Family Safaris
8-Day Uganda Gorillas & Wildlife family tour
Our 8 day Uganda family safari packs the very best of the Pearl of Africa into one easy, well-paced trip.
4 Days Gorillas & Volcano Hike
This 4 day gorilla trekking and volcano hike takes you to Kisoro, in the far southwest corner of Uganda. First, you track mountain gorillas in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Then, you spend a full day exploring the sleeping volcanoes, forests and cultural trails of the area. You need to be a little fit for this one. However, the reward is a short trip packed with wildlife, big views and local history.
Trip overview
Kisoro sits at the foot of the Virunga volcanoes, close to the borders with Rwanda and DR Congo. It is a magnificent area, and there is so much to see. For example, you can take long forest walks to look for several primate species, some of them really rare. You can also climb a volcano such as Mt. Muhavura, walk into Sabinyo Gorge or follow the Batwa trail.
Mgahinga is the smallest national park in Uganda. Even so, it protects part of the Virunga Conservation Area, which is home to mountain gorillas. In addition, three extinct volcanoes rise inside the park: Muhavura, Gahinga and Sabinyo. As a result, it is the perfect place to combine gorillas and hiking in one trip.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Transfer to Kisoro
In the morning, we pick you up from your hotel and set off for Kisoro. Along the way, we make several stops to enjoy the views, have lunch and shop for souvenirs. We reach Kisoro in the evening and check into Travellers Rest Hotel.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga
After breakfast, we drive from the hotel to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. First, the rangers give you a briefing. Then, you set off to track the mountain gorillas. Once you find them, you can spend up to an hour with the family. Afterwards, you walk back to the starting point, which you will reach before 6 pm.
Day 3: Volcano Hiking
Today, we set off to explore Kisoro. For instance, you can climb a sleeping volcano such as Mt. Muhavura or Gahinga. You can also visit Sabinyo Gorge and walk the Batwa trail. In fact, there are many other activities to choose from. Our only limit is time.
Day 4: Back to Kampala
In the morning, after breakfast, we set off for Kampala. On the way, we stop for lunch and to pick up souvenirs.
Highlights of this gorilla trekking and volcano hike
- An hour with mountain gorillas. First, you watch a gorilla family feed, play and rest in the forest.
- A Virunga volcano. Next, you climb a sleeping volcano such as Muhavura or Gahinga.
- Sabinyo Gorge. Walk into a green, steep-sided gorge on the slopes of Mt. Sabinyo.
- The Batwa trail. In addition, you learn how the Batwa people once lived in these forests.
- Rare primates. Look out for several primate species on long forest walks.
- Kisoro views. Finally, enjoy wide views of the volcano chain from this lively border town.
Who this trip suits
This trip suits active travellers who want more than one big moment. Above all, it is ideal if you love hiking and wildlife in equal measure. You should be reasonably fit, because both the gorilla trek and the volcano climb involve steep, muddy and uneven ground. That said, you set your own pace, and our guides are patient.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is open to visitors aged 15 and over. So, the trip works best for adults and older teenagers. If you prefer a gentler day 3, you can simply skip the volcano and choose the Batwa trail or a gorge walk instead.
Best time for gorillas and volcano hikes
You can track gorillas and climb the volcanoes all year round. Even so, the drier months are usually the easiest for hiking. During this time, the trails are firmer and the views over the volcanoes tend to be clearer. On the other hand, the wetter months bring lush forest and fewer visitors. Rain can fall at any time in the mountains, though, so always pack a rain jacket. For more detail, read our guide to the best time to see gorillas in Uganda.
Tips for your trek and hike
- Book your permit early. Gorilla permits are limited, so plan well ahead.
- Wear strong boots. Waterproof hiking boots with good grip are a must.
- Bring garden gloves. They protect your hands from nettles and thorns.
- Pack layers. Mornings near the volcanoes can be cold, while the climb itself is warm.
- Hire a porter. A local porter carries your bag and also supports the community.
- Carry water and snacks. Both the trek and the volcano climb can take many hours.
Gorilla permits and park fees are set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and change from time to time. Therefore, we will confirm the current rates when you enquire. You can also read about how gorilla permits work and check our gorilla trekking packing list.
Extend or combine your trip
Kisoro is close to Bwindi, Lake Bunyonyi and the Rwanda border. As a result, this trip is easy to extend. For example, you can add a second gorilla trek and some lake time on our 4 day Bwindi gorillas and Lake Bunyonyi safari. Alternatively, you can learn more about gorilla trekking across Uganda before you choose.
Every trip with Roots Tours & Travel is tailor-made. So, just tell us your dates, group size and fitness level. Then, we will plan your gorilla trekking and volcano hike and send you a free itinerary.
Book Now
Not sure where to start? Chat with our safari specialists. We’ll help you find the perfect adventure.Every great journey begins with a conversation. Let’s plan yours.
Contact Us
- info@tourwithroots.com
- +256 776 83 1722
- +256 200 905 219
- Universal Apartments, Spine Road - Naalya - Kampala(U)
Related Safaris
Uganda Safaris
7-Day Best of Uganda Gorillas and Wildlife
Our 7 day Uganda gorilla safari combines mountain gorillas with classic savannah wildlife in one week. You look for chimpanzees
Uganda Safaris
10 Days Best Uganda Safari
Our 10 day Uganda safari is a relaxed loop through four great national parks, finishing with two easy days at