The most popular area to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is in the remote Bwindi National Park, home to the one of the most intelligent of primates, the rare mountain gorilla. Named as a World Heritage Site for its dense population of mountain gorillas, the national park is most certainly the prime area for gorilla trekking.
In conjunction with gorillas, the park is famed for its biodiversity of fauna and flora and the dense, lush thickets of the Impenetrable Forest. The forest acts as a large water catchment area, where streams and rivers supply water to the surrounding lands.
Bwindi is located in the south-western part of Uganda and offers its visitors a high concentration of endangered wildlife and bird species to see. Here’s the lowdown of gorilla trekking in Uganda.
Know Before You Go:
1. The most important thing is to book a permit to see a gorilla family that is close to your chosen lodge. You cannot get around easily in the Impenetrable Forest and many people incorrectly book permits for gorilla families no where near the lodge. Out of 75 people that book permits, only 8 see gorillas because they have not booked the permit for the gorillas that correlate to their chosen lodge. Book your permit with your agent and/or the lodge.
2. Bring proper walking shoes, and layers of clothes for the cooler times of day. Bring a rain jacket. Because you’re at high altitude you’ll encounter plenty of wet weather.
4. There aren’t any roads inside the park and you travel everywhere on foot. The vegetation is thick and there can be steep hills, so a walking stick is recommended.
Accommodation Options for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi National Park:
8 spacious jungle tents complete with huge bathtubs, luxurious decor and exceptionally comfortable beds are just a few of the things to expect while staying at this camp. A private viewing deck overlooking the forest canopy is a must for sundowners and makes the perfect place to relax after a heavy day of trekking. This is the camp where gorillas frequent the immediate area.
The Engagi Lodge puts a modern spin on traditional architecture and design. The lodge takes advantage of its position, which overlooks the canopy of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The lodge is centrally located and easily accessible from the main road to the Bwindi National Park headquarters. The entire lodge is constructed using local materials and a work force from the surrounding area. Located on the banks of the Munyanga River, guests can stroll around the lodge in their spare time and enjoy a spot of birdwatching down at the river. Gorilla trekking is a must and guests are within walking distance to the central meeting point for the start of the trek.
This eco-friendly lodge is located in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest of Uganda and there are a total of ten cottages, all with spectacular views over the surrounding forest. This lodge restricts the amount of time spent with gorilla families to ensure minimal intrusion on their lives and natural habitat. There’s plenty to do back at the lodge – the huge lounge and verandah area being a favourite place of relaxation for guests. On the horizon you’ll notice more than just the orange hue of the sunsets and instead the glowing amber of the Virunga volcanoes.
Not only is Bwindi Lodge an eco-friendly lodge offering gorilla trekking but there are also plenty of chimpanzee in the area. This lodge also overlooks the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and is ideal for nature lovers. There are 8 chalets each with their own veranda. Let the natural world cocoon your wild senses!
