How long is gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda
September 18, 2022
How long is gorilla trekking in Buhoma
September 19, 2022
How long is gorilla trekking in Ruhija sector, gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest timings and conditions vary tremendously as the gorillas move continuously through the rain forest this also determines how long and challenging the gorilla trek will be that day of your trek. It is good to be prepared and remember the weather can change with very little warning. The terrain is often steep and through areas where there are no marked paths. It can be very strenuous it may be just a couple of hours but it can also be for a full day of up to 8 hours or more of hiking in hot, high altitude conditions therefore please be prepared for this by being as fit as possible.
The distance walked during gorilla trekking can take up to more than 9 miles that is approximately 3 hours to find the gorillas, this means you will spend approximately 6 hours each way. You will set off for the gorilla trek at 8am and be back by 3pm. However kindly note this is for the normal trek, gorilla trekking sometimes can take the whole day it all depends on the nature that day and the movement of the gorillas on the forest.
About gorilla trekking in Ruhija sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Ruhija is located in the Eastern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the sector is home of 4 Gorilla families that is Bitukura family, Mukiza family, Kyaguriro family and Oruzogo family and all are available for tracking. The region stands at an elevation of over 2350 meters above sea level making it the coldest area in Bwindi. Gorilla trekking is the main activity in Ruhija, however it also offers excellent hiking opportunities and has charming trails for those interested in nature walks like the Rwamunyonyi peak. This region also offers an opportunity for those staying in Buhoma to trek gorillas here especially in high season when Buhoma gorilla permits are sold out.
Bwindi Forest National Park is one of Africa’s oldest forests with a diverse biodiversity with various species which include 350 birds, 310 butterflies, 200 trees, 51 reptiles, 88 moths and 120 mammals, the park is also home to several primates including chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkey and the major one the Mountain Gorillas. The global population of mountain gorillas is 1064 individuals and half of these can be found in Bwindi forest, the park has over 15 habituated gorilla family groups open for gorilla tracking with 8 gorilla permits allocated to each group per day.
How to get to get to Bwindi Forest for Gorilla Trekking
How far is Bwindi by Road; This will depend on which sector you will be doing your gorilla trek in Bwindi Forest; Bwindi can be accessed through the main high-way road from Entebbe/Kampala which is approximately 8-9 hours drive. The northern sectors of Ruhija and Buhoma can be accessed by turning off along the Kabale-Kisoro road you will see the sign posted of Uganda Wildlife Authority which you will follow up to the designated sector for your trek. The southern sectors of Rushaga and Nkuringo trailheads can be reached using the road turning off at Muko along Kabale-Kisoro High way.
How far is Bwindi by Air; You can fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala’s Kajjansi airfield to Kisoro airstrip to access the southern sectors of Rushaga and Nkuringo and then to Kihihi airstrip for the northern sectors of Ruhija and Buhoma. Scheduled and chartered flights are available and operated by domestic airline operators of Aero link and Fly Uganda. You will need to plan with your tour operator for a transfer from the airstrip to your Lodge you are booked for your stay.
Where is Gorilla Trekking done in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park?
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is done in 4 sectors which include Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga. Buhoma sector is located in the northern part of Bwindi and Ruhija sector in the North Eastern part of Bwindi both sectors are located close to Queen Elizabeth National Park making it easy to combine gorilla trekking with game viewing if you are trekking at these sectors. In the southern Part of Bwindi it is where Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors are located close to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for gorilla trekking and Golden monkey tracking. Each sector has different habituated mountain gorilla families open for gorilla trekking with Rushaga sector having many families compared to other sectors.
How much is Gorilla Trekking Ruhija sector in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
A Gorilla Trekking Permit of Ruhija sector costs USD700 per person per trek for Foreign Non-Residents, USD600 for East African Residents and USD70 for East African Citizens. This Gorilla permit gives you an opportunity to spend one-hour encounter with mountain gorillas in Bwindi forest once you find them on your trek.
What is the best time to go Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest?
The best time to do a gorilla trekking in Bwindi forest is during the drier months of January, February, June to early September, this is makes it easier to travel to the park and gives a clear view of gorillas given the vegetation cover is not too much high grown
What to pack for Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija sector?
During gorilla tracking in Ruhija sector you will need a comfortable, hard wearing, pair of walking shoes or boots. Conditions are generally very muddy when it is raining. There are uphill sections which may be quite steep and strenuous. It is also advisable to wear a long sleeve cotton shirt and lightweight long trousers to protect yourself from the undergrowth, stinging nettles and biting ants. Suggested Items to pack for Gorilla trekking in Bwindi include;
• Insect Repellent
• Torch/Flashlight – and Spare Batteries
• Wet Wipes
• Water Bottle
• Camera, lenses etc
• Comfortable walking/hiking boots & socks
• Gardening gloves for gorilla tracking
• Sandals/strops/walking shoes
• Hat and Sunscreen
• Rain Jacket
• Sweater/fleece
• Swimwear
• Binoculars (game/bird watching)
Where to stay during Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija sector
In Ruhija sector you can stay at Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Agandi Eco Lodge, Gift of Nature Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge, and Broadbill Tented Camp among others.
Why Book with Eco Adventure Safaris your Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija sector Bwindi
Eco Adventure Safaris will help you book your gorilla trekking permits trekking in Bwindi Forest contact us and we advise you on the booking process. We as well have different gorilla trekking safari packages ranging from budget, mid-range to luxury options that we can book for you including the gorilla permits. Feel free to check out our trip advisor reviews and read from a community of happy satisfied clients. With us, you can be rest assured of a memorable Uganda safari holiday. We are devoted to providing excellent service and customer satisfaction. Our team of excellent tour consultants is always willing to help answer all your safari questions. We guarantee you a great gorilla tour in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo with us. Contact us here for more information about How long is gorilla trekking in Ruhija sector
