Trekking Gorillas in the Ruhija Region of Bwindi

Trekking Gorillas in the Ruhija Region of Bwindi

If you’re considering a gorilla trekking adventure, the Ruhija region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a fantastic choice. Located in the eastern part of the park, Ruhija is home to four distinct gorilla families: Bitukura, Kyanguriro, Mukiza, and Oruzogo. All of these families are available for tracking, offering a unique opportunity to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Situated at an elevation of over 2,350 meters above sea level, Ruhija is the coldest area within Bwindi, making it essential to pack accordingly. The region also boasts excellent hiking opportunities, with charming trails like the Rwamunyonyi Peak hike. Along with mountain gorillas, you may also spot other primates, such as various monkey species, as well as mammals like elephants and antelopes.

Experience Gorilla Trekking with Trek Africa Expeditions

Are you eager to embark on a gorilla trekking adventure in the Ruhija region? With Trek Africa Expeditions, this experience is not just possible; it’s unforgettable. Trekking mountain gorillas in this breathtaking part of Bwindi allows you to observe these gentle giants in their natural surroundings, whether you’re traveling solo or as part of a group.

To trek mountain gorillas in Ruhija, you will need to secure a gorilla permit. The cost is as follows:

• $800 for foreign non-residents
• $700 for foreign residents
• 300,000 Uganda Shillings for East African citizens

This permit grants you a precious one-hour encounter with the mountain gorillas.

Important Considerations for Planning Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Booking Your Gorilla Permit

To ensure a successful trek, it’s crucial to book your gorilla permit for Ruhija in advance. The sector has 32 permits available for sale each day. We recommend securing your permit 3 to 4 months before your intended safari date, especially during peak season, as permits can sell out quickly on a first-come, first-served basis. You can block a permit by paying 100%, 70%, or 30% of the total cost upfront.

For more information on how to book your gorilla permits, please contact us for assistance.

Accommodation Options in Ruhija

Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Ruhija offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets. For a luxurious experience, consider options like Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge and Bakiga Lodge. If you’re on a budget, Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Agandi Eco Lodge, and Ruhija Campsite are excellent alternatives.

All these lodges offer a full-board meal plan when you book your safari with Trek Africa Expeditions, ensuring that your dining needs are taken care of during your stay.

Comfortable Travel to Ruhija

For a smooth journey to Ruhija, we recommend traveling in a 4×4 Land Cruiser, which is perfect for navigating the rugged terrain. Alternatively, you can fly into Kihihi Airstrip, which is conveniently located near Ruhija. This option dramatically reduces your travel time from 8-9 hours by road from Entebbe or Kampala to just a 1-hour drive from Kihihi Airstrip to your lodge in Ruhija.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija

Are you gearing up for an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in the Ruhija region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park? Knowing what to wear is essential for both comfort and safety during your trek. Here’s a helpful guide on what to pack for your journey:

1. Long-Sleeved Sweater: The temperatures can drop in the park, so a warm, long-sleeved sweater is a must.
2. Two Pairs of Long Trousers: Choose sturdy, breathable pants that offer protection against thorns and insects.
3. Waterproof Hiking Boots: A good pair of waterproof boots will keep your feet dry and provide the support you need for uneven terrain.
4. Hat and Sunglasses: Depending on the weather, a hat and sunglasses can protect you from the sun. These are optional but recommended for sunny days.
5. Camera with Extra Batteries: Capture your precious memories by bringing a camera. Make sure to bring long-lasting batteries and remember to turn off the flash to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
6. Binoculars: A pair of binoculars will enhance your experience, allowing you to spot the diverse birdlife and other wildlife in the forest.
7. Gardening Gloves: These can be useful for holding onto trees and branches as you navigate the trails.
8. Raincoat: As a tropical rainforest, Bwindi can have unpredictable rain. A raincoat will help you stay dry and comfortable.
9. Mosquito Repellent: Protect yourself from insects by applying mosquito repellent before your trek. It’s essential in forested areas.
10. Sunscreen: Depending on the season, the sun can be quite intense. Sunscreen can help prevent sunburn, so apply it as needed.
11. Neutral Colors: Avoid wearing bright colors, as they can scare away the gorillas. Additionally, black and blue can attract tsetse flies, so opt for neutral tones.

Getting to Ruhija for Gorilla Trekking

By Air: For a quicker and less strenuous journey, consider flying. Aero Link offers scheduled and charter flights to Kihihi Airstrip, the nearest airstrip to Ruhija. While there’s no direct flight to Ruhija, you can be dropped off at Kihihi, where our professional guide will pick you up for the short, one-hour drive to your lodge. Be sure to check in at least 90 minutes before your flight, and remember that Aero Link has a baggage limit of 15 kilograms per person, with excess charged at $3 per kilogram. For families, infants under two years old fly free, while children aged 12 and above pay 70% of the adult fare.

By Road: If you prefer to travel by road, Ruhija is accessible via the main highway from Entebbe/Kampala, which takes about 8-9 hours. This route will take you through Kabale town before continuing to Buhoma. You can also access the park from Kigali, Rwanda, which is approximately a 4-5 hour drive.

Best Time to Trek Gorillas in Ruhija

Ruhija is open for trekking year-round; however, being a tropical rainforest, rain can occur at any time. The best months to track gorillas are June to August and December to February, as these periods experience the least rainfall, making the trails less slippery. If you choose to visit during March to May or November, you may encounter more rain but can also benefit from discounted accommodation rates at some lodges.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Gorilla Trekking Experience

When planning your gorilla trekking adventure in the Ruhija region, consider partnering with Trek Africa Expeditions. Our extensive experience in organizing memorable gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda sets us apart. Highly rated on TripAdvisor, we offer eco-friendly and unforgettable high-end adventure and wildlife experiences that not only showcase the beauty of Africa but also help preserve biodiversity and uplift local communities. In addition to gorilla trekking, we provide opportunities for chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris, mountain hiking, boat excursions, and cultural encounters, ensuring a well-rounded and unforgettable safari experience.

Feel free to contact us for more information about trekking gorillas in the Ruhija region of Bwindi. Let us help you create the adventure of a lifetime!