Other than the endangered mountain gorillas, Bwindi is home to many animals, including one of the richest groups of mammals in Africa and a large number of unique butterflies.
The park is an important conservation area. It is an isolated forest full of life, surrounded by farmland where one of the highest rural populations in tropical Africa lives.
Because of its different ecosystems and wide range of heights from 1,160 to 2,706 meters, and its location where the Congo Basin, Albertine, and Eastern Africa ecological zones meet, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the most important area for wildlife in Uganda. It has many special species found only in this region.
The park is also known for its large number of tree species (more than 200) and ferns (104 species), making it one of the most important forests in East Africa. It is also home to many kinds of mountain forest butterflies, with up to 202 species.
Why visit Bwindi from Kigali?
Mountain gorillas are the main attraction in Bwindi and the three other nearby parks where Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo meet.
These large animals can weigh over 400 pounds and stand about 5.5 feet tall when standing on both legs.
Unlike other gorilla species, mountain gorillas have thick fur coats. This helps them live in the cool mountain forests, which can sometimes get very cold during the rainy season.
There are only about 1,000 mountain gorillas left in the wild. Bwindi alone is home to around 450 of them, nearly half of the entire mountain gorilla population in the world.
Trekking through the park’s thick bamboo forests to see these gorillas is a unique experience. It is very different from driving around in a vehicle to see animals.
The trek starts in the morning with your ranger guides and a porter who helps carry your luggage.
The guide will clear a path with a machete as you walk for about two hours before you find a group of mountain gorillas.
Meeting a gorilla family face to face is a special moment. You may see a mother watching her baby or a silverback father eating bamboo and breaking even large branches like they are small sticks.
While the mountain gorillas are the main attraction, the trek also gives you a chance to see many other animals in the forest, such as different monkeys, birds, ferns, and butterflies. Your guide will help you spot them.
You can also learn about the traditional Twa Pygmy and Kiga cultures through village walks and performances near the park.
Discover the rich culture that these people still value and practice today.
The Batwa Pygmies are one of Uganda’s oldest tribes. For generations, they lived alongside the mountain gorillas in the forest.
Unfortunately, when the park was officially created, the Batwa people were moved out to protect the gorillas.
Many Batwa still live near the forest edge, while some moved to nearby towns like Kabale, Kihiihi, and Kisoro. They live a simple lifestyle, and their culture is interesting to see.
During the village walk, you can learn about their history, their traditional way of life as hunters and gatherers, join their performances, and see how they build their tree houses.
The park has many forest trails that groups of travelers can hike.
Each area has different trails that lead to waterfalls, scenic spots, or deep into the jungle.
The popular Muyanga Waterfall trail starts from Buhoma ranger station. Other trails include Rushura Hill Walk, which goes through a forest shared by Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Habinyanja Trail, Ivi River Walk, Buhoma-Nkuringo Trek (the most exciting one), and Muzubijiro Loop, which follows paths used by many animals in the park.
Accommodation Options for Bwindi
The areas of Buhoma, Nkuringo, Rushaga, and Ruhija all have many places to stay. These range from luxury lodges, mid-range hotels, simple bandas, to budget campsites.
All these places are outside the forest, but most are close to the park headquarters and briefing center.
Some lodges are more private and offer a quiet experience away from the main areas. So, no matter your budget, you will find accommodation that fits your needs.
When planning to visit Bwindi, it is best to book your gorilla trekking permit first before confirming your place to stay. This is because the area where you will trek determines the best accommodation to choose. Also, only eight permits are issued for each gorilla family per day.
Joining a group tour to Bwindi from Kigali
Going on a group tour to Bwindi forest is a great way to explore not only the beautiful Kigezi highlands but also the vast Virunga mountains through Rwanda.
When you look at southwestern Uganda’s green hills and volcanic slopes, you realize the area is not easy to walk through.
However, you do not need to be an athlete or an expert hiker. You just need patience and a willingness to work with your group for a successful adventure.
Though the high and rough terrain is challenging, gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park will be a great experience for the whole group.
