Quick Facts
About Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Peak Time
June – September & December – February
Best Time To Go
Year-round, but the dry seasons (June – September & December – February) offer the best trekking conditions
Famous For
Mountain gorilla trekking, dense rainforests, and rich biodiversity
Home Of
Over 450 mountain gorillas, 350 bird species, 120 mammal species, and unique cultural experiences
Overview
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is one of Africa’s most famous wildlife destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering 321 square kilometers, this ancient rainforest is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it the best place on Earth for gorilla trekking.
Beyond gorillas, Bwindi is a biodiversity hotspot, featuring over 120 mammal species, 350 bird species, and countless butterfly varieties. The park’s dense, mist-covered rainforest creates an atmospheric, jungle-like experience, offering an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers.
Wildlife
Bwindi’s main attraction is its mountain gorillas, but the park is also home to:
- Chimpanzees and colobus monkeys – Playful primates found in the dense canopy.
- Forest Elephants and Antelopes – Rare but occasionally spotted in the park.
- Leopards and Giant Forest Hogs – Secretive animals that inhabit the deep forest.
- Over 350 Bird Species – Including the African green broadbill, black bee-eater, and hornbills.
Gorilla Trekking Experience
The highlight of visiting Bwindi is tracking the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
- Duration: Trekking can last 2 to 8 hours, depending on the gorillas’ movement.
- Gorilla Families: The park is home to over 20 habituated gorilla families available for trekking.
- Permit Cost: Gorilla trekking permits start from $700 per person (Uganda Wildlife Authority).
- Guided Experience: Expert trackers lead visitors through dense jungle, steep slopes, and river crossings.
Seeing gorillas up close in their natural environment is one of the most emotional and unforgettable wildlife encounters in Africa.
Scenic Landscapes & Rainforests
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park features lush tropical rainforests, mist-covered mountains, and breathtaking valleys. Key scenic highlights include:
- Ruhija & Buhoma Sectors – Offering stunning panoramic views of the rainforest.
- Mubwindi Swamp – A prime location for birdwatching.
- Ivy River Trail – A scenic 14-km nature walk through thick forest.
Activities
Bwindi offers more than just gorilla trekking. Visitors can enjoy:
- Birdwatching – Spot rare Albertine Rift endemics.
- Nature Walks & Hiking – Explore trails through ancient forests.
- Cultural Tours – Visit the Batwa pygmies and learn about their traditional forest lifestyle.
- Chimpanzee Tracking – Available in nearby Kibale Forest National Park.
Inspired by What You See? Let’s Bring Your Journey to Life!
Best Time to Visit
Bwindi can be visited year-round, but the experience varies by season:
- June – September & December – February: Best for gorilla trekking, as trails are drier.
- March – May & October – November: Best for photography, as the forest is lush and less crowded.
Accommodation
Bwindi offers a range of luxury, mid-range, and budget accommodations, including:
- Luxury Lodges – Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Buhoma Lodge.
- Mid-Range Lodges – Gorilla Mist Camp, Silverback Lodge.
- Budget-Friendly Options – Community guesthouses and eco-lodges.
Why Visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi offers an unparalleled gorilla trekking experience in one of the most beautiful and biodiverse rainforests in Africa. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, adventure traveler, or nature lover, Bwindi is a must-visit destination.