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Uganda · East Africa · Gorillas

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Ancient rainforest that is home to around half of the world’s mountain gorillas.

Best timeJun to Sep, Dec to Feb
Ideal stay2 to 3 nights
GatewayEntebbe or Kigali
Month by month
  1. JAnuary (good)
  2. FEbruary (good)
  3. MArch
  4. APril
  5. MAy
  6. JUne (good)
  7. JUly (good)
  8. AUgust (good)
  9. SEptember (good)
  10. OCtober
  11. NOvember
  12. DEcember (good)

Travel advice: some regions are off-limits. Check your government’s advice for the exact areas before you book.

Bwindi is steep, dense forest, and the hour you spend with a gorilla family here is one of the most moving wildlife experiences anywhere. Uganda’s permits cost less than Rwanda’s, and there are several trekking sectors to choose from.

Mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) female eating rootMountain gorilla013 Alpha male chimpanzee at Kibale forest National Park Photo by Giles LaurentChimpanzee

Highlights

  • Gorilla trekking
  • Gorilla habituation experience (longer visit)
  • Birding for Albertine Rift endemics
  • Batwa community visits

Wildlife to look for

Where to stay

Lodges in each trekking sector (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, Nkuringo). Book your lodge in the same sector as your permit.

Getting there

Fly from Entebbe to Kihihi or Kisoro, or drive about 8 to 10 hours. From Kigali, the drive is about 4 to 5 hours.

Tips

  • Book permits months ahead through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or a licensed operator.
  • Hire a porter: it supports local families and helps on steep slopes.
  • Wear gloves, long sleeves and waterproof boots.

Best time to visit

Jun to Sep, Dec to Feb. See where to go in Africa in December and our guide to the best time to visit Africa.

Travel advice: Parts of the country are off-limits under most government travel advice. Check your government’s advice before booking.

Plan your stay

Hotels on Booking.com Tours on GetYourGuide Tours on Viator

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Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

Jun to Sep, Dec to Feb. Book permits months ahead through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or a licensed operator.

How long should I spend at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

2 to 3 nights.

How do I get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

Fly from Entebbe to Kihihi or Kisoro, or drive about 8 to 10 hours. From Kigali, the drive is about 4 to 5 hours.

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