Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

Nestled on a scenic hill known as Ryarutagara, Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge offers a peaceful and comfortable stay just minutes from the gorilla trekking starting point in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. “Ryarutagara” translates to “a hill with a spectacular view,” and that’s exactly what you’ll enjoy—lush forest views, the sounds of the nearby Mashoho River, and direct access to the heart of gorilla country.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a group, the lodge offers a range of well-furnished single, double, and triple rooms, all designed to provide comfort and panoramic views of the forest.

At Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge, you can enjoy budget and mid-range accommodation while visiting Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park for gorilla trekking. The lodge is perfectly located with stunning views of the forest and the tranquil sound of a nearby river. As the most popular area for gorilla trekking in Bwindi, Rushaga sector is home to numerous gorilla families and the location for gorilla habituation experiences. Additionally, the lodge’s southern location allows for easy access to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for more tracking opportunities. The lodge’s well-maintained rooms, bar, and restaurant, staffed by expert local waitstaff, provide a comfortable and memorable stay.

Amenities at Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

The lodge offers everything you need for a comfortable stay after your gorilla trek:

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

• Full-service restaurant and bar

• Daily breakfast

• Warm hospitality and friendly staff

• Stunning forest views

Accommodation Options and Rates at Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

Discover the perfect base for your gorilla trekking adventure at Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge. This lodge features unique and modern facilities infused with traditional African architecture, offering a comfortable and memorable stay. Choose from a range of clean and well-appointed rooms, including standard, deluxe, and family cottages, all equipped with en-suite facilities. During your stay, take advantage of the lodge’s free Wi-Fi, garden, and terrace, perfect for relaxation. Room rates range from USD 100 per person per night for a standard cottage to USD 400 per night for a family cottage during high season months. All rates include daily meals on a full board basis. Come experience the best of Uganda’s hospitality at Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge.

How to Reach Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

Located in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge is easily accessible by both road and air.

By Road

If you prefer to travel by road, you can take a private or public transport from Kampala/Entebbe which is an 8-9 hour drive. Public transport buses that go to Kabale, Miko, and Kisoro towns cost around USD 12 per seat. From there, you can hire a boda-boda or special taxi for approximately USD 30 to take you to the lodge.

By Air

Alternatively, you can take a flight from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro airstrip. Your driver guide will meet you upon arrival, and you will be transferred to the lodge. It is advisable to book your transfer in advance to avoid any inconveniences.

From Kigali

If you are coming from Kigali, Rwanda, the lodge is a 4-5 hour drive from the city. You can cross the border points of Cyanika or Katuna from Rwanda to Uganda and then proceed to the lodge. The distance from Kabale and Kisoro towns to the lodge is approximately 1-2 hours each way.

Activities to Enjoy During Your Stay at Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Rushaga Sector

Embark on a journey of a lifetime during your stay at Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge by going for gorilla trekking in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, specifically in the Rushaga sector or Nkuringo sector. The Rushaga sector is a mere 15 minutes drive away, while the Nkuringo sector is 45 minutes away. A gorilla permit is required for each trek and costs USD800 for non-foreign residents, USD700 for foreign residents, and USD70 for East African citizens. To avoid disappointment, we highly recommend booking your permits 3-5 months in advance as they sell out quickly due to high demand. Our team is happy to assist you in booking your permits ahead of your trek. Don’t miss the opportunity to have an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.

Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi Forest

If you’re looking for a more intimate and immersive experience with mountain gorillas, the Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the perfect option. Unlike regular trekking, you’ll have the chance to spend 4 hours with semi-habituated mountain gorilla groups and help acclimate them to human presence. This exclusive experience is limited to just 4 people, providing a more personalized and in-depth encounter with these incredible animals.

To participate in the Gorilla Habituation Experience, you’ll need to obtain a special permit, which costs USD1500 per person per trek. Due to its popularity and limited availability, we recommend booking your permit at least several months in advance. Our team can assist you in securing your permit and planning your unforgettable Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi Forest.

Bird Watching at Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

Located next to the Bwindi Forest, Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge is an ideal destination for bird watching enthusiasts. With over 400 bird species in the area, you can easily spot various birds from the comfort of your room’s balcony. Additionally, the lodge can organize a full-day birding activity for you to explore the diverse birdlife in the Bwindi Forest. Don’t miss the chance to witness the beauty of the birds in their natural habitat during your stay at Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge.

Batwa Cultural Experience at Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

At Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, you will have the unique opportunity to experience the Batwa culture. Nestled within the Batwa communities, you can interact with the locals and learn about their daily lives, customs, and traditions. The Batwa people are known for their exceptional dancing skills and beautiful art, which you can witness during your stay.

In addition to cultural experiences, you can also visit the local community schools and engage with the children. You can share your knowledge and donate scholastic materials to support their education. This is a chance to make a positive impact on the community while learning about their way of life.

Forest Walks at Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

At Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, we provide a unique opportunity for our guests to experience the beauty of Bwindi Forest through our forest walks. Our lodge is located in close proximity to the forest, allowing our guests to explore the flora and fauna of the forest.

During the forest walk, our knowledgeable guide will take you through different trails, where you will have the chance to learn about the various plants and trees found in Bwindi Forest. You will also get a chance to spot some of the over 400 bird species that call the forest home.

Our forest walks offer a serene and peaceful environment, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, bird watcher or simply looking for a refreshing walk, our forest walks are an experience you won’t want to miss.

Golden Monkey Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Discover the enchanting world of golden monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located just 1-2 hours’ drive from Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge. You can either go for golden monkey tracking or golden monkey habituation, both of which offer a unique experience. A golden monkey tracking permit costs USD100 while the habituation permit costs USD135 per person, inclusive of park entrance fees.

At Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, we offer a variety of activities that you can enjoy during your stay, including golden monkey trekking/habituation. While gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation require advance booking due to high demand, you can book the other activities later on during your stay at the lodge. So why wait? Come and experience the magic of golden monkey tracking/habituation with us!

Exploring Lake Bunyonyi: Dug-out Canoeing and Bird Watching Adventure from Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

Embark on a scenic 1-2 hour drive from Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge to the stunning Lake Bunyonyi. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the rich history of the lake’s islands while paddling through the calm waters in a traditional dug-out canoe. Keep your eyes peeled for the various bird species that call the lake home and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. A day trip to Lake Bunyonyi is a must-do activity for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Explore the African Rock Python Islands on Lake Mutanda

Lake Mutanda is a scenic destination located just a 45-minute drive away from Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge. Here, you can unwind while taking part in a range of activities such as canoeing, visiting local communities, and exploring the African Rock Python Islands. Trek Africa Expeditions can help you book all of these activities in advance to ensure you have an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, get ready to explore the majestic Lake Mutanda, and make unforgettable memories during your stay at Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge.