This dense, misty forest with a varied topography is ideal for observing mountain gorillas. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in southwest Uganda on the rim of the Rift Valley. This biologically diversified forest, which encompasses 331 square kilometers, is one of East Africa's greatest Afromontane forests.
Its varied vegetation creates a dense thicket that makes it impenetrable. As a result, it was given the moniker "impenetrable." This peculiar habitat is well-known for housing around 300 Mountain gorillas. They are believed to account for over half of the world's population, earning them the designation of 'endangered species.' For the same reason, the National Park was named a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in December 1994, three years after its formation.
It is important to note that gorilla tracking is challenging because of the steep terrain, and travelers should be prepared to hike for up to 8 hours.
A visit to Bwindi can also be paired with a visit to the Ishasha section of Queen Elizabeth National Park, which is about 60 kilometers away and home to the famed tree-climbing lions.
Some nearby activities include but are not limited to:
- Muyanga River hikes, the Waterfall Railway, and the Rushura Hill Path.
- Cultural excursions - The indigenous Batwa pygmies are a hunter-gatherer group that is regarded as the "first people" of the forest, with unrivaled knowledge of its mysteries.
Gorilla Tracking & Encounter
The day begins at the Park Headquarters, where guests are allocated to a gorilla group and guided before learning about critical primate and human safety guidelines.
Considering gorillas share 98% of our genetic makeup, they are more susceptible to our ailments (even a common cold may kill them), therefore anyone who is ill should avoid trekking. Each gorilla family can only accept eight people at a time and only for one hour. Visitors are also not permitted to approach the gorillas any closer than 7 meters, yet the gorillas may occasionally violate this line and approach you within striking distance. But, resist the impulse to touch them at all times. They are normally quiet but can be startled by flash photography, loud noises, or unexpected movements.
Some groups are close to the Park Headquarters, while others may need up to five hours. Bwindi is renowned as the Impenetrable Forest for good reason: it is a dense forest covering 321 square kilometers that makes passage hard due to tangled vines and plants were strewn across steep muddy terrain. Porters may be hired for around $20 to help guests navigate the rugged, snowy landscape (highly recommended).
Notes on Gorilla Tracking
- This is a challenging exercise, and participants must be physically fit. Professional guides will accompany groups.
- The legal drinking age is fifteen years old.
- Anybody displaying signs of infectious disease will be denied admittance.
- While a gorilla permit ensures hiking, it does not guarantee sightings. Yet, the chances of spotting one are high, at least 95%.
- The gorillas can only be approached from a distance of 7 meters for one hour.
- While flash photography is prohibited, fast film (minimum 4001600 ASA) is recommended.
- Personal DVD recorders are allowed.
- Bring a breathable and lightweight rain jacket or poncho for overcast days and evenings, a warm jacket or fleece for overcast days and evenings, a long-sleeved shirt and trousers, sturdy waterproof walking boots (seasoned or well-worn footwear), leather gardening-type gloves, sunscreen, cap or sun hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, a comfortable day pack for carrying water, and a small number of personal items for Gorilla tracking.
- Please keep in mind that gorilla tracking licenses are offered in cash on a first-come, first-served basis.
