Hitting the Hiking Trails in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Hiking Trails for the Outdoor Enthusiast
In 2019 CNN placed Bwindi Impenetrable Forest on its best Hiking Trails in the World list.
Hitting the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Hiking Trails has become popular with Visitors to Uganda and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This ancient Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is perfect for Hikers, Birders, and Nature Enthusiasts.
Extend your time beyond Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest on one of its many trails, or take one of the two paths from one end of the Park to the other.
One of the best ways to discover Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is by hitting the hiking trails and Nature Walks. You will find a diversity of Flora and Fauna that is quite different from what you are used to in your part of the World.
Local people have used some of these trails in the Forest for hundreds of years, others for thousands, such as the First People of the Forest – The Batwa Pygmy People, who left a low ecological footprint behind them.
Hitting the Hiking Trails – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is known for Mountain Gorilla Tracking. Beyond Gorillas, visitors discover the hikes and nature walks, trails that cross this ancient Forest, also known as Africa’s number one birding site.
Most Bwindi Impenetrable Fores
t Hiking Trails and Nature walks are easy to moderate effort Trails, and a few are demanding and more of a challenge.
CNN puts Bwindi Impenetrable Forest on its “Best Hiking Trails in the World” List:
In 2019, CNN included Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in its list of the best hiking trails in the world.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest was recognized for its exceptional biodiversity and the opportunity it offers for visitors to hike through dense tropical rainforests and observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The article described the forest as “a place of rare and precious beauty” and praised the gorilla trekking experience as a “humbling and unforgettable” encounter with one of the world’s most endangered species.
Including Bwindi Impenetrable Forest on CNN’s list highlights the growing popularity of sustainable and responsible tourism, which prioritizes conservation and community development while providing visitors with unique and immersive experiences, such as hitting the trails in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
What you might see while hiking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:
While walking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, you can expect to see diverse flora and fauna. Here are some of the highlights:
Mountain Gorillas while Gorilla Trekking: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, an endangered species. You can participate in guided gorilla treks to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
- Other Primates: The forest is also home to several species of primates, including chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys.
- Birds: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 350 species of birds, including several endemic species, such as the African green broadbill, the yellow-eyed black flycatcher, and the African emerald cuckoo.
- Butterflies: The forest is home to over 200, including several rare and endemic species.
- Plants: The forest is known for its exceptional biodiversity, with over 1,000 species of plants, including several endemic species such as the African yellowwood and the brown mahogany. Additionally, you may come across Bamboo forests and Afro-Montane Plants.
- Scenic Views: The forest’s rugged terrain and dense vegetation offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the Virunga and Rwenzori Mountains. CNN named Bwindi Impenetrable Forest the most beautiful place in the world.
It’s important to note that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, as the animals are free to roam and hide in the dense forest vegetation. However, the forest’s exceptional biodiversity and unique ecosystem make it an unforgettable hiking destination.
The Best Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Hiking Trails
Please Note: Hikes within Bwindi Impenetrable Forest incur park entrance fees unless the hike is on the same day you are gorilla Trekking. On all Hikes, you will need a local guide or park ranger. Daily Parke entrance is $40 plus guide or ranger fees.
1. The Gorilla Trek Hiking Experience:
The most popular hike in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is the Gorilla Trek. There is no Gorilla Trail in the forest, and often a trail has to be hacked through thick vegetation. The hike to and from a Gorilla Family encounter is usually three-to-five-hour long.
You might be surprised to see the Gorilla Trek on the list of best hiking trails in Bwindi, but without a doubt, Gorilla Trekking is the number one hiking experience in the park.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is renowned for its gorilla trekking opportunities, offering a chance to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Here are the main gorilla hiking trails in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:
- Buhoma Sector: Located in the northern part of Bwindi, the Buhoma Sector is one of the most popular areas for
gorilla trekking. It offers multiple gorilla groups available for tracking, including the Mubare, Habinyanja, and Rushegura groups. The trekking experience in Buhoma takes you through lush vegetation and beautiful scenery.
- Ruhija Sector: Situated in the eastern part of Bwindi, the Ruhija sector offers gorilla trekking experiences to the Bitukura and Oruzogo gorilla groups. The hike in Ruhija involves traversing bamboo forests and enjoying stunning landscape views. This sector is also known for its diverse birdlife, making it an excellent option for birdwatchers.
- Rushaga Sector: Found in the southern part of Bwindi, the Rushaga sector is known for its numerous gorilla families available for tracking, including the Nshongi, Mishaya, and Bweza groups. The hiking terrain in Rushaga can be pretty challenging, with steep slopes and thick undergrowth, but the experience is enriching.
- Nkuringo Sector: Located in the southern part of Bwindi, the Nkuringo sector is famous for its Nkuringo gorilla group. The hike in Nkuringo offers stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes and the beautiful landscapes of Bwindi. It is considered a challenging trek, but the encounter with the gorillas makes it well worth it.
Gorilla Trekking Hikes can vary in duration and difficulty, depending on the gorilla groups’ location and behavior. Professional guides and trackers accompany visitors to ensure their safety and provide informative experiences while minimizing disturbance to the gorillas and their environment.
2. Hiking through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and beyond:
The Hike through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest can be one day, or you can take the longer hike from the north of Bwindi to the South – called Nkuringo- where one can stay overnight. The next day, down to scenic Lake Mutanda, you paddle across in a wooden dugout and proceed to the town of Kisoro.
This hike from north to South through Bwindi, Impenetrable Forest, or reversed from Nkuringo to Buhoa, is a most rewarding yet challenging hiking experience.
Two variations are described below – the Ivy River Trail being one and Kashasha River Trail being the other. Both trails through the park are listed below.
Hiking through the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a one-day hike – the two-day hike and dugout canoe trip across Lake Mutanda add to the adventure. One can also track Gorillas at both ends of the Park – Buhoma and Nkuringo.
The Ivy River Trail through the Forest
This Trail follows an old road through the Forest – A full day’s hike with elevation gain and only a most fabulous experience – we have had clients take this Trail after tracking gorillas at Buhoma and then reaching Nkuringo.
It is a scenic route – viewpoints, monkeys, bush pigs, butterflies, birds, villagers on the road, or coming from the market. This Trail can also be taken from Nkuringo to Buhoma.
Where does one start – Buhoma or Nkuringo? The best is probably Buhoma and hike to Nkuringo – stay overnight – track Gorillas the next day, and, on the following day, continue to Lake Mutanda and the town of Kisoro.
(6 1/2 to 7 1/2 hours in length –the difficulty level – is moderate – Location –the beginning of this hike is either Buhoma or Nkuringo)
Kashasha River Trail through the Forest:
This Trail is 4 to 5 hours in length. Once again, you see the ancient Rainforest up close – this Trail involves steeper inclines – especially if you take the Buhoma to Nkuringo route – it is 600 meters up at the end of the Trail – your guides will point out the wildlife and the birds, plants, flowers, ferns, and trees.
The views along this Trail are most stunning. Amazingly going by vehicle from Buhoma to Nkuringo takes 7 hours plus and is much shorter than taking the Kashasha River Trail
5 to 6 hours in length – the difficulty level – is moderate – The start of this hike is either the Buhoma or Nkuringo area of the Park.
Some claim it is more scenic, starting at Buhoma and ending in Nkuringo.
3. Muyanga Waterfall Trail-Buhoma:
The Muyanga Waterfall Trail is a popular hiking trail in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, located in the Buhoma area of the forest.
The trail is approximately 4 kilometers long and takes about 3 hours, making it a moderate hike suitable for most fitness levels.
The trail follows the Munyanga River, leading to a beautiful waterfall approximately 7 meters high. Along the way, hikers will encounter a variety of flora and fauna, including several species of primates such as chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. The forest is also home to several species of birds and butterflies.
At the trail’s end, hikers will reach the Munyanga Waterfall, surrounded by lush vegetation and rocky cliffs. Visitors can take a break at the waterfall, enjoy a picnic lunch, and enjoy the breathtaking views before returning to the starting point.
The Munyanga Waterfall Trail is a great way to experience the beauty and diversity of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest while enjoying a moderate hike. Having a guide and following the park’s rules and regulations is essential to ensure a safe and responsible hiking experience.
4. Munyanga River Trail-Buhoma Area:
This guided Trail will take you along the scenic Bizenga Creek, which joins the Munyanga River – you start at Buhoma and end up there.
An excellent trail that Birders will find most rewarding – with a superb Birding Guide at your side, you will not miss too many of the unique and endemic birds in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest species. ( 1/2 hour in length – the difficulty level is easy – Location – Buhoma Area)
It is an easy hike and brings much with it in terms of what you see in the Forest – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the reason it is so is that it has so much to offer.
Muzabajiro Loop Trail-Buhoma:
The Muzabajiro Loop Trail is a challenging hiking trail in the Buhoma area of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The course is approximately 6 kilometers long and takes about 5 hours. It is a steep and rocky trail that requires good fitness and hiking experience.
The trail starts near the Buhoma Ranger Station and takes you through the dense forest to the top of Muzabajiro, the highest peak in the Buhoma area. Along the way, hikers will encounter a variety of flora and fauna, including several species of primates such as chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. The forest is also home to several species of birds and butterflies.
The trail’s highlight is the panoramic views from the top of Muzabajiro, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Virunga Mountains and Lake Edward. Hikers can take a break at the top, enjoy a picnic lunch, and enjoy the breathtaking views before returning to the starting point.
The Muzabajiro Loop Trail is a great way to challenge yourself with a strenuous hike while experiencing the beauty and diversity of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Having a guide and following the park’s rules and regulations is essential to ensure a safe and responsible hiking experience.
Rushura Hill Trail:
The Rushura Hill Trail is a relatively easy hiking trail in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in the Buhoma area. The course is approximately 5 kilometers long and takes about 3 hours. It is an excellent option for those who want to experience the beauty of the forest without undertaking a strenuous hike.
The trail starts near the Buhoma Ranger Station and takes you through the forest to the top of Rushura Hill. Along the way, hikers will encounter a variety of flora and fauna, including several species of primates such as chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. The forest is also home to several species of birds and butterflies.
The trail’s highlight is the panoramic views from the top of Rushura Hill, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Virunga Mountains and Lake Edward. Hikers can take a break at the top, enjoy a picnic lunch, and enjoy the breathtaking views before returning to the starting point.
The Rushura Hill Trail is a great way to experience the beauty and diversity of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest while enjoying a relatively easy hike. Having a guide and following the park’s rules and regulations is essential to ensure a safe and responsible hiking experience.
Bamboo Trail:
The Bamboo Trail is a popular hiking trail in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, located in the Ruhija area of the forest. The course is approximately 10 kilometers long and takes about 6 hours. It is a moderate hike that is suitable for most fitness levels.
The trail starts near the Ruhija Gorilla Trekking Centre. It takes you through the dense bamboo forest to the Mubwindi Swamp, home to several species of birds, including the African Green Broadbill and the Grauer’s Swamp Warbler. Along the way, hikers will encounter a variety of flora and fauna, including several species of primates such as chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys.
The trail’s highlight is the stunning views of the forest canopy and the surrounding landscape, including the Virunga Mountains and Lake Edward. Hikers can take a break at the top, enjoy a picnic lunch, and enjoy the breathtaking views before returning to the starting point.
The Bamboo Trail is a great way to experience the beauty and diversity of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest while enjoying a moderate hike. You will have a guide and follow the park’s rules and regulations to ensure a safe and responsible hiking experience.
Mubwindi Swamp Trail:
The Mubwindi Swamp Trail is a popular hiking trail in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, located in the Ruhija area of the forest. The course is approximately 5 kilometers long and takes about 3 hours. It is a moderate hike that is suitable for most fitness levels.
The trail starts near the Ruhija Gorilla Trekking Centre and takes you through the dense forest to the Mubwindi Swamp, a birdwatcher haven. The swamp is home to several species of birds, including the African Green Broadbill, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, and the Handsome Francolin. Along the way, hikers will encounter a variety of flora and fauna, including several species of primates such as chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys.
The trail’s highlight is the opportunity to spot some of the rarest birds in the forest, including the African Green Broadbill, only found in this part of the world. Hikers can take a break at the swamp, enjoy a picnic lunch, and enjoy the serene surroundings before returning to the starting point.
The Mubwindi Swamp Trail is a great way to experience the beauty and diversity of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest while enjoying a moderate hike. Having a guide and following the park’s rules and regulations is essential to ensure a safe and responsible hiking experience. Additionally, birdwatchers should bring binoculars and a birding field guide for the best experience.
Hiking Wear and Gear:
Here is practical advice for wearing while hiking and climbing in Uganda. The key is to dress right for the Hike, for the activity ahead of you. Most of our Hikes and Climbs are daily activities, not overnight, like climbing the Rwenzori Mountains or Mount Elgonj.
Hiking Wear and Gear you will need:
- Daypack: Preferably a waterproof daypack, you can use it as a carry-on flying to Uganda. Pack all essentials inside the daypack.
- Hiking Boots: Make sure that they have good treads on them. You will need ankle support, something boots give you and give you reactions on muddy trails. Have a good pair of merino wool socks.
- Long Trouser: They will protect you from nettles and thorns. Tuck the trousers into your socks for added protection from ants.
- Long-Sleeved Shirt: Neutral in color. Again, this is for your comfort and protection.
- Rain Jacket or Poncho: Pack into your daypack. You never know when it will train. You are in an Afro-montane Rainforest.
- Tough Gardening Gloves: This protects your hands from thorns, nettles, and sharp branches.
- Wide Brimmed Hat: It gives you protection from the Sun.
- Camera Equipment – Binoculars: Ensure extra batteries and storage devices. Put them into Ziploc bags. Binoculars are not needed if you are not a birder.
- Packed Lunch and Bottled Water: You will need your lunch from the Lodge and two liters of bottled water.
- Insect Repellent – Sun Lotion – Sunglasses: We recommend the effective Australian RID Insect Repellent. Good Sun
- You will need a Porter and Walking Stick: The services of a porter free you on the often-difficult trail, and a local walking stick helps you and steadies you on the often-challenging path. We supply our clients with the bottled water and facial protective masks required for the actual encounter with the Gentle Giants.
Read more about Hiking Wear and Gear.
What level of fitness is required for hikes and climbs?
The level for most day-hike climbs of Volcanoes takes a moderate fitness level. Some prepare for long gorilla treks, hikes, and rises by running, working out, and losing weight.
We will not put you on an extreme hike but have ensured that moderately fit visitors to Uganda and Rwanda can complete their walk or climb.
The longest Volcano Climb in one day can be up to 10 hours long. It is not the most challenging hike climb but one of the longest.
There is also the altitude gained, and some people suffer from shortness of breath not being used to hiking in mountainous regions.
We suggest that before coming on a Safari in Uganda that includes hitting the trails in Uganda, you might do some preparatory hikes in your country. We have a page about Gor
Hiking Tips and Advice:
Hiking and Nature Walk in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest require some preparation, wearing suitable clothing, boots, shoes more.
Preparing for a hike or nature walk will make it much more rewarding. We can also help you if you have any questions about Bwindi Forest. We would also love to help you create an itinerary that includes gorilla tracking and other activities such as those outlined above, and a hike in or through the Forest might be proper for you.
Hiking in Uganda is different from what you are used to – many hikes are in the diverse Rainforest – the altitude is higher, and in most cases, it is not hot due to the elevation of the Park. Read more here.
