Walking Safari from Nkuringo to Buhoma

Walking Safari from Nkuringo to Buhoma: Experience Uganda’s Stunning Bwindi Forest

Embark on an unforgettable walking safari from Nkuringo to Buhoma, one of the most scenic hikes in Uganda’s iconic Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. This 14-kilometer (9-mile) trek takes you through breathtaking landscapes, offering panoramic views of lush mountain slopes, deep valleys and vibrant village life. As you follow village footpaths, you’ll experience the beauty of Bwindi’s dense forest, home to diverse wildlife, including the endangered mountain gorillas.

If you’re planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, the walking safari from Nkuringo to Buhoma is a must-do. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is renowned for its gorilla trekking opportunities, where you can visit and trek the famous mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Alongside Uganda, the mountain gorillas also inhabit Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and the Virunga National Park in DR Congo.

Why Choose a Walking Safari in Bwindi Forest?

Bwindi Forest is one of the oldest forests in Africa, known for its rich biodiversity. The park is home to over 350 bird species, 200 tree varieties and 120 mammals, including the rare mountain gorillas. With only about 1,064 mountain gorillas remaining globally, Bwindi shelters nearly half of the world’s population. The park boasts 20 habituated gorilla families that are open for trekking, with permits allowing a group of eight trekkers per day to encounter these magnificent creatures.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest: Explore Four Sectors

Gorilla trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is offered in four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga. The Buhoma and Ruhija sectors are located in the northern part of the park, easily accessible for combining gorilla trekking with game viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Meanwhile, the southern sectors—Rushaga and Nkuringo—are located near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is also home to golden monkeys.

Each sector is home to different habituated gorilla families, with Rushaga having the largest number of families. Your gorilla trekking experience will depend on which sector you choose but in every case, the trek offers a rare and life-changing opportunity to come face to face with these incredible primates.

When Is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking and Walking Safari from Nkuringo to Buhoma?

The best time for both gorilla trekking and the walking safari from Nkuringo to Buhoma is during the dry months, from January to February and June to early September. These months make it easier to navigate the trails and provide clearer visibility for spotting gorillas due to the relatively low vegetation.

Costs for Gorilla Trekking and Walking Safari from Nkuringo to Buhoma

The price of a gorilla permit for trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park varies depending on your nationality:

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

This permit allows you to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas once you encounter them on your trek. A 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari from Rwanda is available from USD 1,290 per person, including all services.

What to Wear on a Gorilla Trekking and Walking Safari from Nkuringo to Buhoma

Packing the right gear for your trek ensures both comfort and safety. Here’s a list of recommended items:

• Long-sleeve shirt: The forest can be chilly, so pack a sweater or long-sleeve shirt for warmth.
• Two pairs of long trousers: Perfect for protection against the undergrowth.
• Waterproof hiking boots: Essential for trekking through muddy, slippery paths.
• Hat & Sunglasses: Optional, depending on the weather.
• Camera & spare batteries: Capture memories but avoid using flash to not disturb the gorillas.
• Binoculars: A great tool for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife.
• Gardening gloves: Helpful for gripping trees and branches along the trek.
• Raincoat: Bwindi is a rainforest, so rain is always a possibility.
• Mosquito repellent: A must for protecting yourself from insects in the forest.
• Sunscreen: To protect your skin during hot weather.
• Neutral-colored clothing: Avoid bright colors or black and blue, as they can attract tsetse flies or disturb the gorillas.

Accommodation Options for the Walking Safari from Nkuringo to Buhoma

Accommodation is available in both the northern and southern sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

• Southern Sector (Nkuringo & Rushaga): Options include Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge and Lake Mutanda Resort.
• Northern Sector (Buhoma & Ruhija): Stay at Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp and Ride 4 a Woman in Buhoma; or Trekkers Tavern Cottages and Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge in Ruhija.

How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Booking your gorilla trekking safari requires securing a gorilla permit in advance. Gorilla permits can be purchased directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, either at their headquarters in Kampala or Kisoro. For visitors arriving in Uganda via Kigali, permits can also be purchased at Uganda Wildlife Authority’s Kisoro branch, which is just a short drive to the park.

At Trek Africa Gorillas, we make the process easier for you. We can secure your gorilla permits in advance—whether for immediate or future dates—simply by sharing your preferred trekking dates with us via email or WhatsApp. Once we confirm availability, we will send you an invoice and upon payment, we’ll promptly purchase your permits and send you the scanned copies.

Why Book Your Walking Safari from Nkuringo to Buhoma with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Trek Africa Gorillas is a trusted local operator with a reputation for providing personalized and eco-friendly gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda. Our dedicated team ensures that all logistics are handled smoothly, from booking permits to arranging transportation and accommodation. With our experienced safari guides and quick response times, we make sure your trip is unforgettable. Reach out today to book your walking safari from Nkuringo to Buhoma and experience the magic of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with us!