Gorilla Trekking Tours from Jinja

Gorilla Trekking Tours from Jinja

Are you in Jinja and looking to embark on a thrilling gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park? The journey from Jinja to Bwindi is approximately 650 km and takes around 9 hours by road. Curious about how to get there? Read on for all the details you need for a seamless trip!

How to Reach Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking Tours Starting from Jinja

The distance from Jinja to Bwindi depends on the specific sector you’ll be trekking in. The most common route from Jinja is via Kampala and Kabale, which typically takes about 8-9 hours.

• For Northern Sectors (Buhoma and Ruhija): You’ll turn off the Kabale-Kisoro road, following signs for the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to reach your designated sector.
• For Southern Sectors (Rushaga and Nkuringo): These can be accessed by turning off at Muko along the Kabale-Kisoro highway.

Each sector offers a different trekking experience, so make sure to confirm your trekking location in advance.

About Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of only four national parks worldwide that are home to the endangered mountain gorillas. The other parks include Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda), Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda), and Virunga National Park (DR Congo).

Bwindi is an ancient forest that boasts rich biodiversity. It is home to over 350 bird species, 310 butterfly species, 200 tree species, 51 reptiles, 88 moth species, and 120 mammal species, including chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and the iconic mountain gorillas.

With a global population of around 1,064 mountain gorillas, Bwindi houses nearly half of this population, with over 15 habituated gorilla families available for trekking. Each family has a limited number of permits available each day, with a maximum of 8 trekkers allowed per group.

Where is Gorilla Trekking Done in Bwindi?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is offered in four distinct sectors:

1. Buhoma: Located in the northern part of the park, Buhoma is close to Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it an ideal sector for combining wildlife safaris.
2. Ruhija: Situated in the northeastern area, Ruhija is another prime location for trekkers seeking a quieter experience.
3. Rushaga: Located in the southern part of Bwindi, Rushaga is the largest sector, with many gorilla families and opportunities for tracking multiple groups.
4. Nkuringo: Also in the southern region, Nkuringo offers excellent views and unique trekking routes.

Each sector has its own set of habituated gorilla families, and some areas, like Rushaga, have more families compared to others.

Gorilla Trekking Costs in Bwindi

• Foreign Non-Residents: USD 800 per person per trek
• East African Residents: USD 700
• East African Citizens: USD 80

A gorilla permit allows you to trek and spend an hour with the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

How to Purchase a Gorilla Trekking Permit for Bwindi

Gorilla trekking permits for Bwindi can be purchased directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) at their headquarters in Kampala or Kisoro. If you’re arriving through Entebbe, it’s recommended to purchase permits in Kampala. For those flying through Kigali, permits can be purchased at UWA’s Kisoro branch, just 1-2 hours from Bwindi.

Excursia Adventures makes it easy for you! Once you share your travel dates with us, we’ll reserve your permits and send you an invoice. Once payment is received, we’ll purchase the permits on your behalf and send you scanned copies for your records.

Gorilla Trekking vs. Gorilla Habituation Experience

• Gorilla Trekking: This classic option allows you to spend one hour with the gorillas after finding them on your trek. Groups are capped at 8 people per family.
• Gorilla Habituation Experience: For a deeper experience, spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family. This activity is done in smaller groups (up to 4 people), offering a more intimate experience.

Both experiences start early in the morning and can be physically demanding, especially given Bwindi’s challenging terrain.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

The best time for gorilla trekking in Bwindi is during the dry months of January, February, and June to September. During these months, the trails are less muddy, and the vegetation is not as dense, making it easier to spot the gorillas.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

Preparing for a gorilla trek in Bwindi Forest requires the right gear to ensure you stay comfortable and safe during your adventure. The terrain can be challenging, and the weather unpredictable, so packing thoughtfully is key.

Here’s a list of essential items to bring for your gorilla trekking tour:

• Insect Repellent – Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects.
• Flashlight/Headlamp & Spare Batteries – Useful for early morning treks or when it gets dark.
• Wet Wipes – Handy for cleaning up after your trek.
• Water Bottle – Stay hydrated throughout your hike.
• Camera & Lenses – Capture memories of the breathtaking wildlife.
• Comfortable Hiking Boots & Socks – Proper footwear is a must for trekking through the forest.
• Gardening Gloves – Protect your hands when navigating through dense foliage.
• Sandals/Flip-flops – Ideal for relaxing after the trek.
• Hat & Sunscreen – Shield yourself from the sun’s rays.
• Rain Jacket – Bwindi’s weather can change quickly, so be prepared.
• Sweater/Fleece – It can get chilly, especially in the mornings or evenings.
• Swimwear – Some lodges have swimming pools for a relaxing dip after the trek.
• Binoculars – Great for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

How Challenging Is Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi can be physically demanding due to the steep and rugged terrain. The trek’s duration and difficulty vary, as gorillas are constantly on the move. You could find yourself trekking for just a couple of hours or up to 8 hours, depending on the location and conditions. The forest can be muddy, and the weather can change unexpectedly, making the hike even more challenging.

It’s essential to be prepared and fit for the trek, as it can involve strenuous uphill climbs and navigating dense undergrowth. The higher you go, the more intense the trek becomes, so a good level of physical fitness is recommended.

Where to Stay During Your Gorilla Trekking Tour from Jinja

Bwindi Forest offers a variety of accommodation options, catering to different budgets and preferences. The park is divided into sectors, and each has nearby lodges for a convenient stay.

Rushaga Sector (Southern Bwindi)

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp
• Four Gorillas Lodge
• Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
• Ichumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Karungi Camp

Nkuringo Sector (Southern Bwindi)

• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
• Lake Mutanda Resort

Buhoma Sector (Northern Bwindi)

• Buhoma Lodge
• Bwindi Lodge
• Buhoma Community Rest Camp
• Ride 4 a Woman

Ruhija Sector (Northern Bwindi)

• Trekkers Tavern Cottages
• Agandi Eco Lodge
• Gift of Nature Lodge
• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Broadbill Tented Camp

These accommodations are located close to the trekking starting points, making it easy to access the park’s sectors.

Which Sector Is Best for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi?

When choosing where to trek, it’s essential to consider the different sectors of Bwindi:

• Rushaga Sector: Known for having the most habituated gorilla families, it’s a popular choice. The sector is well-developed and permits are easier to secure.
• Buhoma Sector: Ideal for those seeking a shorter trek (3-4 hours). It’s also close to Queen Elizabeth National Park for wildlife viewing.
• Nkuringo Sector: This sector has the highest elevation, making treks more strenuous but offering spectacular views and a quieter experience.
• Ruhija Sector: A great choice for those seeking a less crowded experience with beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife.

No matter which sector you choose, Bwindi offers an incredible chance to see the endangered mountain gorillas with a 99% success rate for sightings.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Tour with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we are experts in organizing unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Bwindi Forest. We offer a variety of packages to suit all budgets—from budget-friendly to luxury options. Our team is here to assist you with booking permits, accommodations, and providing tailored itineraries for your trip.

With years of experience and numerous positive reviews, we guarantee a seamless, memorable safari experience. Whether you’re traveling from Jinja or another location, we’ll ensure your gorilla trekking adventure is well-planned and hassle-free.

Feel free to contact us for more details on gorilla trekking tours starting from Jinja. We’re here to answer all your questions and help you plan your dream safari!