Things to Do in Gishwati-Mukura National Park
October 24, 2024
Top Things to Do in Bwindi After Your Gorilla Habituation Experience
October 24, 2024
Top Things to Do in Nkuringo After Gorilla Trekking
After an exhilarating gorilla trekking experience in the Nkuringo sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, there’s plenty more to explore and enjoy. This area is home to three magnificent gorilla families: the Nkuringo Gorilla Family, the Bushaho Gorilla Family, and the Christmas Gorilla Family, each with its own unique characteristics and history.
About the Gorilla Families in Nkuringo
Nkuringo Gorilla Family
Established in 1997, the Nkuringo Gorilla Family was the first to be habituated in this region, officially opening for tracking in 2004. Named after the local area—Nkuringo, meaning “Hills”—this family originally had 19 members, though it now consists of 12. The group’s first leader, Rafiki (meaning “Friend” in Swahili), tragically passed away in 2008. Notably, this family was the first to give birth to twins in 2004, although one of the twins later died.
Bushaho Gorilla Family
The Bushaho Gorilla Family, consisting of 9 members, is relatively new, having been opened for trekking in 2016. As with other gorilla families, its size may grow as new babies are born or if the dominant Silverback can successfully integrate other unhabituated mountain gorillas from the area. With this family’s introduction, the total number of gorilla families in Bwindi has increased to 17, making Uganda a prime destination for witnessing these endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Christmas Gorilla Family
Located in the southern part of Bwindi, the Christmas Gorilla Family is the third family available for trekking in the Nkuringo region. This group also has around 9 members, with 6 typically spotted during treks. Led by a dominant silverback known as Christmas, the family includes one blackback, three females, and one baby. They are known for their curious nature, often venturing into neighboring communities in search of food.
Activities to Enjoy in Nkuringo After Trekking
While gorilla trekking is the highlight of the Nkuringo sector, there are numerous other activities to enhance your experience:
Batwa Cultural Experience
Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Batwa people with a cultural experience tour. Guided by local Batwa guides, you will learn about their traditional forest life, participate in traditional dances, and even witness the ancient art of fire-making.
Nature Walks
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest on a guided nature walk. This activity allows you to learn about various tree species and wildlife. One popular trail is the River Ivi-Nkuringo trail, where you can marvel at a stunning waterfall plunging 33 meters.
Birdwatching
Bwindi is renowned as one of Uganda’s top birding destinations, hosting approximately 350 bird species. The best birding spots in the Nkuringo area include the Nombe pocket forest, about 5 km away, and Buniga forest, just 300 meters from Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge. Don’t forget to bring a birding book to help identify some of the avian visitors at the lodge’s gardens.
Community Visits
Engage with local communities by visiting nearby villages to gain insights into the lives of the Bakiga and Batwa pygmy people living alongside the forest. Other activities include yoga sessions at the lodge, mountain biking adventures, community volunteering in local schools, and even nighttime butterfly watching.
Where to Stay in Nkuringo
When visiting Nkuringo, you’ll find several lodging options to suit your preferences. Recommended places to stay include Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, and Lake Mutanda Lodge. Alternatively, you can choose to stay in the Rushaga sector, which is only a 45-minute drive from Nkuringo. Options in Rushaga include Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Rushaga Camp, Icumbi Gorilla Lodge, and Gorilla Safari Lodge.
Best Time to Visit Nkuringo for Gorilla Trekking
The best time for gorilla trekking in Nkuringo is during the drier months, specifically from January to February and June to early September. These months offer easier access to the park and clearer views of the mountain gorillas, as the vegetation is less dense.
Getting to Nkuringo for Gorilla Trekking
By Road
Nkuringo can be accessed via the main highway from Entebbe or Kampala, which takes approximately 8-9 hours. You’ll pass through Kabale town on your way to Nkuringo. Alternatively, you can reach the area from Kigali, Rwanda, in about 4-5 hours.
By Air
For a quicker option, consider flying from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala’s Kajjansi airfield to Kisoro airstrip. Scheduled and chartered flights are available through domestic airlines like Aero Link and Fly Uganda. Be sure to coordinate with your tour operator for a transfer from the airstrip to your chosen lodge.
Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Experience in Nkuringo with Excursia Adventures
At Excursia Adventures, we are dedicated to making your gorilla trekking experience in Nkuringo unforgettable. Our knowledgeable team can guide you through the booking process and offer a variety of safari packages that cater to all budgets, including gorilla permits. Check out our TripAdvisor reviews to see the positive experiences of our satisfied clients. With a commitment to excellent service and customer satisfaction, we guarantee a remarkable Uganda safari holiday. Reach out to us today, and let’s make your gorilla trekking dreams come true!
