3-Day Mgahinga Volcanic Hike & Gorilla Trekking Adventure (Midrange Safari)
Destination: Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Kisoro District, Uganda
Style: Midrange lodges with scenic views and cultural charm
Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples, small groups, adventure seekers, and nature lovers
Where Volcanoes Guard the Gorillas
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a mystical gem tucked into Uganda’s southwestern corner, part of the Virunga volcanic chain shared with Rwanda and the DRC. It’s the only park in Uganda where you can trek mountain gorillas and hike a volcano in the same itinerary. This 3-day adventure offers a rare blend of high-altitude trekking, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion, all set against dramatic mountain backdrops.
Key Tour Highlights
- Gorilla trekking in the misty forests of Mgahinga
- Guided hike up Mount Gahinga or Mount Sabinyo
- Scenic views of the Virunga volcanoes
- Cultural encounters with the Batwa community
- Comfortable midrange lodge accommodation with mountain ambiance
Major Attractions
Location | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Mgahinga Gorilla NP | Gorilla trekking, golden monkeys, volcanoes |
| Mount Gahinga / Sabinyo | Volcanic hiking, panoramic views |
| Ntebeko Visitor Center | Park orientation, Batwa cultural trail |
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kisoro & Volcano Viewpoint
Drive Time: ~9–10 hours from Kampala/Entebbe (or ~4–5 hours from Lake Bunyonyi)
Activities:
- Scenic Transfer to Kisoro via Kabale Depart early and travel through Uganda’s southwestern highlands, passing tea plantations, lakes, and terraced hills. Stop for lunch in Kabale. Duration: Full-day transfer with breaks
- Evening Volcano Viewpoint Visit Upon arrival, enjoy a short walk to a viewpoint overlooking the Virunga volcanoes, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabinyo. Duration: 1 hour
Accommodation: Midrange Option: Traveller’s Rest Hotel / Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge
Amenities: En-suite rooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi, garden restaurant, mountain views
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga
Activities:
- Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park After an early breakfast, head to Ntebeko Visitor Center for briefing. Trek through bamboo forest and montane terrain to find the Nyakagezi gorilla family. Spend one magical hour observing their behavior. Duration: 2–6 hours depending on gorilla location
- Afternoon Rest or Optional Batwa Cultural Trail Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. Optional guided walk with Batwa elders to learn forest survival skills, music, and storytelling. Duration: 1.5–2 hours (optional)
Accommodation: Same as Day 1
Day 3: Volcano Hike & Departure
Activities:
- Guided Hike up Mount Gahinga or Sabinyo Choose between Mount Gahinga (moderate) or Mount Sabinyo (challenging). Trek through afro-montane forest and alpine meadows to reach stunning summit views. Duration: 4–6 hours depending on pace and volcano choice
- Lunch & Scenic Transfer Back to Kampala or Entebbe After your hike, enjoy a farewell lunch and begin your return journey. Optional overnight stop in Lake Bunyonyi or Kabale can be arranged. Duration: Afternoon transfer (or next-day departure if preferred)
✅ Inclusions
- Gorilla trekking permit (USD 800 per person)
- All ground transport in 4x4 safari vehicle
- 2 nights midrange accommodation
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Park entry fees and ranger guides
- Volcano hike with certified guide
- Bottled drinking water during transfers
❌ Exclusions
- International flights
- Uganda visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips and personal expenses
- Optional Batwa trail (can be added)
- Alcoholic beverages
Accommodation Overview
Lodge Name | Location | Key Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Traveller’s Rest Hotel | Kisoro | En-suite rooms, Wi-Fi, garden restaurant |
| Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge | Lake Mulehe | Lakeside views, hot showers, local cuisine |
This midrange safari is perfect for travelers who want to combine high-altitude adventure with intimate wildlife encounters and cultural depth.