What are the sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

November 15, 2024
Bwindi, Gorilla trekking, Gorillas, Uganda, Uganda Safari

What are the sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park? Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda is divided into four main sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each sector serves as a starting point for gorilla trekking and offers unique features, landscapes, and experiences. Here’s a detailed guide to each sector:

Buhoma Sector

Location: Northwestern part of Bwindi.
Accessibility: Easily accessible from Kampala/Entebbe via the northern route through Kabale or Kihihi Airstrip.
Key Features:
- The first sector to be developed for gorilla trekking.
- Known for its gentle terrain, making it a popular choice for first-time trekkers.
- Offers a rich variety of activities beyond gorilla trekking.
Gorilla Families:
- Mubare – The first habituated family in Bwindi.
- Rushegura – A large and relatively calm family.
- Habinyanja – Known for its size and dynamic interactions.
Activities:
- Gorilla trekking.
- Forest walks and birding.
- Community and cultural tours, including the Batwa Experience.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Mahogany Springs Lodge.
- Mid-range: Buhoma Lodge.
- Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp.

Ruhija Sector

Location: Eastern part of Bwindi.
Accessibility: Best accessed via Kabale or from Buhoma. Road conditions can be challenging during rainy seasons.
Key Features:
- Known for its cooler climate due to its higher altitude.
- Offers stunning views of the Bwindi forest canopy and surrounding landscapes.
Gorilla Families:
- Bitukura – Named after a river where the family was first spotted.
- Oruzogo – Known for its playful juveniles.
- Kyaguriro – Previously reserved for research but now open to trekkers.
Activities:
- Gorilla trekking.
- Bird watching (a haven for Albertine Rift endemics).
- Nature walks.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge.
- Mid-range: Gorilla Mist Camp.
- Budget: Trekkers Tavern Cottages.

Rushaga Sector

Location: Southern part of Bwindi.
Accessibility: Easily accessed from Kisoro town or Kigali, Rwanda (a short drive from the Cyanika border).
Key Features:
- Offers the highest number of habituated gorilla families.
- Popular for its gorilla habituation experience, which allows visitors to spend up to four hours with gorillas.
Gorilla Families:
- Nshongi – One of the largest habituated families.
- Mishaya – Known for its adventurous silverback.
- Bweza, Kahungye, Busingye, and Kutu.
Activities:
- Gorilla trekking.
- Gorilla habituation experience.
- Community and cultural visits.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.
- Mid-range: Gorilla Valley Lodge.
- Budget: Nshongi Camp.

Nkuringo Sector

Location: Southwestern part of Bwindi.
Accessibility: Best accessed from Kisoro town or Kigali. The terrain is steep and challenging but offers incredible views.
Key Features:
- Known for its steep terrain, offering a more challenging trekking experience.
- Provides breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes and the Albertine Rift Valley.
Gorilla Families:
- Nkuringo – One of the most famous families in Bwindi.
- Christmas – Named after its dominant silverback.
- Bushaho – A newly habituated family.
Activities:
- Gorilla trekking.
- Forest walks to Buhoma (the famous Buhoma-Nkuringo trail).
- Village walks and cultural experiences.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.
- Mid-range: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge.
- Budget: Nkuringo Backpackers Lodge.

Choosing a Sector

For easy access and diverse activities: Buhoma.
For scenic landscapes and birding: Ruhija.
For habituation experience and more families: Rushaga.
For challenging treks and stunning views: Nkuringo.

Each sector offers a unique experience, and your choice may depend on your physical fitness, interest in other activities, and accommodation preferences. Panning for your gorilla trekking in Uganda, Adventure in the Wild safaris is your number one choice travel partner. Contact us and lets make your dream come true.