Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the beauty of Africa's wilderness. The park is home to more than half of the world's total population of mountain gorillas, making it one of the best places in the world for gorilla trekking.
In addition to gorillas, the park also offers a variety of other wildlife, including over 120 species of mammals, 350 species of birds, and 220 species of butterflies.
Aside from its natural wonders, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park also boasts a rich cultural history. The park is situated in an area that has been inhabited by local communities for centuries, and visitors can learn about the customs and traditions of these communities through cultural tours and interactions with locals.
Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or a cultural explorer, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a destination that should not be missed. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, it is sure to be an unforgettable experience for any traveller.
History
Established in 1991, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southwestern Uganda. The park covers an area of approximately 331 square kilometres and is home to over half of the world's remaining populations of mountain gorillas.
Originally a forest reserve, Bwindi was gazetted to protect the gorillas and natural ecosystems of their home.
Geography
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located on the edge of the Albertine Rift Valley. The forest is characterized by rugged terrain, steep hills, and valleys, with altitudes ranging from 1,160 to 2,607 meters above sea level. Notable landmarks within the park include the Mubwindi Swamp, which is home to a diverse range of bird species.
Local Culture
The local communities surrounding Bwindi Impenetrable National Park include the Batwa, Bakiga, and Bafumbira tribes. The Batwa are indigenous forest dwellers who were traditionally hunter-gatherers.
Today, many Batwa have been resettled outside the park, but some still live in and around the forest. Visitors to the park can learn about Batwa culture and traditions through guided tours and community visits.
Points Of Interest
The main attraction at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is gorilla trekking, which offers visitors the opportunity to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The park is home to more than 18 gorilla families, each of which is allocated a limited number of permits (8 per day) for trekking.
Other points of interest within the park include the Mubwindi Swamp, which is a birdwatcher's paradise, and the Rushaga Cultural Trail, which provides insights into local traditions and customs.
Activities
In addition to gorilla trekking, other activities available to visitors at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park include birdwatching, forest walks, and cultural visits to local communities. The park also offers opportunities for hiking and mountain biking, as well as the chance to visit nearby Lake Bunyonyi, which is known for its scenic beauty and recreational activities.
Getting There
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is conveniently located 460 kilometers from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. Visitors can choose to travel by road from Kampala or Entebbe, which takes approximately 8 hours.
For those who prefer a faster and more comfortable option, flying into Kigali in neighboring Rwanda and taking a 4-hour drive to Bwindi is highly recommended.
Alternatively, visitors can take a domestic flight to any of the nearby airstrips: Kisoro and Kihihi. These airstrips are just a short drive away from the park, making them a convenient option for those who prefer to travel by air.
Climate & Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is during the dry season, as this is when gorilla trekking is easiest due to the drier conditions. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden rain showers, even during the dry season.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has a tropical climate, with temperatures averaging between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The rainy season runs from March to May and from September to November, while the dry season runs from December to February and from June to August.
Table showing the average rainfall and temperature of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
| MONTH | AVERAGE RAINFALL (MM) | AVERAGE TEMPERATURE (°C) | AVERAGE TEMPERATURE (°F) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 49 | 23 | 73.4 |
| February | 82 | 24 | 75.2 |
| March | 135 | 23 | 73.4 |
| April | 239 | 20 | 68 |
| May | 198 | 20 | 68 |
| June | 55 | 20 | 68 |
| July | 55 | 23 | 73.4 |
| August | 130 | 24 | 75.2 |
| September | 219 | 22 | 71.6 |
| October | 169 | 22 | 71.6 |
| November | 219 | 21 | 69.8 |
| December | 82 | 23 | 73.4 |
Related article: Best time to visit Uganda for safari holiday
Where To Stay
Accommodation options within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park include lodges, campsites, and hotels. Visitors can choose from many options based on prices and other preferences. Gorilla tracking happens in 4 parts of the park, and you should make sure to get your accommodation close to the sector of the park where your gorilla tracking or birding will happen.
Additionally, one can choose to sleep in the nearby towns of Kabale or Kisoro but this means waking up extremely early. This is not recommended for most travelers.
If you intend on tracking mountain gorillas, staying very close might be the best option but if you do stay far, remember to wake up very early and be at the park headquarters/ tracking points by 7 AM.
Areas around Bwindi are mountainous and cold, so waking up by 7 AM won't be as easy as in other parts of Uganda which are warmer.
Quick Tips For Travelers
- Visitors to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park should pack appropriate clothing for the climate, including warm layers and rain gear.
- It is also important to wear comfortable and sturdy footwear, as the terrain can be challenging.
- Visitors should bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat to protect against the sun.
- When trekking to see gorillas, visitors are required to wear face masks to protect the gorillas from human diseases.
- It is important to follow park regulations and respect the natural environment and cultural heritage of the area.
- It is important to follow the guidance of park rangers and guides at all times
Overall, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a unique and unforgettable destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking scenery, a visit to this park is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
