Bwindi Impenetrable national park is 331 kms, and is located in South Western Uganda, across the steep ridges of the Albertine rift valley; it has an altitude range from 1.160 m to 2.607m.
This ancient tropical rainforest is regarded as one of the most biologically diverse forest in Africa and it roughly inhabits 360 mountain gorillas half of the total population in the world Looking deep into the expressive brown eyes of the these gentle giants is surely the most exciting wildlife encounter that Africa has to offer . It also has 11 primates and 346 bird species are recorded.
The main activity in Bwindi is Gorilla tracking to the 6 families of mountain gorilla habituated in the forest and for bird watchers at River Ivi there is Mubwindi swamp nature walks and Cultural walk to Buhoma village community, to see the traditional homestead, the local healer, the banana brewing, handicraft and cultural performance.
What is Gorilla Habituation?
Gorilla habituation is when people spend more time with gorillas so that gorillas get used to having friends around. It’s like slowly becoming part of the gorilla family. In Bwindi, there are special gorilla families. It’s like meeting big, gentle gorillas and watching them eat leaves, play, and take care of each other. Gorillas are like wise, furry friends in the jungle.
Unlike a quick visit, habituation means spending a whole day with gorillas. It’s like having a day-long picnic with gorilla families, seeing what they do from morning until evening. Gorilla habituation has trained guides who know a lot about gorillas. It’s like having jungle friends who can tell you interesting stories about the gorillas and help you understand their jungle life.
Gorilla habituation lets you see more of what gorillas do. It’s like being a jungle explorer, quietly watching gorillas eat, rest, and play. Sometimes, baby gorillas might do funny things! People who do gorilla habituation are careful not to bother the gorillas. It’s like being good guests in the gorilla’s home, keeping a distance and letting them live peacefully.
Gorilla habituation teaches us about gorillas’ lives. It’s like having a gorilla school, where we learn how they talk to each other, make nests, and care for their families.
How to Join Gorilla Habituation
To join gorilla habituation, you need a special permit. It’s like having a golden ticket to spend a day with gorillas. Permits are limited, so it’s good to plan and book ahead. Gorilla habituation helps protect gorillas and their homes. It’s like being a nature hero, supporting efforts to keep the gorillas safe and happy in their jungle.
What to do in Bwindi National Park – Tour Activities
Gorilla Trekking
Go on a trek to meet gentle giants, the mountain gorillas. It’s like being in a real-life adventure, finding gorilla families in the lush forest.
Bird Watching
Bwindi is a bird paradise, with over 350 species. Join a birding excursion to spot a wide variety of bird species, including colorful turacos, sunbirds, and the African green broadbill.
Nature Walks and Hiking Trails
Take a stroll in the jungle. It’s like having a calm exploration, discovering plants, insects, and maybe even a monkey friend. Nature walks vary in length and difficulty, catering to different interests and fitness levels.
Cultural Encounters
Meet the local Batwa people and learn about their traditions. It’s like making new friends and sharing stories around a campfire. Participate in cultural experiences, such as traditional dances, storytelling, and learning about their ancient way of life.
Forest Canopy Walk
Experience the jungle from a different perspective by taking a canopy walk. Walk along elevated walkways that offer stunning views of the forest canopy and the chance to spot birds and primates.
Waterfall Hikes
Discover hidden waterfalls within Bwindi on guided hikes. Enjoy the serene beauty of these natural wonders surrounded by the lush forest.
Mountain Biking
Some areas around Bwindi offer mountain biking trails. It’s a unique way to explore the surroundings, providing a different perspective on the landscape.
Community Village Visits
Visit nearby villages and interact with the local communities. Gain insights into their daily lives, traditions, and perhaps even participate in community projects.
Batwa Experience
Learn about the Batwa pygmies’ unique way of life through guided experiences. These encounters may include demonstrations of traditional hunting techniques, storytelling, and cultural performances.
Scenic Drives
Enjoy scenic drives around the park, taking in breathtaking views of the landscape. Some routes may lead to panoramic viewpoints where you can appreciate the vastness of the forest.
Photography Safaris
Capture the beauty of Bwindi’s landscapes, wildlife, and cultural encounters through photography safaris. Some tour operators offer specialized photography tours.
Relaxation and Wellness
Unwind and rejuvenate by taking advantage of wellness activities offered by lodges, such as spa treatments and yoga sessions amidst the natural surroundings.
What you expect to see – Attractions
Mountain Gorillas
The stars of Bwindi! Witness the magnificence of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. It’s like having a front-row seat to a gorilla family’s daily life.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Walk through this ancient forest. It’s like entering a green maze filled with mysteries and surprises at every turn.
Waterfalls
Discover hidden waterfalls in the jungle. It’s like finding secret spots where water dances down the rocks.
Colorful Birds
Imagine birds in all colors. It’s like watching a rainbow in the sky. Birds here have bright feathers and sing beautiful songs.
Butterflies
Delicate butterflies float around. It’s like being in a garden of flying colors. Butterflies here are like living rainbows.
Batwa People
People with a rich history live nearby. It’s like making friends with the Batwa, learning about their dances, stories, and the way they live.
Nature Walks
Walk quietly in the forest. It’s like going
When to Visit Bwindi Impenetrable forest
Plan your visit during the dry months from June to August and December to February. It’s like having sunny days for gorilla trekking and jungle adventures.
What to Pack for a Gorilla Bwindi Forest Safari
Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Wear good shoes for trekking. It’s like having reliable tires for your jungle journey.
Comfortable Clothes
Dress in layers for varying temperatures. It’s like having a wardrobe that adapts to the jungle’s moods.
Rain Jacket
Pack a rain jacket. It’s like having a friendly umbrella to keep you dry in case of a jungle shower.
Binoculars
Bring binoculars for a closer look. It’s like having magic glasses to spot birds high in the trees.
Camera
Capture the moments with a camera. It’s like creating your own photo album of Bwindi’s enchanting beauty.
Accommodation in Bwindi gorilla safari forest
Buhoma Homestead
Buhoma Homestead is a mid range property situated less than 5 minutes walk away from the National Park offices in Buhoma, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home of the mountain gorilla in Uganda. It offers accommodation in six, double cottage units with individual verandas allowing excellent views towards the tropical rain forests of the area. In addition, for the more budget conscious, three more twin rooms are available with shared bathroom facilities. All bathrooms have hot and cold running water and flush toilets.
Montana Tented Camp
Montana Tented Camp is located inside Bwindi national park. The camps are well designed to contain guests on a safari as well as tourists or travelers are also accommodated at the tented camp. It has alot of space that will surely make you comfortable. The high quality services are accompanied with hospitable waitresses who deliver their services in time.The bar has all the drinks you may need.
Wagtail Eco safari Lodge
Wagtail Eco safari camp is built in Local materials, roofed with papyrus and the ceiling of banana fibres, the floor of local stones and the wonderful local furniture.
Wagtail is in an eco friendly accommodation facility where nature takes the lead. The call of the birds at night is the music that gives a memorable stay in the camp. Wagtail eco camp safari camp is an eco camp due to the fact that the Directors are conservationists. The vison is to turn Rubuguri Town Board into a tourism town with eco friendly community who have a reduced impact on environment.
Kitandara Bwindi Camp
Lake Kitandara Camp is the best Camp for upper market visitors in Bwindi National Park. It has been modernised in an African style. It has unique tents which retain some original features but also have modern conveniences. “where adventure begins. It is adjacent to Bwindi Forest Impenetrable National Park overlooking the beautiful forest with primates.
The unique Luxury Camp for upper class visitors welcomes you with the breath taking scenery of the forest. It’s a home away from home, very quite environment, you are only entertained by different melodies of birds. The atmosphere is very charming and friendly. If you are lucky you will get a surprise visit by the mountain gorillas!
