Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
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ABOUT THE PARK
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: The Heart of Gorilla Conservation
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in south-western Uganda on the edge of the Rift Valley, is one of Africa’s most ancient and biologically diverse rainforests. Dating back over 25,000 years, this mist-covered jungle is home to an incredible 400 plant species and provides refuge to some of the world’s rarest wildlife.
Most famously, Bwindi protects approximately 459 mountain gorillas—almost half of the world’s remaining population. This “impenetrable forest” is one of the best places on earth to experience gorilla trekking, offering visitors the chance to come face-to-face with these majestic primates in their natural habitat.
Location: South - Western Uganda (Kisoro)
Size: 321km2
Altitude: 1,160m - 2,607m Above sea level
A Pioneering Gorilla Tourism Destination
The Mubare gorilla group was the first to be habituated for tourism in Uganda in April 1993, opening the door to sustainable gorilla trekking experiences. Today, Bwindi boasts 25 habituated gorilla groups, with nine available for tourism and one dedicated to research.
A Land of Rivers and Ridges
Bwindi is spread across a landscape of steep ridges and deep valleys, forming the watershed for five major rivers, which flow into Lake Edward. This diverse terrain enhances the park’s rich ecosystems, supporting a wide array of flora and fauna.
A Wildlife Haven Beyond Gorillas
While gorillas are the main attraction, Bwindi also shelters:
120 species of mammals, including chimpanzees, baboons, elephants, and forest antelopes
Over 350 bird species, featuring 23 Albertine Rift endemics such as the African green broadbill and Shelley’s crimsonwing
200+ species of butterflies, including eight Albertine Rift endemics
A variety of reptiles and amphibians, adding to the park’s remarkable biodiversity
Cultural Encounters in Buhoma & Nkuringo
The neighboring towns of Buhoma and Nkuringo provide an immersive cultural experience, offering visitors a chance to interact with:
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The Bakiga people, known for their rich traditions and storytelling.
- The Batwa (Pygmies), the forest’s original inhabitants, who share their hunter-gatherer heritage through performances, workshops, and village walks.
These towns also feature a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly bandas and campsites, as well as restaurants, craft markets, and guiding services.
Why Visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?
- The best place in the world for mountain gorilla trekking.
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One of Africa’s most biologically diverse forests.
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A sanctuary for over 120 mammals and 350 bird species.
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Opportunities for cultural experiences with the Batwa and Bakiga communities.
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its global ecological importance.
Whether you’re trekking through dense jungle in search of gorillas, listening to the calls of rare birds, or engaging with local cultures, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers an unforgettable adventure into one of Africa’s last great wildernesses.
Plan Your Journey
Bwindi National Park is reachable by road or air. By road, you need 8-10 hours to drive from Kampala or Entebbe to this park, From Kabale, drive for about 108 kilometers to Buhoma via Ruhija about 3 hours. Kampala-Buhoma route is good from Kabale to Ntungamo. From Ntungamo, drive for 45 kilometers to Rukungiri where you then drive via Kambuga to Kanungu then finally come to Butogota about 17 kilometers to Buhoma park headquarters.
It is easy to get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Here are the possible routes and ways to get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park;
Public transport:
A bus runs daily from Kampala to Butogota from which a taxi can be hired for the last 17km to Buhoma. There is no public transport to Nkuringo but vehicles can be hired in Kisoro.
Airport:
Travellers can fly from Entebbe or Kampala (Kajjansi airfield) to the modern tarmac airstrip at Kisoro. Visitors to Buhoma can charter planes to the grass Kayonza airstrip.
The other best option is for you to take a flight from Entebbe and then land into Kisoro airstrip. From here, you can easily connect to Bwindi
Impenetrable Forest National Park. Whereas those of you who are planning to set off via Kasese or Fort Portal, you can take the Katunguru route, Ishasha and Kihihi.
What to bring
- Walking Boots
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Binocular
- Heavy and light clothes