Bwindi National park uganda
Uganda is ranked number one in the world as a destination to experience the thrill of a mountain gorilla safari. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda has been designated as a world heritage site for the protection and conservation of these amazing animals. Within Uganda there are, five habituated gorilla troops - four in Bwindi and one in Mgahinga gorilla national park.
Today there are about 650- 700 gorillas left in the world, half of which are found in Bwindi National Park a lone.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Forest is described as impenetrable, due to its shear thickness and vast area covered. It’s no wonder that in the local language “Bwindi” means a place of darkness because of the thick vegetation which indeed makes it impenetrable.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is found in South Western Uganda on the edge of western rift valley. It covers an area of 321 square kilometers, it also lies a long the Uganda-Democratic Republic of Congo. The park is well known as the home of the world’s mountain gorillas.
Bwindi Impenetrable Park hosts more than half of the total number of mountain gorillas in the world estimated to be between 650-700 individuals. Currently there are four groups of habituated gorilla families in Bwindi mainly Mubare, Habinyanja, Rushebura and Nkuringo family on the side of Kisoro.
The park is covered by the thick tropical afromontane forest with dense under growth of fern and vines. There are over 324 species of trees, 90 species of mammals, 11 species of primates, 360 species of birds and 23 Albertine endemic species.
Bwindi major tourist activities are gorilla tracking, bird watching, forest walks and village walks. Only eight visitors are allowed to track gorillas a day and the tracking fee is $500 per-person.
Where to stay
There are a number of choices to cater for the up-market as well the budget tourists’ accommodation.
1 The local community operates a rest camp ground with clean and simple bandas; a restaurant serving simple traditional breakfast, lunch, dinner is also available.
2 Bwindi View Canteen is also favourable for low income visitors.
3 Buhoma homestead.
4 Gorilla Forest camp.
5 Mantana Luxury Tented Camp.
6 Lake Kitandara Bwindi Camp.
7 Volcanoes Bwindi Camp.
What to bring
1 Wear jungle shoes suitable for steep muddy slopes.
2 Put on ear plugs for those who feel uncomfortable with jungle sounds.
3 Carry rain gear, sunscreen lotion, a hat (as the weather is unpredictable) and insect repellant.
4 Carry packed lunch.
When you’re with Gorillas
1 Keep your voice down or be quiet.
2 Don’t point or wave your arms this can a threat.
3 If approached by gorillas, move back wards slowly to keep 5m distance
4 Don’t use flash cameras; this could cause gorillas to charge.
Access
It’s about 8 - 9 hours drive from Kampala to Bwindi only a 4WD vehicle is required.
Members of Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO)