How to Get to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking

How to Get to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking

There are two primary ways to get to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for your gorilla trekking adventure: by road or by air. Your choice of transport will depend on which sector you are trekking in.

By Road:

• The journey from Entebbe or Kampala to Bwindi takes approximately 8-9 hours by car.
• If you’re trekking in the northern sectors (Buhoma or Ruhija), you can access these areas by turning off along the Kabale-Kisoro road and following the signs to Uganda Wildlife Authority.
• For the southern sectors (Rushaga and Nkuringo), take the road from Muko along the Kabale-Kisoro highway.

By Air:

• You can also fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala’s Kajjansi airfield to Kisoro airstrip (for the southern sectors) or to Kihihi airstrip (for the northern sectors).
• Scheduled and chartered flights are operated by Aero Link and Fly Uganda. Once you arrive at the airstrip, you’ll need to arrange a transfer with your tour operator to your lodge.

About Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the only four national parks in the world that is home to the endangered mountain gorillas. The other parks are Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in DR Congo.

This ancient forest is rich in biodiversity, housing over 350 bird species, 310 butterflies, 200 types of trees, 51 reptiles, 88 moth species, and 120 mammals. It’s also home to various primates, including chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkey, and, of course, the mountain gorillas.

Bwindi has over 15 habituated gorilla families open for trekking, with 8 permits allocated to each group per day. With half of the world’s mountain gorilla population residing here, Bwindi is a must-visit for wildlife lovers.

Where is Gorilla Trekking Done in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi takes place in four distinct sectors:

1. Buhoma (Northern Bwindi)
2. Ruhija (North-Eastern Bwindi)
3. Nkuringo (Southern Bwindi)
4. Rushaga (Southern Bwindi)

Buhoma and Ruhija are closer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it easier to combine gorilla trekking with game viewing. Rushaga and Nkuringo are located near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which offers opportunities for golden monkey trekking as well. Rushaga has the most habituated gorilla families, making it a popular choice among trekkers.

How Much is Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park?

A gorilla trekking permit costs:

• USD 700 per person for Foreign Non-Residents
• USD 600 for East African Residents
• USD 70 for East African Citizens

The permit allows you to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas once you locate them during your trek.

How to Purchase a Gorilla Trekking Permit for Bwindi

Gorilla trekking permits are issued by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). You can purchase them directly at UWA’s headquarters in Kampala, or at their Kisoro office for those arriving through Kigali, Rwanda.

If you’re planning a trek, Trek Africa Expeditions can help you secure your permits. Simply confirm your travel dates with us via email or WhatsApp. We will tentatively reserve the permits for you, send you an invoice, and once payment is received, we will finalize the booking and send you the permits for your gorilla trek.

Where is Gorilla Habituation Experience Done in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park?

The Gorilla Habituation Experience takes place in the southern part of Bwindi, specifically in the Rushaga sector and the areas between Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors. If you’re planning to experience this, you’ll need to stay in the southern lodges in either Nkuringo or Rushaga.

This experience involves hiking through Bwindi forest in search of semi-habituated mountain gorillas. Once found, you’ll spend four hours with the gorillas, engaging in activities to help them become accustomed to human presence, preparing them for normal trekking after a period of habituation.

The Gorilla Habituation Experience gives you four hours with the gorillas, compared to the one hour spent during regular trekking. However, this experience is in high demand, with only four permits available per day. To secure your spot, it’s recommended to book at least 2-3 months in advance.

The permit costs:

• USD 1500 for Non-Foreign Residents
• USD 1000 for Foreign Residents
• USD 220 for East African Citizens

What is the Difference Between Gorilla Trekking and Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi?

The key difference between Gorilla Trekking and the Gorilla Habituation Experience lies in the time spent with the gorillas:

• Gorilla Trekking: You spend one hour with the gorillas after locating them in the forest. Trekking is done in a group of 8 people per gorilla family.
• Gorilla Habituation Experience: You spend four hours with the gorillas, and it’s done in a smaller group of only 4 people per family. This experience is more immersive, and you assist in activities that help the gorillas become accustomed to human presence.

Both activities start in the morning, and you’ll need to be fit for the hike as the trek can be strenuous, especially in Bwindi’s steep terrain.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

The ideal time to go gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest is during the drier months, from January, February, and June to early September. During these periods, the weather conditions are more favorable, making travel to the park easier and offering clearer views of the gorillas as the vegetation is less dense. This is the perfect window for an unforgettable trekking experience.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

Gorilla trekking requires careful preparation, especially when it comes to packing. Since the forest terrain can be muddy, slippery, and steep, it’s important to have the right gear. Here’s a list of essential items to bring for a smooth trekking experience:

• Comfortable, sturdy walking or hiking boots & socks
• Long-sleeve cotton shirt and lightweight long trousers (to protect against undergrowth, stinging nettles, and biting insects)
• Gardening gloves (helpful for gripping tree branches and protecting your hands)
• Insect repellent
• Water bottle and snacks
• Torch/flashlight (with spare batteries)
• Camera with extra lenses
• Rain jacket and sweater/fleece (the weather can change unexpectedly)
• Hat and sunscreen
• Binoculars (for bird watching and game viewing)
• Swimwear (if staying in lodges with swimming facilities)
• Wet wipes

How Hard Is Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest can be physically challenging. The terrain is often steep, and the trails are not always well-marked. Depending on the gorilla family you’re tracking, treks can range from a few hours to a full day of hiking, sometimes lasting up to 8 hours. The weather can also change without warning, adding to the difficulty. It’s recommended that you be in good physical condition and mentally prepared for a strenuous journey.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

Bwindi Forest is divided into four sectors where gorilla trekking is conducted: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Accommodation options are available in each of these sectors, ranging from budget to luxury options.

Rushaga Sector:

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp
• Four Gorillas Lodge
• Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Icumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Karungi Camp

Nkuringo Sector:

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

Buhoma Sector:

• Buhoma Lodge
• Bwindi Lodge
• Ride 4 a Woman Community Rest Camp

Ruhija Sector:

• Trekkers Tavern Cottages
• Agandi Eco Lodge
• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge

These lodges are conveniently located close to the starting points of your trek, providing easy access to your gorilla encounter.

Which Sector Is Best for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest?

While each sector offers an excellent opportunity to see mountain gorillas, Rushaga Sector is often favored by tour operators and trekkers because it has multiple habituated gorilla families, making it easier to secure a permit. However, Buhoma Sector is considered the best by many due to its lower elevation, which often means shorter and less strenuous treks. On the other hand, Nkuringo Sector is known for its higher elevation, making treks more challenging. Regardless of the sector, you’re guaranteed a 99% chance of seeing the mountain gorillas, as these treks are well-organized and successful.

Why Book Gorilla Trekking with Trek Africa Expeditions?

Trek Africa Expeditions is your go-to partner for booking gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest. We offer a variety of safari packages to suit every budget, from budget to luxury options, all inclusive of gorilla permits. Our team of experienced consultants will guide you through the booking process, ensuring that you get the best deal.

Don’t just take our word for it—check out our TripAdvisor reviews from satisfied clients who have experienced unforgettable Uganda safaris with us. We are committed to providing excellent service, and your satisfaction is our top priority. Whether you’re trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, or DR Congo, we guarantee an amazing gorilla tour experience.

Contact us today for more information on how to get to Bwindi Forest for gorilla trekking and let us help you plan your dream adventure!