Bwindi Impenetrable national park is famous for harboring 459 of the 1,604 gorillas which is half of the world’s population of critically endangered mountain gorillas. The first three gorilla families were habituated in the Buhoma sector in 1993. Now there are 23 groups available for tourism.
You can spend a magical hour during gorilla trekking or four hours in a habituation experience in the company of these gentle giants. Small groups of 8 visitors are permitted for trekking, while a maximum of four are allowed during habituation.
Contact with gorillas is highly regulated by observing strict rules. For instance, visitors must maintain a safe and respectful distance of 7 meters while viewing them. Given that gorillas share 98% of their DNA with humans, they are vulnerable to infectious diseases like influenza; therefore, you won’t be allowed to visit if you are ill. You must wear a mask while trekking gorillas. Make seeing gorillas the top priority on your itinerary if your trip is lengthy to relieve anxiety about possibly falling ill before seeing them.
Bwindi is divided into four different sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each sector offers a unique experience, so choosing the right one can enhance your gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. If possible, consult with a local tour operator for personalized recommendations based on current conditions and your interests.
Buhoma
Situated in the north at 1,160 meters, Buhoma is the headquarters of Bwindi. Gorilla tourism in Uganda started from there in 1993 with 3 gorilla families. Now there are six groups and a total of 48 permits are available for booking per day. Due to the nature of terrain, gorilla treks in Buhoma tend to be relatively easier when compared to Ruhija or Nkuringo. If you’re a senior planning a gorilla trekking trip, Buhoma should be your first choice and the best groups to visit are Mubare and Rushegura.
Ruhija
Ruhija is 40 km away from Buhoma and there are two gorilla groups which include Oruzogo and Bitukura so it is less crowded and offers a more off the beaten track gorilla experience. The sector lies at the highest altitude of Bwindi at 2,706 meters as such trekking in Ruhija can be challenging due the nature of terrain. However, you might encounter the Oruzogo group near trails. Ruhija also offers excellent opportunities to see several Albertine rift endemic birds. Along the trekking trails to Mubwindi swamp there’s a possibility of seeing forest elephants.
Rushaga
The southernmost sector, Rushaga harbors seven habituated gorilla groups, including Bikyingi which is available for gorilla habituation experience. This variety increases your chances of booking last minute gorilla safari. Rushaga is close to other attractions in the region, including Lake Mulehe and the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, making it easy to take Eco excursions to both parks.
Nkuringo
Nkuringo sits on Nteko ridge and offers spectacular views of the Virunga Mountains. It is a good place to track gorillas for a keen photographer. There are 4 groups of gorillas including Posho that’s under habituation.
Overall, Buhoma and Rushaga are the most convenient sectors for gorilla trekking from Kigali, offering good accessibility, gorilla families, and wide range of accommodations.
Bwindi community tourism projects
We are proud to write about the local community tourism projects that you can visit to help change lives after your gorilla safari in Bwindi impenetrable national park. Explore some of the Uganda Safari Travel Guide choices. These guided village walks are crafted to offer a memorable and life changing trip.
Batwa and traditional rural life – Buhoma
This trail starts at the main gate in Buhoma and ends at the Ride 4 A Woman Center. An arts and craft cooperative offers weaving and sewing skills for girls and women to showcase their traditional handicrafts to visitors who trek gorillas in Buhoma sector. There’s a lot to see and learn along: how bananas, coffee, tea, fish and vegetable farming offer extra income. Visit a traditional healer for his stunning metaphysics. Hike to the top of the highest hill in Buhoma. meet the Batwa elders as they showcase their ancient forest skills such as fire making. Enjoy your picnic, birding or swim in the River Munyaga.
Ex-poacher’s trail
This trail is found in Rubuguri town council adjacent to Rushaga gorilla sector. Ex-poachers came together and started a market garden growing and selling fruits, vegetables directly to
lodges in the area. Their indigenous knowledge in apiculture is a marvel to behold. Check out their Bwindi Honey
Shop & Craft Center where local honey
and honey products are on sale.
Trail length: 5.5km
Time: 2-4 hours
See also our posts
What to pack for a Safari
Cost of Gorilla Permits
