Situated conveniently in the eastern part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, the Ruhija region emerges as one of the four primary trailheads for commencing the captivating adventure of Gorilla tracking. Alongside Buhoma in the north, and Nkuringo and Rushaga in the south, Ruhija stands out as a popular sector offering an awe-inspiring Gorilla tracking experience for visitors embarking on Gorilla safaris in Uganda. For those who have ventured to track Mountain Gorillas within this sector, the unparalleled allure of Ruhija speaks for itself.
The eastern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, namely the Ruhija sector, is home to four distinct habituated Gorilla families ready for tracking: Bitukura, Oruzogo, Kyagurilo, and Mukiza Gorilla families. Embarking on Gorilla tracking in Ruhija rewards visitors with breathtaking views of magnificent scenery and landscapes, including Kabale town. The sector allows a limited number of 32 visitors to explore its eight Gorilla families each day, with only eight visitors permitted for each Gorilla family.
Approximately 26 kilometers from the sign-posted junction on the Kabale to Kisoro road, Ruhija sector is easily accessible, taking around 1-2 hours from Kabale town. Travelers coming from Kampala can reach Ruhija sector via the Kabale-Kisoro road using a bus, with the journey lasting between 9-10 hours. Alternatively, one can hire a private vehicle from Kabale town to reach the Ruhija sector within Bwindi forest.
Beyond Gorilla treks, Ruhija offers a wealth of experiences for nature enthusiasts. Engage in morning and evening nature/forest walks to explore a variety of primates such as monkeys, baboons, forest pigs, and more. Cultural enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the rich traditions of the Batwa and Bakiga communities, discovering local norms and enjoying traditional dances, songs, and poems.
Ruhija region is an ideal destination for bird watchers, providing the opportunity to spot a diverse array of bird species such as African emerald cuckoo, white-tailed blue flycatchers, short-tailed warbler, yellow-eyed black catcher, Kivu ground thrush, Africa blue flycatcher, black bee-eaters, and many more. Binoculars are recommended for an enhanced bird-watching experience.
Ruhija offers numerous accommodation options catering to various preferences, from budget to luxury. Among the choices are Four Gorillas Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge, Broadbill Forest Camp, Bakiga Lodge, Gorilla Mist Camp, and more.
In conclusion, a visit to the Ruhija sector promises a diverse range of thrilling adventure experiences. Whether embarking on Gorilla tracking, participating in cultural interactions, bird watching, or nature walks, Ruhija captivates with its unique charm, making every moment a cherished memory on your Gorilla safari in Bwindi.