Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi from Queen Elizabeth National Park

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi from Queen Elizabeth National Park

Combining a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with a wildlife safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park is an incredible opportunity. Located just a few hours away, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the closest wildlife park to Bwindi, making it convenient for visitors looking to experience both the vibrant wildlife and the majestic mountain gorillas.

Traveling from Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi takes approximately 4-5 hours to the Buhoma region and about 6 hours to the Rushaga, Nkuringo, and Ruhija regions. If you’re staying in Buhoma, you can enjoy a scenic drive through the southern part of Bwindi, which offers chances to spot tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector. Alternatively, for a quicker journey, consider taking a one-hour flight to Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip, followed by a two-hour drive to your chosen lodge in Bwindi. Whichever option you choose, your trek into the heart of gorilla country is easily accessible.

Explore Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is situated in the southern part of Uganda, bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is renowned for being one of the few places in the world where you can trek to see magnificent mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, Bwindi is a premier destination for gorilla trekking.

The park is divided into four sectors: Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, and Ruhija, each offering unique experiences for visitors. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, birthday, or anniversary, Bwindi provides a stunning backdrop for unforgettable memories.

Activities in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi is a top-tier tourist destination in Africa, packed with activities and natural beauty that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Here’s what you can experience during your visit:

Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is the highlight of any visit to Bwindi. With a remarkable 98% success rate for sighting mountain gorillas, your trek promises an unforgettable encounter. Choose from one of the four sectors to experience this extraordinary adventure: Rushaga and Nkuringo in the south or Ruhija and Buhoma in the northeast and east.

Securing a gorilla permit is essential for your trekking experience. Permits must be purchased in advance to ensure your spot on the trek, as each gorilla family can accommodate only eight visitors. By booking your all-inclusive gorilla road trip with Excursia Adventures, you simply provide us with your preferred trekking dates, and we’ll check the availability of permits for you. After securing your permit, we’ll send you the necessary payment details and confirmation.

Gorilla Habituation Experience

For a deeper connection with these gentle giants, consider the Gorilla Habituation Experience. This unique opportunity allows you to spend up to four hours with mountain gorillas that are still in the habituation process. Limited to just four participants per group, this exclusive experience requires early booking to guarantee your spot.

The habituation activity is conducted in the southern sectors of Rushaga and Nkuringo, where you’ll observe the gorillas in their natural behaviors—feeding, resting, and interacting—under the guidance of researchers and experienced guides.

Birdwatching in Bwindi

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting a rich diversity of bird species, including many Albertine Rift endemics. During your birding tour, keep an eye out for stunning species such as the Handsome Francolin, Rwenzori Nightjar, Dwarf Honeyguide, and African Green Broadbill.

Our birding packages are designed for enthusiasts of all levels, featuring knowledgeable guides who will help you identify and appreciate the diverse avian life in the park.

Cultural and Community Experiences

Experiencing the rich culture of the Bwindi region is a highlight for many visitors to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Once home to the Batwa people—often referred to as pygmies—this area offers a unique glimpse into their traditional way of life. Although the Batwa were relocated from the forest to surrounding communities to facilitate mountain gorilla conservation and tourism, their cultural heritage remains vibrant.

During your visit from Entebbe to Bwindi, you will have the chance to learn about the Batwa’s history, including their methods of harvesting wild honey and their traditional hunting techniques. They share captivating dance performances and stories about their transition to life outside the forest. In addition to visiting the Batwa, you can explore local community initiatives, such as women’s craft groups and community schools. If you’re inclined to give back, donations of clothing or school supplies for local children are always appreciated.

Nature and Forest Walks

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, with its tropical forest being one of the oldest in the world—dating back over 250,000 years. The park is renowned for its thick canopy and ancient tree species, some of which are endemic. Nature walks in this lush environment are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in its beauty. During your guided walk, you’ll learn about various tree species, spot a variety of birds, and, if you’re lucky, see rare forest elephants, monkeys, and baboons.

We offer tailored nature walking packages that take you from the Buhoma sector to the Nkuringo sector, crossing the Ivy River and exploring the Kashasha trail. These walks can be customized to include visits to stunning waterfalls and rivers within the park, ensuring a memorable experience that aligns with your interests.

Where to Stay in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi is divided into four sectors for gorilla trekking: Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija, and Rushaga. Each sector has a range of accommodations to suit various budgets, from budget-friendly options to luxury lodges.

For instance, in the Buhoma sector, you can choose from:

• Budget: Buhoma Community Camp
• Mid-range: Buhoma Havens Lodge
• Luxury: Bwindi Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge, and Buhoma Lodge
• Upmarket: Gorilla Forest Camp

In the Rushaga sector, options include Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Camp, and Four Gorillas Lodge. For Nkuringo, consider Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge or Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.

Why Book Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi from Queen Elizabeth National Park with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we organize unforgettable Gorilla Trekking experiences in Bwindi, seamlessly combined with various activities and customized packages. Located in Entebbe, our offices are easily accessible for inquiries, cash payments, and any questions you may have. We offer complimentary pickups from Entebbe International Airport, making your travel as convenient as possible.

Our success in creating authentic experiences comes from our dedicated team, which blends youthful energy with the wisdom of experienced managers. As passionate Ugandans, we understand the importance of delivering exceptional service. Excursia Adventures is highly rated on TripAdvisor, allowing you to see testimonials from other travelers who have journeyed with us.

Ready to embark on your adventure? Contact us to book your Gorilla Trekking experience in Bwindi from Queen Elizabeth National Park today!