Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Best Bwindi National Park Guide

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Location in Uganda- Where is Bwindi National Park Located?

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is situated in southwestern Uganda covering about 321km2 land area with an altitude of about 1,160- 2,607m above sea level. This beautiful misty forest park sits at the eastern border of the Democratic Republic of Congo next to Cong’s Virunga National Park on the eastern edge of the western rift valley.

The park comprises both montane forests and even the lowland forests in lower areas and it’s only accessible on foot.

Kabale Town is the biggest nearest town to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The drive from here covers about 90km taking about 2-3 hours drive.

Geographical coordinates for Bwindi park; 01°01′S 29°41′E

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Weather & Climate

The weather in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is wet and cold however this park experiences a tropical climate due to its being close to the Equator. Bwindi park’s temperatures are usually consistent throughout the year. Day temperatures hover around 230C while at night, they drop up to about 110C.

The dry seasons in Bwindi start from June-August & December-February whereas the wet season is from September- November and even March-May.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is usually covered in the misty in the morning hours.

The History of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

In 1964, this forest reserve was designated as an animal sanctuary to protect its Mountain gorillas and it was renamed the Impenetrable Central Forest Reserve. Two forest reserves in 1966 were made to be part of this reserve thus, increasing its area to about 321km. This park continued to be managed as both a forest reserve and an animal reserve.

Bwindi was designated as a national park in 1991 to protect the endangered Mountain gorillas and other rare animal species. Gorilla trekking became a tourist activity in Bwindi in 1993 and since then, this protected area has become one of the popular tourist destinations in Africa.

Uganda Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

Main Tourist Attractions in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

To many, Mountain gorillas are the main attractions in Bwindi National Park. However, there are various amazing things to see in Bwindi park including the birds, and beautiful vegetation, to mention but a few.

The best things to see in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Reserve;

Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Mountain gorillas are lovely humanlike primates only living in the misty mountainous rain forests within the Albertine Rift Valley region. The best way to see Mountain gorillas is by undertaking a gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi park.

What’s special about Mountain gorillas? Just like humans, Mountain gorillas also live in groups (called gorilla families), each led by a dominant male called a Silverback. Despite the enormous size of the endangered Mountain gorilla, these great apes are gentle, and down to Earth but, never be tempted to prove them!

Uganda Bwindi park is home to 50% of the world’s population of Mountain gorillas and this park has about 22 gorilla families open for gorilla tours in Uganda.

Apart from Mountain gorillas, during the gorilla trek in Bwindi Forest, lucky travelers can also spot other animal species such as; Forest Elephants, Antelopes, plus various primate species including Chimpanzees, Red tailed Monkeys, Olive Baboons, and Blue Monkeys, etc.

Birds in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

The rich birdlife in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest makes it a great destination for visitors undertaking birding safaris in Uganda within southwestern Uganda. Bwindi is home to 90% of bird species endemic in the Albertine Rift Valley and 14 species out of the 350 birds recorded here can’t be spotted in other national parks of Uganda.

Bwindi Forest National Park is the best area for montane bird-watching tours in Africa as well as spotting forest birds in Uganda.

Notable Bird Species in Bwindi Park to Look Out for

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Neumann’s Warbler
Kivu ground-thrush
Western green tinker bird
Black bee-eater
Grauer’s Warbler
Handsome francolin
Rwenzori Batis
Strange weaver
Regal sunbird
Mountain oriole Rwenzori Turaco
Doherty’s bushshrike
Dwarf honeyguide
Bar-tailed trogon
Shelley’s Crimsonwing

Most of the birds in Uganda Bwindi Park are spotted in the Buhoma Area, Ruhija Neck, Mubwindi Swamp as well as the Bamboo Zone- home to the Rwenzori Turaco.

The Local People Around Bwindi Park

Besides the gorilla treks, the local people are also worth exploring during your gorilla tours in Uganda Bwindi.

The prominent people to explore around Bwindi are the Batwa- (the pygmies) who were the initial human inhabitants of Bwindi park before the area was gazetted as a park. Another ethnic group of local people living on the fringe of the par are the Bakiga- farmers.

If interested in interacting with the indigenous people in Bwindi, or community walks and other cultural performances, contact us.

Note: The Batwa people were evicted from Bwindi Impenetrable Park & even Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in 1991 to protect the endangered Mountain gorillas that were going into extinction.

The Beautiful Misty Forest of Bwindi Park

The misty views of Bwindi park are incredibly amazing! Among the thick forests in East Africa, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest boasts the richest population of tree species including some which are endemic in this protected area.

Bwindi’s great diversity of tree species is due to its variation in altitude and various habitats believed to be a natural habitat (refuge) for wildlife during the Pleistocene era. The rain forest of Bwindi includes trees like; Brown mahogany, Newtonia, Symphonia globulifera, Red stinkwood, and East African yellow wood, among others.

Under the rain forest canopy, you will find species such as; Monospora, Allophylus abyssinicus, Neoboutonia Macrocalyx, Teclea nobilis, and Myrianthus holstii, etc.

The best way to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Bwindi jungle is by undertaking guided forest walks. Be expectant to spot over 100 fern species and cross various small rivers such as River Ivi, Ishasha, Munyaga, and Ntengyerere which pour in Lake Edward.

Other Tourist Attractions to Explore Around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Lake Mutanda
Lake Bunyonyi

Activities in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Tourist activities in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park are quite many but, gorilla trekking and bird watching are the most popular. Nature walks as well as cultural encounters and mountain biking tours can be done around Bwindi park.

Best Things to Do in Bwindi National Park

1. Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Several tourists who visit Bwindi Forest Park are interested in gorilla treks- the main activity in Bwindi. The gorilla trekking experience starts early morning around 8 am with a briefing from a park ranger of Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Gorilla trekking is one of the most remarkable African safari activities, a highlight of most safaris in Uganda. During the Mountain gorilla trek in the jungle, you’ll encounter various wild animals in Bwindi park for instance, birds and colorful birds.

Most mountain gorilla tracking experiences in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park take usually around 2-8 hours. Upon spotting the Mountain gorilla family, you should use a flashless camera and avoid looking directly into the eyes of Mountain gorillas.

Sectors for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Buhoma sector- the main region for gorilla tracking in Bwindi with four habituated gorilla families
Ruhija Sector- in the most northern tip of Bwindi park
Nkuringo region in the south and,
Rushaga area in the south

22 HABITUATED GORILLA FAMILIES IN BWINDI PARK

These are the habituated gorilla groups in Bwindi park:

Muyambi Gorilla Family
Chritmas Gorilla Family
Mucunguzi Gorilla Group
Posho Gorilla Family
Kutu Gorilla Family
Biyindo Gorilla Family
Bikingi Gorilla Group
Bitukura Gorilla Group
Bushaho Gorilla Group
Bweza Gorilla Family
Busingye Gorilla Family
Habinyanja Gorilla Family
Katwe Gorilla Group
Kyagurilo Gorilla Group
Kahungye Gorilla Family
Mukiza Gorilla Family
Mishaya Gorilla Family
Mubare Gorilla Family- the first gorilla family in Bwindi
Rushegura Gorilla Group
Shongi Gorilla Family
Oruzogo Gorilla Family
Nkuringo Gorilla Group

Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi Park

The gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park allows one to encounter Mountain gorillas for a longer time, unlike gorilla trekking. Travelers undertaking this amazing experience spend over 4 hours with the gorillas in the company of researchers, doctors, and trackers in the jungle.

This experience is done on gorilla families undergoing habituation experience. We usually recommend this adventure for clients carrying out research on Mountain gorillas. Expect to explore thoroughly the fascinating behaviors of gorillas in the world.

In Africa, this memorable gorilla experience is only possible in Bwindi Forest National Park. It’s not there in Rwanda or DR Congo.

THE GORILLA TREKKING COST IN UGANDA BWINDI PARK

The cost for a gorilla safari permit in Uganda Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is $800 for non-foreign residents whereas the gorilla trekking permit for foreign residents is $700. All nationals from East African countries interested in a gorilla trek in Bwindi park pay 300,000 UGX.

Gorilla Habituation experience in Bwindi costs $1500.

Key points to note while booking a Mountain gorilla permit in Uganda Bwindi park;

We advise our guests coming for gorilla safari tours in Uganda Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to book gorilla permits at least 3-6 months before the trip starts.
Uganda gorilla permits are issued only to travelers above 15 years of age!

More Tourist Activities in Bwindi National Park

The safari activities in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park go beyond gorilla safari tours. Other activities are discussed below:

2. Bird watching in Bwindi Forest National Park

Birders in Uganda refer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park as a birding paradise for Uganda birding safaris! Bwindi park holds unique bird species including 90% of Albertine Rift Valley endemics and most of the forest birds in Uganda. It’s the best site to spot mountainous bird species in Africa.

Bwindi birding-watching tours take you through different regions including the Buhoma region, Ruhija Neck, the Bamboo zone area, and Mubwindi swamp- the home of Grauer’s Broadbill.

The notable birds in Bwindi park to spot are; Neumann’s’ Warbler, Handsome Francolin, Doherty’s bushshrike, Regal sunbird, Bar-tailed trogon, Brown-necked parrot, and Black bee-eaters, among others.

If you book your Uganda birding trip in Bwindi with us, we shall assign you one of the best birding guides in Uganda. Come packed with a camera, binoculars, sunhat, and bottled water for this adventure.

Birding in Bwindi costs $40 and it’s possible year-round.

3. Nature Walking in Bwindi Park

The best way to explore Bwindi Forest National Park is to go for guided forest walks. All these walks start from park headquarters and are led by an armed park ranger who makes sure that the guests are safe in this primeval rain forest.

Forest walks in Bwindi can be done in all its 4 sectors (Buhoma, Nkuringo, Rushaga & Ruhija) but, guided walks in the Buhoma sector offer the best experience.

During this guided walk in this stunning misty forest, expect to come across numerous wildlife such as beautiful plant species, flowers, primates, butterflies, and many bird species. On the walk, you’ll find out the reason why this forest was named- the Impenetrable Forest Bwindi- a place of darkness in a local dialect!

Some trails take you through scenic countryside where you can interact with local people as you discover their daily lives.

The other common hike is the Buhoma Forest trail that takes you into the heart of Bwindi passing through beautiful orchids, ferns, and lush woodlands. It stops at a breathtaking waterfall which is filled with pure clear water.

During the hike, your guide will share with you knowledge about the local herbs you might come across. Expect to find endangered species that can’t be spotted anywhere else on Earth!

4. Enjoying Cultural Experience in Bwindi Park

Uganda cultural experiences in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park are usually done after the gorilla trekking experience, though it can be done either way! It intends to give travelers undertaking Uganda gorilla trekking tours in Bwindi park a chance to explore the charming beliefs, customs, & traditions of the local people.

The common cultural encounters in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are:

i. BATWA CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Initially, Batwa (the Pygmies) lived in Bwindi Forest National Park before the government gazetted the area to conserve wildlife including the endangered Mountain gorillas. These people were evicted out of the forest and now, they just live outside Bwindi park.

During the Batwa cultural experience, visitors will have a chance to explore one of the indigenous African tribes. The pygmies will demonstrate their cultural history, as well as their ancient way of living through dance & drama, and storytelling.

ii. VILLAGE WALKS

The village walks in Bwindi Forest National Park offer you a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the local people that reside around this UNESCO World Heritage Site- Bwindi park. This area is dominated by the Bakiga people.

These people (Bakiga) are great farmers however they also hold a rich cultural heritage worth exploring. Their traditional dance & way of living is amazing and unique.

While on the community walk, tourists explore schools, traditional doctors, as well as blacksmiths. Also, during this adventure, you can learn how to cook local food, manufacture local beer, and participate in weaving local crafts at a given craft center.

Local guides are used mostly on village walks since they are familiar with the local beliefs, customs, and traditions of local people.

5. Mountain Biking in Bwindi Forest National Park

Mountain biking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is another alternative for guided forest walks. Most accommodation facilities in Bwindi rent out bicycles to guests interested in cycling tours for instance Ride 4 a Women in the Buhoma area.

Not that, cycling in Bwindi Forest National Park is only popular in the Buhoma region!

From Buhoma park headquarters, you can ride to the beautiful Ivi River trail.

Other safari activities around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Canoeing on Lake Mutanda
Exploring the historical Island of Lake Mutanda

Uganda Safari Packing List for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Since gorilla tracking is the main activity the packing list the packing list we shall outline here fits this experience and it cuts across most activities in this park.

Below is the park list for gorilla safari tours in Uganda Bwindi park:

Rain jacket /a rain poncho
Jungle boots. Sandals are ideal in the evening while relaxing at your accommodation
Camera
Warm jumper
Garden gloves, keep your hands safe as you trek gorillas
Day backpack
Bottled water, keeps you hydrated as you hike in the fairly steep hills
Simple snacks or packed lunch
A gorilla trekking permit
Simple medical kit
Insect repellent
Sunglasses
A sunhat and sunscreens

What to Wear in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda?

Tourists exploring Bwindi Forest National Park should put on long-sleeved shirts and pants. Avoid shorts! Bwindi park is a mountainous area that experiences misty and cold conditions in most hours of the day!

So, such a dress code will keep you warm and protect your body from cuts while on the gorilla trek or any other forest trail for instance, during birding.

Most travelers put on warm sweaters during the chilly mornings and garden gloves also help to keep you warm.

The jungle boots protect your feet during the forest hikes.

Best Accommodation in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park accommodation is chosen basing on the sector you are going to track gorillas from. Each region in Bwindi Forest National Park features budget, midrange, and luxury lodges therefore, your budget will dictate which facility to use.

These are the best lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park;

Buhoma Lodge
Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge- it’s among the best luxury lodges in Bwindi park
Buhoma Community Rest Camp
Mutanda Lake Resort
Engagi Lodge
Mahogany Springs- it’s also among the lovely luxury lodges in Bwindi
Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Best Time to Visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda

Gorilla safari tours in Uganda Bwindi Forest National Park can be done year round but the dry season is recommended. In the dry season (February-December & June-September), expect pleasant temperatures, and ideal gorilla trekking conditions as rainfall is minimal.

Rainfall is usually much in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in March-May and October-November. Tracking gorillas in wet months often take a short time as they don’t go deeper into the forest searching for food, it’s in plenty.

Travelers who visit in the wet season (low season) can get discounts on accommodation and most tourism products are cheaper.

Note; this time also applies in other national parks of Uganda such as Queen Elizabeth National Park, Mgahinga National Park, and Murchison Falls Park, etc.

How to Get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda

Travelers going for Uganda gorilla trekking tours in Bwindi Forest National Park can either use road or air transport. However, the most remarkable way of getting to Bwindi park is using road transport.

Getting to Bwindi National Park By Road

Most Uganda safaris to Bwindi start from Kampala or Entebbe. This drive is about 10-11 hours (full day drive) with various stopovers on Kampala- Mbarara-Kabale road, then connect to Bwindi park. Along this route, the common stopovers include photo shooting at the Equator monument in Kayabwe & Lake Mburo Park.

It’s possible to access Bwindi also from Queen Elizabeth National Park and this drive can take around 4-6 hours. Visitors can also access Bwindi from Kigali Rwanda and the journey can be around 3-5 hours.

Use 4WD vehicles in wet seasons.

Getting to Bwindi Park Uganda By Air

This is suitable for visitors who hate long drives and are time-bad! In most cases, Uganda gorilla flying safaris to Bwindi are done by luxury travelers.

Using domestic flights, you’ll fly from Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Kihihi in Buhoma region then connect to the park in a tour vehicle.

FAQs About Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

1. What Is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Famous For?

Bwindi park is famous for its great gorilla population which is almost half of the world’s population. This World Heritage Site is also popular for its biodiverse wildlife including over 120 mammal species, 350 birds, 160 species of trees & 100 fern species.

2. How many gorillas are in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

According to the last Mountain gorilla census in 2018, Bwindi park held around 459 gorillas however since then, newborn babies have been produced. Therefore, the population is expected to be much more today.

3. What Is the Best Time of the Year to See Gorillas in Bwindi National Park?

The dry months offer the best experience for gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Within these months, rainfall is usually little and shines most hours of the day thus, the trail for the gorilla trek is usually dry.

4. How Much Does It Cost to Go to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

The entry fee in Bwindi Forest National Park is included in the gorilla trekking permit. It’s $800 for non-foreign residents, $700 for foreign residents, and 300,000 for East African citizens.

5. What Is the Main Tourist Attraction in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

Mountain gorillas are the main tourist attractions in Bwindi park. Since bird watching is also wonderful in Bwindi, birds are also amazing things to see in Bwindi park.

6. Is Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Safe?

All the gorilla tracking safaris in Uganda Bwindi and other activities are safe. While exploring this tropical rainforest, you’ll be in the company of Uganda Wildlife Authority armed park rangers who ensure that tourists are safe in the jungle.

7. Is There Malaria in Bwindi?

Since it’s a tropical forest, mosquitoes might dwell there. Therefore, always wear an insect repellent for protection.

8. Why Is Bwindi Forest Said to Be Impenetrable?

A Runyakitara word Mubwindi which means a place full of darkness is the source of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest name. This park holds beautiful vast bamboo stands which are dotted all over the large forest hardwoods and it can only be entered on foot.

If you think of gorilla tours in Africa, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a place to be! Uganda Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is home to 50% of the Mountain gorilla population on Earth.

Apart from Mountain gorillas in Bwindi, this park is also wonderful for Uganda birding safaris, cultural tours and even walking safaris. On your visit, lucky visitors can spot unique wildlife species, hard to spot in other protected areas of Africa. Contact our team for a gorilla trip in Uganda Bwindi park.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Bwindi Forest National Park Uganda