A little closer to extraordinary.
Discover the forested Virunga foothills and primate encounters of Mgahinga in southwestern Uganda.
Nestled in the far southwestern corner of Uganda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which spans Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC. Although small in size, the park offers world-class experiences — from trekking mountain gorillas and golden monkeys to hiking extinct volcanoes and encountering the Batwa forest people.
Hiking the Virunga Volcanoes (Mt. Gahinga, Mt. Sabyinyo, Mt. Muhabura)
Kampala / Entebbe · Mgahinga
Room for the remarkable.
DAY 01Kampala/Entebbe – Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
After breakfast, start your scenic journey to Kisoro, southwestern Uganda, with a stop at the Equator for photos and lunch in Mbarara. Drive through the beautiful terraced hills of the Kigezi Highlands, often called the “Switzerland of Africa.” Arrive in Mgahinga for dinner and overnight.
Overnight: Lodge near Mgahinga NP
DAY 02Gorilla Trekking / Golden Monkey Tracking
Today is the highlight of your safari! After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing. Depending on your permit, you will either:
Trek the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family – one of the most relaxed and easily accessible gorilla groups in Uganda. Spend a magical hour observing them in their natural habitat.
OR
Track the Golden Monkeys – a unique experience offered only in the Virunga Volcanoes region. Watch these playful primates leap through the bamboo forests.
Return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, you may take a short cultural tour to meet the Batwa pygmies, who once lived in the forest and now share their traditions, dances, and stories.
Overnight: Lodge near Mgahinga NP
DAY 03Optional Volcano Hike – Return to Kampala/Entebbe
For the adventurous, you can take an early morning hike up one of the three volcanoes:
Mount Sabyinyo (“Old Man’s Teeth”) with its rugged peaks,
Mount Gahinga with its giant bamboo forest, or
Mount Muhabura, the highest of the three, offering stunning views over Rwanda, DRC, and Uganda.
After breakfast, begin your return journey to Kampala/Entebbe, with a lunch stop in Mbarara. Drop-off at your hotel or airport in the evening.
End of Safari
A safari to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is perfect for travelers who want gorilla trekking in a quieter setting, combined with rare golden monkeys, volcano adventures, and authentic cultural encounters.
What’s included
- Airport transfer to/from Entebbe Airport
- Ground transport per private 4WD vehicle
- English speaking driver/guide
- Accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals as described in the itinerary
- Bottled mineral water in the vehicle
- Entrance fees and ranger fees for national parks
- Activities and excursions mentioned in the program
Not included
- Personal expenses and any items not specified in your quote.
Your final quote confirms accommodation, activities, permits and any transport supplements for your travel dates. Wildlife sightings and activities depend on conditions and availability. Ranger instructions and current park rules apply.
