BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK

Gorilla Trekking Permits • Rules & Ethics • Best Sectors • Packing & Health • Community Tourism • Costs & Booking Strategy

1) Why Bwindi?

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. In 2025, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) updated tariffs, strengthened conservation rules, and expanded community tourism initiatives—making Bwindi one of Africa’s most ethical and immersive wildlife destinations. [bwindiugan…ekking.com], [bwindifore…alpark.com]

2) Gorilla Trekking Permits — What You’ll Pay & Why

• Foreign Non‑Residents: US $800 per person (effective July 1, 2025).
• Foreign Residents: US $700.
• East African Citizens: UGX 300,000.
• Gorilla Habituation Experience: US $1,500 (4 hours with semi‑habituated gorillas). [bwindifore…alpark.com], [nativeafri…atours.com]

What’s included:

• One trek to a habituated gorilla family.
• One hour with gorillas (or four hours for habituation).
• Ranger/guide fees, park entry, security, and medical support. [bwindiugan…ekking.com]

Why the increase? UWA cites conservation funding: ranger recruitment, health monitoring, and community revenue‑sharing. Uganda still offers better value than Rwanda ($1,500). [bwindifore…alpark.com]

3) Booking Strategy — Avoid Permit Panic

• Daily cap: ~152 permits across Bwindi’s 25 habituated families; 8 trekkers per family per day. [tulambule.com], [bwindiugan…ekking.com]
• Lead time: Book 6–12 months ahead for peak season (June–Sept, Dec–Feb). [nextgensafaris.com]
• Channels:
  • Direct via UWA (Kampala or visas.immigration.go.ug).
  • Licensed tour operators (recommended for logistics).
  • Some lodges in Buhoma/Rushaga/Nkuringo offer booking assistance. [bwindiimpe…alpark.com], [bwindiugan…ekking.com]

4) Trekking Rules & Ethics (Non‑Negotiable)

• Age limit: 15+ years. [ovacadoadv…ntures.com]
• Group size: Max 8 visitors per gorilla family.
• Distance: Keep ≥7 meters; if gorillas approach, stay still. [trekgorill…afaris.com]
• Time: 1 hour with gorillas (starts when you reach them).
• No flash photography; keep voices low; no littering. [gorilla-permits.com]
• Health: No trekking if sick; masks may be required during outbreaks. [gorilla-permits.com]
• Don’t touch gorillas—ever.
• Follow ranger instructions; they’re trained for safety and behavior management. [nfa.org.ug]

These rules protect gorillas from stress and disease and keep visitors safe. Uganda Wildlife Authority enforces them strictly. [trekgorill…afaris.com]

5) Best Time to Go

• Dry seasons: June–Aug & Dec–Feb (easier trails, peak demand).
• Wet seasons: Mar–May & Sept–Nov (lush forest, fewer crowds, challenging hikes). [bwindiugan…afaris.com]
• Climate: Day ~22 °C; night ~12 °C; rain possible year‑round. [safaribookings.com]

6) Bwindi’s Four Trekking Sectors — Which Fits You?

Bwindi spans 321 km² and is divided into Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, Nkuringo. [bwindiugan…ekking.com]

7) Habituated Gorilla Families

Bwindi now hosts 25 habituated families across its four sectors, including new groups like Binyindo (Nkuringo) and Rwigi (Rushaga). [tulambule.com]

8) Health & Safety

• Yellow fever vaccination mandatory; carry certificate.
• Malaria prophylaxis advised; use DEET repellent.
• Fitness: Treks can last 2–6 hrs on steep, muddy terrain—train for endurance. [nfa.org.ug]

9) Packing List (Field‑Tested)

• Waterproof hiking boots + gaiters.
• Long‑sleeved shirts/pants (quick‑dry).
• Rain jacket + fleece layer.
• Gloves (for vines), hat, sunglasses.
• Daypack with rain cover, 2L water, snacks.
• Insect repellent, sunscreen, personal meds.
• Camera (flash off), spare batteries. [ugandaparks.com], [gorillatre…uganda.com]

10) Community Tourism & Sustainability

• Revenue sharing: 20% of permit fees fund schools, clinics, water projects.
• Eco‑lodges: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Mahogany Springs, Rushaga Gorilla Camp—solar power, waste recycling, local staff.
• Cultural experiences: Batwa heritage walks, craft cooperatives, village tours. [bwindiugan…ekking.com], [bwindiimpe…alpark.com]

11) Costs Beyond Permits

• Park entry (non‑trekking): US $40/day.
• Nature walks: US $30–50.
• Visa: Uganda eVisa ~US $50–100; apply at visas.immigration.go.ug. [visas.immi…tion.go.ug], [realmafric…afaris.com]

12) Sample 4‑Day Itinerary

Day 1: Fly to Kihihi airstrip → Buhoma; community walk.
Day 2: Gorilla trek (Buhoma sector); afternoon Batwa cultural visit.
Day 3: Transfer to Ruhija; birding + waterfall hike.
Day 4: Optional second trek or nature walk; return to Entebbe/Kigali.

13) Responsible Travel Checklist

• Book permits early; respect age & health rules.
• Keep voices low; no flash; no food near gorillas.
• Support local guides, porters, and crafts.
• Stay on trails; carry out all waste. [trekgorill…afaris.com]

14) FAQs

How far in advance should I book?
6–12 months for peak season; permits sell out fast. [nextgensafaris.com]

Can kids trek?
Minimum age: 15 years (rare exceptions at 14 with special approval). [ovacadoadv…ntures.com]

How long with gorillas?
1 hour (trekking) or 4 hours (habituation). [bwindiugan…ekking.com]