Gates of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Gates of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is ranked to be among the smallest national parks in the country because it covers a total surface area of about 33.9 square kilometers and it was officially established as a national park in 1991. This national park is located in the Southwestern region of Uganda. more so, this game park may be among Uganda’s smallest national parks but not among the least popular because it is famously known as one of the only two locations in the country where to track mountain gorillas and the gorilla trekking activity always goes for about 2 to 6 hours depending on where the mountain gorilla is located and this activity is one of the top tourism activities to do while on a safari in the country. Mgahinga National Park can be reached by road or air from Kampala or Entebbe. The distance from Kampala is about 509 kilometers through well-paved tarmac roads. Driving to the park from Kampala through the Mbarara-Masaka-Kampala highway takes about 9 hours
One of the most interesting aspects of the park is the presence of the two gates, Ntebeko Gate and Bunyonyi Gate, which serve as entry for visitors to explore the park’s natural beauty.
Gates of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Ntebeko Gate
Ntebeko Gate is the main entrance to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and is located near the park headquarters. this gate serves as the starting point for most of the park’s activities, including gorilla trekking, bird watching, hiking, Batwa trail experience and nature walks among others. Visitors can obtain permits, meet with park rangers, and receive important information about the park at Ntebeko Gate. The gate also offers facilities such as restrooms, picnic areas and souvenir shops for the convenience of visitors.
Bunyonyi Gate
Bunyonyi Gate on the other hand, is located on the northern side of the park and serves as an alternative entry point for visitors, this gate offers access to the Bamboo trail, a scenic hiking route that offers stunning views of the park’s volcanic landscapes and lush forests. Bunyonyi Gate is also used for guided nature walks, bird-watching excursions and other activities that allow visitors to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems.
Both Ntebeko gate and Bunyonyi Gate are strategically located to provide convenient access to different parts of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. visitors can choose to enter the park through either gate depending on their planned activities and preferred routes. Whether it’s tracking the mountain gorillas, enjoying birdwatching tours, Batwa trial experience or simply immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the park, these gates serve as the gateway to an unforgettable experience at Mgahinga gorilla national park.
Cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
A gorilla trekking permit is a legal document that is issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority to any visitor over the age of 15 years old, allowing him or her to visit a habituated gorilla family and spend one hour with the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Gorilla trekking permits in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park cost US$800 per person for foreign non-residents. Foreign residents are charged US$ 700 per person, and 300,000 for East African residents. You are advised to book a permit a month before the trekking date.
The best time to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is open for tourism activities throughout the year, but the best time to visit the park is during the dry seasons that run from June to August and December to January. The dry seasons offer pleasant weather conditions with lower chances of rainfall. The temperatures are generally moderate, making it comfortable for outdoor activities such as gorilla trekking, hiking, golden monkey tracking, Batwa trial experience and birdwatching. the dry seasons also make the park more accessible as the roads and trails are less muddy and easier to navigate. This is particularly important for activities like gorilla trekking and hiking, where the terrain can be challenging. During the dry seasons, wildlife tends to concentrate around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. you’ll also have better chances of encountering various wildlife species including gorillas, golden monkeys, buffaloes and birds
Accommodation safari in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park has a wide range of luxury, mid-range and budget accommodation facilities where you can stay during your safari in Mgahinga gorilla national park such as Chameleon Hill Lodge, Mount Gahinga Rest Camp, Mount Gahinga lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla lodge, Traveler’s Nest Hotel, Traveler’s Nest Hotel, Lake Mutanda Campsite, Mutanda Lake Resor, Bwindi Jungle Lodge, Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp, Lake Chahafi Resort, Golden Monkey Guesthouse, Kisoro Tourist Hotel, Mucha Hotel, Volcanoes Mount Gahinga Lodge, Gorilla Heights Lodge and Mgahinga Rest Camp among others.
In conclusion, the two gates in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Ntebeko Gate and Bunyonyi Gate, play a crucial role in facilitating visitors’ access and enhancing the overall experience of exploring this pristine wilderness. with their strategic location, diverse offerings, and beautiful surroundings, these getas are a fitting introduction to the wonder of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and a testament to Uganda’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism.
Contact our trusted tour operator for more information and inquiries about the gates of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and book with our tours and travel companies, such as Achieve Global Safaris, who offer the best tour packages while on a Uganda safari.
