The naming of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park like most African areas has got a legendary connotation. It is explained that in the past, people used to migrate from the southern areas of Rwanda, Burundi, and Zaire during the era of population explosion thus in search of vast lands in the northern areas including Uganda.
Unfortunately due to the absence of maps and clear routes, one day the migrating family found itself stranded on the shores of the gigantic swamp in the middle of an impenetrable forest. The swamp spirit offered to rescue the family by making the way through for them but at the price of their beloved daughter who was named Nnyinamukari.
The family stood in quandary for close to two nights on the shores of the swamp and they ended up sacrificing their daughter on the way through. After such a tragic incident, the news spread to the communities that were adjacent to the area and the place was labeled as a dark place that consumed the beautiful maiden daughter Nnyinamukari thus the name Umubwindi Bwa Nnyinamukari.
The Umubwindi swamp retained the name for years and later formed the name Bwindi during the gazetting of this area as a National Park which later became a great destination for gorilla trekking Uganda safari tours.
The most important tourist hotspot in Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has become synonymous with gorilla trekking and no safari to Uganda would be complete without visiting these gentle, mysterious primates. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1994, Bwindi is home to over 45% of the world’s population of mountain gorillas.
In 1981, environmentalists estimated there were only 254 mountain gorillas left in the world, but the population today is estimated at 1063 individuals, thanks to intense conservation efforts. Since these endangered apes can’t survive in captivity, the only way to see them is by trekking up to their natural habitat.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Forest National Park was first established at the Buhoma park headquarters in 1993 but now operates out of four trailheads other being Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga−all of which are serviced by a selection of Uganda safari lodges.
Bwindi provides shelter to some 50 gorilla families of which 19 have been habituated for Uganda gorilla trekking. Having a look at these gentle giants as they go about their day is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a privileged few, and to be treasured beyond compare. If you are lucky enough to exchange glances with one of the gorilla families in Bwindi, you will become aware of that narrow genetic gap between gorillas and humans.
Yet, while the opportunity to stare into the liquid brown eyes of a giant silverback is what brings most visitors to Uganda’s tantalizing Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, there are several other reasons to make the journey:
Bwindi is one of the finest destinations for birding safaris in Africa, thanks to the presence of over 360 bird species including 23 Albertine Rift endemics, while other attractions include over 120 species of mammals, 220 species of butterflies, and over 1,000 flowering plant species, including 163 species of trees, and 104 species of ferns.
Also, there are several exciting cultural encounters including interacting with Batwa Pygmies, a hunter-gatherer tribe who lived alongside the gorillas for 4000 years until they were evicted in the interior of the forest following the gazetting of a national park.
Bwindi National Park At A Glance
Name: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Location: continent- Africa, region- eastern Africa, Country-Uganda, district-Kanungu, direction-south western from Kampala city Uganda’s capital.
Geographical coordinates of the park: 01o01’S 290 41’E.
Responsible Governing body: Uganda Wildlife Authority
Size: 331sqkm
Year of designation:1991
Elevation: The highest point is Rwamunyonyi hill 2607m while the lowest point is 1190m above sea level
Climate: Experiences a tropical rainforest climate with 60mm or 2.4in of rainfall received every month, average temperature is (18-20)o C
Attractions in Bwindi: Primate species including over 459 mountain gorillas, Chimpanzees, L’Hoest monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, baboons, 350 bird species of which 23 species are endemic to the Albertine rift, 220 butterflies species, 27 species of lizards, geckos and chameleon, 163 tree species and 104 species of fern.
There are also the Batwa people or commonly referred to as pygmies living in communities adjacent to the park.
Activities in Bwindi: Gorilla tracking, habituation experience, birding, nature walks, community encounters
Accommodation in Bwindi: Buhoma Safari Lodge, Chameleon Hill Lodge, Silver Buck Safari Lodge, Bwindi Forest Camp, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Gift of Nature Safari Lodge, Nkuringo Safari Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Ruhija Community Rest Camp, Broadbill Forest Camp, Conservation Through Public Health Camp
How to get there: By both road and air
Travel distance and time to Bwindi: 512km or an 11-hour drive away from Kampala city Uganda’s capital.
The best time to visit Bwindi: is June- August, and December- February this is so because these months are in the dry season when all the murram roads are easily navigable in the 4 various sectors of the park. Other people prefer to visit during the wet months.
Commonly Asked Questions About Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Where Is Bwindi Located?
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in South-Western Uganda. The park is situated on the edge of the Albertine rift valley along the Democratic Republic of Congo border south of Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Ishasha sector and north of Kisoro town.
How Big Is Bwindi?
Bwindi covers an area of about 321 square kilometers/124 square miles. The park covers parts of the Kanungu, Kabale, and Kisoro districts.
Bwindi National Park’s altitude ranges from 1,160 to 2,607 meters above sea level. About 60% of the park has an elevation of over 2000 meters. The highest point in Bwindi is known as Rwamunyonyi Hill at the eastern edge of the park and the lowest part is at its most northern tip.
When Was Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Gazetted As a National Park?
The forest was proclaimed as the Impenetrable Forest Reserve in 1932 and this remained its official name until 1991 when it was gazetted a national park and renamed Bwindi.
Realizing that this local name has less allure to tourists than the colonial name (though the two words were close to the meaning), Uganda wildlife Authority subsequently expanded the name to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Geography & Climate/Weather In Bwindi
Bwindi is cold in the morning and at night with average temperatures ranging from 7⁰C – 20⁰C. Daytime temperatures in Bwindi are usually around 23°C/73°F. The coldest period in Bwindi is June and July.
The wet seasons are March-May and September-November with a total annual rainfall of up to 2390mm. Rains in March-May are short. They are heavier in September-November but can just be long hours of soft drizzle.
The dry season for Bwindi is June to August and December to February. The months of June and July receive the least rain.
Gorilla Species In Bwindi/Mountain Gorillas In Bwindi National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s most famous residents are mountain gorillas which number around 459 (almost half of the world’s population) split across 50 families; with 13 solitary individuals according to the most recent survey, undertaken in 2018. The park has 19 habituated gorillas families set for the gorilla trekking experience.
Mountain gorillas are among the earth’s rarest and most majestic creatures. They are very special creatures and before you travel to Uganda to see them, you should research and learn as much as you can about them. Below are some of the mountain gorilla facts you should know as you plan to go for gorilla trekking in Uganda.
Mountain Gorillas’ Conservation Status
How To Save Gorillas In Bwindi
Mountain Gorilla Threats
Mountain Gorilla Population In Bwindi
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s most famous residents are mountain gorillas which number around 459 (almost half of the world’s population) split across 50 families; with 13 solitary individuals according to the most recent survey, undertaken in 2018. The park has 19 habituated gorillas families set for Uganda gorilla trekking safari experiences.
What Makes Bwindi The Best Park To See Mountain Gorillas From?
Is Bwindi Safe To Visit?
How To Get Bwindi Gorilla Permits In Uganda
Gorilla permits in Uganda are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), a government body that manages tourism and wildlife conservation.
If you are in Uganda, the most straightforward option is to visit The UWA headquarters (Kira Road, Kampala) in person and book a permit there.
If booking from abroad, you could contact UWA through email or do an online booking. However, this can be a hit-and-miss process.
The more efficient approach is to get a reliable locally-based tour operator to book permits on your behalf. Most tour operators include a gorilla permit as part of the overall cost of a gorilla safari.
Best Activities/What To Do In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?
Gorilla Trekking In Bwindi Forest
Trekking gorilla in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park ranks among the absolute highlights of a safari to Africa. The exhilaration attached to first setting eyes on a wild mountain gorilla is not easy to describe.
These enormous apes; almost 3 times as bulky as an average man, with luxuriant shaggy coat hair, are remarkably peaceful creatures despite their fearsome appearance.
More impressive even than the gorilla’s size is their unfathomable attitude to people, which greatly differ from that of any other wild animal.
Gorilla Habituation Experience In Bwindi Forest
If you want to be in the presence of Mountain Gorillas and learn more about them, the Mountain Gorilla Habituation experience, beyond the Basics, is for you.
Gorilla Habituation is a niche Uganda safari activity, not meant for everyone. This particular activity is hands-on, instead of being an observer. It is only in Uganda that you can be with a Mountain Gorilla Family for 4 hours on a Gorilla Habituation Experience.
Whoever wants to be part of this experiential venture must travel to the Rushaga sector south of Bwindi impenetrable forest
Bird Watching in Bwindi Forest
The diverse habitats in Uganda’s most ancient forest harbor a diversity of bird species. About 350 species have been recorded, with 23 endemics.
Hiking/Nature Walks in Bwindi Forest
Though Uganda gorilla tours are the main activity in Bwindi impenetrable forest National Park, other walks provide more relaxed opportunities to explore one of Uganda’s loveliest rainforests.
As you hike through the impenetrable forest, you will get chances of seeing various primate species, beautiful butterflies, and various tree species, and you will also have clear views of some bird species singing in the air.
And as you walk via the forest trails, you will be guided by a tour guide who will lead you through and as well help you to understand the nature system at work in the National park
Cultural visits/Community Walks
Buhoma sector: This 3-hour stroll through Buhoma and its margin immerses visitors in the customs and practices of the Bakiga and Batwa people. The tour takes in varied activities such as; Farming, Brewing local beer, dispensing traditional medicines, and dancing displays by members of the Batwa community.
Rushaga Sector: The 3-4-hour Reformed Poacher walk, guided by and offering the opportunity to chat to former poachers, takes in two waterfalls close to Rubuguri as well as visits to local smallholdings and a coffee roaster.
Nkuringo sector: This community-run activity provides insights into Bakiga life and culture, with visits to a traditional healer, blacksmith, brewer, and homestead in the vicinity of Nkuringo village.
Sectors Of Bwindi
Buhoma Sector
Buhoma is set at an altitude of 1,500 meters on the Bwindi Forest National Park’s northern boundary. It is where Uganda first launched gorilla trekking back in 1993.
It is the park’s busiest tourist focus despite the opening of other three gorilla trekking trailheads. It is relatively easy to access from Kampala and has four habituated gorilla families including;
Ruhija Sector
Ruhija is named after the river that runs through swamps several hundred meters below. This is the Bwindi’s highest and arguably most beautiful gorilla trekking trailhead, sited at an altitude of 2,340 meters in the hills abutting the park’s eastern boundary. Ruhija spectacular southerly views over the forested ridge to distant Virunga volcanoes.
Nkuringo Sector
Chronologically, Nkuringo is Bwindi’s second gorilla trekking trailhead. It was opened in 2004 and lies at an altitude of 2,100 meters on the park’s northern border of Kisoro.
The surrounding hills are densely settled by farming communities, but have a remote and underdeveloped feel, on account of the location on a dead-end road ending at the nearby Congolese border.
Rushaga Sector
Situated at an altitude of 1,900 meters near the southern tip of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Rushaga became Uganda’s newest gorilla trekking sector in 2009, following a usually high-profile launch wherein a brat pack of American film stars was flown in to make a positive statement about the experience.
Gorilla Families In Bwindi Forest National Park
Habituated Gorilla Families Buhoma Sector
- Mubare Gorilla Family
- Habinyanja Gorilla Family
- Rushegura Gorilla Group
- Katwe Gorilla Group
Habituated Gorilla Families In Ruhija Sector
- Kyaguriro Gorilla Family
- Bitukura Gorilla Family
- Oruzogo Gorilla Group
Habituated Gorilla Groups In Rushaga Sector
- Nshongi Gorilla Family
- Mishaya Gorilla Family
- Kahungye Gorilla Family
- Bushingye Gorilla Family
- Bweza Gorilla Family
- Mucunguzi Gorilla Family
- Rwigi Gorilla Family
- Bikyingi Gorilla Family
- Kutu Gorilla Group
Habituated Gorilla Groups In Nkuringo Sector
- Nkuringo gorilla family
- Christmas gorilla family
- Bushaho gorilla family
Which Is The Best Sector For Trekking Gorillas?
Buhoma is the best sector of Bwindi to trek and sees Mountain Gorillas in Uganda. It is set at an average altitude of about 1,500 meters above sea level on the Bwindi National Park’s northern boundary which makes it less difficult to hike as you trek the Gorillas. It is also where trekking in Uganda has first launched gorilla back in 1993.
What Are The Chances Of Seeing Gorillas In Bwindi
Gorilla seeing in Bwindi is 100% guaranteed. This is because there are many families to track and in case you don’t want to trek for long a nearer group can be arranged. If your group tends to be far for the entire group of 6 people, then the entire group can be redirected to see the nearest gorilla group of the day
Gorilla Trekking Tips & Advice
Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Rules & Regulations
For those planning go gorilla trekking in Uganda in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda, the following gorilla trekking rules and regulations will apply.
Before you visit the gorillas
- People who know that they are harboring potentially airborne diseases such as flu or cold should not trek gorillas (the permit fees will be refunded). This is because gorillas are susceptible to many human diseases and it has long been feared by researchers that one ill tourist might infect a gorilla, resulting in the possible death of the whole family.
- A maximum of 8 people per group (6 during this period of Coronavirus) are allowed to track one particular gorilla family per day to void behavioral disturbances to the gorillas.
- The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years.
- Always wash your hands when heading into the forest and when out of the forest
On the way to the gorillas
- Please always speak in a low voice in the forest. This will also enable you to observe other natural treasures in the forest such as birds and other mammals.
- Don’t throw away garbage in the forest. Whatever you enter into the forest with, must be brought back out when you are living in the forest.
- Human waste should be buried 30cm deep.
When you are with gorillas
- One encountered, trekkers should not approach the gorillas more closely than 10 meters, a rule often contravened by curious youngsters and sometimes adults approaching their human visitor. In this case, you will need to slowly and calmly move backward to regain the 10 meters distance.
- Gorillas don’t like flashlights, so flash photography is forbidden since it may cause the gorilla to charge at you. You should note that gorillas are tricky photographic subjects, on account of their sunken eyes, the gloomy habitat in which they are often found and the jet-black coat that tends to distort light readings. So carrying a tripod or monopod will help you to get sharper results.
- It is forbidden to eat, drink, smoke, urinate or defecate in the vicinity of the gorillas. Gorillas can easily can your diseases.
- Speak in a low voice. However, it’s ok to ask the guide questions
- Don’t feed gorillas
- Sometimes the gorillas charge. Follow the instructions in the guide. Don’t run away, it will increase the risk of the gorilla chasing you.
- Don’t touch the gorillas, they are wild animals.
- If you feel the urge to cough or sneeze when you are near the gorillas, please turn your head away and cover your nose and mouth in order to minimize the spread of bacteria or germs.
- Visits are limited to one hour per gorilla group per day. However, if the gorillas become agitated or nervous, the guide will finish the visit early.
- After the visit, remain silent or speak in a low voice until you reach at least 200 meters away from the gorillas.
Gorilla Trekking Packing List & Clothing/What To carry For Gorilla Trekking In Bwindi?
- Hand sanitizer and face masks
- Sturdy waterproof hiking shoes
- A light long-sleeved shirt and long trousers are essential to avoid stinging nettles, and branches. And to avoid bites from ants.
- Rain jacket/Poncho
- Gaters or long hiking socks are recommended through the thick bush to avoid those ants up your pants.
- Pack extra socks: Since the Gorillas live on the side of the mountains, the ground is always damp and you may become wet.
- Don’t forget gardening gloves. This sounds funny but they were handy for grabbing branches for support and pushing those stinging nettles off.
- Floppy hats, bandanas, sunglasses, and lots of sunscreens to protect you from the strong sun.
- Plenty of cold water and hydrating fluids.
- Energy-giving snacks are also good for a quick energy boost.
- A Walking stick can be got at the park headquarters to keep sturdy on the ground.
- Pair binoculars, a camera, and extra batteries are never a bad idea in Africa.
- You need to carry a waterproof bag to protect your camera and a rain jacket.
- Insect repellent with DEET.
- Basic first aid remedies kit.
- To avoid any potential hassles, carry your passport with you at all times in addition to your gorilla-tracking permit.
Is There Altitude Sickness When Trekking Gorillas In Bwindi?
The effects of altitude should not be underestimated. Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National park Uganda usually takes place at around 1400-2000 meters above sea level, but gorillas can easily be encountered closer to 3000 meters sufficient to breathe out of anybody who just flew in from a low altitude.
Note: Nkuringo is the most physically challenging of all gorilla-trekking locations. Unlike other trekking sites like Buhoma, there is no vehicle access from the Nteko Ridge to the park boundary which follows the Kashasha River.
Trekker faces a 1-to 2-hour climb back up to the ridge. This is not a problem for the fit, but Nkuringo is definitely not for the unfit or faint-hearted, though a number of routes have been improved by the addition of steps and gentler switchback turns.
What Is The Minimum Age For Trekking Gorillas In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years. This is because anyone below this age is considered a young and vulnerable person and therefore not fit to trek the gorillas. In most cases, persons below 15 have unpredictable characteristics that may lead to changes in the primates’ behaviors. An example is when a gorilla tries to fume or come near a visitor in the presence of a child, she may decide to run or scream hence disorganizing the gorillas.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Bwindi?
A trip to Uganda’s Bwindi Forest National Park can be undertaken at any time of the year, but the best times to go are from June to August and December to February.
At these times, the forest trails are drier and therefore less slippery. Also, your chance of a dry gorilla viewing experience is higher during these months. This might result in a better experience and photography will be easier.
Dry Seasons (June to August and December to February)
- Gorillas are easier to track, and the trails are drier
- There are more sunny days
- It is hazy, and the views are less spectacular
Attractions/What To See In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?
- Mountain gorillas in Bwindi
- Other animals in Bwindi National Park
- Birds in Bwindi Impenetrable National park
- Butterflies of Bwindi Impenetrable
- The Batwa pygmies, Bwindi National Park
Where To Stay
Best safari lodges in the Buhoma sector
- Buhoma Lodge−Luxury
- Mahogany Springs in Bwindi−Luxury
- Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge−Luxury
- Trackers Safari Lodge-Luxury
- Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp-Luxury
- The Crested Crane Bwindi Hotel−Luxury
- Bwindi Silverback Lodge−Luxury
- Bwindi Engagi Lodge−Midrange
- Buhoma Community Haven Lodge−Midrange
- Buhoma Community Rest Camp−Budget
Best safari accommodation in the Rushaga sector
- Rushaga Gorilla Camp−Luxury
- Gorilla Safari Lodge−Luxury
- Ichumbi Lodge in Bwindi−Luxury
- Bwindi Gorilla Valley Lodge−Midrange
- Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge-Midrange
Best safari accommodation in the Nkuringo sector
- Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge−Luxury
- Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge−Luxury
- Chameleon Hill Lodge−Luxury
- Mutanda Lake Resort-luxury
Best lodges and camps in the Ruhija sector
- Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge−Midrange
- Agandi Lodge−Midrange
- Ruhija Gorilla Mist Camp−Midrange
- Bwindi Bakiga Lodge-Midrange
- Trekkers Tavern−Budget
How To Get To Bwindi?
Getting to the Buhoma Sector of Bwindi
By air
Fly Uganda and Aerolink operate daily 90-minute flights to Kihihi, 40 kilometers from Buhoma on the Ishasha Road, respectively leaving Kajjansi Airfield near Kampala and from Entebbe.
By road
Buhoma can be approached along several different routes that converge near the town of Butogota, 17 kilometers north of the park entrance. All approach routes involve some driving along dirt roads that may become slippery after rain, so an early start is advised.
From Kampala and the east
Buhoma is about 465 kilometers west of Kampala and 195 kilometers west of Mbarara by road. The best route entails following the surfaced Kabala Road for about 60 kilometers past Mbarara to Ntungamo, then turning right on a newly surfaced 45-kilometer road to Rukungiri.
Getting to the Ruhija Sector of Bwindi
Coming directly from Kampala, the best option is through Kabale, where you will probably need to spend a night before continuing to Ruhija.
From Kabale and the southwest
Driving from anywhere in southern Kigezi, first head to the village of Ikumba, on the surfaced Kisoro Road 26km out of Kabale, then turn right at the clearly signposted junction for Ruhija and Buhoma.
After 12km, you will pass through a park entrance gate from where the road continues through lush forest to reach the Ruhija trekking trailhead and park information office after another 13km.
About 800 meters past this, a junction to the right leads outside the park and straight into the Ruhija village site of most of the accommodation servicing the area after another 500 meters or so.
Getting to the Rushaga Sector of Bwindi
By air
Rushaga is just 90 minute’s drive from the Cyanika border with Rwanda and about 3 hours by road from the Rwandan capital Kigali, meaning that catching an international flight to Kigali to track gorillas here is perfectly feasible.
By road
Road access to Rushaga is from the south only, via two murram link roads to the main surfaced strip between Kabale and Kisoro.
Coming from Kabale (or indeed, from anywhere else to the north or east), you need to follow the Kisoro Road for 43km to a signposted junction to the right some 4.5km past the northern tip of Lake Bunyonyi and 3km past Muko.
From the junction, it’s 24km on a dirt road to the gorilla-tracking trailhead and office at Rushaga, culminating in a long and winding descent into the Ruhezanyenda Valley via Rushaga village.