Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of the many UNESCO World Heritage sites that adorn Uganda’s southwestern region, is situated deep within the mist-shrouded hills where ferns abound. The park, a natural remnant of the Pleistocene Epoch, is one of the few regions that managed to escape the devastating effects of the most recent ice age, giving rise to its impressive biodiversity. The park covers an area of about 321 square kilometers, but it is considered “impenetrable” because of the dense foliage of trees as well as bamboo and vine thickets that make their home on its rugged mountain landscape. For the contemporary visitor, Bwindi has come to be seen as a final frontier, a destination where nature still rules and humanity meets the wilderness head-on.

Safari to Bwindi Impentrable National Park

Attractions in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

The main attraction in Bwindi is certainly the presence of the mountain gorilla population, consisting of about half of the world population of this critically endangered primate. The unique environment serves as home to over 450 mountain gorillas, who form different family units that give tourists an opportunity to experience their social life. Among the great apes, Bwindi ranks as one of the finest destinations for birdwatching as it has more than 350 bird species, of which 23 are Albertine Rift endemics including the African Broadbill and Shelley’s Crimsonwing. There are even more species in terms of biodiversity, as the forest has 120 mammalian species and many butterfly species as well as plants that are ancient and rare ferns.

Activities to do in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

For the ultimate adventure, gorilla tracking safari remains the top activity in the park; it entails an exciting trek through the thick forest, culminating in an unforgettable hour spent in the company of a gorilla family. Should you desire more time among the majestic creatures, then the Gorilla Habituation Experience at Rushaga in the south provides the opportunity to spend four hours with the creatures. For a more complete experience with nature, there is a cultural trail where visitors get to see the life of the “Keepers of the Forest,” the native Batwa Pygmy people that existed harmoniously within the forest for centuries. Visitors can also walk along the Munyanga River Trail or the Muzubijiro Loop Trail, both of which provide beautiful scenery of the Virunga Volcanoes and the Western Rift Valley, as well as trails that lead to waterfalls deep within the forest.

Best time to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Bwindi being open all year round, the season of your safari might play an important role in determining how you enjoy your adventure trekking. The two most appropriate times would be during the Dry Seasons of June to August and December to February since the trails become less muddy due to reduced vegetation and easier walking on account of the relatively dry weather conditions. On the other hand, the Wet Seasons (March through May and September through November) are characterized by rains that make the area green, lively, and full of life. Though it requires much effort to trek during this season, it is perfect for bird watchers because most birds are in their breeding season while food is plentiful for the gorillas who come down from their higher altitudes.

Where to Stay in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

In Bwindi, accommodation options are spread out in four major sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo, each giving different viewpoints about the forest. In the north sector of Buhoma, you will enjoy luxurious lodges where one can experience both luxury and wilderness from above the forest canopy. In the south sector of Rushaga and Nkuringo, you will get breathtaking views of the mountains and stay in some of the most eco-lodges, small boutique lodges, and budget camps. For those looking for a more remote, high-altitude experience, Ruhija provides intimate tented camps and lodges that are perfect for birding enthusiasts. Wherever you choose to lodge, the friendliness of the local personnel and the music of the forest during the night will immerse you completely in your experience.

How to get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Traveling to such a far-off place is part of the excitement, and there are two ways to travel to the destination. The first way is flying in a small plane from Entebbe or Kajjansi airstrip to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips before driving briefly to the park’s headquarters. The aerial flight will present a breathtaking aerial display of the “Switzerland of Africa” with its picturesque terrains and sparkling lakes.

Otherwise, the journey by road from Kampala/Entebbe is estimated to take around 8-9 hours. Although this journey is tedious it will allow visitors to observe the impressive landscapes of Uganda, passing through the equatorial line and the cattle belts of Ankole. Another option to arrive Bwindi would be to take a plane ride to Kigali, Rwanda, then travel another 4 to 5 hours by road to reach the southern parts of Bwindi which is as well most convenient.

Book a safari with Wilder Africa Holidays to Bwindi impenetrable Forest National Park

Wilder Africa Holidays offers amazing experiences to Uganda’s best Parks, that Is Bwindi Mgahinga, Queen Elizabeth, Rwenzori, Lake Mburo, Murchision falls, Kidepo valley, Mountain Elgon, Semuliki and Kibale National Park. We organize gorilla tours, wildlife tours, cultural safaris, adventure safaris, Birding tours, chimpanzee tours, golden monkey treks, Mountain Hiking tours. Book a trip today.