How Many Miles do you Walk to see the Gorillas

How Many Miles do you Walk to see the Gorillas

When embarking on a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the distance you may need to cover can exceed 9 miles (approximately 15 kilometers), which can take up to 3 hours to find the gorillas. This means that the entire trek, including the journey to and from the gorillas, can last around 6 hours. Typically, you will start your trek at 8:00 a.m. and return by 3:00 p.m. However, please note that this is an average estimate; the duration of the trek can vary significantly. Depending on the day’s conditions and the gorillas’ movements, the trek could extend to a full day, potentially lasting up to 8 hours or more.

The conditions for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest are highly variable. The gorillas continuously move through the dense rainforest, which affects how far you will need to walk. Additionally, weather conditions can change rapidly, so it’s essential to be prepared for a range of scenarios. The terrain is often steep and unmarked, making the trek physically demanding. You should be in good physical condition to handle the potentially strenuous nature of the hike.

About Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is one of the four national parks worldwide where you can encounter endangered mountain gorillas. The other parks include Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the DR Congo. As one of Africa’s oldest forests, Bwindi boasts a remarkable biodiversity, including 350 bird species, 310 butterflies, 200 tree species, 51 reptiles, 88 moths, and 120 mammals. It is also home to several primates, including chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and, notably, the mountain gorillas.

Bwindi is home to over half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, totaling around 1,064 individuals. The park has over 18 habituated gorilla families open for trekking, with each family limited to 8 permits per day. This ensures an intimate and controlled experience for visitors.

How to Get to Bwindi Forest for Gorilla Trekking

By Road: The drive from Entebbe or Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park takes approximately 8-9 hours. The journey depends on which sector you are trekking in. The northern sectors, Buhoma and Ruhija, can be reached via the Kabale-Kisoro road. For the southern sectors, Rushaga and Nkuringo, you will turn off at Muko along the Kabale-Kisoro Highway.

By Air: Flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala’s Kajjansi airfield to Kisoro airstrip serve the southern sectors (Rushaga and Nkuringo), while flights to Kihihi airstrip serve the northern sectors (Ruhija and Buhoma). Scheduled and chartered flights are available from airlines such as Aero Link and Fly Uganda. Transfers from the airstrips to your lodge can be arranged with your tour operator.

Where to Trek for Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest occurs in four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga. Buhoma and Ruhija are located in the northern part of the park, near Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it convenient to combine gorilla trekking with game viewing. The southern sectors, Rushaga and Nkuringo, are closer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which offers opportunities for both gorilla and golden monkey tracking. Each sector has its own habituated gorilla families, with Rushaga hosting the highest number of families.

Costs for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

A gorilla permit costs USD 700 per person for foreign non-residents, USD 600 for East African residents, and USD 70 for East African citizens. This permit allows you to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas once they are located.

Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

The Gorilla Habituation Experience is available in the southern part of Bwindi, specifically in the Rushaga sector and the areas between Rushaga and Nkuringo. This experience allows for a more extended encounter with semi-habituated mountain gorillas, lasting up to 4 hours. Due to high demand and limited availability (4 permits per day), it’s recommended to book at least 2-3 months in advance. Permits cost USD 1,500 for foreign non-residents, USD 1,000 for foreign residents, and USD 220 for East African citizens.

Difference Between Gorilla Trekking and Gorilla Habituation Experience

The primary difference between gorilla trekking and the Gorilla Habituation Experience lies in the duration and group size. Gorilla trekking involves a one-hour encounter with mountain gorillas and is conducted in groups of 8 tourists per family. In contrast, the Gorilla Habituation Experience provides a 4-hour encounter and is limited to 4 tourists per semi-habituated gorilla family. Both activities require a high level of fitness due to the challenging terrain and the length of the hike.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

The ideal time for gorilla trekking in Bwindi is during the drier months of January, February, and from June to early September. During these periods, the weather is more favorable, making travel to the park easier and providing clearer views of the gorillas as the vegetation is less dense.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

When preparing for a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Forest, packing wisely is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here’s a detailed list of essentials to include in your packing list:

1. Sturdy Walking Shoes or Boots: Choose comfortable, durable footwear suitable for muddy and uneven terrain. The paths can be steep and challenging, especially in rainy conditions.
2. Long-Sleeve Cotton Shirt and Lightweight Long Trousers: These will help protect you from the dense undergrowth, stinging nettles, and biting ants.
3. Insect Repellent: Essential for keeping away mosquitoes and other insects.
4. Torch/Flashlight and Spare Batteries: Handy for navigating in low-light conditions or during unexpected delays.
5. Wet Wipes: Useful for cleaning your hands and face after the trek.
6. Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially during strenuous hikes.
7. Camera and Lenses: To capture the incredible wildlife and scenery. Don’t forget extra memory cards and batteries.
8. Gardening Gloves: These can protect your hands when pushing through dense vegetation.
9. Sandals or Flip-Flops: Ideal for relaxing at your lodge after the trek.
10. Hat and Sunscreen: Essential for sun protection during your trek.
11. Rain Jacket: Weather in the forest can be unpredictable, so a waterproof jacket is a must.
12. Sweater or Fleece: Even in the rainforest, temperatures can drop, especially in the early morning or late evening.
13. Swimwear: Some lodges may have swimming facilities, so pack swimwear if you plan to take a dip.
14. Binoculars: Great for bird watching and spotting other wildlife.

Where to Stay During Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

Bwindi Forest National Park offers a range of accommodation options depending on the sector of your trek. Here’s a breakdown:

Southern Sectors: Rushaga and Nkuringo

• Rushaga: Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Four Gorillas Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Nsongi Camp, Icumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge, Gorilla Valley Lodge, and Karungi Camp.
• Nkuringo: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, and Lake Mutanda Resort. These lodges are conveniently located near the starting points for both gorilla habituation and trekking.

Northern Sectors: Buhoma and Ruhija

• Buhoma: Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, and Ride 4 a Woman.
• Ruhija: Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Agandi Eco Lodge, Gift of Nature Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge, and Broadbill Tented Camp.

Each lodge offers unique amenities and varying levels of comfort, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Which Sector is Best for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest?

Selecting the best sector for your gorilla trekking experience often comes down to personal preference and the specific conditions of the day.

Rushaga is popular for its numerous habituated gorilla families, making it relatively easier to secure a trekking permit.

Buhoma is known for its relatively shorter treks, sometimes taking as little as 3-4 hours, with some trekkers finishing by 11 a.m.

Nkuringo has a higher elevation, which can make the treks more strenuous. However, regardless of the sector you choose, you have a high chance (around 99%) of seeing mountain gorillas due to the well-organized nature of the trekking activities.

Why Book with Trek Africa Expeditions for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Trek Africa Expeditions offers a comprehensive range of services to enhance your gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Forest. We assist with booking permits and provide a variety of safari packages, from budget to luxury, including accommodation and trekking arrangements. Our dedicated team is committed to delivering excellent service and ensuring a memorable Ugandan safari.

Feel free to explore our TripAdvisor reviews and see how past clients have enjoyed their experiences with us. Our tour consultants are available to answer all your safari-related questions and assist with your travel plans. For a seamless and exceptional gorilla trekking adventure, contact us to learn more about the distances involved and how we can help you plan your trip.