Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija Region of Bwindi from Lake Bunyonyi

Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija Region of Bwindi from Lake Bunyonyi

If you’re staying at beautiful Lake Bunyonyi and looking to experience the thrill of gorilla trekking, then the Ruhija region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is your ideal destination. Nestled in southwestern Uganda between the Kisoro and Kabale districts, Lake Bunyonyi is known for its stunning scenery and rich biodiversity. At an altitude of 1,962 meters, this breathtaking lake stretches about 25 kilometers long and 7 kilometers wide, making it the second-deepest lake in Africa with depths reaching up to 144 meters.

Lake Bunyonyi boasts 29 islands, each steeped in history and unique heritage. Notable islands include Bushara Island, Akampene Island (often referred to as Punishment Island), Kyahugye Island, Bwama Island, and Njuyeera (Sharp’s Island). The area is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, attracting nature lovers from far and wide. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and friendly local communities, Lake Bunyonyi has long been a favorite destination for visitors.

Exploring the Ruhija Region

The Ruhija region is a key part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, known for its vibrant wildlife and rich cultural experiences. This area is home to several habituated gorilla families, making it a prime location for gorilla trekking. The region features four main gorilla families that visitors can track: Bitukura, Oruzogo, Mukiza, and Kyaguriro. Bwindi Forest is one of the few places in the world where you can observe majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. With over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population residing here, it’s no surprise that Bwindi is regarded as the best location for this unforgettable experience.

Traveling from Lake Bunyonyi to the Ruhija region takes approximately 2-3 hours by car, allowing you to fit in various activities along the way.

Top Activities to Experience in Ruhija Region of Bwindi

Gorilla Trekking: The highlight of any visit to the Ruhija region is undoubtedly gorilla trekking. Many of our clients have embarked on this journey from Lake Bunyonyi, and it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. Gorilla trekking involves navigating through the forest to observe a specific habituated mountain gorilla family.

Experienced trackers and rangers wake up early each morning to search for these incredible creatures. Using natural signs and sounds, they locate the gorillas and communicate with park headquarters. Once the gorillas are found, your guides will brief you on safety protocols and the rules to follow before you begin your trek. With a 99% success rate of seeing gorillas in their natural habitat, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Gorilla Trekking Permits and Costs

Gorilla trekking permits are priced as follows:

• USD 800 per person for Non-Foreign Residents
• USD 700 for Foreign Residents
• UGX 300,000 for East African Citizens

These permits allow you one hour of observation once you find the gorillas. Uganda is home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making this encounter truly special. Witnessing these endangered creatures, which share 95% of their DNA with humans, in their natural setting is an extraordinary and life-changing experience.

Forest and Nature Walks in Ruhija

Explore the rich biodiversity of Ruhija through our guided forest and nature walks. These excursions introduce you to a variety of mammal species, including captivating primates like chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkeys, blue monkeys, and baboons. Don’t miss the stunning black and white colobus monkeys, known for their elegant flowing white tails. As you stroll along the trails, you’ll encounter a diverse array of butterflies, moths, reptiles, and tree species, along with beautiful wildflowers and bamboo forests.

One of the highlights is the Ruhija Ridge Top Route, which offers breathtaking views of a deep valley filled with undisturbed rainforest. Keep an eye out for duikers, various primates, and both forest and grassland bird species. You can also venture into the bamboo zone to experience Afromontane vegetation and enjoy panoramic views overlooking Lake Bunyonyi and Mafuga Forest.

Village and Community Walks

Ruhija is a fantastic destination for cultural and village walks. If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the local community, you can visit a nearby school, meet a traditional healer, or tour a banana brewery. You can even combine a community tour with a nature walk through the forest, allowing you to witness local dances, traditions, and the rich culture of the area.

Batwa Cultural Experience

The Batwa people, often referred to as pygmies, once inhabited the Ruhija region of Bwindi Forest National Park for generations. Recently, they have been relocated to surrounding communities to support mountain gorilla conservation efforts. A cultural tour with the Batwa offers a unique opportunity to learn about their traditional way of life in the forest, including their methods for harvesting wild honey and hunting. You’ll be treated to traditional dances and hear firsthand accounts of their transition to life outside the forest. Additionally, you can visit community groups where local women create crafts and prepare traditional meals.

Accommodation Options in Ruhija

The Ruhija region offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from budget-friendly lodges and camps to mid-range and luxury options. For budget and camping accommodations, consider Gorilla Mist Camp, Gift of Nature Lodge, Trekkers Tavern Cottages, or Broadbill Tented Forest Camp. If you’re looking for mid-range options, Bakiga Lodge is a great choice, while those seeking a more luxurious experience can stay at the Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge. Some travelers also choose to stay in the nearby Buhoma region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is close to the Ruhija sector.

Why Book with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we are a local tour operator based in Uganda, proudly run by Ugandans. Our focus is on creating life-changing experiences through sustainable tours across East Africa. As members of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) and registered with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), we maintain strong partnerships with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and local communities in Ruhija, ensuring seamless booking for your cultural safari.

Ready to embark on a remarkable adventure? Contact us today to book your Gorilla Trekking experience in the Ruhija region of Bwindi from Lake Bunyonyi!