Apes in Uganda: A Primate Paradise
February 7, 2025
Safari/ Tour to See Apes in Uganda
February 7, 2025
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Starting from Ntungamo
Looking to experience the magic of gorilla trekking in Uganda? Starting your safari from Ntungamo to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is not only possible but also a fantastic way to explore one of the most biodiverse spots on Earth. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi starting from Ntungamo offers travelers a scenic 3 to 4-hour drive (approximately 218.5 kilometers) via Kabale-Kisoro Road, leading to a truly unforgettable wildlife experience.
About Ntungamo and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Ntungamo is a picturesque district in western Uganda, known for its rolling hills, rich cultural traditions and welcoming communities. Since becoming a district in 1993, it has grown into a strategic starting point for tourists embarking on gorilla trekking adventures in Bwindi.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its ancient rainforest and incredible biodiversity. Home to endangered mountain gorillas, this pristine ecosystem also shelters over 400 plant species and more than 120 mammal species, including elephants, chimpanzees and duikers.
The Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi
Gorilla trekking is the park’s main attraction. Guided by expert trackers and rangers, you’ll follow fresh signs such as vocalizations and nest trails to locate a gorilla family. Once found, you’ll spend an hour observing these incredible primates in their natural habitat—a humbling, awe-inspiring experience unlike any other.
Gorilla Permit Costs in Uganda
Gorilla trekking permits are essential for anyone visiting Bwindi. The current costs are:
- USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents
- USD 700 for foreign residents
- UGX 300,000 for East African citizens
Your permit includes one hour with a habituated gorilla family—enough time for meaningful observation and photography.
Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi
For a deeper and more exclusive encounter, consider the Gorilla Habituation Experience. This unique activity allows you to spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family in the southern sectors of Bwindi—Rushaga and Nkuringo. Limited to just four participants per day, it’s an immersive and intimate opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts.
Other Activities to Do in Bwindi
Beyond gorilla trekking, Bwindi offers numerous experiences to enrich your visit:
- Trek to the Top of the World: A scenic 2–3 hour hike offering panoramic views of valleys and mountain ranges.
- Gorilla Buffer Zone Walk: Learn about the interface between conservation and farming communities.
- Batwa Cultural Experience: Discover the traditions of the Batwa pygmies, the original forest dwellers of Bwindi.
- Bird Watching: Spot Albertine Rift endemics and other rare bird species.
- Ivy River Forest Walk: Enjoy a nature walk through rich rainforest biodiversity.
- Suma Waterfalls Visit: Explore a serene waterfall surrounded by birds and endemic flora.
Accommodation Options in Bwindi
Bwindi is divided into four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Rushaga, Nkuringo and Ruhija. Each offers various accommodation styles:
- Buhoma Sector: Buhoma Community Camp (Budget), Bwindi Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge, Gorilla Forest Camp (Luxury)
- Rushaga Sector: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Camp (Budget), Four Gorillas Lodge (Luxury)
- Nkuringo Sector: Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge (Midrange), Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)
Why Choose Trek Africa Gorillas for Your Gorilla Safari?
Trek Africa Gorillas is a locally-owned Ugandan tour company committed to sustainable and personalized safari experiences across East Africa. We are proud members of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) and are licensed by the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB).
We have a strong working relationship with the Uganda Wildlife Authority, ensuring reliable permit access and smooth safari planning. Whether you’re starting from Ntungamo or another region, our knowledgeable team is here to help you craft the perfect gorilla trekking experience.
Contact Us Today for Your Gorilla Trekking Safari
Ready to begin your adventure? Reach out to Trek Africa Gorillas to book your gorilla trekking in Bwindi starting from Ntungamo. We’re excited to help you explore Uganda’s breathtaking wildlife and landscapes.
