Top 10 Best Activities/Things to Do in Bwindi National Park
Discover the top attractions and Things to Do in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site as you plan you Uganda safari.
When Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is mentioned, the first thought for many is of the majestic mountain gorillas.
However, this park offers an array of activities beyond the famous gorilla encounters, including gorilla trekking, gorilla habituation, Batwa cultural experiences, bird watching, and more.
Here’s a rundown of the top 10 unique things to do in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:
To 10 Things to Do in Bwindi:
Gorilla Trekking;
Bwindi is home to the largest population of mountain gorillas, attracting visitors eager for the adventure of trekking these incredible creatures. Gorilla trekking involves hiking through the park to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat while adhering to conservation guidelines.
Trekking takes place in four sectors of the park: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. The day begins early with a briefing at the park headquarters, where visitors are educated about gorilla trekking rules, conservation efforts, and safety measures. Groups of no more than eight people are then assigned a gorilla family to trek with, accompanied by armed rangers.
Upon locating a gorilla family, visitors are granted one full hour to observe these remarkable creatures as they feed, play, and interact in their environment. Afterward, trekkers return to the park headquarters and receive a certificate of completion for their gorilla trek.
To participate in gorilla trekking in Bwindi, one needs to acquire a gorilla permit, priced at USD 700 for foreign tourists, USD 600 for foreign residents of East Africa, and Uganda Shillings 250,000/- for East African citizens. Additionally, individuals must be at least 15 years old to track gorillas.
Exceptions can be made with permission from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, and participants must be free from communicable diseases to prevent any risk of transmission to the primates.
Gorilla Habituation;
In contrast to gorilla trekking, gorilla habituation offers an extended experience with the gorillas and is exclusive to Bwindi among the two gorilla parks in Uganda.
Gorilla habituation involves familiarizing wild gorilla groups with human presence.
These groups have not been designated for regular gorilla trekking and are monitored by conservationists to study their behaviors, communication, and family dynamics.
The cost of a gorilla habituation permit is USD 1,500 for foreign travelers, USD 1,000 for foreign residents, and UGx 750,000/- for East Africans.
Batwa Cultural Experience;
The Batwa pygmies, also known as the Echuya Batwa, were once inhabitants of the forests where the mountain gorillas reside. However, in the 1990s, as part of a government initiative to conserve the gorillas, the Batwa were relocated from the forests due to resource competition, which endangered both the Batwa and the gorillas.
Presently, the Batwa people live on the outskirts of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Exploring their unique lifestyle through a Batwa cultural experience offers insight into their daily lives, traditional herbal practices, hunting skills demonstrated by the youth, and captivating cultural performances.
Participating in this experience not only supports the local community but also contributes to gorilla conservation efforts, as the cultural experiences provided by the Batwa serve as an alternative to hunting.
Bird Watching;
Bwindi is among Uganda’s Important Bird Areas, offering a prime birdwatching experience. The forest hosts approximately 348 bird species, 23 of which are unique to the region.
Bird enthusiasts can spot an array of species, including the African green pigeon, African green broadbill, Red Headed Bluebill, Chapin’s flycatcher, Giant kingfisher, Shelley’s crimson-wing, and many more.
The primary birding season occurs from May to June, with abundant food attracting birds from May to September. Migratory birds also frequent Bwindi from November to April.
Boat Cruise on Lake Mutanda;
Another major attraction in Bwindi is Lake Mutanda, nestled amidst rolling hills, provides a serene escape and stunning vistas of the Virunga Volcanoes.
A boat cruise across its crystal-clear waters offers panoramic views and opportunities to spot various bird species, and occasionally, lucky travelers may even catch sight of otters and chameleons along the shoreline.
Mountain Biking;
For adventurers seeking an adrenaline rush and a different angle of exploration, mountain biking in Bwindi is one of the best things to do in Bwindi.
Ride 4 a Woman, a community support group, not only provides bike rentals but also organizes guided tours in and around the Buhoma area.
Traverse rugged terrains, pedal through dense forests, and absorb the natural beauty while supporting the local community’s initiatives.
Forest Walk/Nature Walk;
Still on the list of Things to Do in Bwindi is forest walk where you immerse yourself in the enchanting wilderness of Bwindi through a tranquil forest or nature walk.
Guided by experienced rangers, these walks offer an intimate experience with the park’s flora and fauna. Marvel at towering trees, vibrant vegetation, and the diverse wildlife that calls this UNESCO World Heritage Site home.
Keep your eyes peeled for rare sightings, from elusive primates to vibrant birdlife.
Primate Watching;
While the mountain gorillas steal the spotlight, Bwindi is also a haven for various primate species.
Embark on primate watching expeditions to encounter captivating creatures such as chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and olive baboons among others.
Expert guides lead treks through the dense forests, providing opportunities to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat.
Catch glimpses of their social behaviors, agile movements, and unique interactions, adding another layer of intrigue to your wildlife experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Community Visit – Buhoma Village Walk;
Connect with the vibrant local community of Buhoma Village and get a glimpse into their daily lives, traditions, and culture.
Engage in authentic interactions with villagers, witness traditional craftsmanship, and perhaps even participate in local activities.
Supporting these communities contributes directly to sustainable tourism and conservation efforts in the region.
Butterfly Watching;
Indulge in the mesmerizing world of butterflies within the heart of Bwindi’s rich biodiversity. The national park boasts an astonishing diversity of montane forest butterflies, housing over 200 species, including some exclusively found within its boundaries.
Delight in the kaleidoscope of colors as these delicate creatures flutter through the forest, adding an enchanting touch to your visit.
With an array of activities beyond the famed gorilla encounters, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park invites travelers to delve deeper into its natural wonders and cultural tapestry.
Those are best 10 things to do in Bwindi with each experience not only offers unforgettable moments but also contributes to the conservation of this precious ecosystem and the well-being of the local communities intertwined with its existence.
After realizing the attractions and things to do in Bwindi, here are some of other travel tips to Bwindi;
