How Far is Bwindi Impenetrable Forest from Entebbe?

How Far is Bwindi Impenetrable Forest from Entebbe?

About Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the last remaining strongholds of the endangered mountain gorilla. Located in southwestern Uganda, it is one of only four national parks in the world where you can encounter these incredible primates in the wild. The others are Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda), Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda), and Virunga National Park (DR Congo).

Bwindi is also one of Africa’s most ancient rainforests, home to:

• Over 120 mammal species (including mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and L’Hoest’s monkeys)

• 350 bird species

• 310 butterfly species

• 200 tree species

• 51 reptiles

• 88 moth species

Roughly half of the global mountain gorilla population—around 500 individuals—live in Bwindi, across more than 15 habituated family groups available for trekking.

Gorilla Trekking Sectors in Bwindi Forest

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi takes place in four main sectors:

• Buhoma (north): Easy access from Queen Elizabeth National Park.

• Ruhija (northeast): Great for combining birding and gorilla tracking.

• Rushaga (south): Home to many habituated families and the starting point for Gorilla Habituation experiences.

• Nkuringo (southwest): Known for its scenic views and higher elevation, making treks more challenging.

Each sector offers a unique trekking experience, with differences in terrain, accessibility, and the number of gorilla families.

How to Get to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for Gorilla Trekking

By Road:

Bwindi is accessible via the main highway from Entebbe or Kampala. The route you take depends on the sector you’ll trek in. For Buhoma and Ruhija (northern sectors), turn off along the Kabale-Kisoro road where you’ll find clear signage from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. If you’re trekking in Rushaga or Nkuringo (southern sectors), the road turns off at Muko along the Kabale-Kisoro Highway.

By Air:

Domestic flights from Entebbe or Kajjansi airfield land at Kisoro (serving southern Bwindi) or Kihihi (serving the north). Flights are operated by AeroLink and Fly Uganda, with options for both scheduled and chartered services. Pre-arranged transfers from the airstrips to your lodge are recommended.

How Far is Bwindi Impenetrable Forest from Entebbe?

Planning a trip from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for gorilla trekking? The journey by road covers approximately 540 kilometers and typically takes about 8 to 9 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. If you’re short on time or prefer a quicker route, you can also fly from Entebbe International Airport to either Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips—close to the different gorilla trekking sectors in Bwindi. Flights take around 1 to 2 hours and are ideal for a more comfortable start to your adventure. Once you land, your guide or lodge shuttle will transfer you to your accommodation in Bwindi.

Trek Africa Expeditions can help you decide the best travel option to Bwindi based on your schedule, budget, and gorilla trekking plans.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Costs for Bwindi

To track gorillas in Bwindi, you need a gorilla permit. The current rates are:

• Foreign Non-Residents: USD 800

• Foreign Residents: USD 700

• East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 (approximately USD 80)

A permit allows you to spend one hour observing a habituated gorilla group in the wild.

How to Book a Gorilla Trekking Permit for Bwindi

Gorilla permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and can be booked in Kampala or Kisoro. If you’re entering Uganda via Entebbe, it’s best to arrange your permit through the Kampala headquarters. For those coming through Rwanda (Kigali), the Kisoro branch is more convenient.

Trek Africa Expeditions can assist with securing your permit—even on short notice. Once you confirm your trekking dates, we’ll reserve your permits, issue an invoice, and purchase them upon payment. We’ll then send you scanned copies for your confirmation and peace of mind.

Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi

For a deeper encounter, the Gorilla Habituation Experience lets you spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family. This activity is only available in the Rushaga sector and the forested area between Rushaga and Nkuringo.

Permits are extremely limited—only 4 tourists are allowed per group, per day—so booking well in advance is essential. Prices for habituation permits are:

• Foreign Non-Residents: USD 1,500

• Foreign Residents: USD 1,000

• East African Citizens: USD 220

Gorilla Trekking vs. Gorilla Habituation: What’s the Difference?

• Gorilla Trekking: 1-hour encounter, 8 people per gorilla group

• Gorilla Habituation: 4-hour encounter, 4 people per group

Both experiences begin early in the morning and require good physical fitness. Habituation offers a more in-depth look at how gorillas become accustomed to human presence.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

The best months for gorilla trekking in Bwindi are during the dry seasons:

• January to February

• June to early September

During these months, forest trails are less muddy, and visibility is better, making for a more enjoyable trekking experience.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Here’s what to bring for a comfortable and safe gorilla trek:

• Sturdy hiking boots

• Long-sleeved shirt and long trousers

• Gardening gloves

• Insect repellent

• Rain jacket

• Refillable water bottle

• Hat and sunscreen

• Lightweight backpack

• Binoculars (especially for birdwatchers)

• Sweater or fleece (mornings can be chilly)

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Wet wipes

• Camera with spare batteries

How Difficult is Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi?

Trekking in Bwindi can be physically demanding. The terrain is steep, the forest dense, and the trails can be slippery—especially after rainfall. While some treks take just a few hours, others may last up to 8 hours depending on the gorilla group’s location.

Being reasonably fit will enhance your experience.

Where to Stay for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Accommodation in Bwindi is sector-specific. Choose a lodge close to your trekking start point:

Rushaga Sector:

• Four Gorillas Lodge

• Rushaga Gorilla Camp

• Gorilla Valley Lodge

• Gorilla Safari Lodge

Nkuringo Sector:

• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

• Lake Mutanda Resort

Buhoma Sector:

• Buhoma Lodge

• Bwindi Lodge

• Ride 4 a Woman

• Buhoma Community Rest Camp

Ruhija Sector:

• Trekkers Tavern Cottages

• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge

• Broadbill Tented Camp

• Agandi Eco Lodge

Which is the Best Sector for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi?

Each sector has something unique to offer:

• Rushaga: Most gorilla families, easier to get permits.

• Buhoma: Shorter, less strenuous hikes; highly popular.

• Nkuringo: Best views but most physically demanding treks.

• Ruhija: Great for birding and less crowded.

No matter which sector you choose, your chances of seeing gorillas are over 99% thanks to excellent park management.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trek with Trek Africa Expeditions?

Trek Africa Expeditions organizes unforgettable gorilla trekking adventures in Bwindi. We handle everything—from securing your permits to booking your lodging and arranging transportation. Whether you’re after a luxury safari or a budget-friendly trek, we’ve got you covered.

Read our glowing reviews on TripAdvisor and join a community of happy travelers who’ve had life-changing gorilla encounters with us.