6 Best Reasons To Visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in Uganda, is a renowned destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park is endowed with various attractions that you can see during your visit in the park including the mountain Gorillas, Bird watching, flora and Fauna, Hiking, Batwa experience and landscape with various activities including treks and hikes among others.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is densely populated forest and comprises of parked trees species including Bamboo with thick canopy which are a habitat to the famous mountain gorillas, alongside other animals that can be seen during the trek in forest. Including; bush pigs, several bird species, different colourful butterfly species among others.
The following are the six reasons to visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest national park.
Mountain Gorilla Trekking:
Bwindi is famous for its population of endangered mountain gorillas. It is one of the few places in the world where you can embark on a thrilling gorilla trekking adventure. You’ll have the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat, an experience that is both humbling and awe-inspiring
Gorilla Habituation:
This is a process whereby selected gorilla group is slowly monitored and observed for a period of about 2-3 years until they become used to the site of humans, compared to normal gorilla trekking, which is done on habituated gorillas, gorilla habituation is much more different and also gives you much more time with the gorillas. During gorilla Habituation, you will be in the company of scientists, researchers and ranger guides studying and conducting research about the gorillas as well as the greater effects to conserve the mountain gorillas.
Bird watching experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:
Being a tropical rainforest, Bwindi stands as one of the unique birds watching experience among other activities in the park. The park alone is a home to more than 320 different recorded bird species some of which include; the Crowned Hornbill, African green pigeon, Giant Kingfisher among others. while in the forest, you are able to hear the chirping sounds of the birds which gives the park un authentic feeling of being in the wild. you will be able to observe the birds up close, take pictures and record videos for your everlasting memory.
Unique Biodiversity:
Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its remarkable biodiversity. Besides gorillas, the park is home to numerous other primate species, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and baboons. It also boasts an incredible variety of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Lush Rainforests:
The park’s impenetrable rainforests are captivating, with dense vegetation, towering trees, and vibrant flora. As you explore the trails, you’ll be immersed in a lush green world teeming with life. The rich ecosystem of Bwindi provides a fascinating environment for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Scenic Landscapes:
Bwindi is situated in the southwestern part of Uganda and is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. The undulating hills, mist-covered valleys, and panoramic vistas create a picturesque setting. Whether you’re trekking through the forests or gazing at the sweeping views, the natural beauty of Bwindi will leave you in awe.
Cultural Encounters:
The communities surrounding Bwindi are predominantly Bakiga and Batwa. Visiting these communities provides an opportunity to learn about their traditional way of life, including their unique customs, traditions, and folklore. Engaging with the local people and participating in cultural activities can offer a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage.
Adventure Activities:
In addition to gorilla trekking, Bwindi offers several other exciting activities. You can embark on guided nature walks, explore waterfalls, go birdwatching, or take part in a thrilling forest canopy walk. These activities provide a chance to appreciate the park’s diverse ecosystems and encounter its captivating wildlife from different perspectives.
Overall, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers a remarkable combination of gorilla encounters, stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, cultural immersion, and adventurous experiences. A visit to this extraordinary destination is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories and a profound appreciation for the wonders of nature.
when to visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
The park is covered by a tropical rainforest. therefore, its prone to heavy down pours and you can also expect rains during any time of the day. Therefore, its advisable to visit Bwindi during the dry season when the trails and the ground is a bit dry. The sunny days are usually from December to February and June to September. Despite the seasons, the park is open and can be visited all year around depending on the interest and the budget of the clients.
Accommodation/ where to sleep in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Luxury accommodation in Bwindi Include; Mahogany springs, clouds mountain Gorilla lodge, Buhoma lodge, Volcanoes Bwindi lodge among others. provide stunning accommodation facilities and professional staff to ensure you have a beautiful in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest national park.
Mid-range lodges In Bwindi include; chameleon Hill lodge, silver back lodge, Gorilla mist camp Engagi lodge, four Gorillas lodge among others.
Budget lodges in Bwindi include; Trakkers Tavern cottages, Rushaga Gorilla lodge, Buhoma community Rest Camp, Mutanda Eco community centre among others.
How to get to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
To get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, you have a few options depending on your starting point. Bwindi is known for its population of endangered mountain gorillas and is a popular destination for gorilla trekking.
By Air:
Fly to Entebbe International Airport: Most international travellers arrive at Entebbe International Airport, located near the capital city, Kampala. Several international airlines operate flights to Entebbe.
From Entebbe to Bwindi: You can take a domestic flight from Entebbe to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrip, which are the closest airports to Bwindi. From there, you can arrange ground transportation to Bwindi, which takes approximately 1-2 hours.
By Road:
Kampala to Bwindi: If you’re already in Uganda, you can travel by road from Kampala to Bwindi. The journey takes around 8-10 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. You can hire a private vehicle with a driver or join a guided tour that includes transportation.
Many tour operators offer organized tours to Bwindi that include transportation, accommodation, and gorilla trekking permits. These tours often start from Kampala or Entebbe and provide a convenient and hassle-free way to reach Bwindi.
It’s important to note that Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is divided into different sectors, and the gorilla families are spread across these sectors. Depending on the gorilla family you wish to track, you may need to choose the appropriate sector and plan your transportation accordingly.
Additionally, it’s highly recommended to secure gorilla trekking permits in advance, as they have limited availability and are required to visit the gorillas. Permits can be obtained through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or authorized tour operators.
Before traveling, check the latest travel advisories, regulations, and requirements for entry into Uganda, as they may vary depending on the current circumstances. It’s always a good idea to consult with a travel agent or tour operator who specializes in Uganda to plan your trip effectively.