Overview
Where Rwanda Meets
Uganda's Wild Heart
Nestled at the convergence of Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of Africa's most dramatic gorilla habitats — its slopes draped across three towering Virunga volcanoes. This 2-day express trip gets you there and back from Kigali with ease, thanks to our dedicated gorilla trekking transfer service.
In just 48 hours you will track a habituated gorilla family through misty montane forest, optionally search for the playful golden monkey, and soak in the jaw-dropping scenery of the Virunga range. Whether you're extending a Rwanda visit or squeezing an unforgettable primate encounter into a busy schedule, this is the trip that delivers.
For travellers who'd like a longer Ugandan adventure, our partners at Kenlink Tours offer a superb range of 3-day gorilla safaris and extended itineraries across Uganda and Rwanda.
Day by Day
Your Itinerary
Arrival & Orientation
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Early Morning Depart Kigali hotel in a comfortable private 4×4 vehicle via the Cyanika border crossing into southwest Uganda.
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En Route Scenic drive through Rwanda's rolling hills and Uganda's terraced highlands (~3–4 hrs). Brief stop in Kisoro town for refreshments.
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Afternoon Check in at your lodge on the park boundary. Views of volcanoes Mt. Muhavura, Mt. Gahinga and Mt. Sabyinyo.
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Late Afternoon Gorilla trek briefing at park headquarters. Meet your ranger guides and learn tracking protocols.
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Evening Dinner at lodge. Rest and prepare for the big morning ahead.
& Return to Kigali
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7:00 AM Hearty breakfast at lodge before reporting to park HQ for final briefing and permit check.
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8:00 AM Gorilla trekking begins. Trek into the volcanic forest in search of Mgahinga's Nyakagezi gorilla family. Spend one magical hour with these gentle giants.
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Optional Add-on Golden monkey tracking in the bamboo forest — a rare and delightful primates experience.
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Midday Lunch at lodge. Collect your gorilla trekking certificate — a lasting keepsake.
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Afternoon Private transfer back through Cyanika border, returning to Kigali by evening (approx. 6–7 PM, depending on traffic).
Why This Trip
Trip Highlights
Trek through montane forest to spend an awe-inspiring hour with Mgahinga's resident habituated gorilla family.
Three dramatic volcanic peaks — Muhavura, Gahinga and Sabyinyo — frame every view in this corner of the Albertine Rift.
An optional encounter with the critically endangered golden monkey in Mgahinga's bamboo zone — playful, vivid and utterly unique.
Door-to-door comfort in a well-maintained 4×4 with a professional driver, including border crossing assistance at Cyanika.
Mgahinga's Afro-montane forest is part of the globally significant Virunga Conservation Area — home to half the world's mountain gorillas.
Every trekker receives an official Uganda Wildlife Authority gorilla trekking certificate — the ultimate travel keepsake.
What's Covered
Inclusions & Exclusions
✔ What's Included
- ✔ Return private transfer from Kigali (4×4 vehicle)
- ✔ Professional English-speaking driver/guide
- ✔ 1 night lodge accommodation near the park
- ✔ Gorilla trekking permit (USD 700 per person)
- ✔ All park entry & ranger fees
- ✔ Gorilla trekking certificate
- ✔ Breakfast on Day 2 & lunch after the trek
- ✔ Border crossing assistance (Cyanika)
- ✔ Bottled water throughout the journey
✘ What's Excluded
- ✘ International flights to/from Kigali
- ✘ Rwanda & Uganda visas
- ✘ Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- ✘ Golden monkey permit (USD 60 — optional add-on)
- ✘ Tips for guides, porters and lodge staff
- ✘ Personal items, drinks & souvenirs
- ✘ Dinner on Day 1 (unless arranged in advance)
- ✘ Porter hire during the trek (optional, ~USD 15)
Good to Know
Important Information
🎟 Gorilla Permits
Uganda gorilla permits cost USD 700 per person. Permits must be booked well in advance — availability is strictly limited to 8 trekkers per gorilla family per day. We handle the booking on your behalf. Learn more about gorilla trekking safaris.
🩺 Health & Fitness
Gorilla trekking involves walking through steep, sometimes muddy forest terrain for 1–6+ hours depending on gorilla location. A moderate fitness level is required. Guests with certain illnesses may not be permitted to trek by park rules.
👕 What to Pack
Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers (neutral colours), sturdy waterproof hiking boots, garden gloves, light rain jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen and sufficient snacks for the trek. A daypack is essential.
🌦 Best Time to Visit
Mgahinga is accessible year-round. The driest — and most popular — months are June–September and December–February. The park can still be visited during the green season (March–May, Oct–Nov) with more lush scenery.
🚗 The Drive
Kigali to Mgahinga via Cyanika border crossing is approximately 130 km (3–4 hours). Our well-maintained fleet makes the journey comfortable regardless of road conditions.
🌍 More Uganda Safaris
Looking to extend your trip? Our partners at Kenlink Tours offer everything from Queen Elizabeth wildlife drives to 7-day gorilla & chimpanzee adventures.
