Step Inside the Wonders of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

One of the not-so-hidden tourism destination gems of Uganda is none other than Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. In fact, those who go on trips to Uganda and Africa as a whole always make sure to include this park on their bucket list in the hopes of seeing mountain gorillas and experiencing a one-of-a-kind gorilla trekking adventure. 

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is perched in southwestern Uganda’s highland region near the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda. The park is rightfully known as impenetrable, covering 321 square kilometers of thick vegetation and dense rainforest, sprinkled with numerous sparkling waterfalls and streams. If you have always dreamed of experiencing an African jungle at its finest, Bwindi is no doubt the best destination for you. 

The national park sits at a high altitude of 1,190 meters to 2,600 meters above sea level. The combination of dense forest and high altitude is responsible for the constantly chilly weather at the park. 

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s Interesting Wildlife 

It was in 1994 when Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has been declared a UNESCO heritage site due to its rich biodiversity. It serves as the home to an exciting plethora of flora and fauna that includes almost half of the Mountain Gorillas in the world. Bwindi supports more than 120 mammals, 350 species of birds, 200 species of butterflies, and 400 species of trees.

Most of the large mammals inhabiting the forest include buffaloes, forest elephants, golden cats, duikers, and more. Unfortunately, these animals might not be easy to see because of the uneven terrain of the mountain and the thickness of the forest. 

There are 11 primate species recorded in the area including baboons, black and white Colobus, De Brazza Monkey, L’Hoest Monkeys, Chimpanzees, and the rare Mountain Gorillas. 

Tourists trekking the park are also delighted by one of Bwindi’s tiny creatures, the legendary Three-horned Chameleon. 

Best Things to Do in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

If you are up for some exciting adventures, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest got so many things in store for you to try during your visit. From the famous gorilla treks to the nature walks on well-developed trails, you can look forward to exploring Bwindi’s impenetrable jungles. 

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a true outdoor paradise perfect for all wildlife watchers, outdoor lovers, photographers of different skill levels, hiking aficionados, and families on vacation. But even if gorilla trekking is the best and most popular thing to do, tourists can look forward to numerous adventure activities during their visit to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Here are some of the best things you can do at the park:

• Bird Watching

A certified paradise on earth for all birdwatchers, the national park has more than 351 bird species including 23 Albertine Rift endemics like Bar-tailed Trogon, Kivu Ground Thrush, Short-tailed Warbler, and more. 

• Gorilla Habituation

Only Bwindi offers this fascinating experience where tourists can spend up to 4 hours with a family of mountain gorillas.

• Gorilla Trekking

The true stars of the show in Bwindi are the mountain gorillas after living there since 1993. The forest has four sectors with more than 19 habituated groups, 18 of which are open for gorilla trekking, and one was reserved exclusively for research purposes. 

If you want a unique adventure, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is definitely the best place to be!