Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for breath-taking biodiversity and dense forest canopy. The park is located in southwestern Uganda and is very famous for gorilla research and tourism.
Established in as a national park in 1994, Bwindi covers around 320 square kilometres, all of which is dense old growth natural forest on steep slopes - an crucial habitat for mountain gorillas, other primates and many special birds.
Bwindi is regarded as one of Africa's best places to visit, and while the hike to see gorillas is a bit trying - it is considered by all as fully rewarding and worth it.
Location & Accessibility
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is situated on the edge of the Albertine Rift Valley, in southwestern Uganda. It can be accessed by road and air from several of the near by towns such as Kibale, Kihihi, and Kisoro.
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By Road
Bwindi can be accessed by road from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. The drive from Kampala to Bwindi takes around 8 hours, going through the scenic country side of Central and western Uganda.
The most common routes are through Masaka, Mbarara and Kabale, all of which is good tarmac road that is comfortable.
Bwindi can also be easily accessed from the nearby parks such as Lake Mburo and Queen Elizabeth which are often visited as part of a longer trip that goes to Bwindi for gorillas.
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By Air
For a quicker and more comfortable alternative, visitors can take scheduled and chartered domestic flights from Entebbe to either Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips - which are less than 2 hours of driving to Bwindi.
Domestic flights can also connect Bwindi to other Ugandan parks - making it a viable alternative for people who are visiting more places along with Bwindi's gorillas.
Things to Do (Activities)
Bwindi offers a range of activities that cater to adventurers, nature lovers, and those interested in cultural experiences.
Gorilla Trekking
The highlight of any visit to Bwindi is gorilla trekking. This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows visitors to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Visitors hike in the forest and look for gorillas, then spend 1 hour with a family of mountain gorillas before heading out of the forest. The gorilla trek is not the easiest, but the encounter is unforgettable and worth it in many ways.
Related article: Common Questions About Gorilla Trekking [with answers]
Gorilla Habituation
Gorilla Habituation is the more special alternative to gorillas trekking. with gorilla trekking, you see gorillas that are familiar with human presence, but with gorilla habituation, you get to see a family of gorillas as they are still being familiarized with humans - before they are opened up for gorilla tracking where more people will see them.
With gorilla habituation, you get to spend around 4 hours with the gorillas and be part of the process to make them more familiar with humans.
You should know that gorilla habituation is much more limited than gorillas trekking and permits are also more expensive - but if you can, a worthy adventure.
Here is a full article about gorilla permits that will help you better differentiate between gorilla trekking and habituation.
Bird Watching
With more than 350 different species - 23 of which are endemic, Bwindi is a special place for birders. Notable species include the African green broadbill, Shelley’s crimsonwing, and the handsome francolin.
The Mubwindi swamp is very popular for birds, and they get to check off many birds of their list.
Nature Walks
Bwindi can be explored further through guided nature walks in the park for a closer look at the flora and fauna. The walking trails are designed to take you to various areas of the park where stunning waterfalls, view points, primates and birds can be found.
Trails such as the Munyanga River Trail and the Rushura Hill Trail provide opportunities to see monkeys, butterflies, and an array of plant species.
Batwa Cultural Experience
The Batwa are a small indigenous tribe that once lived in the the Bwindi forest as hunter gatherers until the early 1990s. Visitors can learn about Batwa history, medicinal plants, and participate in traditional dances and music.
Waterfall Hikes
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is dotted with beautiful waterfalls that can be reached through guided hikes. The Mubwindi Swamp trail, for example, leads to a stunning waterfall and offers a chance to see various bird species and primates.
Places to Stay
Bwindi has a range of accommodation options catering to different budgets and preferences, from luxury lodges to budget campsites.
Luxury Lodges
- Buhoma Lodge: Located near the park headquarters, this eco-friendly lodge offers stunning views and luxurious amenities.
- Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp: Known for its prime location within the park, this camp provides an intimate and luxurious setting.
- Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge: Situated on a hilltop, this lodge offers spectacular views of the Virunga Volcanoes and provides a high-end experience.
Mid-Range Accommodations
- Silverback Lodge: Offering comfortable rooms and great views, this lodge is a popular choice for mid-range travelers.
- Engagi Lodge: Nestled in a lush forest, Engagi Lodge combines comfort with the natural beauty of Bwindi.
- Gorilla Mist Camp: Located in the Ruhija sector, this camp offers cozy accommodation and easy access to gorilla trekking points.
Budget Options
- Ride 4 a Woman Guesthouse: A community-based guesthouse that provides basic amenities and supports local women.
- Bwindi View Bandas: Affordable and conveniently located near the park entrance, offering basic but comfortable accommodation.
- Ruhija Gorilla Friends Resort & Campsite: A budget-friendly option with a range of accommodations, including campsites and bandas.
Seasons & Best Time to Visit
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park experiences a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
Dry Season
The dry season in Bwindi happens between the months of June to September and December to February. This is the ideal time for gorilla trekking, habituation and other outdoor activities. The trails are less slippery and there are limited chances of rain.
You should know that this is the peak season for gorilla tourism where permits and accommodation can be sold out, and booking in advance is crucial.
Rainy Season
The wet season in Bwindi happens between the months of March to May and October to November. The wet season is characterised with heavy rainfall, colder temperatures and the trekking trails are more challenging.
This period is great for birders, photographers and those who don't enjoy big tourist crowds.
Related article: Best time to visit Uganda for an African safari holiday
Climate Chart
Here's a climate chart showing average monthly rainfall and temperatures in Bwindi:
| Month | Avg. Rainfall (mm) | Av. Temperature (°C) | Avg. Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 55 | 20 | 68 |
| February | 65 | 20.5 | 68.9 |
| March | 130 | 20 | 68 |
| April | 175 | 19.5 | 67.1 |
| May | 160 | 19 | 66.2 |
| June | 90 | 19 | 66.2 |
| July | 70 | 19.5 | 67.1 |
| August | 100 | 19.5 | 67.1 |
| September | 120 | 19.5 | 67.1 |
| October | 170 | 19 | 66.2 |
| November | 150 | 19 | 66.2 |
| December | 85 | 19.5 | 67.1 |
Nearby Attractions
While Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a wonderful place to visit, and does stand on its own, there are many wonderful places nearby that would be worth visiting for an even more wonderful experience of Uganda.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda's most popular savannah park known for elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, hippos and more than 600 bird species. The tree-climbing lions of Ishasha are are wonderful surprise to go along with the game drives and boat safaris which will show you many animals.
Lake Bunyonyi
Lake Bunyonyi in Kabale is the traditional lake resort of south western Uganda and people have enjoyed relaxing on this beautiful lake for many years. The lake has more than 25 small islands which can be explored on a canoe to learn about the stories and pasts of each along with seeing the many birds which this area is named after.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Located right on the Ugandan borders with Rwanda and D.R.Congo, Mgahinga is an important habitat for mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.
Beyond the primates, the park's 3 volcanic mountains offer excellent hiking opportunities - especially mount Sabinyo who summit if the meeting point of the 3 countries. Those who climb to the top get to stand in 3 countries (Uganda, Rwanda and D.R.Congo) at the same time.
Lake Mutanda
Lake Mutanda is a beautiful lake located in Kisoro, near both Bwindi and Mgahinga national parks. The lake has several small islands and is surrounded by terraced hills with small village households, and offers stunning views of the volcanic mountains of Sabinyo, Mgahinga and Muhavura.
Mutanda is a perfect retreat where you can slow down and relax.
Closing Thoughts
The natural beauty of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, plus the presence of around 50% of the world's remaining mountain gorillas makes it one of Africa's top places to visit.
Experience of seeing gorillas in Bwindi is a life-changing one, and yet the park offers even more in terms of birding, spectacular hikes and the rich cultural encounters with the Batwa tribespeople. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, Bwindi's diverse offerings ensure that your journey is both enriching and memorable.