How to Get to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking. There are two ways in which you can access Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda today, and these ways include either by road or Air transport. Four trailheads make up Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. These include Buhoma, which is located to the North, Rushaga, which is located to the south, and Ruhija to the East, as well as Nkuringo to the west. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park sits in southwestern Uganda near the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), bordering Virunga National Park on the edge of the Albertine Rift. Here is practical Information to help you get to Bwindi National Park, whether by Air or Road. Get info about the best routes to reach Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in South Western Uganda.
Location of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in the Districts of Kisoro, Kanungu, Rubanda, and Rukinggi in Uganda. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park lies in southwestern Uganda on the edge of the Rift Valley. One of Uganda’s oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests blankets the mist-covered hillsides; this ecosystem dates back over 25,000 years and supports almost 400 plant species.
Getting to Bwindi by Road Transport.
How to Get to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking: It takes about 8-9 hours’ drive from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. In case, for example, you are tracking Mountain Gorillas from Ruhija Sector, this will mean that you would have to travel a day before the gorilla tracking activity. Your driver guide will have to transfer you from Kampala to Mbara, where you will have a stopover at Kaya, Bwe, where the Uganda equator is located. Here, you can enjoy wonderful photography before you proceed on your journey to the Ruhija sector in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
You will have another stopover at Igongo Cultural Center, where you will have lunch, then drive to Ntungamo, then Kaba, and proceed to Rubanda. Before reaching Rubanda district, you will branch off at a signpost on the right that says Ruhija sector. The drive to the main gate of Ruhija is about 1 hour and a half. Ruhija has two main gates, and it is one of the best sectors to enjoy the beautiful geography of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It is hilly, and it has amazing views.
How to Access the Buhoma Sector
How to Get to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking: Accessing the Buhoma Sector can happen in three routes. When you are in Queen Elizabeth National Park, you can decide to use Ishasha Road, which continues and connects to the DRC Congo border. Then proceed back to the roundabout that has one road going back to Rukungiri and another road proceeding to Kihihi town. In this town, you will find the Kihihi Airstrip, which works well with receiving clients who opt to do Gorilla tracking.
Getting to Bwindi by Air
Most of the clients who are interested in the Gorilla trekking adventure prefer to travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park by Air. There are two main Airstrips that will give you easy access to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The best is to use Aero Link Air, which is very convenient. Another airstrip that clients prefer is the Kisoro Airstrip, which is an easy way to get to Rushaga and Nkuringo sector in Bwindi’s impenetrable National Park.
About Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Spanning an area of 331 sq km, this is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, and it is LOGICALLY DIVERSE with a wide variety of trees, plants, and animals. It is most well known for being home to over 50% of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. It is rather fascinating to be able to observe these giant animals in their habitat, where people travel from all over the world to hike through waterfalls for the opportunity to observe them. Because of the many factors elaborated below, it becomes relatively very difficult to explore the park.
The Gorilla Trekking Experience in Uganda.
How to Get to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking: Trekking in all sectors starts at 8:30 am. Your luck at spotting the gorillas in Bwindi’s impenetrable forest usually determines the ending time. In the early morning, a driver will transfer you from your lodge to the tracking office; there, you will meet the porters and ranger guides who will lead you through your trekking experience. Remember, the land is hilly, and it requires a high degree of strength.
Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permit
How to Get to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking: A gorilla trekking permit is required to track mountain gorillas in Bwindi. The permits cost $800 per person for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens.
What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking
Packing the right gear is essential for a successful trek. Here are the must-have items:
- Hiking boots – Sturdy boots for navigating steep and muddy trails.
- Long-sleeved shirt and trousers – Protects against insects and thorny vegetation.
- Rain jacket – The forest is wet and unpredictable.
- Gloves – Helps when grabbing onto branches for support.
- Hat and sunglasses – For sun protection.
- Drinking water and snacks – Trekking can be tiring.
- Camera – No flash photography is allowed.
- Walking stick – This can be provided at the park headquarters.
Some of the Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations
To protect the gorillas and visitors, strict rules must be followed:
- Keep a 7-meter distance from the gorillas.
- Do not touch the gorillas.
- No eating or drinking near them.
- No flash photography is allowed.
- Do not trek if you are sick to avoid transmitting diseases.
- Keep voices low to avoid disturbing the gorillas.
Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking
How to Get to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking: Gorilla trekking is available throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the dry season. These seasons run from June to September and December to February. During this period, the trails are less muddy, making trekking more enjoyable.
The dry seasons offer optimal conditions for gorilla trekking. The trails are easier to navigate, ensuring a smoother experience. Wildlife sightings are also more frequent, providing an excellent opportunity to observe gorillas in their natural habitat.
However, gorilla permits can sell out quickly during these peak seasons. Therefore, it’s advisable to book early to secure your permit and ensure availability during your preferred dates. Planning will help you make the most of this unforgettable adventure.
Accommodation Options in Bwindi
There are various lodges and camps near Bwindi, ranging from budget to luxury:
Luxury: Buhoma Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.
Mid-range: Silverback Lodge, Haven Lodge Buhoma.
Budget: Ride 4 a Woman, Bwindi Backpackers Lodge.
