Listed below are some of the interesting facts about gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park

Mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda (gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park) is one of the most engaging tourist activities done while on mountain gorilla safaris to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park after securing the necessary gorilla permits. This activity involves guided hikes through the dense rainforest to find mountain gorillas.

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park often takes about 2-8 hours depending on the number of people, gorilla family group location in the Bwindi dense forest, and gorilla safari package.

The average distance often trekked being approximately 1-3 km (0.6-1.9 miles) with the treks ranging from moderate to challenging as per the existing circumstances such as trek trails, personal physical fitness, travel pack weight, weather conditions terrain and altitude.

To have a memorable experience gorilla trekking that is adventure-filled at its best, it’s important to note and understand some of these things before embarking on a Bwindi gorilla trekking safari tour in Uganda.

Location, Size, and Climate in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

This paradise widely known as Bwindi or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a protected area by the Uganda Wildlife Authority located in southwestern Uganda near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. It’s considered to be one of the best wildlife safari destinations in Africa.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park covers an area of approximately 327 square kilometers (126 square miles) with over 80% of the park covered by dense forests (tropical rain forests) with trees reaching up to 40 meters (131 feet) high. This makes it the most favorable natural habitat for mountain gorillas.

Additionally, almost 60% of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has an elevation between 3,904 to 8,553 ft. with steep slopes in some areas.

It is also located close to a few Uganda national parks such as Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park which makes it easy for tourists to combine and visit several tourist attractions in one safari package.

The famous and dense natural habitat rainforest in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has a favorable tropical climate embedded in it best for gorilla trekking in Uganda. The average temperatures in Bwindi throughout the year range from 11°C/52°F in the morning and 23°C/73°F in the afternoon. This makes Bwindi the best natural habitat for endangered mountain Gorillas in Uganda.

It’s important to note that Bwindi Impenetrable National Park also has a vast variety of other wildlife species which includes chimpanzees, monkeys like the colobus and vervet monkeys, various bird species such as the African grey parrot and the blue-headed sunbird, etc.

Mountain Gorilla Population in Bwindi

Bwindi forest is home to over 459 mountain gorillas, divided into several habituated groups which are often open to tourism unless there is some ongoing research purposes. Some of the famous habituated groups in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park include;

• Rushegura Group (which has around 19 members led by silverback Mwirima)
• Habinyanja Group (which has 18 members led by silverback Makara)
• Oruzogo Gorilla Family (17 members led by silverback Bakwega)
• Mubare Group (which has 16 members led by silverback Ruhondeza)
• Bitukura Gorilla Family (that has around 14 members, led by silverback Kajwengye)
• Kahungye Gorilla Family (has 13 members, led by silverback Gwigi)
• Impenetrable Group (13 members, led by silverback Stacy)
• Nkuringo Gorilla Family (having 12 members led by Silverback Safari)
• Mishaya Group (which has 12 members and is led by Silverback Mishaya)
• Nshongi Group (with 10 members led by silverback Bweza)
• Busingye Gorilla Family (10 members, led by silverback Busingye)

These can also be separated into four gorilla trekking groups organized by sectors in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park which are

1. Buhoma Trek/Sector with mountain gorilla families Mubare gorilla Group, Habinyanja gorilla Group, Rushegura gorilla Group, etc.
2. Ruhija Trek/Sector with mountain gorilla families Bitukura gorilla Group, Oruzogo Group, etc.
3. Nkuringo Trek/Sector hosting mountain gorilla groups Nkuringo Group, Nshongi Group etc.
4. Rushaga Trek/Sector with mountain gorilla groups Mishaya Group, Kahungye Group, Busingye Group, etc.

Uganda is the only country with more gorilla families in Africa.

Travelers on a safari holiday in Uganda are highly encouraged to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park the most visited tourist destination to have exclusive views of the habituated groups through Gorilla trekking in Bwindi.

Things to See While Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

While gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one can expect several things with the major highlight being the endangered species of mountain gorillas and their gorilla families in their natural habitat and some other things such as the diverse wildlife which consists of monkeys, chimpanzees, and birds, lush green rainforest, hidden waterfalls and streams in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, local communities like those of the Batwa people, rare plant species, breathtaking landscapes of the surrounding mountains and valleys, over 400 bird species, including the iconic African Green Broadbill, wonderfully made thick forest hike trails, etc.

Other Activities Done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Some other activities done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are,

• Gorilla Habituation Experience;

  This takes place in the Rushaga area of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda and lasts around 4-6 hours depending on the location of the mountain gorillas and the progress of the gorilla habituation experience. To engage in a gorilla habituation experience, tourists need to obtain gorilla habituation permits beforehand and in advance.

Some other places where gorilla habituation experience takes place are Volcanoes National Park, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mgahinga National Park Uganda, etc.

It’s relatively important to attain a gorilla habituation permit before embarking on a gorilla habituation experience to see the endangered species of mountain gorillas with the help of a tour company or licensed tour operators.

• Visiting The Local Communities: Like those of the Batwa pygmies who were displaced from the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and now live near the Bwindi Forest areas. Tourists can see these communities while taking village walks and while on gorilla treks.
• Birding Activities: Tourists can partake in birdwatching activities to see over 400 bird species inhabiting in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
• Chimpanzee Trekking: This thrilling activity allows you to explore the habitats of our closest living relatives in the animal kingdom the chimpanzees.
• Primate Watching or Wildlife Viewing: This activity allows us to observe and appreciate the world of primates and other wild animals in their natural habitats like blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, etc.
• Cultural Activities: This activity offers a glimpse into the local way of life, traditions, and history of the local communities or Indigenous people and these are in the form of walking safaris, village walks, nature walks, and forest walks.

Please note that Gorilla tracking /gorilla trekking/gorilla habituation experiences are the most common activities tourists engage in while visiting Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Gorilla Trekking Age Limit

The age limit for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years old. This is a mandatory requirement set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and backed by the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) to ensure the safety and well-being of both the mountain gorillas and the trekkers.

Children under the age of 15 are not permitted to engage in gorilla trekking activities in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Uganda. This is because gorilla trekking in Uganda can be a strenuous tourist activity that requires a certain level of physical fitness and emotional stability.

However, children (12-14 years old) can participate in other tourist activities while visiting Bwindi Impenetrable National Park such as the thick forest walks, birdwatching, primate viewing, local community visits, and gorilla habituation experience in Uganda.

Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda

It’s very safe to go on a Uganda gorilla tracking tour in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park but while gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, it’s important to follow these guidelines often issued before setting off on a trek by travel guides at the Bwindi Park headquarters.

1. Follow the tour guides and stay in the group while tracking gorillas
2. Walk calmly to avoid disturbing the wild gorillas and make no loud noises
3. Keep a safe distance (7-10 meters) from the mountain gorillas
4. Do not smoke in front of mountain gorillas
5. Desist from eating or drinking in their presence
6. Avoid pointing at gorillas or making eye contact, especially with a silverback gorilla when tracking gorillas
7. Avoid touching or feeding mountain gorillas
8. Avoid getting lost and if mountain gorillas get close, be submissive by bending or crouching down but do not run
9. Avoid flash photography and take photos and videos quietly and respectfully.

How to Get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is accessible by Road that is from Kampala to the national park which takes about 8 hours or by air through Entebbe airport or Kajjansi airstrip with the nearest airport being Kisoro Airstrip with the flight taking almost 1-2 hours depending on point of pick up. Tourists are then advised to report to the park headquarters for briefing.

Additionally, tourists can go to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park after or enroute to other national parks such as Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale National Park, Virunga National Park, Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, etc.

Some tourists often come through from neighbouring Rwanda from Kigali to avoid long hours on the road as the journey from Kigali only takes approximately 4 hours.

Cost of Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Before Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, it’s important to secure a gorilla trekking permit, as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a conservation area that is off-limits to people unless authorized by the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is $800 per person as of July 1st, 2024 for foreign nonresidents, 250,000ugx for East African citizens and the fees cater for the gorilla permits, park entrance fees, advanced gorilla trackers, gorilla watching for an hour, and park ranger’s fees.

However, the cost and issuance of gorilla trekking permits depend on the season, the number of days one intends to trek, people per group (a permit is limited to 8 people per group for 1 hour), and tour company used.

It’s worth noting that the cost of a gorilla permit is more of a contribution to the conservation efforts of mountain gorillas with almost 75% of the price put into conservation and almost 10% used to empower local communities like the Batwa that were affected by the eviction from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. And it’s advisable to book your gorilla permits with licensed tour companies.

Accommodation in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

When gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, tourists can book any of the affordable safari lodging options near and around the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park for a stay and can seek advice or suggestions at either the park headquarters or from the best gorilla trekking companies.

The accommodation options range from luxury lodges to budget range options. Some of the lodging options include:

• Gorilla Valley Lodge (situated in the Rushaga area, close to the gorilla tracking points and with views of the valley)
• Ruhija Gorilla Friends Resort and Campsite (provides lodging options of all ranges and is a walkable distance to the park)
• Bwindi Backpackers Lodge (situated in the heart of Bwindi, close to the park’s entrance and gorilla tracking points)
• Gorilla Forest Camp Lodge (built using local materials and blends seamlessly into the surrounding environment)
• Mahogany Springs (built out of Mahogany offering luxury accommodation overlooking the beautiful Munyanga River)
• Volcanoes Safaris Bwindi Lodge (luxury lodges near Buhoma sector and it takes just 10 mins to reach the park from here)
• Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge (located close to Rushaga and Nkuringo treks)
• Buhoma Community Rest Camp (with spacious self-contained rooms)

Booking the best safari lodge or accommodation will depend on how much one can afford because some safari lodges and accommodation options charge per night with charges ranging from $2500 to as low as $ 50 depending on what one chooses. Some of the other factors that affect lodging pricing are available facilities, food, location, services, etc.

It’s important to inquire about what the best lodging option is from the licensed tour operators, park headquarters or tour company used.

Best Time to Visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park can be done throughout the year in Uganda but the best time to visit is during the dry season which runs from:

• June to August: This is a dry season and peak season as it has dry weather and cool temperatures for a good gorilla trek in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
•  December to February: When the weather is dry, the trek trails are very accessible and gorilla trekking and viewing is very easy as mountain gorillas are often out basking in the sun or around water sources.

However, Tourists interested in cost-cutting gorilla treks in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and views of lush vegetation in the dense forest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, can visit during the rainy season or low peak season which runs from:

• March to May: When the rains are much, there’s lush green vegetation in the Bwindi dense forest, though the gorilla trek trails may be more challenging.
• September to November: This is quite a shorter rainy season and low peak season. It is cheaper to book gorilla treks in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and view Mountain gorillas during this peak season.

Please note that tourists must carry quality rain gear such as a rain jacket to use during this wet season!

The Uniqueness of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda

There exist several factors that largely make Bwindi Impenetrable National Park a very unique safari destination in Africa at large and these include;

1. Bwindi Forest is one of the only two places in the world that is a treasure trove for mountain gorillas, with over 400 species living in the forest.
2. The Bwindi forest is a very dense and thick rainforest to the point where most sections are impenetrable thus making it challenging to navigate hence the name “Bwindi impenetrable forest”. The forest is so thick that it’s often impossible to see more than 10 meters in front of you.
3. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is a biodiversity hotspot as it is home to an enormous array of flora and fauna, including over 400 species of plants, 200 butterflies, 120 mammals, wild animals or wildlife species, and over 350 bird species.
4. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is believed to have one of the oldest forests in Africa and Africa at large, with some estimates suggesting it’s over 25,000 years old. This makes it unique and worth a visit.
5. The location of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is another of the unique aspects of this forest. That is to say, it is located or situated in a valley, surrounded by steep mountains, creating a unique scenery and climate.
6. The Bwindi forest has great cultural and spiritual importance to the local Batwa pygmies, who live and have lived near and in harmony with the Bwindi forest for centuries.
7. The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a protected and conservation area by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, with ongoing conservation efforts to protect the Bwindi Forest and its inhabitants the mountain gorillas that are critically endangered species from harm and extinction.
8. The Forest in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park also offers various opportunities to tourists to engage in gorilla trekking in Bwindi tourism experiences, allowing visitors to explore the Bwindi Forest and encounter mountain gorillas up close while on a gorilla safari.

All these listed above about the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park make this national park the ultimate travel destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and researchers.

Additional Tips for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

When gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest Uganda, these are some of the simple tips to put into consideration and always remember.

1. Be prepared for a challenging hike therefore please wear hiking boots
2. Avoid colorful clothing when on a gorilla safari
3. Secure your gorilla permit with a licensed tour operator beforehand
4. Wear hiking boots and comfortable clothing for your gorilla safari
5. Respect the gorillas’ space and follow guidelines

And if looking to cut costs when planning a Bwindi gorilla trekking safari in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, it’s important to consider these;

1. Use licensed Uganda tour operators and travel in a safari vehicle
2. Do not travel alone, group safaris are very affordable
3. Stay in the best budget lodges when on Uganda gorilla trekking safaris in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
4. Choose Gorilla trekking in Bwindi in Uganda for a memorable adventure as it is very affordable
5. Avoid public transport, buses do not leave on time.
6. Avoid chartered flights when on gorilla tours.
7. Book your gorilla tours or gorilla safaris during the low peak season.

What to wear for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Volcanoes National Park, Virunga National Park & Kahuzi Biega National Park

As you come for a gorilla trek in Bwindi, you are advised to carry a lightweight travel bag with lightweight and breathable clothing preferably cotton or linen that covers the shoulders and knees or legs,

Below is gorilla trekking what to wear for Uganda gorilla tours in Bwindi Park;

• 1. Jeans; These are important in covering the knees and legs and hence act as protective clothing from mosquito and insect bites as well as unnecessary cuts.
• 2. Casual Pants; Casual pants also act as protective clothing from mosquito and insect bites as they cover the knees and legs.
• 3. Scarf or Shawl; To cover up, when necessary, especially when there weather changes during a safari trip.
• 4. Light Jacket; To wear when necessary, especially when there weather changes en route to a safari trip.
• 5. Wide-Brimmed Hat; This helps to protect one from the scorching sun.
• 6. Sunglasses; To protect yourself from the strong sun rays.
• 7.Rain Gear: A traveler needs to carry quality rain gear such as a rain jacket etc.

Please note that carrying and wearing colorful clothing isn’t advisable when going near wildlife species!

Packing List for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, Africa

When packing for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, it is important to have these essentials.

• Documents; One must have a passport, flight tickets, and a Uganda visa which can be obtained from a Uganda embassy for easy entry into the country.
• Money; It is crucial to carry some local currency for small purchases such as payment of porters and preferably a debit or credit card for bigger purchases like extra visa costs in case of a cross-border transfer.
• Toiletries; One can pack toiletries like a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, shampoo, mosquito and insect repellant, hand sanitizer, wipes, sunscreen [SPF 15 or greater] with UVA and UVB protection to protect yourself from the strong sun.
• Electronics; Travelers are strongly advised to carry binoculars, a smartphone, a camera to capture memories, a portable charger, a torch, a map app on a phone or GPS device, and some headphones.
• Footwear; Hiking boots, or waterproof boots, sneakers are highly recommended especially if you going for a gorilla trek and tour around, comfortable flats for wildlife tours, and some stockings as well for chilly evenings.
• Medication; You are encouraged to carry some painkillers, antacids, and antidiarrheal tabs for those with allergies and health complications, they can they’re doctor-recommended medicines.

All these mentioned above are also relevant when traveling to other national parks such as Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Virunga Park or Volcanoes National Park Rwanda within Virunga Mountains.

FAQ [Frequently Asked Questions]

1.      How much is gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest?

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is $800 per person as of July 1st, 2024 for foreign nonresidents, 250,000ugx for East African citizens and the fees include park entrance fees, advanced gorilla trackers, gorilla watching for an hour, and park ranger fees.

2.      What is the best time of the year to see gorillas in Bwindi National Park?

The best time to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is during the dry season or peak season which runs from June to August and December to February, when the weather is dry and flexible.

3.      How much does it cost to go gorilla trekking in Congo?

The cost of gorilla trekking in Congo starts at $400 for gorilla permits at Kahuzi Biega National Park for non-resident foreigners, $200 for East African residents, and $20 for nationals.

4.      How much does it cost to trek with Mountain gorillas?

The cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda varies depending on the type of experience one needs, the safari package chosen greatly affects the accommodation type, meals, transportation, etc. but on average, one should budget between $1,150 to $7,000 per person according to what one chooses whether budget, midrange or luxury options as well as securing a gorilla permit.

5.      Is Gorilla trekking worth the money?

Yes, Gorilla trekking in Uganda is worth all the money one spends because it offers a rare opportunity to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, up close and personal.

It’s important to note that having licensed tour operators is an added advantage as they can get you gorilla trekking permits, book hotels, and assign tour guides with less hustle. Book your gorilla trekking in Uganda tour today with us.