Nkuringo region is a prime location for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Trek Africa Expeditions can help you organize a 4-day trip to this region to see the magnificent mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Located in southwestern Uganda, Nkuringo shares a border with Congo and is one of the four sectors in Bwindi where you can trek and witness these majestic creatures. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of Africa’s oldest forests, declared a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in 1994. With over 400 species of plant life, it shelters up to 120 mammals including primates such as gorillas, chimpanzees, baboons, and forest elephants, and antelopes, among others.
Nkuringo sector has three habituated gorilla families for gorilla trekking, and each family is allocated 8 visitors per day, giving you an opportunity to visit the gorillas any time of the year. With 24 gorilla permits available per day, you can spend an hour with these gentle giants. Uganda Wildlife Authority is responsible for protecting and conserving gorillas in Nkuringo as well as issuing gorilla trekking permits.
Contact Trek Africa Expeditions to help you organize your 4-day trip to Nkuringo region of Bwindi. Our expert tour consultants will help you plan and customize your itinerary to ensure a memorable experience.
If you’re planning to spend four days in Nkuringo region of Bwindi, gorilla trekking should be on the top of your list. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see the rare and endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat in the Nkuringo gorilla region. To track them, experienced trackers wake up early in the morning and search for the gorillas using natural means, such as clapping and making wild sounds. Once they find the gorillas, they communicate with the park headquarters, and visitors are briefed on the dos and don’ts of the activity before trekking into the forest with the trackers. You’ll have a 99% chance of seeing the gorillas in their natural environment in the Nkuringo gorilla region. A gorilla trekking permit costs USD800 per person for Non-Foreign Residents, USD700 for Foreign Residents, and Uganda Shillings 300,000 per person for East African citizens, allowing you one hour of watching the gorillas once you find them.
Uganda has half of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The hilly tropical forests in southwestern Uganda are home to these majestic creatures, and the Nkuringo gorilla region is one of the best places to see them. The region has three habituated gorilla families, each allocated eight visitors per day, ensuring an intimate and unforgettable experience. With a 98% chance of seeing the gorillas in the Nkuringo region, gorilla trekking is the ultimate activity to enjoy during your four-day stay.
Discovering the fascinating culture of the Batwa tribe is a must-try activity during your four-day stay in Nkuringo. The Buniga Forest Trail offers a unique opportunity to learn about the ancient nomadic lifestyle of the Batwa pygmies who once lived in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest until it was designated a national park. Forced to leave their homes, the tribe has faced challenges in adapting to modern society. To support the Batwa community, the USAID established the Buniga forest trail, a tourism initiative aimed at helping them earn a livelihood from the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The trail is an educational and enriching experience that takes you through the forest, providing an insight into the Batwa way of life. The walk is not physically demanding, but it is engaging, and you will learn about their history, culture, traditional hunting methods, and medicinal plant knowledge. The Buniga Forest Trail showcases the Batwa cultural heritage in a respectful and responsible manner. It’s an opportunity to connect with a unique culture and help support a marginalized community.
If you are a bird lover, then visiting the Nkuringo region of Bwindi Forest National Park is a must-do activity. This place is a paradise for bird watchers as it is home to various unique and rare bird species, including the Albertine Rift Endemic birds. During your birding tour, you can spot some of the most amazing and fascinating bird species such as Handsome Francolin, Rwenzori Nightjar, Dwarf Honeyguide, African Green Broadbill, Archer’s Robin-Chat, Red-throated Alethe, Yellow-eyed Black-Flycatcher, Red-faced Woodland Warbler, Short-tailed Warbler, Grauer’s Warbler, Mountain Masked Apalis, Collared Apalis, Stripe-breasted Tit, Rwenzori Batis, Blue-headed Sunbird, Regal Sunbird, Strange Weaver, and Dusky Crimson wing. We offer specialized birding packages to Bwindi Forest National Park with professional birding guides who can help you identify and appreciate the different bird species in the area. Don’t miss out on this unique and exciting birding experience.
If you’re up for a challenge, a trek to the top of the world in Nkuringo is a must-do activity. The hike begins with a short walk from Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, where you’ll pass through Nkuringo village and follow some small footpaths to reach the peak. The hike takes about 2-3 hours, but the stunning views overlooking the surrounding mountains, valleys, and ridges make it all worth it. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery along the way. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a new adventure, trekking to the top of the world in Nkuringo is an experience you won’t forget.
Embark on an immersive experience by taking a walk through the buffer zone, a transition area between Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the cultivated areas where locals reside. This is an opportunity to witness the day-to-day activities of the people who live near the park and cultivate crops such as tea.
During the Gorilla Buffer Zone Walk, you will get to observe the tea plantations and other crops grown by the local farmers. This is a unique way to experience the cultural and agricultural practices of the people living in the area. You’ll also have the chance to interact with the friendly locals and learn about their traditions, beliefs, and way of life.
The Gorilla Buffer Zone Walk takes approximately 2-3 hours, offering a gentle hike while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the buffer zone and gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between the local communities and the national park.
Taking a leisurely stroll along the Ivy River Forest is a must-do when spending 4 days in Nkuringo. The trail meanders gently through the lush greenery of the rainforest and offers multiple picturesque viewpoints of the mist-covered valleys below. The path is a vital route for locals traveling to and from Nkuringo, especially on market days, connecting to Nteko village on the southern edge of the park. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of monkeys, duikers, bush pigs, as well as the exotic bird and butterfly species that Bwindi is famous for.
If you’re a nature enthusiast, a visit to the Suma Waterfalls is a must-do activity during your stay in the region. Located in the picturesque village of Suma, the waterfall is surrounded by a variety of trees that provide a habitat to numerous endemic bird species such as the Northern Double Collared Sun Bird, the Violet Backed Starling and the Great Blue Eared Starling. While you can explore the falls at any time, the morning hours offer the best opportunity to catch a glimpse of the vibrant birdlife that calls this place home. So put on your hiking boots, pack your camera, and get ready for a scenic and rewarding adventure.
Make a difference in the local community of Nkuringo by participating in volunteering activities during your 4-day stay. There are various community-based projects that require volunteers, including teaching in schools and supporting local organizations. By volunteering, you can empower the local communities and contribute to their development while gaining a unique cultural experience. Get involved and make a positive impact on the lives of the people in Nkuringo.
If you’re planning to spend four days exploring the Nkuringo region of Bwindi, there are several accommodation options available to suit your budget and preferences. From budget-friendly lodges to luxurious hotels and camps, you can choose the one that suits you the best.
Trek Africa Expeditions can help you make reservations at the lodge of your choice. For those looking for budget or mid-range options, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge is a great choice. However, if you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge or Four Gorillas Lodge may be better suited for you.
Alternatively, you can also choose to stay in the nearby Rushaga sector, which is only an hour’s drive from the Nkuringo region. Keep in mind that lodges and hotels can fill up quickly during peak season, so it’s always best to book in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
Experience the best of Nkuringo region in Bwindi with Trek Africa Expeditions! As a local tour operator owned and run by Ugandans, we specialize in sustainable tours and holidays across East Africa. We have a strong relationship with UWA, making it easy to book your gorilla permits and safaris. Plus, our long-standing membership with AUTO and registration with UTB ensures our commitment to providing quality services. Our expertise and attention to detail have earned us top reviews on Trip Advisor and Safari Bookings. Trust us to organize a life-changing 4-day safari in Nkuringo region that exceeds your expectations. Contact Trek Africa Expeditions today to book your next adventure in East Africa!