How to Trek Mountain Gorillas in the Rushaga Region of Bwindi

How to Trek Mountain Gorillas in the Rushaga Region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

How to Trek Mountain Gorillas in the Rushaga Region of Bwindi — The Rushaga region, located in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is a prime destination for mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda. Home to eight distinct gorilla families, including Rwigi, Muchunguzi, Busingye, Bweza, Nshongi, Mishaya, and Kahungye, Rushaga offers the highest number of gorilla families available for trekking in the park. The terrain in this region also makes for a relatively accessible and enjoyable trek. If you’re traveling from Kigali, Rushaga is only a 4-5 hour drive, and it’s also easily accessible from Kisoro. Rushaga is the only sector in Bwindi that offers the unique Gorilla Habituation Experience, providing visitors an extended interaction with these incredible primates.

If you’re considering trekking mountain gorillas in the Rushaga region, Trek Africa Expeditions can help arrange your trip, whether you’re visiting with a group or as an individual. A gorilla trekking permit is required for this experience, priced at USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, and 300,000 UGX for East African citizens. Each permit grants you a memorable one-hour encounter with Bwindi’s majestic mountain gorillas.

Important Considerations for Gorilla Trekking in Rushaga

1. Booking and Securing Your Gorilla Permit in Advance

Rushaga offers the largest daily number of gorilla permits in Bwindi, with 64 available. However, to secure your spot, it’s essential to book your permit well in advance, as permits sell quickly, especially during peak seasons. Permits can be reserved by making a 30%, 70%, or full (100%) deposit. We recommend booking at least 3 to 4 months ahead of your planned trek date to avoid disappointment. Reach out to us for assistance in reserving your permits and to ensure a seamless experience in Rushaga.

2. Reserving Accommodation in Rushaga

For the best experience and comfort during your gorilla trekking safari, it’s essential to book your accommodation in advance. Rushaga offers a variety of options to suit all budgets. For luxury stays, options include Four Gorillas Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Safari Lodge, and Gorilla Valley Lodge. For those on a budget, Nshongi Camp, Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Camp, and Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge offer comfortable and affordable options. Additionally, you may consider budget lodges in the nearby Nkuringo area, which is a convenient base for trekking gorillas in Rushaga.

3. Planning Comfortable Travel to Rushaga

Traveling in a 4×4 Land Cruiser is recommended for a comfortable journey to Rushaga, especially due to the rough terrain. Alternatively, for those who prefer to avoid the long drive from Entebbe or Kampala (which can take 8-9 hours), there is an option to fly to Kisoro Airstrip. From Kisoro, it’s only a short 2-hour drive to your lodge in Rushaga, making it a convenient and time-saving option for travelers.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in the Rushaga Region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Wondering what to pack and wear for your gorilla trekking adventure in Rushaga? Proper clothing and gear can make a significant difference in your comfort and experience. Here’s a list to guide you:

• Long-Sleeve Sweater: It can get chilly in Bwindi, especially early in the morning, so a long-sleeve sweater is ideal.
• Two Pairs of Long Trousers: Wear lightweight, durable pants to protect your legs while trekking through dense forest.
• Waterproof Hiking Boots: Comfortable, waterproof boots are essential for navigating muddy and uneven trails.
• Hat and Sunglasses (Optional): These can be useful depending on the weather.
• Camera with Extra Batteries: Capture your memories without the flash, as it can disturb the gorillas.
• Binoculars: Bwindi is home to a rich variety of bird species and other wildlife—binoculars can enhance your experience.
• Gardening Gloves: Helpful for gripping trees and branches as you hike.
• Rain Jacket: Bwindi is a rainforest, and showers can happen any time, so a rain jacket is a must.
• Mosquito Repellent: It’s wise to protect yourself from forest insects.
• Sunscreen (Optional): Depending on the season, you may want to guard against sunburn.
• Neutral-Colored Clothing: Avoid bright colors, which can startle the gorillas, as well as black and blue, which can attract tsetse flies. Neutral tones like green and khaki are best.

How to Get to the Rushaga Sector for Gorilla Trekking

By Air: Fly to Kisoro Airstrip, a short drive from Rushaga. AeroLink offers scheduled and chartered flights to Kisoro, where our experienced guide will pick you up and transfer you to your lodge, just about an hour away.

By Road:
Rushaga can be reached by an 8-9 hour drive from Entebbe/Kampala via Kabale, or in just 4-5 hours by road from Kigali, Rwanda.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trek in Rushaga with Trek Africa Expeditions?

Trek Africa Expeditions is known for its experienced team and dedication to providing exceptional service. As a locally owned Ugandan tour company, we bring in-depth knowledge and first-hand experience of Uganda and Rwanda’s gorilla trekking regions. We are highly recommended on TripAdvisor, and our website offers up-to-date, reliable information to help you plan your gorilla trek. By booking with us, you’ll have the support of a team that knows and loves the region, ensuring you a memorable and authentic experience.

Feel free to contact us with any questions about trekking mountain gorillas in Rushaga!