Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in the southwestern region of Uganda, is a premier destination for safari enthusiasts. Renowned for its dense vegetation, this park offers a truly immersive experience in an authentic African jungle. Kamere Tours is proud to guide you through this pristine environment, where the sunlight filters through the thick canopy, creating a serene and pollution-free paradise.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, highlighting its significant ecological value. The park is home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it a critical conservation area. Spanning 321 square kilometers, Bwindi’s diverse landscape includes lush forests, bamboo stands, and shrubs. The terrain is characterized by steep, slippery valleys and ridges, offering both challenges and breathtaking views for adventurers.

The forest’s biodiversity extends beyond gorillas. It houses numerous plant species, birds, and other wildlife, contributing to its recognition as a global biodiversity hotspot. Visitors can witness a wide variety of flora and fauna, making each visit a unique experience.

Preparing for Your Visit

Bwindi’s climate is influenced by its dense forest canopy, resulting in a chilly environment. To ensure a comfortable visit, we recommend packing warm clothing for the evenings and long-sleeved shirts and trousers for daytime trekking. The park’s rugged terrain requires good physical condition, as trekking involves navigating steep slopes and dense vegetation. The elevation ranges from 1160m to 2607m above sea level, so be prepared for some strenuous activity.

Gorilla Habituation in Bwindi

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into four sectors, each with different trailheads for gorilla trekking: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each sector hosts multiple habituated gorilla families, allowing tourists to observe these magnificent creatures up close. Currently, 22 gorilla families are habituated for tourism.

To enhance your experience, it’s essential to know your allocated trailhead before booking accommodation. This ensures that your lodging is conveniently located, minimizing travel time to the trailhead. Kamere Tours provides detailed information and assistance in selecting the best accommodations for your trek.

Wildlife in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Mammals:

Bwindi is home to about 120 mammal species, many of which are elusive due to the dense forest cover. Visitors might encounter elephants, duikers, buffaloes, golden cats, bush pigs, giant forest hogs, black-fronted duikers, yellow-backed duikers, clawless otters, side-striped jackals, civets, and various bats and rodents. The diversity of mammals adds an element of surprise and excitement to your safari.

Primates:

In addition to mountain gorillas, Bwindi hosts 11 primate species, including black-and-white colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, De Brazza monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, pottos, Demidoff’sgalagos, spectacled galagos, baboons, and chimpanzees. These primates can often be spotted during treks, providing a comprehensive wildlife experience.

Birds:

Bwindi is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with approximately 350 bird species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics and 14 species found nowhere else in Uganda. Key species include Grauer’s broadbill, Chapin’s flycatcher, and Shelley’s crimson-wing. Birding hotspots include Mubwindi Swamp, ‘The Neck’ between Ruhija and Buhoma, and the waterfall trail in Buhoma. The park’s diverse avian population ensures that birdwatchers have a rich and rewarding experience.

Butterflies and Amphibians:

The park boasts over 200 butterfly species, including eight Albertine Rift endemics such as the African giant swallowtail and cream-banded swallowtail. Bwindi also supports 27 amphibian species, with 11 endemic to the Albertine Rift, alongside 14 snake species and 14 lizard species. This biodiversity offers opportunities for enthusiasts to observe and study a variety of lesser-known species.

Activities in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

1. Gorilla Tracking:

Gorilla tracking is the park’s main attraction. To participate, you must secure a permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority well in advance, as slots are limited. Each day, only eight individuals per gorilla family are allowed to trek, ensuring minimal disturbance to the gorillas. Participants must be in good health, as diseases can be transmitted between humans and gorillas. During the trek, guides provide important safety and etiquette instructions, such as maintaining a safe distance, avoiding flash photography, and not making prolonged eye contact with the gorillas. Proper attire, including long-sleeved clothing, seasoned boots, and rain gear, is essential for the trek.

2. Bird Watching in Bwindi

Bwindi is recognized as Africa’s top birding spot by the Africa Bird Club. The forest’s trails are easily accessible and lead to prime birding locations. Expert local guides enhance the experience, helping you spot and identify unique bird species. With around 350 bird species, including many endemics, Bwindi offers an unparalleled birding experience.

3. Nature and Waterfall Walks:

Various trails cater to different interests, leading to beautiful waterfalls and scenic views. These walks are guided by armed rangers for safety and insight. Popular trails include the Buhoma-Nkuringo trail (4-5 hours), Rushura Hill walk, Muyanga waterfall walk, Ivy River Walk (14 km, 7 hours), and Muzubijiro Loop (6 km). Each trail offers unique opportunities to explore the forest’s diverse ecosystems and encounter wildlife.

4. Mountain Hiking and Biking:

The Kigezi region, where Bwindi is located, is known for its mountainous terrain and stunning scenery. Local lodges offer bike rentals for exploring special community trails. The Ivi River trail from Buhoma park headquarters to Ivi River, organized by ‘Ride for a Woman,’ is a popular choice. Hiking and biking in this region provide a different perspective on the landscape and its beauty.

5. Community Walks and Cultural Experiences:

Engage with the local community through various cultural experiences. The Batwa experience offers insights into the traditional forest life of the Batwa people. Other activities include the Buniga Forest nature walk, Nyundo community eco-trails, King Bakyara’s waterfall trail, and village tours showcasing local aquaponics projects. In Buhoma, community tours include visits to handcraft shops, traditional healers, schools, and learning about banana-based products like juice, beer, and gin.

Getting to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

By Air:

Scheduled and charter flights are available from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi town (connecting to Buhoma) or Kisoro Airstrip (connecting to Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga). Flights from Kajjansi Airfield near Kampala are also an option. Flying is the quickest and most comfortable way to reach the park, providing stunning aerial views of Uganda’s landscape.

By Road:

Driving from Kampala offers several route options depending on your destination trailhead:

• Kampala-Kabale-Ruhija
• Kampala-Ntungamo-Rukungiri-Kihihi-Buhoma/Nyondo
• Kampala-Kabale-Kisoro-Rushaga/Nkuringo

Each route provides a scenic journey through Uganda’s countryside, although the trip can be long and the roads may be challenging in some areas. Kamere Tours offers comfortable and reliable transportation options to ensure a smooth journey.

Accommodation in Bwindi

Kamere Tours partners with a range of accommodations to suit all preferences and budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay:

Buhoma Area:

• – Buhoma Lodge
• – Bwindi Lodge
• – Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Lodge
• – Mahogany Springs
• – Buhoma Haven Lodge
• – Silverback Lodge
• – Mwebesa House

Rushaga Area:

• – Chameleon Hill
• – Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge
• – Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
• – Rushaga Gorilla Camp
• – Gorilla Leisure Lodge

Ruhija Area:

• – Bakiga Lodge
• – Broadbill Forest Camp
• – Kiho Lodge

Nkuringo Area:

• -Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
• -Nkuringo Safari Lodge
• -Gorilla Heights

Book Your Adventure with Kamere Tours

Kamere Tours is dedicated to making your visit to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park unforgettable. Our comprehensive safari packages, personalized service, and deep knowledge of the park ensure an enriching and memorable experience. Contact Kamere Tours today to plan your dream safari and embark on an adventure that will leave you with cherished memories of Uganda’s natural wonders.