Despite being Uganda’s smallest National Park, Mgahinga is the country’s second most popular gorilla trekking destination after Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This scenic park is home to a plethora of mammal species, including the majestic Mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, as well as over 23 Albertine Rift endemic bird species.

Beyond its natural wonders, Mgahinga offers captivating cultural encounters, notably with the Batwa pygmies, making it an unforgettable destination for cultural immersion and wildlife exploration.

What to expect during the 5 days Uganda Gorilla and Cultural Tour

• A chance to trek Mgahinga’s only habituated gorilla family.
• An opportunity to encounter several forest and Albertine endemic bird species.
• Numerous views of mammals, reptiles and Amphibians.
• Participate in the life-changing Batwa Cultural Trail.
• The thrilling Equator Experience.
• Transport by a customized 4WD Vehicle.

Day 1: Arrival and transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Upon arrival at the beautiful Entebbe International Airport or after breakfast at your place of residence.You will be picked by our safari guide to begin your journey to the stunning Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Make sure to be ready by 6:30am and drive westwards and have your first stop at the Uganda Equator for 30 minutes to take photos and take part in some of the prepared experiments. Continue with your journey while enjoying the spectacular views of the lush hillsides, vast banana plantations, the long-horned cattle of Ankole people and terraced Kigezi highlands with a lunch break within Mbarara Town. Proceed straight to the Park arriving in the evening for dinner and overnight.

Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking and Rest

Have breakfast and be driven to Ntebeko Park Headquarters for briefing on the activity you are about to undertake. Please note that your passport details will be required during briefing to make certain that you are eligible to trek the Mountain gorillas.

Together with UWA ranger, guide, porters and 7 other visitors start the trek for Nyakagyezi gorilla family which will last anywhere between 1 hour and 3 hours. When found, spend one hour learning the group members’ unique characteristics, take photos and later return to the starting point for the trekking certificate.

One thing not to miss during this trek is the sweet sound of the birds, other curious primates, unique tree species, reptiles and Amphibians encountered during the trek. Have lunch and use the entire evening to rest or interact with fellow guests at the Lodge, explore other amenities of the Lodge or do other activities at the facility.

Day 3: The Batwa Cultural Trail

Just like other activities at the Park, wake up to an early breakfast and be picked up from the Lodge to the briefing point. The Batwa trail was launched in Mgahinga in 2011 to allow visitors explore the extraordinary culture and tradition of the Batwa pygmies and after the tour, you will agree that it’s one of the most rewarding cultural tours you have ever undertaken.

This long and rewarding trail is usually conducted by the Batwa guide and goes through the foothills of Muhabura and Gahinga Volcanoes to discover the hunter-gatherer lifestyle of the Batwa people.

You will learn about their ancient hunting techniques, traditional honey gathering methods, be led to the local pharmacy (traditional herbalist) to see some of the plants/roots/leaves used as traditional medicine.

Interestingly learn how Bamboo cups are made, see the wild fruits, leaves and roots used to making soup, your mind will be blown away by the way fire is made by rubbing sticks and is climaxed by a visit to Ngarama Cave (former food store, Royal Palace, court of Law, meeting place and hiding place during ancient battles).

Day 4: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi and boat cruise / canoe ride

Enjoy breakfast and check-out of the Lodge for a transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, the deepest Lake in Uganda also found in South-western Uganda and a stone throw away from Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This is your ideal relaxation spot after a hectic gorilla trek through the mountainous Virunga Conservation Area. Arrive on-time for check-in, lunch and later the boat cruise to some of the Islands including the Punishment Island-where unmarried pregnant girls where left to die. Look-out for the beautiful bird species such as the grey-crowned cranes, little egrets, Hadada Ibis, harrier hawks, Malachite kingfishers, slender-billed Baglafecht and cardinal woodpeckers among others. Retire to the Lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 5: Return to Kampala or Entebbe.

Have breakfast and check-out of the Lodge for a return journey to Kampala, Entebbe or even Kigali City. Be transferred to the Airport or a Hotel upon arrival.