Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park:
A Gorilla Paradise for tourists looking for an unforgettable adventure in Uganda, look no further than Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The park is home to the largest and most diverse population of mountain gorillas in the world, as well as hundreds of other species of plants and animals.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has been rated as one of the best destinations for gorilla trekking for over two decades since its declaration as a park in 1991.The park is covered by forest and vegetation on almost 3312 kms area.
Top attractions and activities in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park;
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is famously home for Gorillas with over 17 habituated groups. For visitors that wish to visit the gorillas, its permitted by the park as long as visitors have acquired gorilla permits. Other activities include; bird watching, Batwa cultural experience, community walks, Bwindi forest walks, community walks.
1.Gorilla trekking is the highlight of any visit to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. You will have the chance to encounter these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, and observe their fascinating behaviors and interactions. Gorilla trekking is more than just a wildlife safari, it is a life-changing experience that will connect you with nature and yourself.
Through Uganda wildlife Authority, visitors can acquire gorilla trekking permits at a cost of $800 for foreign nonresidents and $600 for foreign residents & $1500 for Gorilla Habituation. For a perfect trek, visitors are expected to pack the following;
•Rain gear since it can rain anytime in the park
•Insect repellant of any kinds
•Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts
•Sturdy hiking boots
•Water bottle
•Camera in protective gear in case of rain. (using a camera flash is prohibited)
In case a visitor has a lot of items, they can hire a porter for $15 dollars.
2.Bird watching and nature walks are as well one of the top activities while in the park. While on the river via Trail in between Buhoma and Nkuringo, bird watchers get to see quite an interesting and various bird species. The experience goes further on at Munyaga river trail, bamboo trail in Ruhija, rwamunyoni peak and finally the Mubwindi swamp trails.
3.Cultural experiences and community walks; The park is surrounded by culturally and traditional communities that like, work and survive amongst the park forests. Visitors at the park will have a chance to visit these communities, learn and know about their traditions and life style like the Batwa pygmies. Community walks through the surrounding villages of Buhoma and Nkuringo sectors, the Buniga forest walk.
When is the best time to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking?
You can visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park any time of the year, as Uganda has a favorable climate throughout the seasons. However, some tourists prefer to go for gorilla trekking during the dry months of June to October and December to February (peak season), as the trails are less muddy and the visibility is better.
On the other hand, some tourists enjoy the wet season, as the park is greener and more lush. This experience is more natural and the rainy times create interesting adventures as well. Though during these times, the trails are muddy and slippery, regardless, the experience are worth it.
How easily can Bwindi Impenetrable National Park be accessed?
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in the southwestern corner of Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park covers an area of 331 square kilometers, and has four main sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each sector has its own gorilla families and trekking trails.
You can reach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park by both air and road transport, depending on your budget and preference.
You can fly from Entebbe International Airport and Kajjansi Airfield to one of the airstrips near the park, such as Kihihi, Kisoro, or Kayonza.
Alternatively, you can drive from Kampala to the park which takes about 8 to 10 hours, it’s a long but adventurous drive as the stop overs on the road like the equator make the journey more interesting and educative.
Park accommodation.
The park is surrounded in and out of the park with various accommodation lodges and hotels giving providing the best services in serene and secure location providing tourists with a unique feel of the wild. These range from budget, mid budget and luxurious lodges. For example;
•Buhoma community rest camp
•Sanctuary gorilla forest camp
•Lake kitandara Bwindi Camp
•Buhoma Lodge
•Silverback lodge
•Volcanoes Safari Bwindi Lodge
•Gorilla resort
Rules and Regulations while in the park.
On the trekking day, visitors are supposed to be at the park entrance at exactly 8 Am, the park offers a park ranger who is in charge of the trek. A brief meeting is started before a trek and the following rules and regulations are explained to the trekkers.
1.Do not visit the gorillas while sick of cold or flu since they share almost the same genes as humans.
2.Minimum trekking age is 15 years old. Individuals below 15 are not allowed, however written letter to UWA by parents or guardians taking all responsibility during the trek might be considered.
3.Do not litter while in the park.
4.A trek lasts for only one hour.
5.Visitors are not allowed to either eat, smoke or feed gorillas
6.Visitors should not look gorillas straight in the eyes, touch or run away from them.
7.While speaking, it should be done in a soft low tone.
