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Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in southern Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, next to the magnificent Virunga National Park. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is 128 square miles in size and is covered in dense lowland and montane forests
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 due to its exceptional biodiversity. In terms of biodiversity, the park has over 345 bird species, 221 butterfly species, and 120 mammals. Red-tailed monkeys, Vervet monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, forest elephants, Jackals, Golden cats, Giant forest pigs, Colobus Monkeys, Chimpanzees, Bushbucks, Baboons, Buffaloes, Blue monkeys, African civet, Duikers, Clawless otter, De Brazza monkeys, Potto, Spectacled, and Bats call this forest home.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to over 160 tree species, 105 ferns, and numerous flowering plants. The Bwindi forest serves as a critical water catchment zone and a source of water for numerous streams and rivers, including the Ihihizo, Ishasha, Ivi, Munyaga, and Ntengyere. These rivers then drain into larger lakes such as Bunyonyi, Mutanda, and even Lake Edward. Because of the dense forest, Bwindi receives good rains all year and has cool temperatures even when the rest of the country is experiencing a dry spell. The endangered mountain gorilla is the main draw in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Half of the remaining mountain gorilla population lives in Uganda, with Bwindi accounting for three quarters in Uganda. Gorilla trekking is thus the primary activity that draws a multitude of visitors to the park each year. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into four sectors: Buhoma, Nkuringo, Rushaga, and Ruhija.
Tailored Safaris To Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Gorilla Trekking Sectors in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Buhoma sector:
Buhoma is located in the park’s northwestern corner Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is home to three habituated gorilla families: Rushegura, Mubare, and Habinyanja. After tracking gorillas in Buhoma, visitors can go bird watching, village walks, or visit local communities such as the Batwa.
The Nkuringo sector
This sector is located in the park’s southern region. The Nkuringo group is the most popular gorilla tracking group in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Because of the difficult terrain in the area, tracking this group is more difficult. Visitors can embark on a village tour after seeing the gorillas in the Nkuringo area to see the Bakiga performing cultural dances.
Rushaga sector
Rushaga on the other hand, is located in the park’s southeastern corner. Busingye, Bweza, Kahungye, Mishaya, and Nshongi are among the habituated gorilla groups in Rushaga. Last but not least, on the park’s eastern edge, is the Ruhija section. Oruzoojo, Kyaguriro, and Bitukura live in this sector. While following primates in Ruhija, it is possible to come across forest elephants.
Ruhija Sector:
This sector is located on the Eastern part of the park. It is popular for those wishing to visit Queen Elizabeth park as part of their Uganda safari. Because its closer to connect the two parks especially Ishasha sector. This part of bwindi is a habitant to 4 habituated gorilla families and a few other wild gorillas. Ruhija sector has the highest point in the all park with about 2500 m above sea level and its said to be the coldest park^t of the forest. The trek here will take you through the forest’s spectacular views of lush rolling mountains and Virunga mountains. in DR Congo Apart from Gorilla trekking there are other activities that one can do here like mountain biking, birding cultural experience in the Batwa community, and beautiful nature walks. Read more about Which gorilla trekking sectors in Bwindi fits you
The biggest dangers to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are the extreme poverty experienced by local populations such as the Batwa and the Bakiga. Because of the dense population, these tribes rely on agriculture but remain impoverished. When Bwindi was upgraded from a forest reserve to a national park in 1991, the native populations living in and outside the forest faced major consequences. The Batwa, who had lived in the forest for almost 5,000 years, was particularly hard hit. They lived almost entirely in the forest and spent their time foraging, gathering fruits, and harvesting honey. The Batwa were not adequately paid and were forced to adjust to a completely new and unknown world, which left them in wretched poverty. The evictions from the forest and the lack of compensation created resentment and conflict between the populations outside the forest and the park authorities
The Uganda Wildlife Authority chose to promote tourism to lessen tensions, curb poaching and encroachment on the park resources. Local tribes are employed by tourism and benefit directly from other tourist-related projects. This has significantly altered the residents’ attitudes toward the forest and the park. Locals are increasingly working with the park to suppress forest fires and are less likely to resort to poaching or tree cutting. Several international and local groups also engage with communities near the park to educate them about the significance of the forest to the entire Eco-system, as well as to initiate projects that educate tribes like the Batwa on how to flourish in activities other than relying onBwindi Impenetrable National Park
How to get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is accessible by road or air. Those traveling by road are recommended to take a bus from Kampala’s bus station to Kabale. It takes approximately 8 hours to get from Kampala to Kabale. You may need to organize a private car or self drive car rent to take you from Kabale to Butogota and then to Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
If you’re lucky, you might catch the one bus that runs from Kampala to Butogota (near Bwindi). After finishing their activities, passengers may try to catch a bus from Butogota to Kampala or travel to Kabale first before traveling to Kampala.
The travel to and from Kampala is long, but it is rewarding for individuals who are brave and enjoy nature. You would go across numerous regions of the country, stopping at major locations such as the equator and even stopping to buy fruits and local crafts. Kabale and Kisoro feature beautiful scenery with lush green flora, forests, wetlands, rivers, and lakes.
On your route back to Kampala, consider spending a day at Lake Mburo National Park to recover and relax before continuing. During evening and morning game drives, Lake Mburo National Park is known for the sightings of Leopards, Zebras, and antelopes such as Impala and eland.
There is a shorter way from Kigali Rwanda to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park that avoids the considerable driving trip from Kampala/Entebbe to Bwindi. This journey takes no more than four hours and is highly suggested for tourists who are flexible with their arrival and departure times. A one-hour local flight from Entebbe or Kajjansi to Bwindi is also an option. Aerolink operates daily flights from Kampala or Entebbe to Kihihi and Kisoro, which are located near Bwindi.
Tourists going gorilla trekking will need a permit to enter the park. Permits are available through tour operators or directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. It is critical to plan ahead of time to obtain the permits especially if traveling during the peak season. For international visitors, gorilla permits in Uganda cost $700.
Attractions in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Gorilla Tracking:
This is unquestionably the most popular activity in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Bwindi is the best park in East and Central Africa for tracking mountain gorillas. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to around half of the remaining mountain gorilla population. Bwindi also boasts the most habituated gorilla families, with 21 in total.
Tourists may only get a gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi. Briefings for gorilla tracking are usually held early in the morning. The briefing includes crucial information such as how to behave in the presence of primates, what to expect, and what to bring. Depending on the gorilla family and their location, tracking can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 6 hours.
A team of trackers is dispatched ahead of time to find the primates. This advanced squad of trackers then finds the gorilla family before speaking with the rangers who bring the tourists to their location via radio. Because of this advanced squad of trackers, the likelihood of seeing mountain gorillas is very high. Tourists are only permitted to spend one hour with the gorillas.
This is because the animals are semi-wild and prolonged human presence may irritate them. In the extremely rare event that a gorilla charges, it is never a good idea to flee. Everything should be OK if you lay low in a submissive stance. It is illegal to eat near gorillas. You are not permitted to make loud noises or make fun of the gorillas. In Uganda, gorilla permits cost $700.
Gorilla Habituation Experience:
The gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Parkwas only recently introduced in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Although Rwanda and DR Congo has its fair share of these primates, the gorilla habituation experience is currently only available in the Bwindi forest of Uganda. Instead of the typical gorilla trekking, this activity gives primate fans more time (four hours) to observe the primates.
Tourists participating in the three-day gorilla habituation experience have the opportunity to interact with professional trackers and some of the greatest primate researchers. The scientists discuss the gorilla habituation process as well as contemporary challenges with gorilla conservation. At $1500, this experience is more expensive than the normal one-hour gorilla viewing. The gorilla habituation experience is limited to four persons per day.
Nature Walks and Hiking:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a park with a lot of biodiversity, and the park administrators have made sure that visitors get to see all else the park has to offer. Several routes have been built to allow tourists to marvel at the forest and its inhabitants such as birds, butterflies, and primates. One such trail runs from Buhoma to Nkuringo, then to Lake Mutanda, and finally to Kisoro. These routes pass through beautiful countryside and allow opportunities to interact with locals. The Buhoma Village walk, introduces travelers to local communities where they can learn about the daily lives of the local population. The waterfall route, on the other hand, takes visitors through lush woodland filled with orchids, ferns, birds, and butterflies.
This walk concludes with a view of spectacular waterfalls filled with pure water. The short Munyaga River path in the valley below the Buhoma park headquarters offers views of birds and primates such as L’Hoest’s monkeys and Colobus Monkeys. Visitors will want the assistance of a guide to find their way around and a porter if they intend to transport big luggage or equipment such as cameras. The Guide/Ranger assists with navigation and recognizing various bird and animal species. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is quite close to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and one of the three mountains can be climbed. It should be noted that walking within the park needs payment of the daily entrance fee
Cycling and mountain biking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:
Those who find cycling more enjoyable than nature walks might rent a mountain bike from their accommodation and go exploring the local areas. The “Ride for a woman” project rents mountain bikes to tourists in the Buhoma sector for a fee, with the revenues benefiting local women in the area.
The organization also provides guides to accompany cyclists through local towns and the forest where they may see forest critters and waterfalls. Except in Buhoma, biking is not very popular in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park although lodges in other regions are picking up and arranging the activity for clients on a limited scale.
Birding
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the top birding places in Uganda, if not Africa. The Albertine rift is home to 90% of the park’s species. Seasoned birders should expect to spot at least a hundred different species in a single day. The River Ivi trail, Munyaga River trail, Ruhija’s bamboo trail, and Mubwindi Swamp trail are the greatest places to see the birds. For birders with limited time, the Munyaga River Trail is the best option.
Yellow-whiskered greenbuls, Yellow-eyed black flycatchers, White-tailed flycatchers, White-tailed Blue Monarch, and White-tailed Blue flycatchers are some of the species to search for. Western Green Tinkerbird, Western Bronze-naped Pigeon, White-browed Crombec, Shelley’s Crimson-winged Warbler, Ruwenzori Batis, Red-throated Alethe, Rusty-faced Woodland Warbler, red-tailed bulbul, Red-faced Woodland Warbler, Mountain masked Apalis, Chestnut-throated Apalis, McKinnon’s grey shrike, Kivu Ground Thrush, handsome Francolin.
Green Tinkerbird, Gruel’s Rush Warbler Frazer’s eagle owl, Grauer’s broadbill Elliot’s woodpecker, fine-banded woodpecker, dusky crimson honey guide, dusky crimson wing Apalis with a collar, Bee-eaters with Cinnamon Chests, Brown-necked parrot, blue-headed sunbird, Regal Sunbirds, blue turaco, Black-billed Turaco, black bee-eater, Chapin’s Flycatcher
The Wing, the Bar-tailed Trogon Bar-tailed Trogon, barred long-tailed cuckoos, barred long-tailed cuckoos, barred long-tailed cuckoos, barred long-tailed, Mountain and Yellow-streaked Greenbuls, Archer’s Robin-Chat, African Wood Owl, African Green Broadbill, Mountain and Yellow-streaked Greenbuls. check the bird list of Uganda
Experiencing the Batwa culture:
The Batwa pygmies are thought to be Uganda’s oldest indigenous tribe. Whereas the majority of Uganda’s other tribes migrated from other regions of Africa to their current sites, the Batwa have resided in the Bwindi forest for over 5,000 years. Unfortunately, the Batwa have been forced to leave Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. One of the reasons for their eviction was to safeguard Mountain gorillas from infections by minimizing their interaction with humans. As previously stated, the Batwa now resides outside the park. Visiting the Batwa offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to interact with a truly indigenous African tribe and learn about their unique culture and way of life. Visitors can observe the Batwa as they demonstrate their cultural history and old methods of life in the forest through storytelling, dance and drama.
Village and Cultural Walks:
Other tribes such as the Bakiga, reside on the outskirts of the forest in addition to the Batwa. Tourists can learn about these tribes’ cultures and economic activities by visiting one of them. The Bakiga have their own traditional dances and ways of life. They can take you to traditional doctors and blacksmiths, or they can teach you how to weave, manufacture local beer, and cook traditional cuisine. You will have the opportunities to purchase stunning works of local art in a bid to support them economically. There are ways to give back to the community. You might give a cash donation or arrange to contribute equipment such as sewing machines, water tanks, and other necessities by visiting one of the local schools or local hospitals. It is critical to employ a guide who is familiar with the location, local people, and customs. Before making any donations, always check with the park office, your lodge or your tour operator to verify that they reach the intended recipients.
Canoeing
Lake Mutanda is ideal for canoeing. The lake is located in a location of outstanding natural beauty, with stunning views of the Virunga mountain ranges. Furthermore, woodland birds enjoy visiting and nesting in the papyrus swamps and picturesque lake islands, making them ideal for bird viewing. Expect to see several local fishermen washing and gathering water by the Lakeside while on the dug-out canoe.
Bwindi Community Hospital Visit:
This hospital is located in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s Buhoma sector. The hospital is of good quality by local standards, thanks in part to generous gifts from tourists and other park visitors. In addition to the usual clinical services, the hospital has a dedicated area for children and offers eye and dental care. Bwindi Community Hospital has assisted in lowering the local community’s mortality rate and bringing services closer to those in need. Tourists are permitted to visit most areas of the hospital to learn about health services in a developing country.
Visiting the Bwindi Bar and Restaurant:
This is a must-visit location for individuals who enjoy food and drinks when in the Buhoma area of Bwindi. The facility teaches young impoverished people the fundamentals of hospitality administration, including the preparation of some of the most delicious local and foreign cuisine available. If you want to experience local cuisines such as Uganda’s cassava chips, Bwindi Salsa, Matooke and groundnut sauce, this is the place to go. You can also order coffee and brownies, as well as other internationally recognized dishes.
Best time to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is open all year round. The greatest time to visit the gorillas in Bwindi is between June and August, and from December to February. These are the dry seasons in Uganda and the rains in the rainforest are not as strong. Because the forest trails are less slick during these times, gorilla trekking, nature hikes, and hiking tours are ideal. During the dry season, the park is very active with more people. It is an opportunity to meet and interact with people from all around the world.
The rainy season in Uganda lasts from March to April and from September to November. It is not the finest time for hiking, nature hikes, or gorilla trekking but it is ideal for bird watching because this season is their breeding season. Be sure to have warm clothing and shoes to deal with the dirt. Unfortunately, the jungle becomes wet and hazy with persistent drizzles which can be inconvenient for following gorillas. If you plan to visit the park during the dry season, we strongly advise you to book gorilla permits ahead of time.
Accommodation in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
While there are various lodging options in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, picking the right one in the right location is critical. Bwindi is a vast forest with four distinct parts. If one is trekking gorillas in the Ruhija sector, they should reserve a lodge in that sector. Booking a lodge too far away from the briefing place may make arriving on time difficult. It is feasible to hire lodges in Kabale or Lake Bunyonyi, but you must rise up and go to the forest sooner than usual to avoid missing briefings or the activity itself.
The Gorilla Resort:
This luxurious resort is located near the park’s entrance in the Buhoma region. The hotel has stunning views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and its surroundings. The hotel features tents and cottages with high-quality furniture in their rooms. Visitors can relax and mingle in the restaurant, bar, and lounge area. Gorilla Resort contributes to the well-being of the surrounding communities by funding some of their projects.
Ruhija Gorilla Lodge:
This is a luxury lodge located in the heart of the Bwindi forest. The setting provides a tranquil environment in the dense forest with the sounds of birds and other jungle critters. All of the rooms have flush toilets, showers, cold/hot water, high-quality furniture, and local art. A committed team of personnel keeps the rooms perfectly clean. The mattresses are comfortable and the showers provide both hot and cold water. The lodge also contains a bar, dining room, and a library with African-themed publications. The lodge provides the sensation of being close to nature in a truly wilderness setting.
Gorilla Forest Camp
Sanctuary Lodges owns this luxurious camp and is ideal for individuals who have come to do gorilla trekking. Because of its location, various gorilla groups and smaller monkeys frequent the camp. The camp comprises eight tents raised on platforms with panoramic views of the forest. The tents come complete with baths, flush toilets, and a wooden deck. There’s even a bar, restaurant, and pool. The service, especially the food, is outstanding here. For individuals who have reserved a spot at the camp, there are community walks and laundry services. Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp helps local communities in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park notably Bwindi’s community hospital.
The Buhoma Lodge
This is one of Bwindi’s oldest lodges. The resort is located near the park’s entrance and the start of gorilla tracking. An elevated lounge provides guests with a panoramic view of the magnificent primeval. Buhoma Lodge has ten spacious self-contained cottages, each with a balcony and complimentary Wi-Fi. Showers, soft beds, and impeccably clean bathrooms are also provided in the rooms.
Couples on their honeymoon can stay in the honeymoon cottage, which has a particular bathtub. In addition to various cuisines, the lodge serves native specialties such as matooke and groundnut sauce. The hotel features a bar and a dining area. However, meals can be served in the rooms upon request. A fireplace is lit in the evening to provide extra warmth during the cold evenings in the forest.
Chameleon Hill Lodge
Chameleon Hill is situated on the shores of Lake Mutanda between Mgahinga Gorilla Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It is an excellent option for individuals who have come to trek gorillas in Bwindi and golden monkey tracking in Mgahinga. The lodge features ten cottages, a lovely garden and stunning views of the forest. Bedside lights, a safe, a closet, a flush toilet, and cold and warm water are provided in the self-contained rooms.
There are five single cottages and five double cottages available. A bed can be added to accommodate a child. There is also a dining area, a bar and a lounge in the lodge. To keep guests warm in the evenings, the lounge contains attractive furnishings, novels, and a fireplace. Wi-Fi is provided throughout the resort and is free of charge. Because of its proximity to Lake Mutanda, the resort conducts canoe and motorboat tours to the picturesque lake and skeleton island. Guests can also rent a bike and ride to the local community or the gorgeous lake.
Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Another luxury lodge developed in Bwindi’s Nkuringo district with stunning views of the Virunga Mountains and a Rift Valley. Guests staying at this resort can easily walk to the starting site for gorilla trekking. The lodge was established with the help of the local people, the Uganda Wildlife Authority, USAID, and AWF. However, it is managed by Wild Places. Clouds Lodge contains eight self-contained rooms with stone walls and a grass-thatched roof. The rooms have both double and twin beds and are furnished with wonderful art pieces by Ugandan artists.
The lodge features a bar, a fireplace, a library, a gift shop, a lovely garden, and parking. Several fireplaces are built to keep guests warm during winter nights in the forest. Clouds Mountain Lodge organizes nature walks, bird watching, Batwa community visits, and picnics. One downside of the lodge is that it is built uphill, making it difficult to travel to it on foot, especially if one has spent the entire day doing something like gorilla trekking.
The Engagi Lodge
This mid-range resort is located in the Buhoma area, between the river Munyaga and the park offices. Engagi Lodge is made of Eucalyptus trees, grass (roof), and wood. Each of the eight rooms is self-contained, with a table, writing desk, flush toilet, and shower. The cottages are equipped with single, twin, and double beds, as well as baths, cold/hot water, flush toilets, and free Wi-Fi. There is also a large waiting space, a restaurant, a bar, and solar panels. Nature walks are organized by the lodge to view forest birds, plants, and primates.
Volcanoes Bwindi Camp
Volcanoes Bwindi Camp is a luxury resort that also faces the forest and provides high-quality services. Volcanoes Safaris owns the camp and accommodation includes eight bungalows, each named after a gorilla. The rooms are self-contained and have a flush toilet as well as hot and cold showers. The cottages are designed with African-inspired furnishings and paintings. The lodge also features a bar, a restaurant, a souvenir shop, a massage room, free Wi-Fi, and a lounge area where tourists may relax while waiting for the day’s activities.
The lounge features comfy seating areas and a fireplace strategically placed to keep guests warm at night in order to enjoy their gorilla trekking experience. Aside from gorilla trekking, the lodge provides visits to waterfalls, tea plantation tours, and of course, the Batwa visit. Solar energy is used to power the system. Volcanoes Safaris also operates Bwindi Bar, which is close to the lodge. While staying at the lodge, you should stop by this pub, which has a decent selection of drinks and snacks. The gorillas visit this lodge frequently, allowing you to observe them from the comfort of your accommodation on a lucky day.
Lake Kitandara Tented Camp
This camp is a mid-range facility located on the park’s outskirts, featuring magnificent gardens and views of the surrounding environment. The camp, which was created in 1994, offers a lounge area where visitors may relax, meet, and exchange travel information. There are 20 self-contained tents named after Ugandan birds at the site. The meals cooked in this camp are delicious and include both local and international cuisine. Meals are packed for individuals going gorilla trekking or participating in other park activities. Mountain gorillas occasionally visit this camp, allowing guests to interact with and photograph the primates while they feed and play. Late in the evening, a bonfire is lit for guests to relax, eat and share their experiences.
Buhoma Community Rest Camp
This budget camp, located outside the park’s gate near the settlement of Buhoma, was established in 1993. The rooms as the name implies, are designed in traditional African fashion with local materials and grass thatched roofs. The lodge features seven cottages, a restaurant, a massage room, and a bar.
Each of the self-contained rooms features free Wi-Fi, comfortable beds, mosquito nets, a safe, showers, bathtubs, and a verandah. Guests can read books, play games, or relax by the fireplace in the lounge area. The Bandas are managed by the local community and can accommodate up to six persons. There is a restaurant in the camp where guests can order Ugandan and international cuisine. A gift shop, massages, charging systems, laundry services, and parking are all available. The lodge organizes village visits, forest hikes, birding and butterfly tours, and other activities.
Mahogany springs
This lodge is located outside the park in a peaceful and picturesque setting with excellent views of the forest and the Munyaga River Valley. The lodge contains eight cottages, each with a single, double, or triple room. Showers, hair dryers, charging stations, safes, flush toilets, chairs, tables, and high-quality mosquito netting are provided in each room. Special rooms have been developed for families and honeymooners. The lodge also has a fireplace, a souvenir shop, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, a bar, and verandahs from which to observe the surrounding regions and valleys. Discounts are given to guests who book in large groups. Mahogany Springs provides birding tours, hikes along the Munyanga River, tea plantations, and visits to the locals.
Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
Nkuringo Lodge is one of Bwindi’s most popular mid-range lodges. It was named Uganda’s best safari lodge in 2017 by World Travel Awards. The resort is constructed on the Nteko crest, with views of the Virunga mountain ranges, the Kashasha River, and the forest. The resort has lovely gardens and is close to the starting point for following the Nkuringo Gorilla group. The lodge features twelve self-contained rooms and environmentally friendly utilities. All rooms have their verandas and are designed with modern-looking but indigenous materials. The hotel is well-known for its excellent customer service and delicious food. Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge provides paddling on Lake Mutanda, nature walks, bird watching, and trips to the Batwa villages.
Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp
Sanctuary Retreats owns this luxury camp, which is located close to the Kihihi airfield. The camp contains eight rooms made of the local timber, stones, and a grass thatched roof. The Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp provides free Wi-Fi, a bar, a restaurant, a souvenir shop, and a lounge where guests may talk about their adventures in Uganda. Each room features two huge beds, a table, as well as baths, and bathtubs. One benefit of booking this camp is the chance to view one of the gorilla families that visit on occasion. The camp organizes birding expeditions with the help of knowledgeable local birding experts. In the evenings, some Batwa people are invited to perform ethnic dances.
Mutanda Lake Resort
Mutanda Lake Resort is strategically located between Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, offering breathtaking views of Mgahinga’s three volcanoes and the gorgeous lake. The resort has 13 cottages with a self-contained triple, twin, and single rooms. There is a table in each room, as well as mosquito nets and bedside lights. The rooms are furnished with native items such as bowls and sculptures depicting Uganda and its wildlife. There is also a bar, a restaurant, and a viewing deck at Mutanda Lake Resort. Those who have come to follow both golden monkeys and gorillas should consider staying at this resort. The resort also provides boat cruises to Lake Mutanda, cultural tours, and trekking volcanoes in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Bwindi Jungle View Lodge
This resort sits on the shores of Lake Muhele, just outside Bwindi National Park and near Mgahinga National Park. The hotel cottages are constructed of indigenous materials and have grass thatched roofs. The rooms are self-contained and include bathrooms. Bwindi Jungle View Lodge offers both international and local cuisine, as well as vegetarian options. The lodge features a fireplace, room service, laundry services, and a huge parking lot.
The Bakiga Lodge
Bakiga Lodge in located in Ruhija sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, built on top of a valley with stunning views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and neighboring farms, offers luxury amenities including four self-contained family cottages and tents with toilets and free Wi-Fi. Bakiga Lodge features a kind but professional team that will make your stay as pleasant and memorable as possible. The lodge is a non-profit because it is part of the Bakiga Community Project, a Non-Governmental Organization registered in the United Kingdom.
Silverback Lodge Marasa
Silverback Lodge Marasa is located in the Buhoma region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Marasa Africa, a firm that owns several lodges in Eastern Africa, owns Silverback Lodge. The lodge features 12 rooms, each with a veranda, and is suited for singles, couples, groups, and even honeymooners. Beautiful African art pieces and cozy chairs complement the hotel suites. All rooms are self-contained, with televisions, flush toilets, and sinks. There is a hotel, a bar, a restaurant, a lounge area, and a spa at Silverback Lodge. Among other activities, the hotel conducts nature tours, village walks, mountain riding, and birding.
Ichumbi Gorilla lodge
Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge is located near the main park entry in the Rushage region. The lode includes nine self-contained cottages with a single, twin, or double accommodation option. Each home has a veranda with lovely woodland views. The Ichumbi gorilla lodge is great for those interested in birdwatching, gorilla tracking, visiting surrounding communities, viewing butterflies, and going on nature hikes.
Broadbill Forest Camp
Broadbill is located in the park’s Ruhija section, which is home to four habituated gorilla groups. Broadbill Forest Camp is a low-cost resort with high-quality amenities. The resort provides tents put up on high platforms for guests to enjoy the tranquil woodland. The four tents are self-contained, with beds that can be single, double, or single. The camp offers a bar and restaurant, as well as a fireplace to keep visitors warm on cold evenings in the forest.
Gorilla Mist Camp
This camp is located outside the park in the Ruhija sector. The camp provides mid-range accommodation and is ideal for tourists who have come to go gorilla trekking and require a location near the tracking point. The lodge includes eco-friendly bungalows with lovely woodland views. The rooms are self-contained and include bathrooms with hot and cold running water. The mattresses are spacious, and the sheets provide enough warmth to keep the cold atmosphere at bay at night. Gorilla Mist Camp offers a bar, restaurant, and lounge where guests can unwind.
Other activities to do after gorilla trekking
Game Viewing in Queen Elizabeth
Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in western Uganda and is one of the most visited national parks in Uganda. It is one of the greatest spots to visit in Uganda for a truly amazing safari experience. It is one of the few places in Uganda where you can view four of the Big five big game species, as well as a variety of bird and primate species. Queen Elizabeth is home to about 600 bird species and 95 animal species. Game drives, nature walks, chimp trekking, hot air balloon flights, boat cruises, and lion trekking are all available in the park.
Trekking and Habituation of Chimpanzees in Kibale Forest
Kibale National Park is the world’s most visited chimp destination. The forest has a population of around 1500 chimps. Chimp trekking is available in the park, and guests will have at least 90% chance of spotting of them. Kibale National Park offers two opportunities for chimp trekking each day, beginning in the morning and concluding in the evening. Chimpanzee trekking permits are obtained from the Uganda Wildlife Authority or from a reputable travel operator who conducts such activities on your behalf.
Lake Mburo National Park
The most accessible national park in Uganda is a four-hour drive from Kampala. Due to the absence of huge savannah game players such as elephants and lions, Lake Mburo National Park provides superb walking safari experiences for spotting wild animals on foot and horseback. Even in the absence of animal heavyweights, this little park offers excellent game viewing. You’re likely to see as many different large animal species in a single day as you would in any Ugandan national park. Furthermore, the availability of high-quality safari hotels and the restoration of some animals, such as giraffes, have improved the park’s reputation. Lake Mburo National Park is recommended by safari companies as a good overnight stop on the long journey between Kampala and the country’s western national parks.
