Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park: Gorilla trekking is an activity that involves walking through a dense forest in search of habituated wild Mountain Gorillas whereby a group of trekkers along with armed rangers and guides are in a position to follow up the wild mountain gorillas that have already been habituated and used to humans’ presence as the go with their daily life activates roaming in the forest
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the most renowned destinations in the world for gorilla trekking, situated in the southwestern province of the country. The national park is part of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and sits along the democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, bordering the Virunga National Park and Volcanoes National Park, and lies at the edge of the Albertine’s Rift.
The national park is home to half of the world’s remaining endangered maintained gorillas, with an estimated 400 individuals dwelling in the park’s four sectors, including Buhoma, Ruhijja, Rushaga, and Nkuringo in the districts of Kanungu, Kabale, and Kisoro, respectively, all under the management of the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Making it a premier location for those seeking an up-close encounter with these fascinating creatures.
The park’s rugged terrain, dense rainforest and mist-covered mountains provide a stunning backdrop for visitors as they embark on their gorilla trekking adventure. The trekking experience in Bwindi impenetrable national park is known to be challenging yet incredibly rewarding, as visitors navigate through the thick vegetation and the steep slopes in search of these elusive primates. While on a Uganda gorilla safari, you will get to see primate species like different monkey species such as red-tailed monkeys, mona monkeys, vervet monkeys, and black and white colobus monkeys, among other monkey species. You can also see a number of golden monkeys as well as different bird species. Upon encountering a gorilla family, you will only be allowed to spend a memorable one-hour interaction while observing how they carry on their daily activities like breastfeeding, feeding, and playing among others. Visitors will also have the chance to observe their behavior, and social, this intimate experience offers a unique insight into the lives of these endangered animals and creatures and creates lasting connections between humans and gorillas.
Bwindi impenetrable forest national park is not only for mountain gorillas but also boasts a high level of biodiversity, with over 120 species of wildlife, 350 species of birds, 130 species of butterflies, 27 species of frogs and many endangered species. Amazingly, the park is among the most diverse forests in East Africa, with more than 1,000 flowering plant species, including 200 species of trees and 104 species of ferns.
In addition to the incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, Bwindi impenetrable Forest National Park is s UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its incredible natural beauty and ecological significance. The park covers an area of approximately 342 square kilometers of mountain and lowland forest. The park is also actively involved in community-based conservation initiatives, working closely with local communities to promote sustainable tourism and support gorilla conservation efforts.
How difficult to trek the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Forest
Trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park can be both physically and mentally challenging. The terrains are rugged and dense with vegetation, making it difficult to navigate. The steep slopes and thick undergrowth can be tough to trek through, especially at higher altitudes. The trek can vary in difficulty depending on the location of the gorilla family you are trekking, as some families are easier to find while others are more challenging to reach due to their higher elevations. And the fact that Rwanda’s hike to the habituated gorilla families can take about 2-5 hours which involves you hiking through the thick and impenetrable slippery vegetation for first-time hikers it is quite difficult and the ease to locate the gorillas depends on a number of factors which may include food availability this is because gorillas limit their movements when there is plenty of food. Additionally, the hike to reach to gorillas and be long and level of fitness and stamina. The park is also located in a remote area, so access to medical facilities and other amenities may be limited.
What is the best time to go for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest?
The best time to go for a gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is during the dry seasons, which run from June to August and December to February. During these times, the weather is more predictable, and the trails are easier to navigate, making it the ideal time to observe and interact with the gorillas. Additionally, the dry seasons are when the gorillas are most active and can be found feeding and moving around more frequently.
How much is the gorilla trekking permit?
A gorilla trekking permit is a legal document that is issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority to any visitor above the age of 15 years allowing him or her to visit a habituated gorilla family and spend one hour with the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Gorilla trekking permit in Volcanoes National Park costs US$800 per person for foreign non-residents, US$ 700 per person for foreign residents and US$ 300,000 per person for East African Citizens. It is recommended to book your experience well in advance as permits are limited and can sell out quickly, especially during the peak tourist seasons.
How can I acquire a gorilla trekking permit?
Gorilla permits in Uganda are US$ 800 per person. You can buy the permits from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Their headquarters is in Kampala or you can get a permit from an authorized agent. Another option may be a better choice through a travel agency that will often include the permit in your travel/tour package like us at Achieve Global Safari. And permits are recommended to book in advance.
What is the best lodge for gorilla trekking?
This is also another question from most of the trackers who go to the Volcanoes National Park, well! Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park offers trekkers affordable accommodations ranging from budget to luxury options such as Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Gorilla Safari Lodge, Silverback Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Lake Kitendara Camp, and Buhoma Lodge
In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park can be combined with other safari activities such as nature walks, bird watching, wildlife viewing, gorilla habituation experience and Batwa forest experience among others
Contact our trusted tour operators for more information about Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and then book with our tours and travel companies such as; Achieve Global Safaris who offer the best tour packages while on your safari in Uganda
