The 3-day gorillas and golden monkeys flying safari takes you to Mgahinga National Park, nestled in Uganda’s southwestern corner where the borders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo converge. This compact yet rewarding itinerary is one of the few short safaris that offers the extraordinary opportunity to trek both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in their natural forest habitat—a remarkable primate double-header in the heart of the Virunga highlands.
Tour Highlights
- Fly to Mgahinga National Park, avoiding the long 10-hour drive from Kampala
- Trek mountain gorillas through ancient forest trails in their natural habitat
- Spend one unforgettable hour observing a gorilla family up close
- Track playful golden monkeys and watch their acrobatic movements through the bamboo
- Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Uganda’s diverse countryside during your flights
- Visit the Batwa community for traditional music, food, and dance performances
- Learn about the Batwa people’s indigenous forest lifestyle and cultural heritage
- Stay in a comfortable luxury lodge near Mgahinga National Park
- Fly back to Entebbe at the conclusion of your safari
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Fly to Mgahinga National Park |
| Day 2 | Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga |
| Day 3 | Golden Monkey Trekking and Flight Back to Entebbe |
Detailed 3-Day Fly-In Gorillas & Golden Monkeys Tour
Day 1: Fly to Mgahinga National Park
Your adventure begins with a morning pickup from your hotel by your experienced driver-guide, who will provide a short briefing about the journey ahead before transferring you to Kajjansi Airfield for your flight to Mgahinga National Park.
Board your chartered or scheduled flight and settle in for a scenic journey that transforms what would be a long 10-hour drive into a spectacular aerial experience. Gaze down at Uganda’s diverse countryside unfolding beneath you—patchwork hills, winding rivers, traditional villages, and eventually the misty peaks of the Virunga Mountains rising on the horizon. This efficient and breathtaking transfer delivers you fresh and ready to begin your primate adventure.
Upon arrival at Kisoro Airstrip, your driver-guide will transfer you to your luxury lodge near Mgahinga National Park, where you’ll check in, enjoy lunch, and spend the remainder of the day at leisure, soaking in the mountain atmosphere. Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga & Batwa Community Visit
Wake early and enjoy breakfast before heading to Mgahinga’s park headquarters for a short briefing by your ranger guide. Then, the adventure begins. Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga takes you through thick forest trails that can be slippery and steep—you may find yourself holding onto branches for support as you ascend through the ancient woodland. But every step builds toward an extraordinary reward.
When you finally locate the gorilla family, time stands still. For one precious hour, you’ll observe these magnificent creatures feeding, playing, and moving through their natural habitat. Watch silverbacks rest with quiet authority, mothers nurture their infants, and juveniles tumble in playful abandon. Capture as many photos as you like—just ensure your camera flash remains off to respect these gentle giants.
After the trek, return to park headquarters and then to your luxury lodge for a well-deserved lunch and time to rest.
The afternoon offers a different kind of encounter. You’ll visit the Batwa people, the indigenous forest dwellers who once called these mountains home. Watch traditional performances—ancient dances and songs that tell stories of their forest life. Sample local cuisine, and interact with these warm, friendly people to gain insight into their way of life and deep connection to the forest. This cultural experience adds profound depth to your primate adventure.
Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking and Flight Back to Entebbe
After breakfast, head to park headquarters for a short briefing before setting out on your golden monkey trekking adventure. This activity offers a delightful contrast to gorilla trekking—golden monkeys typically stay in one area for extended periods, making the trek less strenuous while offering ample opportunities to observe their acrobatic antics.
Once located, you’ll spend one enchanting hour watching these striking primates leap through the bamboo, their golden-orange coats flashing in the dappled light as they feed, play, and interact. Their playful behavior—chasing, tumbling, and grooming—provides endless entertainment and wonderful photo opportunities.
Following the trek, you’ll transfer to Kisoro Airstrip for your scenic flight back to Entebbe. As the Virunga peaks recede beneath you, take one last moment to reflect on the extraordinary encounters of the past three days—mountain gorillas in the mist, golden monkeys in the bamboo, and the warm hospitality of the Batwa people.
Upon arrival in Entebbe, you have the flexibility to either check into a hotel of your choice for an extended stay or connect directly to Entebbe International Airport for your onward international departure. This marks the end of your unforgettable 3-day Mgahinga flying safari.
End of Tour
