Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the best places in Africa for gorilla trekking. The park is famous for being home to the endangered mountain gorillas, which attract visitors from all over the world.
This 3 days Mgahinga gorilla trekking tour from Kigali gives you a chance to cross into Uganda and explore the beauty of the park while tracking the Nyakagezi gorilla family. The tour also includes a cultural experience with the Batwa people, known as the traditional forest dwellers.
Below is the detailed itinerary for this exciting adventure.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and journey to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Your 3 days Mgahinga gorilla trekking tour begins at Kigali International Airport upon your arrival in Rwanda. You will be welcomed by your driver guide who will brief you about the trip before starting the 4-hour drive to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda.
The journey takes you through beautiful countryside views as you cross the Cyanika border into Uganda’s Kisoro District. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy a hot lunch. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing and taking in the views of the highlands. Later, have dinner and overnight at your lodge.
Day 2: Gorilla trekking and Batwa cultural experience
After breakfast, your driver will take you to the park headquarters for a pre-trekking briefing. The ranger guides will explain the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking and assign you to a gorilla family. You will then begin your trek through the dense forest in search of the Nyakagezi gorilla group.
The trek can last between 2 to 6 hours depending on where the gorillas are located. Once found, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing their behavior, taking photos, and learning about their way of life. After the trek, return to the park headquarters and meet your driver for a transfer back to the lodge for lunch and relaxation.
In the afternoon, visit the Batwa community, the former forest dwellers who once lived in Mgahinga. They will share stories about their ancient traditions and how they used to survive in the forest. You will also enjoy traditional music and dance performances that highlight their rich culture. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and rest.
Day 3: Return to Kigali, city tour, and departure
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and drive back to Kigali, Rwanda. Upon arrival, you will go on a Kigali city tour, visiting top attractions such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Inema Art Center, and local craft markets. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to Kigali International Airport for your flight.
This marks the end of your 3 days Mgahinga gorilla trekking tour from Kigali.
