Frequently Asked Questions About Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

Frequently Asked Questions About Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

If you’re planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, the answers to these frequently asked questions will help you prepare for an unforgettable experience in Bwindi Forest. Uganda’s gorilla trekking is one of the top reasons many tourists visit the country, and it’s a must-do for those interested in wildlife. Gorilla trekking in Uganda is only available in two national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both located in the southwestern part of the country.

About Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Forest is one of the only four national parks in the world that are home to endangered mountain gorillas. The other parks include Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. As one of Africa’s oldest forests, Bwindi is rich in biodiversity. It’s home to a variety of species, including:

• 350 bird species

• 310 butterfly species

• 200 tree species

• 51 reptile species

• 88 moth species

• 120 mammal species, including the iconic mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and L’Hoest’s monkeys.

The park hosts over 24 habituated gorilla families open to trekking, with 8 permits available per family per day. About half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas (currently 1,064 individuals) reside in Bwindi.

Where Can You Go Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi takes place in four sectors of the park:

1. Buhoma: Located in the northern part of Bwindi, close to Queen Elizabeth National Park, it’s a great option for those combining gorilla trekking with game viewing.

2. Ruhija: Found in the northeastern section, Ruhija is also near Queen Elizabeth National Park.

3. Nkuringo: Situated in the southern part, close to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for additional activities like golden monkey tracking.

4. Rushaga: Also in the southern part, Rushaga has the highest number of habituated gorilla families, providing great opportunities for trekking.

Each sector offers a unique experience and provides a range of accommodation options.

Which Sector is Best for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest?

Rushaga is often favored for its higher number of habituated gorilla families, making it easier to secure a trekking permit. However, Buhoma is considered ideal for those who prefer a slightly less strenuous trek, with treks sometimes taking just 3-4 hours. Nkuringo, located at a higher elevation, is known for more challenging hikes, but offers an equally rewarding experience. Regardless of the sector, all treks in Bwindi Forest offer nearly a 100% chance of encountering the mountain gorillas.

What Are the Costs of Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest?

• For Foreign Non-Residents: $800 per person

• For East African Residents: $700 per person

• Rest of Africa: $500 per person

• For East African Citizens: $80 per person

This permit allows you to spend one hour with mountain gorillas once you find them during your trek. The cost also includes the park entrance fee, ranger guide, and support services.

How to Book a Gorilla Trekking Permit for Bwindi Forest?

Gorilla trekking permits can be purchased through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). You can purchase permits at UWA’s headquarters in Kampala (for tourists arriving through Entebbe), or at their Kisoro office (for visitors arriving via Kigali, Rwanda).

For those who want a hassle-free experience, Trek Africa Expeditions offers permit booking services. After you confirm your travel dates, we will reserve the permits for you and send an invoice. Once payment is received, your gorilla permits will be booked, and we will send you a scanned copy for your records.

What Is Gorilla Habituation in Bwindi Forest?

The Gorilla Habituation Experience takes place in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Forest, where you can spend more time with semi-habituated mountain gorillas. Unlike the standard trekking experience, which lasts for one hour, the habituation experience allows you to spend four hours with the gorillas, helping them adjust to human presence.

This is a more immersive experience, and there are only 4 permits available per day. Due to the limited availability, it’s recommended to book at least 2-3 months in advance.

• Permit Cost:

  • For Foreign Non-Residents: $1,500 per person

  • For Foreign Residents: $1,000 per person

  • For East African Citizens: $220 per person

What’s the Difference Between Gorilla Trekking and Gorilla Habituation?

The main differences between gorilla trekking and the gorilla habituation experience are the length of time spent with the gorillas and the group size:

• Gorilla Trekking: You spend one hour with the gorillas and are part of a group of 8 trekkers per family.

• Gorilla Habituation: You spend four hours with the gorillas and are part of a group of 4 trekkers, focusing on getting the gorillas accustomed to human presence.

Both activities start in the early morning, and both require a moderate level of fitness due to the often strenuous nature of hiking in Bwindi’s dense forest.

What is the Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

The ideal time for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest is during the dry seasons, which typically fall between January, February, and from June to early September. These months offer the best conditions for trekking, with drier trails that make travel easier and a better chance of clear views of the gorillas due to the less dense vegetation.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

When preparing for your gorilla trek in Bwindi Forest, you’ll want to bring gear that ensures comfort and protection during the hike. The terrain can be muddy and challenging, especially when it rains, so sturdy hiking boots are a must. Also, be prepared for uphill climbs and some strenuous hiking. Here’s a list of essentials to pack:

• Insect Repellent

• Torch/Flashlight & Spare Batteries

• Wet Wipes

• Water Bottle

• Camera & Lenses

• Comfortable Hiking Boots & Socks

• Gardening Gloves (for handling vegetation)

• Sandals or Walking Shoes

• Hat & Sunscreen

• Rain Jacket

• Sweater/Fleece

• Swimwear

• Binoculars (for bird watching)

How Difficult is Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi can be physically demanding, as the terrain is often steep and the forest dense. The trek can vary in length, ranging from a couple of hours to as long as 8 hours or more, depending on the location of the gorillas on the day of your trek. It’s important to be in good physical condition, as the weather can change rapidly, making the conditions even more challenging. Prepare for a rewarding but strenuous adventure through this breathtaking rainforest.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

Depending on which sector you choose for your trek, there are several lodge options in both the northern and southern parts of Bwindi Forest:

Southern Bwindi (Rushaga & Nkuringo Sectors)

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp

• Four Gorillas Lodge

• Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

• Nshongi Camp

• Icumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge

• Gorilla Safari Lodge

• Gorilla Valley Lodge

• Karungi Camp

• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

• Lake Mutanda Resort

Northern Bwindi (Buhoma & Ruhija Sectors)

• Buhoma Lodge

• Bwindi Lodge

• Buhoma Community Rest Camp

• Ride 4 a Woman

• Trekkers Tavern Cottages

• Agandi Eco Lodge

• Gift of Nature Lodge

• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge

• Broadbill Tented Camp

All these accommodations are conveniently located near the trailheads, providing easy access to the starting points of both gorilla trekking and the Gorilla Habituation Experience.

How to Get to Bwindi Forest for Gorilla Trekking

By Road

Bwindi Forest can be accessed via the main highway from Entebbe or Kampala, which takes approximately 8-9 hours. To reach the northern sectors of Buhoma and Ruhija, take the Kabale-Kisoro road. For the southern sectors (Rushaga and Nkuringo), take a turning at Muko along the Kabale-Kisoro Highway.

By Air

For faster access, you can fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala’s Kajjansi airfield to Kisoro airstrip for the southern sectors or Kihihi airstrip for the northern sectors. Several domestic airlines, including Aero Link and Fly Uganda, offer scheduled and chartered flights. You can arrange transfers from the airstrips to your lodge with your tour operator.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trekking Experience with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in making your gorilla trekking experience seamless. We’ll assist you with booking your gorilla trekking permit and provide you with expert guidance throughout your trip. Whether you’re interested in budget, mid-range, or luxury packages, we offer various safari options to suit your needs, including gorilla permits and accommodation arrangements.

We are committed to delivering exceptional service, ensuring you have a memorable and well-organized gorilla trek in Uganda, Rwanda, or DR Congo. With our knowledgeable team of tour consultants, you’re guaranteed a smooth booking experience and an unforgettable safari adventure. Check out our TripAdvisor reviews to see what other travelers say about their experience with us!