Embarking on a trek with mountain gorillas in the Rushaga sector unfolds a captivating adventure in one of the southern Gorilla tracking regions of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Nestled in the lush expanse of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Rushaga is one of the four sectors, complementing Buhoma in the North, Ruhija in the East, and Nkuringo in the South, collectively forming the magnificent Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. This sector stands as the abode of eight renowned habituated Mountain Gorilla families, including Muchunguzi, Businge, Kahunge, Rwigi, Kutu, Mishaya, Nshongi, and Bweza, providing an exceptional tracking experience to travelers. Additionally, the sector hosts the Bikingi Gorilla family for Gorilla Habituation Experience, allowing a more intimate encounter with just four visitors per day accompanied by researchers and park rangers. The testimony of those who have trekked in the Rushaga sector affirms its status as the most captivating sector for Mountain Gorilla tracking. Each Gorilla family welcomes eight visitors daily, resulting in 64 available Gorilla permits every day.
Beyond the enthralling Gorilla tracking, Rushaga sector offers enchanting nature and forest walks. These immersive walks, undertaken in the early mornings and evenings from various points, allow travelers to bask in the peaceful natural environment and increase the likelihood of encountering other wildlife such as baboons, monkeys, and forest pigs, enhancing the overall safari experience.
For bird enthusiasts, Rushaga sector presents an opportunity for rewarding bird watching during forest walks. The harmonious songs of various bird species permeate the air, creating a delightful auditory backdrop. Expect to spot birds like the African emerald cuckoo, white-tailed blue flycatcher, short-tailed warbler, yellow-eyed black flycatcher, Kivu ground thrush, Africa blue flycatcher, black bee eater, yellow-eyed black flycatcher, and garners warbler. Binoculars are recommended for closer observation, even of birds at a distance.
A trek along with mountain gorillas in Rushaga also beckons travelers to explore the Batwa and Bakiga community villages, delving into local traditions, norms, and cultures. Accompanied by experienced local guides, visitors traverse banana plantations and other gardens, adding an enriching layer to the community trails. Upon reaching the local communities, travelers have the opportunity to engage in local activities such as doffing, preparing local food, and participating in other household tasks. Traditional dances, songs, and poems serve as warm expressions of welcome.
Accessing Rushaga sector is facilitated from Kabale district, approximately 25 kilometers off the Kabale-Kisoro highway, requiring roughly an hour’s drive from Kabale. Alternatively, travelers can drive directly to Kisoro town, connecting directly to Rushaga. Public transport users are advised to hire private cars, as no buses operate directly to Rushaga. The strenuous hike demands physical fitness and determination, but the resulting experience is transformative and unforgettable.
In terms of accommodation, Rushaga sector ensures excellent food and sleeping services with a range of options. Luxury, midrange, and budget lodges have been established to cater to travelers’ comfort and safety in this region. Notable lodges in Rushaga include Four Gorillas Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, and Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge, among others. Travelers should note the variation in lodge prices based on service quality and status.
Rushaga region emerges as an exceptional sector to explore during your Uganda Gorilla safari to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Trek along with Mountain Gorillas in Rushaga, partake in nature forest walks, indulge in bird watching, and visit local communities for a transformative, life-changing experience in Uganda.