1 Day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

This 1-day gorilla trekking safari in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park from Kigali is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the extraordinary thrill of meeting endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. Thanks to Kigali’s close proximity to the Uganda border only a 3 to 4-hour drive this itinerary offers a smooth, time-efficient, and rewarding cross-border adventure.

Organized by Experiya Tour Company, this safari takes you into one of Africa’s most scenic and biologically rich protected areas. Notably, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park forms part of the Greater Virunga Conservation Area, renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, mist-covered montane forests, and exceptional primate diversity.

In addition, the park is home to the famous Nyakagezi Gorilla Family, known for its relatively stable movements across the Virunga slopes. As a result, even within a single day, you can enjoy breathtaking scenery, immersive nature, and an intimate wildlife encounter that leaves a lasting emotional impression.

Detailed 1-Day Gorilla Trekking Itinerary

Early Morning Departure from Kigali

Your adventure begins early, around 4:00 AM, with a pick-up from your hotel or Kigali International Airport. After a short briefing, your professional driver-guide from Experiya Tour Company departs toward the Cyanika border, passing through Rwanda’s rolling hills, cultivated farmlands, and vibrant rural communities.

Along the way, border formalities are handled efficiently, allowing you to continue smoothly into Uganda toward Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located near Kisoro town. Meanwhile, the towering Virunga Volcanoes dominate the horizon, setting a dramatic and inspiring tone for the day ahead.

Morning Arrival and Gorilla Trekking Briefing

Upon arrival at the Ntebeko Visitor Centre, Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers warmly welcome you for a detailed pre-trekking briefing. During this session, they clearly explain gorilla trekking rules, safety guidelines, and the correct behavior to observe while in the forest.

Shortly afterward, you join a small trekking group and begin a guided walk through bamboo forests and montane vegetation in search of the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family. The trek typically lasts between 2 and 5 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Throughout the walk, you can appreciate the park’s rich biodiversity, volcanic terrain, and refreshing mountain air.

Midday Encounter with the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family

Once trackers locate the gorillas, you are allowed to spend one unforgettable hour observing them in their natural habitat. During this intimate encounter, you may watch mothers nurturing their young, juveniles playfully interacting, and the dominant silverback calmly overseeing the family.

At the same time, experienced rangers share fascinating insights into gorilla behavior, family dynamics, and ongoing conservation efforts. Consequently, this respectful close-range encounter is often described as one of the most powerful and emotional wildlife experiences in Africa.

Afternoon Return Journey to Kigali

After the trek, you enjoy your packed lunch and take a short rest at the park headquarters. Thereafter, you begin the scenic return drive to Kigali, retracing your route through southwestern Uganda and Rwanda.

Depending on trekking duration and border procedures, you arrive back in Kigali in the early evening, usually between 7:00 and 8:00 PM, marking the end of your memorable one-day gorilla trekking safari.

What Is Included

• Gorilla trekking permit for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (USD 800)
• Round-trip transportation from Kigali in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle
• Professional English-speaking driver-guide from Experiya Tour Company
• Packed lunch and bottled drinking water
• All park entry fees
• Services of professional Uganda Wildlife Authority ranger guides

What Is Not Included

• Rwanda–Uganda visa fees (East Africa Tourist Visa recommended)
• Tips and gratuities
• Personal expenses such as drinks and souvenirs
• Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
• Travel insurance and emergency evacuation cover

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga

• Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
• Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Lightweight backpack
• Refillable water bottle or hydration pack
• Energy snacks
• Camera (flash photography not allowed)
• Passport and valid visa documents