Which Gorilla Region of Bwindi is Most Accessible?

Which Gorilla Region of Bwindi is Most Accessible?

If you’re wondering which part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the easiest to reach for gorilla trekking, Ruhija Sector is your best bet. Conveniently accessible from Kabale Town, Kigali, and even the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Ruhija offers a smooth and scenic journey to your gorilla trek.

About Ruhija Sector

Located in the eastern part of Bwindi, Ruhija is home to four habituated gorilla families: the Bitukura, Mukiza, Kyaguriro, and Oruzogo families. All are available for trekking, offering a variety of experiences depending on the family you visit. Ruhija sits at an elevation of over 2,350 meters above sea level, making it the coolest sector in Bwindi, so be prepared for chillier temperatures.

Aside from gorilla trekking, Ruhija is a haven for nature lovers. The region features several beautiful hiking trails, including the Rwamunyonyi Peak hike, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. Ruhija is a great option for those staying in Buhoma but unable to secure permits there during the busy season, as it’s another location where you can trek gorillas.

Key Considerations When Planning Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija

Book Your Gorilla Permits in Advance

To ensure you get your desired dates, we recommend booking your gorilla permits for Ruhija at least 3 to 4 months ahead of time. While permits are generally available during the off-peak season, it’s always safer to book in advance to avoid last-minute issues. The cost for permits is as follows:

• USD 800 for Foreign Non-Residents
• USD 700 for Foreign Residents
• 300,000 Uganda Shillings for East African Citizens

These permits allow you to trek for one hour with the mountain gorillas. Contact us for detailed information on how to secure your permits for Ruhija.

Stay in Luxury Accommodation in Ruhija

For the best experience during your trek, consider booking luxury accommodation. Ruhija has a few upscale options, including Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge and Bakiga Lodge, which offers mid-range services but also provides a luxurious experience. However, for those looking for more options, many trekkers opt to stay in nearby Buhoma and travel to Ruhija for the trek. Popular luxury lodges in Buhoma include Bwindi Lodge, Gorilla Sanctuary Forest Camp, Mahogany Springs, and Silverback Lodge.

Luxury Travel to Ruhija

For a more comfortable and efficient journey, we recommend traveling by 4×4 Land Cruiser, which is ideal for navigating the sometimes rough roads to Ruhija. Alternatively, you can fly to Kihihi Airstrip, which is just about an hour’s drive from Ruhija. This option reduces the long, 8-9 hour drive from Entebbe or Kampala to a much quicker and more convenient travel time.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija

Preparing for a gorilla trekking adventure in Ruhija? The weather in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to wear the right clothing and bring necessary gear to ensure a comfortable and safe experience. Here’s a list of recommended clothing and items for your trek:

• Long-Sleeve Sweater: The temperatures in the park can be quite chilly, especially in the early mornings, so a warm sweater is essential.
• Two Pairs of Long Trousers: Opt for lightweight, durable trousers to protect yourself from the undergrowth, nettles, and insects.
• Waterproof Hiking Boots: The terrain can be muddy and uneven, so waterproof boots with good grip are a must for traction and comfort.
• Hat and Sunglasses: Depending on the weather, a hat and sunglasses will help protect you from the sun, though these are optional.
• Camera and Spare Batteries: Capture your memories with your camera, but be sure to turn off the flash to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
• Binoculars: Perfect for birdwatching or spotting other wildlife in the forest.
• Gardening Gloves: Useful for holding onto branches and trees during your trek to help navigate rough terrain.
• Raincoat: As Bwindi is a rainforest, rain showers can occur unexpectedly, so a lightweight, packable raincoat is essential.
• Mosquito Repellent: To protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects in the forest, bring a reliable repellent.
• Sunscreen: Though it can be cool in the mornings, the sun can get strong later in the day, so sunscreen is a good precaution against sunburns.
• Neutral Colors: Avoid bright colors, as they can disturb the gorillas. Black and blue are also discouraged, as they attract Tsetse flies. Opt for earthy, neutral tones instead.

How to Reach Ruhija Sector for Gorilla Trekking

By Air

Flying is the quickest and least tiring way to reach Ruhija. Aero Link, a domestic airline, operates scheduled and charter flights to Kihihi Airstrip, which is about an hour’s drive from Ruhija. Once you land at Kihihi, our professional guide will pick you up and take you to your lodge.

• Baggage Allowance: Aero Link permits a 15 kg baggage allowance per passenger, with an additional charge of $3 per extra kilogram.
• Children: Infants under 2 years fly for free, while children aged 12 years and older are charged 70% of the adult fare.

By Road

If you prefer traveling by road, you can reach Ruhija from Entebbe/Kampala in approximately 8-9 hours. You’ll pass through Kabale Town and proceed to Buhoma, then onto Ruhija. Alternatively, you can drive from Kigali, Rwanda, which takes about 4-5 hours.

Why Book Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija with Excursia Adventures

At Excursia Adventures, we create personalized, tailor-made safari experiences. Our team of professional consultants is always ready to assist you, answering your queries within 30 minutes. We’ll help plan your trip, secure your permits in advance, and ensure all services are booked to make your trip hassle-free. We also provide knowledgeable safari guides based on your language preferences, ensuring an enriching experience.

Ready for your adventure? Contact us for more information and to book your Gorilla Trekking safari in Ruhija!