Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi from Kisoro Town

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi from Kisoro Town

If you’re planning to go gorilla trekking in Bwindi from Kisoro Town, Trek Africa Expeditions has you covered with seamless logistics. Whether you’re flying into the Kisoro Airstrip, staying in Kisoro, or simply need transportation to start your adventure, we’re here to make your journey straightforward and enjoyable. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is just a 2–4 hour drive from Kisoro, depending on which gorilla trekking sector you’ll be visiting, and our professional driver-guides ensure your safety and comfort every step of the way.

Our fleet of well-serviced 4×4 vehicles is equipped with air conditioning, drinking water, and all necessary tourism licenses. Plus, the drive offers incredible photo opportunities with stops at Lake Bunyonyi, Gahinga ranges, and Twin Lakes viewpoints, so you can savor the scenic beauty of southwestern Uganda as you approach Bwindi.

Discover the Magic of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi, one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse forests, was recognized as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in 1994. This tropical rainforest is home to more than 400 plant species, as well as a rich variety of wildlife, including mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, baboons, forest elephants, and antelope. The park’s most famous residents, the endangered mountain gorillas, draw visitors from around the world, and there are limited permits each day that allow you the incredible experience of observing these majestic creatures up close.

Things to Do in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from Kisoro Town

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Gorilla trekking is the highlight of any visit to Bwindi. This unforgettable experience involves tracking a habituated mountain gorilla family through the forest with expert rangers. Early every morning, trackers head out to locate the gorillas, using subtle techniques to trace their movements. Once located, they communicate with park headquarters, so that your group can begin your trek, following their guidance to a 99% chance of finding the gorillas in their natural habitat.

Gorilla trekking permits cost USD 700 for non-residents, USD 600 for foreign residents, and UGX 250,000 for East African citizens, granting you one hour of observation with these remarkable animals. Uganda is home to about half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, making this experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness these gentle giants, who share 95% of our DNA.

Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi

For a more immersive experience, the Gorilla Habituation Experience in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi allows you to spend up to four hours with gorillas that are still becoming accustomed to human presence. Limited to only four visitors per day, this activity is led by researchers and guides who give insights into the gorillas’ behavior, feeding patterns, and communication. Since this is a unique and extended encounter, it’s advisable to book your gorilla habituation permit in advance to secure your place.

Trek to the Top of the World

A favorite short hike from Nkuringo, this trek takes you on a scenic path through Nkuringo village, offering breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and ridges. The “Top of the World” hike is a 2–3-hour journey, perfect for travelers wanting to enjoy sweeping landscapes and get a feel for the local culture.

Gorilla Buffer Zone Walk

Explore the “buffer zone” around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park—a transition area between the forest and local farms. You’ll wander through tea plantations and other crops cultivated by the community, gaining insight into local agricultural practices while taking in stunning scenery.

Batwa Cultural Experience

A visit to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers a chance to dive into the fascinating Batwa cultural experience. The Batwa, also known as the “forest people” of Uganda, once thrived as nomadic hunter-gatherers within the dense jungles of Bwindi until 1991, when the forest was designated a national park. Today, their lives and traditions are showcased on the Buniga Forest Trail, located in the southern region of Bwindi. This USAID-supported initiative provides the Batwa community with sustainable income through tourism, giving travelers a glimpse into the ancient customs, forest survival skills, and stories of this remarkable community. The trail is gentle and accessible, making it an enjoyable and insightful walk for all ages.

Ivy River Forest Walk

For nature enthusiasts, the Ivy River Forest Walk is a must. This serene trail winds gently through Bwindi’s lush rainforest, offering magnificent viewpoints of mist-shrouded valleys along the way. The path also serves as a route for local villagers heading to and from Nkuringo, especially on market days in the Nteko village near the park’s southern boundary. While walking, you may encounter monkeys, duikers, bush pigs, and many of Bwindi’s renowned bird and butterfly species.

Discover the Suma Waterfalls

Located in the tranquil village of Suma, the Suma Waterfalls are a hidden gem surrounded by diverse tree species that shelter various endemic bird species, such as the Northern Double Collared Sunbird, the Violet-Backed Starling, and the Great Blue-Eared Starling. Early mornings are ideal for visiting the waterfall, as the surrounding forests come alive with birdsong and light filtering through the canopy, creating a serene and captivating experience.

Birding in Bwindi: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a haven for bird watchers, housing a rich variety of unique and endemic species, particularly those of the Albertine Rift. Key species to spot include the African Green Broadbill, Rwenzori Batis, Handsome Francolin, and the Yellow-Eyed Black-Flycatcher, among many others. Our birding tours are led by professional guides who will help you discover and identify Bwindi’s rare avian gems, making your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site unforgettable.

Volunteering Opportunities in Bwindi

For those looking to make a meaningful impact, Bwindi offers various volunteering opportunities. You can contribute to community-based projects, teach in local schools, or participate in environmental initiatives that support the conservation and empowerment of communities around Bwindi forest. Volunteering adds a new depth to your travel experience, allowing you to connect with local people and give back to the communities near the park.

Where to Stay in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi is divided into four trekking sectors—Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija, and Rushaga—and each offers a range of accommodations to suit various budgets. In Buhoma, options include budget-friendly Buhoma Community Camp, mid-range Buhoma Haven Lodge, and luxurious lodges such as Bwindi Lodge, Mahogany Springs, and Gorilla Forest Camp. Rushaga features lodges like Rushaga Gorilla Camp and Four Gorillas Lodge, while Nkuringo offers choices such as Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge and Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Trek Africa Expeditions, a Ugandan-owned tour operator with over 15 years of experience, offers expertly curated gorilla trekking experiences starting from Kisoro Town. As a member of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) and registered with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), we provide a reliable, personalized approach to safaris across Uganda and East Africa. We are committed to sustainable travel and have developed trusted partnerships with the Uganda Wildlife Authority, ensuring a seamless booking process for gorilla permits and other safari arrangements. Highly rated on TripAdvisor, our local expertise and passion for the region make Trek Africa Expeditions your perfect choice for an unforgettable adventure in East Africa.

Contact us to plan a tailor-made safari that meets all your travel goals and expectations in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, or Burundi.