Known as "The Place of Darkness” due to its dense treetops!Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
What and Where is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?
The Bwindi impenetrable national park is a tropical rain forest found in the southwestern part of Uganda. It is in Kanungu district, near Kanungu town on three hundred and thirty kilometers of land. The park has four sectors for gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation. These include Nkuringo, Buhoma, Rushaga, and Ruhija. The forest lies close to the Democratic Republic of Congo border near another national park called Virunga and Albertine rift. The national park was established in the year nineteen ninety and is under the management of Uganda wildlife authority. Endangered animals, plants, and even insect species are preserved here to ensure continuity of the species.
What Makes Bwindi impenetrable National Park Unique?
This impenetrable national park is known for its species diversity and home to the majestic mountain gorillas. The park is inhabited by about 600 mountain gorillas which make up almost half of all the mountain gorillas in the world. Mountain Gorillas trekking in the Bwindi Forest attracts many travelers from different parts of the world.
About two hundred and twenty butterfly species, one hundred and twenty mammal species, and three hundred and forty-eight species of birds have a habitat in this forest. Small animals like chameleons, geckos, and frogs reside in this natural habitat too.
The famous brown mahogany and brazzeia longipedicellata tree species are preserved here. The mahogany tree is known from ancient ages for the excellent decoration and sturdy furniture’s made from it. There are more than a thousand flowering plant species,100 species of ferns, and 160 tree species.
The mammal family consisting of chimpanzees and monkeys have a sanctuary at the park. Carnivores like African golden cat, African civet, and side-striped jackal are also found in this forest.
Why Visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?
There are various reasons why this destination is the best tourist attraction site for many. Bwindi is among the best places to visit in Africa and has been ranked as one of the world’s number one primary mountain gorilla trekking destination. This place has a fantastic climate with a green cover and was declared by UNESCO as a world heritage site due to its incredible biodiversity and is home to a larger number of endangered species.
The park is a habitat for approximately half of the total gorilla population with 35 known gorilla groups. Making gorilla trekking the most ranked activity when visiting Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Herbs, shrubs, and vines have densely grown in the area, making the place a suitable habitat for the gorillas. Trekking permits should always be acquired in advance due to the laws to help save on time.
When is The Best Time to Visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?
Travelers can visit the park any time during the year, although conditions in the park are more difficult during the rainy season. The best time to visit for gorilla trekking and wildlife game viewing is during the dry season between June to September and December to February.
What Activities Can You Do in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?
The Bwindi national park has various activities that go around, which include gorilla tracking, hiking on the hills and mountains Buhoma community cultural tours, cycling, and bird watching in the park.
- Gorilla Habituation Experience/Gorilla trekking– This is a one of a kind experience to see these magnificent mountain gorillas in their habitat.
- Mountain Bike Rides in Buhoma– Take a bike ride through the Ivy River Trail or go on a birding bike ride with a well-trained guide
- Buhoma Village Walk- Take a guided cultural walk through the village where you will learn the culture and traditions of the people.
- Hiking through the forest- Hiking is one of the best ways to enjoy the forest. During the nature hike, you will encounter different butterflies and even see various tree species. Some of the places to go during the hike include Muyanga waterfall, Rushura hill walk Muzubijiro loop trail, among others.
