Why Trek Mountain Gorillas in Rushaga Sector?

Discover the Enchantment of Trekking Mountain Gorillas in Rushaga Sector – A Gateway to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with Guaranteed Gorilla Permits

Embarking on a journey to trek mountain gorillas in Rushaga sector unfolds a captivating experience within one of the four sectors comprising Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Situated in the southern part of Bwindi, Rushaga stands as a sanctuary for the highest number of mountain gorillas globally, making it an exceptional region that has gained popularity as an alternative to the high-cost gorilla tours in Rwanda. Travelers often choose Rushaga, especially those connecting from Kigali through the Cyanika border in Kisoro district. A gorilla trek in the Rushaga sector offers a unique encounter complemented by breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes, including Virunga, Gahinga, and Muhabura in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, as well as the pristine Lake Bunyonyi, the deepest crater lake in Uganda and the second deepest in Africa.

Reasons to Choose Rushaga Sector for Gorilla Trekking:

High Number of Gorilla Families and Guaranteed Permits:

Rushaga is renowned for sheltering a substantial number of habituated mountain gorilla families available for trekking. The sector is home to five gorilla groups, namely Nshongi, Kahungye, Busingye, Mishaya, and Bweza, as well as Kutu, Rwigi, Muchunguzi, Bikingi gorilla group. These families, varying in size, ensure travelers a chance to secure permits unlike in other sectors. Each day, 40 gorilla permits are available in Rushaga, guaranteeing access even for those who book at the last minute. The multitude of gorilla families allows travelers the unique opportunity to choose the specific family they wish to trek.

Gorilla Habituation Experience:

Beyond traditional gorilla trekking, Rushaga rewards travelers with the extraordinary mountain gorilla habituation experience. This sector stands as the exclusive destination where wild mountain gorillas undergo habituation, gradually reducing their fear of human presence before being declared free for trekking. Currently, two gorilla families, namely Bikyingi, are undergoing the habituation process. In habituation, each gorilla family is visited by a group of four travelers for a four-hour interaction. Unlike gorilla trekking, where eight people are allowed to interact with a gorilla family, habituation permits are limited to a group of four people. Travelers must possess a valid habituation permit, which costs 1500 USD for a four-hour interaction.

Availability of Lodges:

Rushaga sector is well-equipped with a diverse range of lodges, catering to luxury, midrange, and budget preferences, providing tourists with exceptional food and lodging services. Notable lodges in Rushaga include Gorilla Safari Lodge, Chameleon Hill, Ichumbi Lodge, Mutanda Lake Resort, Four Gorillas Lodge, Gorilla Heights Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Bwindi Jungle Lodge, and Gorilla Valley Lodge, among others. These lodges employ professional and knowledgeable staff who not only offer excellent services but also share basic knowledge about gorilla tourism in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Additionally, these lodges organize various activities such as community visits and forest walks, enriching the overall safari experience.

Ease of Access from Kigali:

For those connecting from Kigali, Rushaga serves as the primary stop point, located approximately 3-4 hours’ drive from Kigali through the Cyanika border. Additionally, Rushaga sector can be easily accessed by air, allowing tourists to utilize a charter flight to Kisoro airstrip, connecting seamlessly to Rushaga.

Inquire with Trek Africa Expeditions for any further questions about why trekking mountain gorillas in Rushaga sector with guaranteed gorilla permits.