Things to Do in Ruhija After Gorilla Trekking

Things to Do in Ruhija After Gorilla Trekking

Planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Ruhija and wondering what other activities you can enjoy? Ruhija, located in the eastern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is a fantastic place to explore after your trekking experience. This sector is home to four gorilla families: the Bitukura, Mukiza, Kyaguriro, and Oruzogo families, all of which are available for tracking. Known for its cool climate, Ruhija sits at an elevation of over 2,350 meters above sea level, making it the coldest region in Bwindi.

While gorilla trekking is the main attraction in Ruhija, there are plenty of other exciting activities you can enjoy. Whether you’re a nature lover, a bird enthusiast, or someone looking to experience the rich culture of the region, Ruhija has something for you. Here are some of the top things to do in Ruhija after gorilla trekking:

Batwa Cultural Experience in Ruhija

One of the most rewarding activities after your gorilla trek is the Batwa cultural experience. Led by a Batwa guide, you’ll learn about the traditional forest life of the Batwa people, who have historically lived in the Bwindi Forest. This cultural tour includes traditional dances, fire-making demonstrations, and an insight into their ancient way of life. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with the local community and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage.

Nature Walks in Bwindi Forest

Explore the beauty of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest through a guided nature walk. This relaxing yet informative activity lets you immerse yourself in the lush surroundings of Bwindi, where you’ll learn about the diverse tree species and wildlife that call the forest home. If you’re in Ruhija, be sure to visit Mubwindi Swamp, an excellent spot for birdwatching.

Bird Watching in Ruhija

Ruhija is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 bird species found in Bwindi Forest. After your gorilla trek, you can take part in a birding activity along the Mubwindi Swamp trail, where you’ll have the chance to spot many rare species, including the Albertine Rift endemics. You can also arrange for a full-day birding excursion with your lodge to make the most of your stay.

Safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park (Ishasha and Mweya)

Ruhija is conveniently located near Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it easy to combine your gorilla trek with a safari. You can explore the Ishasha and Mweya regions of the park for incredible wildlife viewing and a chance to see the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, along with other wildlife like elephants, buffalo, and antelopes.

Cultural Community Encounters

After your gorilla trek, take part in cultural community encounters to connect with the local people. Enjoy traditional dances performed by the Batwa pygmies, visit local artisans such as iron smelters, basket weavers, and honey collectors, and listen to storytelling from local elders about the Bakiga people’s rich history and culture. These encounters offer a unique, authentic experience that completes your African adventure.

Mountain Bicycle Tours

For something more active, consider a guided mountain bicycle tour around the local villages near Ruhija. This is a great way to explore the surrounding areas and get a closer look at the local culture. The tour can be organized at a small cost and provides a fun, memorable way to see the beauty of the region after your gorilla trek.

Other Activities in Ruhija

• Local Village Visits: Take a walk through nearby villages to gain insight into the lives of the Bakiga and Batwa pygmies who live around Bwindi.
• Yoga: Some lodges offer yoga sessions, providing a peaceful way to relax after a day of trekking.
• Volunteering: There are opportunities to volunteer in local community schools and projects, offering a chance to give back to the community.
• Butterfly Watching: Ruhija is home to a variety of butterflies, and evening walks can give you the chance to observe these colorful creatures.

Where to Stay in Ruhija Sector for Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

If you’re planning to trek gorillas in Ruhija, you’ll find a variety of lodging options to suit your needs. From comfortable lodges to more rustic campsites, you have plenty of choices for your stay. Some popular options include:

• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
• Trekkers Tavern Lodge
• Bakiga Lodge
• Ruhija Campsite
• Agadi Eco Lodge

For reservation and booking details, feel free to contact us and we’ll assist you with all the necessary arrangements.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija

The best time to visit Ruhija for gorilla trekking is during the dry months of January, February, and June to early September. These months offer the most favorable weather conditions for trekking, with dry roads making it easier to travel to the park. The reduced vegetation during this period also ensures better visibility of the mountain gorillas.

How to Get to Ruhija for Gorilla Trekking

By Road: Ruhija can be reached from Kampala/Entebbe by both private and public transport. The drive takes around 8-9 hours. For public transport, take a bus heading to Kanyantorogo, Butogota, or Buhoma towns. From there, hire a motorcycle (boda-boda) to take you to your lodge, such as Trekkers Tavern Cottages, at a cost of around USD 10.

By Air: You can also reach Ruhija by air. Fly from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi or Kisoro, or from Kajjansi Airstrip or Garuga Airstrip to Kayonza Airstrip. Upon arrival, your hotel can arrange a transfer to your accommodation.

How to Book a Gorilla Permit for Trekking in Ruhija

To book your gorilla trekking permit for Ruhija, you will need to go through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). The process is simple:

1. Confirm your travel dates and send us an email with your planned trip.
2. We’ll check the availability of permits for those dates directly with UWA.
3. Once permits are confirmed, we’ll send you an invoice for payment.
4. After receiving your payment, we’ll purchase your permit and send you a scanned copy for your records, confirming your gorilla trekking booking in Ruhija sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize gorilla trekking tours in the Ruhija sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. We offer a range of gorilla safari packages to suit all budgets, from budget to luxury options, including securing your gorilla permits.

Our team is committed to providing excellent service and ensuring that your trip is unforgettable. We pride ourselves on customer satisfaction and have received glowing reviews from our clients on TripAdvisor. We’ll guide you every step of the way, answering all your questions and ensuring a smooth and memorable Ugandan safari experience.

Book your gorilla trek in Ruhija with us, and let us help you create lasting memories in one of the most incredible wildlife destinations in the world.

Contact us today for more information or to begin your booking!