Getting to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park sits in the far southwest corner of Uganda. It borders Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo and forms part of the Virunga Conservation Area. The park is known for mountain gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and volcano hiking. Though remote, Mgahinga is accessible by road and air. Your choice depends on time, budget, and preferred travel style.
Option 1: By Road from Kampala or Entebbe
Driving from Kampala or Entebbe to Mgahinga is a long but scenic journey. The road distance is about 500 kilometers, and the drive takes 9 to 11 hours.
Common Route:
- Kampala – Masaka – Mbarara – Kabale – Kisoro – Ntebeko Gate (Park HQ)
- A 4×4 Land Cruiser is essential, especially on the winding roads from Kabale to Kisoro.
This drive offers views of Lake Mburo, rolling highlands, and the Virunga Volcanoes.
Option 2: From Bwindi to Mgahinga by Road
If you visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest first, you can connect to Mgahinga by road.
- Nkuringo to Mgahinga: ~3 hours via Kisoro
- Rushaga to Mgahinga: ~2.5 hours
The road from Bwindi to Kisoro is hilly and rugged. Again, a 4×4 Land Cruiser is recommended.
Option 3: Domestic Flights to Kisoro Airstrip
To cut travel time, book a domestic flight from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro Airstrip.
- Flight time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
- From Kisoro Airstrip, drive 1 hour to the park’s entrance.
Aerolink Uganda and Bar Aviation offer daily scheduled flights. Charter flights are also available on request.
Bonus Option: Cross-Border Access from Rwanda
Travelers can fly into Kigali, Rwanda, and reach Mgahinga in 4 to 5 hours by road via the Cyanika Border.
This route is faster and more scenic than the drive from Kampala. It works best if you’re combining Rwanda and Uganda in one safari.
Pro Travel Tips
- Always book a 4×4 vehicle with a driver-guide familiar with the region.
- Schedule flights to match gorilla permit dates.
- Book accommodation in Kisoro or near Ntebeko Gate for easy access.
- Bring cash for fuel stops and local purchases en route.
Plan Your Safari Today
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers intimate wildlife encounters and stunning mountain scenery. Whether you choose to fly or drive, getting there becomes part of the adventure.
Book your gorilla permits, reserve your 4×4 Land Cruiser, and plan your trek in Mgahinga today.
