Email us 
Copy Link
Share on LinkedIn
Share on Facebook
Share on X
This park has the word “impenetrable” in it for good reason – the thick forest and rolling landscape can be intimidating. However, upon spotting a family of mountain gorillas during a Uganda safari, you’ll soon forget how out of breath you were. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to almost half the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, making it one of the best places for Africa gorilla trekking.
Must-Visit Areas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
This emerald jungle is bursting with life thanks to the diverse fauna and flora as well as the myriad of bird species, and it’s one of the best places for gorilla safaris:
Buhoma Sector: Oldest Trailhead in Uganda
Situated on the northern side of the park, this region, with its well-established trails, is the most popular area for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park gorilla trekking. You’ll be enchanted by the music of countless birds that call this forest home, a reminder that the gorillas aren’t the only reason to visit.
Nkuringo Sector: Jaw-Dropping Scenery
Located in the southern region of the park, the Nkuringo Sector is known for its challenging trails. It’s a worthwhile endeavour though, as it offers rewarding gorilla encounters and awe-inspiring views of the Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira volcanoes. This is also a sublime area for birding safaris in Uganda. Bird species to spot here include the African emerald cuckoo, white-tailed blue flycatcher, short-tailed warbler, and yellow-eyed black catcher, among others.
Ruhija Sector: Secluded Experience and Easier Trails
The Ruhija Sector is not only the quietest area for gorilla trekking in the park, but its less hilly terrain also makes for easier hikes. Ruhija is the highest point in the forest, affording mesmerising views of rolling hills and the distant Virunga mountain range. It’s important to note that Uganda gorilla safaris have an age limit of 15 years.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?
Plan your Uganda gorilla trekking adventure for the dry season, from June to August or December to February. The minimal rainfall makes the hiking trails accessible and easier to navigate.
Animals Found in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
The most famous residents of Bwindi are the mountain gorilla families that can be seen during gorilla safaris. However, Uganda wildlife safaris here can include various animal sightings, such as rare l’Hoest monkeys, olive baboons, bushbucks, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and elusive forest elephants – an extremely lucky sighting. This national park is a must for birding safaris in Uganda. This region is home to 350 bird species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics.
How to Get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
You’ll enter the country via Entebbe International Airport, the only international airport in Uganda. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Kihihi or Kisoro, towns near Bwindi. Alternatively, you can fly into Kigali in Rwanda and get a road transfer into the national park, which is about four and a half hours away.
Tip: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is only a two-and-a-half-hour transfer from Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. You can combine the two destinations for the ultimate luxury gorilla trekking safari.
