Ruhija Sector

Ruhija Sector – A Gateway to Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Ruhija sector is situated in the eastern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and is one of the most exciting areas for gorilla trekking. Known for its cooler temperatures due to its elevation of over 2,350 meters above sea level, this area offers not only a thrilling gorilla experience but also stunning hiking opportunities and picturesque nature walks. The sector is home to three gorilla families: Bitukura, Oruzogo and Kyaguriro (the latter being primarily for research purposes). Whether you’re an avid trekker or simply want to witness these magnificent creatures, Ruhija is the perfect place to do so.

Gorilla Families You Can Trek in Ruhija Sector

1. Bitukura Gorilla Family
   Located on the eastern side of Bwindi, the Bitukura family was named after a river where it was first sighted. The habituation process started in 2007 and by 2008, the group was ready for trekking. This group is known for its peaceful nature and easy-going demeanor. Currently, the family consists of 14 members, including 4 silverbacks, 4 adult females, 3 juveniles and 1 infant. The group is led by Ndahura, a calm and peaceful silverback.
2. Oruzogo Gorilla Family
   The Oruzogo family was opened for trekking in 2011. Known for its playful behavior, this family is the largest in Ruhija with 17 members, including 1 dominant silverback, Tibirikwata. The group also includes 2 blackbacks, 7 females, 2 young adults and 5 infants. Oruzogo is famous for a memorable event in 2013 when one of its females gave birth to a set of twins, a girl named Kankonda. The playful nature of this family makes it a joy for trekkers to watch.
3. Kyaguriro Gorilla Family
   The Kyaguriro group was originally habituated in 1999 for research purposes. This group underwent some changes after the death of its former leader, Rukina, who was struck by lightning. Afterward, leadership disputes led to the split of the group into two, Kyaguriro A and Kyaguriro B (also known as the Mukiza family). While primarily for research, this family provides valuable insight into the habits of mountain gorillas.
4. Mukiza Gorilla Family
   Formed after a split from the original Kyaguriro group, the Mukiza family is fully habituated and available for tourism in the Ruhija sector. It is led by Silverback Mukiza and is known for its relatively calm temperament and strong cohesion. The group consists of around 10–13 members and provides a rich experience for trekkers seeking a quieter, more intimate gorilla encounter in Bwindi.

How to Trek Gorillas in Ruhija Sector

If you’re looking to visit Ruhija and trek the gorillas, you can fly directly into Kihihi Airstrip, which is the closest airport to this region of Bwindi. From there, you’ll be transported to the trekking site.

When planning your trip, keep in mind that a gorilla permit is required to trek the mountain gorillas in Ruhija sector. The cost of a gorilla permit is as follows:

• USD 800 for Non-foreign residents
• USD 700 for Foreign residents
• UGX 300,000 for East African citizens

These permits grant you the opportunity to spend one hour observing the gorillas in their natural habitat, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Important Planning Tips for Your Gorilla Trek in Ruhija Sector

Secure Your Gorilla Permit Early

Since Ruhija sector has only 32 gorilla permits available each day, it’s important to secure your permit well in advance, especially during the high season. We recommend booking at least 3 to 4 months prior to your trekking date to ensure availability. You can reserve your permits with a deposit (30%, 70% or 100% of the total amount) and we can assist you with the booking process. Remember, permits are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, so early booking is crucial.

Experience the Trekking Adventure

Trekking in the Ruhija sector offers an unforgettable experience, with plenty of hiking opportunities through lush forest trails and breathtaking landscapes. You’ll encounter diverse wildlife along the way, including monkeys, elephants and various antelopes. And of course, the highlight of the trek is the chance to observe the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Where to Stay in Ruhija Sector — Accommodation Options

Planning your gorilla trekking adventure in the Ruhija region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park requires careful consideration of your accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay or more budget-friendly choices, securing your accommodation ahead of time will ensure a comfortable and seamless experience.

Luxury Accommodation Options

For those looking to indulge in a bit of luxury, Ruhija offers a few top-notch lodges, including Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge and Bakiga Lodge. These provide excellent comfort, with stunning views and high-end amenities, perfect for unwinding after an exciting day of trekking.

Budget-Friendly Lodging

If you’re traveling on a budget, there are also several affordable lodging options, such as Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Agandi Eco Lodge and Ruhija Camp Site. These accommodations still offer great service and are perfect for those who want to experience the magic of Bwindi without breaking the bank.

When you book your safari with Trek Africa Gorillas, we ensure that all our accommodations provide full-board meals, so you’ll enjoy hearty meals throughout your stay.

Comfortable Travel to Ruhija

To ensure a comfortable journey to Ruhija, we recommend traveling in a 4×4 Land Cruiser, which provides a smooth ride even on the rougher roads of Bwindi. Alternatively, you can opt to fly into Kihihi Airstrip, which is close to Ruhija. This option dramatically shortens your travel time, reducing a typical 8-9 hour drive from Entebbe/Kampala to just a 1-hour drive from Kihihi to your lodge.

What to Wear and Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija

Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park can be an exciting yet challenging experience, so it’s important to be prepared. Here’s a list of essential items you should pack for your trek:

• Long-Sleeve Sweater or Jacket – The region can get quite chilly, especially at higher elevations.
• Two Pairs of Long Trousers – Opt for durable pants to protect your legs from brush and insects.
• Waterproof Hiking Boots – The terrain can be muddy, so waterproof boots will keep your feet dry.
• Hat and Sunglasses – Depending on the weather, these can be useful to protect against the sun.
• Camera and Extra Batteries – Capture the magical moments with the gorillas. (Remember to keep your flash off.)
• Binoculars – A great addition for birdwatching and spotting other primates in the forest.
• Gardening Gloves – Useful for holding onto trees and branches as you make your way through the forest.
• Raincoat – As Bwindi is a rainforest, rain is common, so it’s essential to be prepared.
• Mosquito Repellent – Protect yourself from insects that are common in forested areas.
• Sunscreen – If you’re trekking during the hotter months, sunscreen will protect you from sunburn.
• Neutral-Colored Clothing – Avoid bright colors, as they can disturb the gorillas. Black and blue are also not recommended as they attract tsetse flies.

How to Get to Ruhija Sector for Gorilla Trekking

1. By Air: Flying is the quickest way to reach Ruhija. Domestic airline AeroLink offers scheduled and charter flights to Kihihi Airstrip, from which you’ll be driven to your lodge in about an hour. Remember to check in 90 minutes before your flight and note that luggage is limited to 15kg per person, with excess baggage charged at $3 per kg.
2. By Road: If you prefer to travel by road, Ruhija is about 8-9 hours from Entebbe or Kampala by car. The journey will take you through Kabale and Buhoma and you’ll enjoy some spectacular views along the way. Alternatively, you can travel from Kigali, Rwanda, which takes around 4-5 hours.

Best Time to Trek Gorillas in Ruhija Sector

Ruhija is open for gorilla trekking year-round but the best months to visit are from June to August and December to February, when rainfall is lower and the trails are less slippery. During the rainy season (March-May and November), you may find discounts on some accommodations but be prepared for more rain and a potentially muddier trekking experience.

Why Book Your Ruhija Gorilla Trek with Trek Africa Gorillas?

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we organize unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda and Rwanda. As a highly rated company on TripAdvisor, we offer a range of eco-friendly safaris that combine gorilla trekking with thrilling wildlife safaris, including chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris, hiking, boat cruises and cultural encounters. We’re dedicated to preserving biodiversity and uplifting local communities, ensuring that your safari is as meaningful as it is exciting.

Book your gorilla trekking experience in Ruhija with us today and let us help you create lifelong memories! Contact us for more information on how we can make your safari an unforgettable adventure.