Gorilla Trekking vs Lake Mutanda Itinerary: An Honest Review
The exhilarating four-day safari to Mgahinga and Mutanda allows for the exploration of Uganda’s smallest rainforest national park and a visit to the captivating Lake Mutanda in Kisoro, where you can partake in canoe rides and unwind at the resort following a gorilla trekking adventure and Batwa experience in Mgahinga National Park. Additionally, there is an opportunity to pose for unique photographs at the Uganda equator monument in Kayabwe.
Gorilla trekking and the exploration of Lake Mutanda are separate yet complementary endeavours. Gorilla trekking entails a strenuous walk in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga National Park to view mountain gorillas, offering a unique experience. Lake Mutanda provides a tranquil escape characterised by picturesque landscapes, boating excursions, and pleasant lodging, frequently appreciated following a gorilla trek.
A Detailed Gorilla Trekking vs Lake Mutanda Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and have a stopover at the equator.
Depart from the accommodation in Kampala following breakfast and proceed to Mgahinga National Park via the Kampala-Masaka Road, subsequently connecting to the Mbarara-Kabale-Kisoro road. Mgahinga National Park is one of the four national parks situated in the Virunga region, renowned for its golden monkeys, characterised by the golden patches on their backs.
It serves as a habitat for mountain gorillas, featuring only one habituated gorilla family. Make a stop near the Uganda equator at Kayabwe for pictures and purchasing souvenirs. Arrival to the resort following an extensive day of traversing the terraced hills and valleys of Kigezi.
Day 2: Gorilla trekking and cultural encounters.
Breakfast awaits you at the table, after which proceed to the park headquarters for a brief workout briefing. Subsequent to receiving straightforward directions to facilitate a seamless walk, you will be accompanied by an armed park ranger who will escort you into the jungle in search of these gentle giants. Upon locating them, you will be granted one hour to capture photographs in their presence.
Trekking duration may vary from 2 to 8 hours, contingent upon the movements of these gentle giants. During the trip, you will encounter several birds and other animals in your vicinity.
Following gorilla trekking, you will return to the resort, and subsequently, another remarkable experience commences after lunch with a visit to the Batwa community. These are the pygmy people who previously resided in the forest adjacent to the park. They will engage you while you acquire knowledge of their culture through music, dancing, narratives from the elders, and traditional cuisine, among other elements. Return to the lodge for your lodging.
Day 3: Transfer to Lake Mutanda and canoeing experience.
Savour a relaxed breakfast before proceeding to Lake Mutanda, framed by the ethereal Virunga mountains. The lake is devoid of bilharzia, crocodiles, and hippos, rendering it suitable for swimming and canoeing.
The trek requires around 2 hours due to the steep topography of Kisoro. Embark on a canoe excursion upon arrival or do a walk to the summit of Lake Mutanda to appreciate breathtaking vistas.
Day 4: Travel back to Kampala.
This marks the final day of your four-day safari in Mgahinga Gorilla Trekking vs Lake Mutanda. The journey will commence at approximately 6:00 am following breakfast; a packed lunch will be provided during transit. The safari will conclude at either the hotel or the airport, contingent upon your departure arrangements.
End of the Gorilla Trekking vs Lake Mutanda Itinerary