Things to do and see in Bwindi National Park

Things to do and see in Bwindi National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Uganda’s most treasured natural wonders. It is home to half of the world’s remaining endangered mountain gorillas and is also the only place where both gorillas and chimpanzees co-exist. Nestled in southwestern Uganda, the park is bordered by Kabale, Kisoro, and Rubanda districts, and is just a 4-5 hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda, making it a convenient destination for visitors from both countries. The park boasts an extraordinary range of biodiversity, with over 120 species of mammals, 346 bird species, 202 butterfly species, and many more unique flora and fauna. Gorilla trekking is the primary draw for visitors, but Bwindi offers much more to explore and experience.

Activities in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is the park’s most popular activity. Visitors hike through Bwindi’s thick forest, crossing rivers and swampy areas, to track and observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. After an adventurous trek, you’ll spend one unforgettable hour in the presence of these gentle giants. Bwindi offers four trekking regions: Buhoma and Ruhija in the northern part, and Nkuringo and Rushaga in the south. Your gorilla trekking permit, which must be booked in advance, determines the trekking area. A permit costs $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. Due to high demand, it’s recommended to book your permit at least 3-4 months ahead of time.

Gorilla Habituation Experience

For a more immersive experience, Bwindi offers the unique Gorilla Habituation Experience, where you spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family. This activity allows you to participate in efforts to get gorillas accustomed to human presence. Unlike the standard trek, where you get one hour with the gorillas, this experience gives you deeper insights into their behavior. Gorilla habituation is limited to groups of four people, and permits cost $1,500 for foreign non-residents, $1,000 for foreign residents, and UGX 750,000 for East African citizens. Similar to gorilla trekking, permits for this experience sell out quickly, so early booking is essential.

Birding in Bwindi

Bwindi is a birder’s paradise, recognized as one of Africa’s best birding destinations. The park is home to 350 species of birds, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics. Popular birding spots include the Mubwindi Swamp between Ruhija and Buhoma sectors. Some of the rare species you can spot include the African Green Broadbill, Grauer’s Rush Warbler, Great Blue Turaco, and many more. For a successful birding experience, it’s recommended to go with a professional guide who can help identify species and navigate the forest.

Hiking/Walking Safari from Nkuringo to Buhoma

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park offers incredible hiking opportunities, and one of the most popular trails is the Nkuringo to Buhoma walking safari (and vice versa). This trek takes you through the heart of the forest, where you’ll experience the rich biodiversity of Bwindi up close. Along the trail, you might spot colorful butterflies, waterfalls, primates, and other wildlife depending on your luck. It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the park while engaging in an active adventure.

Cultural Encounters with the Batwa People

One of the highlights of visiting Bwindi is the chance to interact with the Batwa Pygmies and the Bakiga communities who live near the park. Community walks through the villages offer a glimpse into their traditional way of life, including their rich history as the original forest dwellers. These cultural encounters provide unique insights into their survival skills, customs, and connection to the forest.

Forest Walks in Bwindi

For those who enjoy exploring on foot, Bwindi offers several guided forest walks led by experienced park rangers. These forest walks allow you to discover the park’s hidden gems, including its diverse tree species, birdlife, and other wildlife. It’s a great way to learn about the intricate ecosystem that thrives within Bwindi and appreciate its natural beauty.

How to Get to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

By Road:

Bwindi’s southern sector can be accessed from Entebbe or Kampala via a scenic drive that takes approximately 8-9 hours. The journey includes a stop at the Equator and continues along the Kabale-Kisoro road, where you’ll follow signs for the Uganda Wildlife Authority. This route leads to your lodge in either the Rushaga or Nkuringo sectors of the park.

By Air:

For a quicker option, you can fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala’s Kajjansi airfield to Kisoro airstrip, which serves the southern sectors of Bwindi. Domestic airlines such as Aerolink and Fly Uganda offer scheduled and chartered flights. Upon arrival, your tour operator can arrange transport from the airstrip to your lodge or the park itself.

Best Time to Visit Bwindi Forest National Park

Bwindi can be visited year-round, but the best time for gorilla trekking and other activities is during the dry season, from June to September and December to February. These months offer better trekking conditions, as the trails are less muddy, and wildlife is easier to spot.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking and the Habituation Experience

For gorilla trekking and the Gorilla Habituation Experience, it’s essential to come prepared, as the treks take you deep into the forest where you may encounter insects, thorny plants, and muddy terrain. Recommended items include:

• Insect repellent
• Torch/flashlight with spare batteries
• Wet wipes
• Reusable water bottle
• Camera with extra lenses
• Comfortable hiking boots and socks
• Long-sleeved cotton shirt and lightweight long trousers to protect against stinging nettles and biting ants

Where to Stay in Bwindi Forest National Park

Bwindi offers a range of accommodation options, most of which are located outside the park. However, Buhoma Lodge and Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp are the only lodges situated inside the park. Other nearby lodges include:

• Bwindi Lodge
• Trackers Safari Lodge
• Ruhija Safari Lodge
• Bakiga Lodge
• Trekkers Tavern Cottages
• Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
• Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge
• Clouds Gorilla Lodge

For assistance with booking your accommodation, contact us, and we’ll ensure you have the perfect stay during your visit to Bwindi.

Why Book Your Visit to Bwindi with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, our mission is to provide personalized services focused on the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of our clients. We offer affordable and discounted packages to suit every traveler. Beyond that, we are deeply committed to the well-being of local communities and the protection of natural habitats. We embrace the principle of “Take Nothing but Photographs, Leave Only Footprints”, ensuring that our operations have a positive impact on both people and wildlife.

Contact us to plan your trip to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, and let our dedicated safari consultants help you create a seamless and unforgettable experience.