Top Things to Do in Bwindi After Your Gorilla Habituation Experience

Top Things to Do in Bwindi After Your Gorilla Habituation Experience

Gorilla habituation in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park offers a unique opportunity to spend extended time with a semi-habituated group of mountain gorillas. This special experience is available only in the southern part of the park, between the Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors. With just one gorilla group open for habituation, and a limit of four permits per day, it’s an intimate adventure perfect for those who want more time with these incredible animals.

But the adventure doesn’t end with the gorillas. After your habituation trek, there are several other exciting activities you can enjoy in Bwindi. Here are the top things to do:

Batwa Cultural Experience

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Batwa people, one of the oldest forest-dwelling communities in Uganda. Guided by a Batwa expert, you’ll learn about their historical way of life, their survival skills in the forest, and their deep connection to Bwindi. Enjoy traditional dances and witness fire-making methods dating back to the Stone Age.

Nature Walks

Explore the beautiful Bwindi forest on a nature walk, where you’ll have the chance to learn about various tree species and spot wildlife that you might have missed during the gorilla trek. The Ivi-Nkuringo trail is particularly scenic, featuring a stunning 33-meter waterfall that plunges into the forest.

Bird Watching

Bwindi is a bird lover’s paradise, home to over 350 bird species, including some of Uganda’s rarest. If you’re in Nkuringo, check out the Nombe pocket forest or Buniga Forest, both easily accessible from Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge. Even with limited time, you can spot some amazing birds right from the lodge gardens. Be sure to bring your birding guidebook!

Community Visits

Get a deeper understanding of the local culture by visiting the nearby villages of the Bakiga and Batwa pygmy communities. These visits offer a glimpse into their daily lives and traditions. Other engaging activities include yoga sessions at your lodge, mountain biking, or even volunteering at local schools and community projects. For a unique nighttime experience, try butterfly watching.

Where to Stay During Your Gorilla Habituation Experience

Since gorilla habituation is only available in the southern part of Bwindi, you’ll want to stay near the Nkuringo or Rushaga sectors. Recommended lodges include:

• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
• Lake Mutanda Lodge

For those staying in the Rushaga sector, options include:

• Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
• Rushaga Camp
• Icumbi Gorilla Lodge
• Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Gorilla Heights Lodge
• Four Gorillas Lodge
• Gorilla Valley Lodge

Best Time for Gorilla Habituation in Bwindi

The best time to experience gorilla habituation is during the dry seasons: January to February and June to early September. During these months, the roads are easier to navigate, and the vegetation is less dense, making gorilla viewing clearer.

How to Get to Bwindi for the Gorilla Habituation Experience

Bwindi’s southern sectors, Nkuringo and Rushaga, can be accessed by both road and air.

• By Road: The drive from Entebbe or Kampala takes approximately 8-9 hours via Kabale town. If you’re traveling from Kigali, Rwanda, it’s a shorter 4-5 hour drive.
• By Air: Fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi airfield in Kampala to Kisoro airstrip, located near Nkuringo and Rushaga. Both scheduled and chartered flights are available from operators like Aerolink and Fly Uganda. A transfer from the airstrip to your lodge can be arranged through your tour operator.

Why Book Your Gorilla Habituation Experience with Excursia Adventures

At Excursia Adventures, we specialize in organizing unforgettable gorilla habituation tours in Bwindi. Our expert team will handle everything from securing your permits to arranging your accommodation, with options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service, and our satisfied clients speak for themselves—just check out our TripAdvisor reviews!

When you book with Excursia Adventures, you’re not just booking a tour; you’re ensuring a seamless and memorable Uganda safari experience. Let us guide you through this once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.