Visiting Gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Visiting Gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Are you planning a visit to Uganda for a chance to trek the famous mountain gorillas? Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the top must-do activities when you visit Uganda. Located in the southwestern corner of the country, Bwindi offers a unique opportunity to experience these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, along with Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, is home to Uganda’s mountain gorillas. These parks are two of the only places in the world where you can see these endangered creatures. Other locations where you can encounter gorillas include Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Why Visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest?

Bwindi Forest is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, brimming with biodiversity. The park is home to over 350 species of birds, 310 butterfly species, 200 tree species, 51 reptile species, 88 moth species and 120 mammal species, including chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkeys and, of course, the mountain gorillas. The global population of mountain gorillas stands at 1,064, with half of them residing in Bwindi.

Bwindi has over 20 habituated gorilla families, each available for trekking, with only eight permits allocated per group per day. This makes your experience truly intimate and special.

Gorilla Trekking Sectors in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is conducted in four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga. Each sector offers different gorilla families for trekking and depending on your location, you can combine your gorilla trek with a visit to nearby Queen Elizabeth National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

• Buhoma and Ruhija sectors are located in the northern and northeastern parts of Bwindi, close to Queen Elizabeth National Park. These regions offer both gorilla trekking and game viewing.
• Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors are in the southern part of Bwindi, close to Mgahinga National Park, where you can also go trekking for golden monkeys. Rushaga, in particular, has the highest number of habituated gorilla families.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Costs in Uganda

• Foreign Non-Residents: USD 800 per person per trek
• East African Residents: USD 700 per person per trek
• East African Citizens: USD 80 per person per trek

This permit allows you to spend one hour with a mountain gorilla family. For those planning a longer trip, a 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking tour from Rwanda costs approximately USD 1,290 per person, all-inclusive.

How to Book Gorilla Trekking Permits in Bwindi

To trek the gorillas, you must secure a gorilla permit in advance. Permits can be purchased directly from Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) in Kampala or Kisoro, depending on your arrival point in Uganda. If you are flying into Kigali, Rwanda, you can purchase your permit from UWA’s Kisoro office, just 1-2 hours from Bwindi.

Trek Africa Gorillas makes booking your gorilla permits easy. Once you confirm your travel dates, we’ll reserve your permits online and send you an invoice for payment. After payment is received, we’ll finalize your booking and send you scanned copies of your permits for your records.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Forest

The best time to visit Bwindi for gorilla trekking is during the drier months, from January to February and June to early September. These months make travel easier and provide clearer visibility due to less dense vegetation. However, gorilla trekking is possible year-round and each season offers a unique experience.

Essential Packing List for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

• Long-sleeve shirt or sweater: The weather can be chilly in the mornings.
• Two pairs of long trousers: Protect your legs from bushes and insects.
• Waterproof hiking boots: Essential for navigating the wet terrain.
• Hat and sunglasses: Optional, depending on the weather.
• Camera with extra batteries: Capture the moments but remember to keep the flash off.
• Binoculars: For birdwatching and spotting other wildlife.
• Gardening gloves: Helpful for holding onto branches during the trek.
• Raincoat: Rain is unpredictable in Bwindi, so it’s best to be prepared.
• Mosquito repellent: The forest has insects and repellent helps protect you.
• Sunscreen: While the forest is cool, you may experience sunny spells.
• Neutral colors: Avoid bright colors, which may alarm the gorillas. Black and blue are also discouraged as they attract tsetse flies.

Where to Stay Near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

There are plenty of accommodation options near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, ranging from budget to luxury. Depending on the sector of Bwindi you’re trekking, here are some recommended lodges:

• Rushaga Sector: Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, Gorilla Valley Lodge and more.
• Nkuringo Sector: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.
• Buhoma Sector: Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Ride 4 a Woman Community Rest Camp.
• Ruhija Sector: Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge and Broadbill Tented Camp.

These lodges are conveniently located near the trailheads, making it easy to access the trekking areas.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Trek Africa Gorillas is a trusted local tour operator with years of experience in organizing custom gorilla trekking tours in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized travel experiences and we ensure every detail is taken care of. From booking your permits to arranging accommodation and transport, we’ve got you covered.

Our expert guides are available to offer insightful commentary and ensure a safe, enjoyable trek. Plus, we respond to all inquiries within 20 minutes, ensuring you get the answers you need promptly.

Contact Trek Africa Gorillas today to start planning your unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda!