Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. This primeval forest known for its exceptional biodiversity in southwestern Uganda on the edge of the Rift Valley. Mist-covered hillsides blanketed by one of Uganda’s oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests. The forest contains almost 400 species of plants. More famously, this “impenetrable forest” also protects an estimated 400 mountain gorillas – roughly half of the world’s population, including several habituated groups. Bwindi Impenetrable forest also provides shelter to a further 120 mammals, including several primate species such as baboons and chimpanzees, as well as elephants and antelopes. Around 350 species of birds call this forest home.
highlights
Mountain Gorillas
Residing in this stunning “impenetrable” rainforest, Bwindi protects over 400 gentle mountain gorillas. Almost half of the world’s total gorilla population. Feeding on nutritious roots, leaves and fruits from the park’s tree and fern species, the gorillas form a sublime backdrop amidst lush emerald green foliage. Ranked as one of Africa’s most ancient rainforests, trekking through this lush abundant thicket is a captivating experience; made all the more spectacular when you silently come upon these majestic beauties. This is a spectacularly humbling experience that you will never forget. Gorillas can be tracked year-round, although they are easier to track in the dry season. The hike requires a reasonable amount of fitness. Hiking through the forest will be through the spectacular rainforest and bamboo covered slopes of the park. All treks are accompanied by expert guides and trackers. The hiking can sometimes be tough and long, but when you catch a glimpse of a magnificent silverback and his family, your journey will be well worth the effort. When sighted, visitors will be in the company of the gorillas for one hour, an extraordinary experience.
Buhoma-Nkuringo Forest Trek
Gorilla Habituation Experience
Unique to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is the Gorilla Habituation Experience. This is the process by which wild gorillas are habituated to the presence of humans. The entire habituation vis a lengthy process, taking a number of years. As mountain gorilla families undergo habituations, a maximum of eight visitors (4 per group) per day are allowed to visit them. Aside from being able to spend more time with them (4 hours instead of one), the experience provides the visitor a chance to learn about the process by which gorillas are habituated, and affords greater insight into their lives.
Forest Walks
Five different forest trails offer the opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of the forest whilst searching for smaller primates and birds.
The Waterfall Trail, a 3-hour trek from Buhoma, leads into the forest along an abandoned road. The trail crosses the Muyanga River several times before reaching a 33m high waterfall, the perfect place to cool off from the trek.
The Muyanga River Trail takes around 30 minutes and lies outside the national park. This short trail follows the Bizenga River to its confluence with the Muyanga before returning to Buhoma Road.
The Mazubijiro Loop Trail and Rushara Hill Trail both take around 3 hours and offer good views across the Virunga Mountains.
The Ivo River Walk is the longest trail, taking around 8 hours. It leads to the southern boundary of the park to the Ivo River and offers good chances to see primates, birds and immerse yourself into the forest.
Best time to visit
