August , September , December , January and February . During the dry season there is less rainfall in the park therefore access roads and gorilla trekking trails are passable compared to the wet season when trails are muddy and slippery .

What to pack for gorilla trekking in Mgahinga national park  

Visitors going on a gorilla trekking safari in Mgahinga Gorilla national park are advised to pack various essentials due to unpredictable weather in the park such as long sleeved shirt and trousers , hiking shoes , w aterproof rain jacket , insect repellent , energy snacks , gloves , camera , long stockings , backpacks , walking stick and water bottle .