Mgahinga Gorilla Permit Reservation
Overview;
A gorilla trekking permit is essential for anyone planning to trek mountain gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda, or the Democratic Republic of Congo. For example, if you intend to trek in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, you’ll need a Mgahinga Gorilla Permit. This permit grants access to treks and views of gorillas in their natural habitat, which are managed by the respective wildlife authorities in each country.
About Mgahinga National Park
Mgahinga National Park, Uganda’s smallest national park, spans approximately 33.7 square kilometers. Here, securing a permit for gorilla trekking such as the official Mgahinga Gorilla Pass, is necessary to access this protected area. It is one of the few mountain gorilla habitats globally and is adjacent to Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) issues Mgahinga gorilla permits.
Cost of a Gorilla Permit
The cost of a gorilla permit in Mgahinga National Park is as follows:
- US$800 per person for foreign non-residents
- US$700 per person for foreign residents
- UGX 300,000 per person for East African citizens
This permit allows visitors to spend an hour with the gorillas in Mgahinga. When reserving, please note that costs and availability are based on the specific Mgahinga Permit regulations set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority or your chosen operator.
What Is Included in the Gorilla Permit?
The Mgahinga gorilla permit includes:
- One hour of gorilla viewing in their natural habitat
- Park entry fees for Mgahinga National Park.
- Security in the form of armed rangers for visitor safety throughout the trek
It’s worth noting that the permit excludes transportation, meals, and accommodation, as the gorilla permit, such as the one for Mgahinga, only covers essential trek aspects.
Checking Availability of Mgahinga Gorilla Pass.
Mgahinga National Park is home to a single gorilla family, the Nyakagezi family, which is available for trekking daily.
Transportation to Mgahinga
To reach Mgahinga National Park, visitors must have a Ugandan visa, available for US$30 at the airport or other entry points. The park is accessible by road, approximately a 45-minute drive from Kisoro.
Where to Stay in Mgahinga
Mgahinga offers a variety of accommodation options, both within and near the park, ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly stays. For travelers securing a Gorilla Permit for Mgahinga, some of the best stays include:
- Gahinga Lodge – A luxury option costing around US$400 per person per night
- Lake Mulehe Lodge – Offers mid-range and budget options starting from US$100 per person per night
Some visitors choose to stay in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, about an hour’s drive from Mgahinga, depending on road conditions and driver speed. Accommodation arrangements are always made after confirming your Mgahinga Gorilla Permit reservation.
