Bwindi Uganda Gorilla Safaris - Unforgettable Trekking Adventures

Ultimate Guide for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of only four national parks where one can undertake mountain gorilla trekking in the world.

The other three are Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, also in Uganda.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is renowned for housing half the population of the endangered mountain gorillas.

The name “Bwindi” is derived from the local Runyakitara word “Mubwindi,” meaning “place full of darkness.”

Bwindi Forest is one of the most biologically diverse forests on Earth.

Its significance led to its recognition by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The park is home to 104 species of ferns, 27 species of frogs, 220 species of butterflies, 120 species of mammals, 348 species of birds, 163 species of trees, and 1,000 flowering plants.

Mountain gorillas share 98% of their DNA with humans, making them closely related to us.

They also have unique fingerprints, akin to human thumbprints. Female mountain gorillas undergo a gestation period of 8.5 months and typically give birth to 2-6 offspring in their lifetime.

The park spans an area of 331 square kilometers and is situated on the edge of the Albertine Rift.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Gorilla trekking begins with a permit obtained through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or a trusted tour company.

Trekkers are allocated to one of the park’s sectors based on age and physical capabilities.

The trek typically lasts 2-7 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family and the hikers’ pace.

Once the family is located, visitors are allowed one hour with the gorillas. It’s important to adhere to the gorilla trekking rules and regulations.

Gorilla Habituation in Rushaga Sector of Bwindi

Gorilla habituation is the process of acclimatizing mountain gorillas to human presence, typically taking 1-2 years with daily visits by rangers and researchers.

The park offers visitors the chance to join these efforts.

Unlike trekking, where time with gorillas is limited to one hour, habituation allows four hours of interaction.

Birding in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is home to over 359 bird species, including 23 Albertine endemics.

Some notable species include the Red-headed Bluebill, Blue-headed Sunbird, Short-tailed Warbler, Chaplin’s Flycatcher, African Green Broadbill, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, Rwenzori Batis, White-throated Greenbul, Yellow-fronted Canary, Handsome Francolin, Great Blue Turaco, Doherty’s Bushshrike, African Dusky Flycatcher, Double-toothed Barbet, and Black Bee-eater, among others.

Bwindi Gorilla Permits

In Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, gorilla permits must be obtained at least three months in advance of the trekking date.

Permits can be acquired through a trusted tour company or directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Gorilla trekking permits cost $700 per person, and gorilla habituation permits are $1500 per person.

Gorilla Trekking Rules & Regulations

Some of the rules are as follows:

1. Time Management is paramount: Gorilla trekking time is scheduled, and missing the appointed date and time means the trekking fee won’t be refunded. Pre-trekking briefing is conducted at daybreak, by 8:30 am; by then, all trekkers must be present, and immediately after that, the experience will begin.
2. Disinfect your hands and feet before entering the gorilla territory: This is the first thing done upon entering the park to avoid encountering the apes with contagious illnesses. At any point, you might be tempted to touch the gorillas.
3. Keep a 7-meter / 21-feet distance from the gorillas: Standing too close to the Apes endangers them and makes them vulnerable to human illnesses. If they approach you, it is advisable to stay calm and in one place. Mind your own business, and they won’t pose any harm.
4. Keep voices as low as possible: The jungle is a silent world, so while tracking the Apes, interactions and inquiries must be done in a hushed tone so as not to disturb the Apes and other primates.
5. Only a maximum of 8 people are allowed to track a Gorilla Group per day: This is to avoid damaging the ecosystem, putting pressure on the apes, and providing enough space for all activities.
6. Flash cameras are prohibited: When taking photos, it is advisable not to use a flash on the camera since it can disturb the Gorillas, who don’t tolerate it. So, turn off your flashlights while capturing images of the Apes.
7. Keep in tight groups and don’t run: While in the jungle or in the presence of the Gorillas, it is advisable to stay in groups and never run, regardless of how the apes behave. Gorillas are harmless to visitors, and keeping in groups helps the rangers monitor everyone.
8. Visit the Gorillas only if you are healthy: If you have a cough, flu, or any other illness, it is advisable to stay home. Gorillas are vulnerable to airborne illnesses and can be affected by coughs. However, if it is unavoidable, cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
9. One hour is the maximum time for watching the apes: To ensure that your presence doesn’t stress the Apes, a maximum of an hour is allocated for photos, questions, and any other interaction with the Gorillas.
10. No littering in the Park: Rubbish can be poisonous to the park’s inhabitants and the primates. Human waste is buried on the ground, and items like plastics and polyethylene must not be disposed of in the park; instead, carry them until the end of the tour and dispose of them outside the park.
11. Don’t look straight into the eyes of gorillas: Staring deeply into the gorilla’s eyes is seen as an aggressive act and may provoke a charge. Therefore, avoid direct eye contact and concentrate on other aspects.
12. A valid Gorilla tracking Permit is compulsory: The cost for permits is $1500 for Rwanda, $700 for Uganda, and $400 for those heading to the Democratic Republic of Congo. The permits are in high demand but available for a maximum of eight persons per day, aged 15 years and above.

Recommended Packing List & Equipment for your Bwindi Tour

Here are the 10 essentials that must be packed for a successful gorilla trekking safari:

1. Sturdy hiking boots: The best ones are waterproof and strong. When hiking in the jungle, normal shoes may not be sufficient, so acquiring a strong pair is highly encouraged.
2. Insect repellent: Insects are present in the forest, making it necessary to have repellent for protection or in case of a bite.
3. Waterproof jacket: Rains can happen at any time in the forest, so being well-equipped is crucial.
4. Hand gloves: These are meant to protect your hands from scratches, insect bites, or other potential harm.
5. Face mask and hand sanitizer: Although these are provided by tour operators, it’s important to carry your own in case you run out. Covid-19 measures are taken seriously in gorilla habitats, so being well-prepared is essential.
6. Professional camera: Since you can’t take a gorilla back home, a photo or video is vital. The quality of the camera is important for preserving memories of the gorilla trekking trip.
7. Energy-giving snacks and drinking water: Tracking these apes can be strenuous, and depending on their movement, trekking can last an entire day. It’s advisable to carry snacks for revitalization.
8. Binoculars: These are useful for watching distant creatures, as trespassing is not allowed. Most tour operators offer binoculars, but having your own is safer.
9. A hat or hair bandana: To protect your hair and head, a hat can be of great importance. Those with loose hair may find it getting caught in branches or thorny shrubs.
10. Waterproof backpack: This is for carrying all your belongings on the day of the adventure.

Note: There are porters (for hire) who help in carrying guests’ luggage at a given cost, from the start to the end of your adventure, so don’t worry!

Responsible Tourism – Tipping Guide for Gorilla Tours

Giving a tip to people who have dedicated their time, skills, and knowledge for the best of your safari experience is a way to show gratitude and thanks when you are out on your once-in-a-lifetime adventure of gorilla trekking.

It is not obligatory, but it is important and motivating.

Tipping is customary and expected, whether it is for a driving guide, a hotel or lodge waiter or receptionist, a porter, or a ranger guide.

There is no set price or item that must be dictated; instead, we do our best to provide information on how to proceed to avoid a situation in which a ranger guide or anybody else takes advantage.

Be aware that your hiking permit covers the cost of the ranger guide; therefore, a tip is not mandatory but rather an expression of appreciation.

Porters have their own prices for their services, usually between $10 to $15, although they can be tipped for providing excellent services.

Gorilla trekking is a thrilling but exhausting exercise that takes place on foot in a dense forest with slopes, thorns, and shrubbery, among other challenges.

After going through this experience together, it’s important to recognize the team’s unwavering commitment and contributions at every turn.

What to do:

It is advisable to wait to tip after the entire trip or gorilla trekking exercise.

This is to reduce excitement and keep the person or the entire team focused from the start to the end of the adventure.

Don’t limit yourself by asking “how much is a tip,” and avoid asking the person, unless you are compelled to do so.

Give what you can, considering the service offered and how much you have enjoyed the company.

If you are guided by a group, we advise you to tip the entire group rather than an individual.

You can do this by giving the team leader, and then instructing in the presence of everyone that the tip should be divided among them.

You can tip in any currency at hand, including US Dollars, Francs, Euros, or Ugandan currency.

It can range from $5 to any amount you wish.

Don’t feel pressured or influenced to tip; instead, let it come from your heart.

Also, don’t let anyone discourage you from tipping a group or person you wish to appreciate.

In a situation where a facility, like the lodge, has a specific tipping box, then put the money in a staff tipping box so that all members can share the tip.

Experience Gorilla Trekking in Uganda via Kigali

It takes only 4 hours to travel from Kigali to Bwindi, unless you make a few stopovers on the road or experience delays at the border.

If you apply for your East African tourist visas online, you will spend little time at the border.

One of the main reasons why clients prefer to arrive in Rwanda and trek Ugandan gorillas is the distance.

Traveling for less time results in less fatigue.

Securing Your Mountain Gorilla Trekking Permits

Rwanda is an expensive destination for gorilla trekking.

A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs $1500, but in Uganda, it is only $700.

The gorillas are the same; Mountain Gorillas.

Surprisingly, Uganda has more gorillas than Rwanda.

Over half of the remaining gorilla population lives in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, making it the best destination for gorilla tours.

This is the main reason why clients book gorilla trekking in Uganda from Kigali.

Comparing Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo

Uganda gorilla trekking encounters are considered the best and most affordable.

Mainly luxury tourists book Rwanda gorilla safaris.

Trekking in Congo is the cheapest, as their gorilla permits cost only $400 all year round.

Many comparisons have been made about these different destinations, and most credits are often given to Rwanda.

The biggest advantage of Volcanoes National Park is its proximity to Kigali City. The distance is just 2 to 3 hours by road, making it possible to carry out gorilla adventures that can even last a day.

Nonetheless, gorilla trekking in Uganda remains unique and enjoyable.

The tour operator you choose for your safari matters significantly.

Your odds are good if you trust your gorilla tour with a specialized gorilla trekking company.

That is precisely our specialty, though we also offer other types of safaris.

Through the years, we have gained significant experience, knowledge, and expertise in organizing gorilla experiences.

We assign knowledgeable tour guides in this field and have influence over choosing specific mountain gorilla families for our clients to track.

Our local knowledge and specialization in organizing gorilla safaris make us the best gorilla trekking company Rwanda and Uganda have to offer.

Let us take you to the wilderness of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, or Virunga National Park in Congo for the best gorilla trekking holidays.

Trekking with Gorillas in the Rain

This is the very best of gorilla trekking story times; awesome, possible, and unforgettable.

Trekking mountain gorillas during the rainy season is one of the most thrilling vacation experiences, yet it is undertaken by only a few privileged individuals globally.

Gorilla trekking is a lifetime activity and a premier vacation offering in the continent of Africa.

The regular rainy seasons in Uganda, Congo, and Rwanda begin in March to mid-May and then from late October to early December.

However, in forest regions, rains are quite unpredictable.

The beauty of these destinations is that it doesn’t rain all day, but rather for just a few hours.

Morning hours can have some showers, and then afternoon and evening hours regularly bring sunshine.

Trekking gorillas in the rain is amazing, as they are more easily seen compared to the dry seasons.

Gorillas don’t venture deep into the jungles since food is abundant and within easy reach.

There’s less competition for trekking permits, safari packages are discounted, jungles are silent & less congested, and accommodation facilities are available at reduced prices.

The trekking experience during this period is flexible and fun-packed, with trekkers only needing to be concerned about tackling the slippery terrain, coldness, and wet jungles.

Trekking with Gorillas in the Dry Season

Whether it is done in Bwindi Impenetrable, Mgahinga, Volcanoes, or Virunga National Park, gorilla trekking during the dry seasons is obviously not interrupted by rains.

However, this doesn’t mean that gorilla trekking can’t happen during the wet season.

The good news is that it doesn’t rain throughout the day, and when the rains stop, the activity goes on as planned.

Also, given the high altitudes and thick vegetation of these parks, rain cannot be completely ruled out; hence, intending trekkers are advised to always come prepared.

The dry season experiences little or no rainfall, thus trekking trails are not muddy or slippery during the mentioned months.

Also, park roads and paths are not slippery, hence vehicles can easily go through different areas.

Trails are easier to navigate, thus visitors find it less challenging to ascend and descend mountainous trails to find the gorillas.

It is a known fact that these great apes live in mountainous and forested areas which become difficult to maneuver through, hence requiring basic physical fitness.

The forest is generally not very thick, and temperatures are hotter, which requires trekkers to carry enough drinking water to stay hydrated throughout the trek and have a hat with a wide brim to protect their head from the strong sun heat.

History of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park was initially divided into two blocks of crown forest reserves in 1932, known as the Kayonza and Kasatora Crown Forest Reserves, respectively.

In 1942, these reserves were combined, enlarged, and renamed the Impenetrable Central Crown Forest.

The Impenetrable Central Crown Reserve was redesignated as the Impenetrable Central Forest Reserve and designated as an animal sanctuary in 1964.

The park was expanded again in 1966 to encompass 321 square kilometers.

The reserve was upgraded to a national park in 1991 and renamed Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

The first gorilla trekking activity took place in April 1993. An additional 10 square kilometers were incorporated into the park in 1994, and a further 4 square kilometers in 2003.

A tragic event occurred in 1999 when over 100 former Rwandan Interahamwe guerillas infiltrated the park from the Congo border, kidnapping 14 foreign tourists and one Ugandan guide.

Eight tourists were brutally murdered, one woman was raped, and six were released alive.

The guide was burnt alive.

The park was closed for several months but later reopened. Currently, conditions are stable, and armed rangers accompany tourists during activities.

Location of Bwindi Forest

Bwindi National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, in the Kanungu district.

The drive from Kampala takes approximately 8-9 hours. Alternatively, visitors can take a chartered flight from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kihihi airstrip.

Best Time to Visit Bwindi

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is accessible year-round, but the best months to visit are during the dry seasons from June to August and December to February.

During these periods, trails and roads to the park are in optimal condition.

However, as Bwindi is a tropical rainforest, tourists should be prepared for occasional showers even during the dry season.

Visitors are advised to bring garden gloves, raincoats, long-sleeved warm clothes, sunglasses, hats, insect repellent, and waterproof hiking boots.

Where to Stay – Accommodation Options for Bwindi

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is divided into four sectors.

The choice of accommodation depends on the sector where one’s gorilla permit is issued.

Ruhija Sector:

Accommodations include Gorilla Mist Camp, Gift of Nature Lodge, Ruhija Community Rest Camp, Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge, Cuckoo Land, Gorilla Safari Lodge, and many others.

Buhoma Sector:

This sector offers luxurious accommodations, including Buhoma Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Trackers Safari Lodge, Gorilla Forest Camp, Silverback Lodge, Engagi Lodge, and Lake Kitandara Tented Camp, among others.

Nkuringo Sector:

Options include Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Nkuringo Campsite, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Bwindi Backpackers Lodge, Nshongi Camp, Miranda Eco Community Center, and Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge.

Rushaga Sector:

Lodging options include Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Gorilla Haven Lodge, and many others.