Can I Trek Gorillas in Both Bwindi and Mgahinga?

Uganda is renowned worldwide for its remarkable mountain gorillas, which can be found in two iconic national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These two parks offer an unparalleled opportunity for travelers to engage in the extraordinary experience of gorilla trekking. But the question remains: Can I trek gorillas in both Bwindi and Mgahinga? The short answer is yes, but there are some important details to consider when planning your gorilla trekking adventure in both of these stunning parks. Let’s explore how you can trek gorillas in both parks, the benefits of such an experience, and how to make the most of your time in Uganda’s gorilla trekking destinations.

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Bwindi Gorilla Safari Experience

The Basics of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Before answering the question fully, it’s essential to understand what gorilla trekking involves and what makes Uganda such a unique destination for this experience. Gorilla trekking is the act of hiking through dense forest to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The experience is led by experienced guides and trackers who ensure that visitors are able to safely observe these gentle creatures up close while maintaining a respectful distance.

In Uganda, gorilla trekking is available in two primary national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. As of 2024, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is US$800 per person, and for those wishing to engage in a gorilla habituation experience, it costs US$1,500. With these costs in mind, travelers may wonder if they can trek gorillas in both parks to maximize their experience.

Exploring Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the most famous and largest gorilla trekking destination in Uganda, with over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas residing here. Located in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi spans over 331 square kilometers of dense tropical rainforest and is home to over 20 habituated gorilla families. These families are spread across four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga.

Trekking in Bwindi offers diverse experiences depending on the sector you choose. For example, Buhoma and Rushaga are among the most popular sectors, with more gorilla families available for trekking. Each sector has different terrain, with some being more challenging than others. The Bwindi trek is renowned for its challenging, steep paths and dense vegetation, making it an adventurous and memorable experience. This diversity ensures that trekkers of all levels can enjoy the experience.

Gorilla Trekking Permits in Bwindi

If you are interested in trekking gorillas in Bwindi, you will need to secure a gorilla trekking permit for the specific sector where you plan to trek. The permits are in high demand, especially during peak seasons, so it’s recommended to book in advance. Bwindi offers the most gorilla families, which means you have more options and a higher chance of seeing the gorillas during your trek.

Discovering Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

While Bwindi is the more famous gorilla trekking destination in Uganda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another excellent location for encountering these magnificent creatures. Mgahinga is located in the southwestern corner of Uganda, bordering Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This park is part of the Virunga Massif, a transboundary region that spans all three countries and is home to the critically endangered mountain gorillas.

Although Mgahinga has fewer habituated gorilla families than Bwindi, it still offers a unique experience for trekkers. The Nyakagezi Gorilla Family is the only habituated gorilla family in Mgahinga, but this family is known for being particularly accessible and fascinating. The Nyakagezi family frequently moves across the borders of Uganda and Rwanda, and trekking in Mgahinga often means following these gorillas as they roam the slopes of the Virunga volcanoes. Trekking in Mgahinga is an intimate experience, with fewer permits available, providing a more exclusive and peaceful atmosphere.

Gorilla Trekking Permits in Mgahinga

As with Bwindi, trekking in Mgahinga requires a gorilla trekking permit, and the price is the same as in Bwindi, US$800 per person. Since the Nyakagezi Family is the only habituated group in Mgahinga, there are fewer opportunities to trek gorillas here. However, the smaller group size and the opportunity to witness gorillas in a less crowded environment make Mgahinga a great option for those looking for a more serene trekking experience.

Trekking Gorillas in Both Bwindi and Mgahinga

Can You Trek in Both Parks?

The exciting news for eager travelers is that yes, you can trek gorillas in both Bwindi and Mgahinga, but there are a few logistics to consider. Since both parks are located in close proximity to each other, it is possible to combine trekking experiences in both locations in a single trip.

Travel Distance and Logistics

Bwindi and Mgahinga are separated by approximately 15 to 30 kilometers, depending on the sectors you are trekking in. The roads between these two parks are relatively accessible, although some parts of the route can be bumpy and rugged, especially in the rainy season. It’s important to plan for enough time to travel comfortably between the two parks. Many travelers choose to stay at lodges or camps located in or near the parks to minimize travel time.

Booking Gorilla Permits

To trek in both parks, you will need to book gorilla trekking permits for each park separately. As each park has a limited number of permits available per day, it is advisable to book these permits well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Since the trekking permits are not transferable between parks, you will need to secure separate permits for Bwindi and Mgahinga.

The Benefits of Trekking in Both Bwindi and Mgahinga

Diverse Gorilla Trekking Experiences

One of the biggest advantages of trekking in both Bwindi and Mgahinga is the opportunity to experience different types of gorilla habitats and trekking conditions. Bwindi offers a more traditional trek through dense forest, while Mgahinga’s trek takes you through volcanic landscapes and provides a more exclusive experience with fewer trekkers. The contrast in these two environments makes for an enriching adventure, giving you a broader understanding of the mountain gorillas and their habitats.

Maximizing Your Gorilla Trekking Experience

By trekking in both parks, you also increase your chances of seeing different gorilla families. Bwindi’s multiple families allow for a broader spectrum of encounters, while Mgahinga offers a more focused, intimate experience with the Nyakagezi Family. Together, these experiences offer a fuller, more diverse view of the gorilla populations in Uganda.

Conclusion: Trekking Gorillas in Both Bwindi and Mgahinga

In conclusion, trekking gorillas in both Bwindi and Mgahinga is an absolutely achievable and highly rewarding experience. Both parks offer unique gorilla trekking opportunities that appeal to different types of adventurers. Bwindi, with its many habituated gorilla families, offers a variety of trekking experiences, while Mgahinga provides an intimate, exclusive adventure with the Nyakagezi Family. By combining the two, you get to enjoy the best of both worlds, ensuring a once-in-a-lifetime experience with the endangered mountain gorillas.

Tubale Safaris Ltd, as a reputable and registered Uganda tour operator, is here to help you plan your ideal gorilla trekking journey, whether you want to explore the lush forests of Bwindi or the volcanic slopes of Mgahinga. Let us guide you in making the most of your visit to Uganda and ensure you have a memorable and enriching encounter with these magnificent creatures.