How To Get To Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in the southwestern region of Uganda, near the borders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is a popular destination for tourists who wish to go for gorilla trekking, and it can be accessed by both road and air. Depending on your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences, there are several options for reaching the park.
- By Road
The most common way to get to Bwindi is by road, either from Uganda’s capital city, Kampala, or from nearby towns such as Kisoro or Kabale. While the journey can be long and the roads may be rough in certain areas, traveling by road offers flexibility, and you’ll get to experience the stunning landscapes of Uganda along the way
Though there are number of routes to take by road depending the time you have, for example those visitors who are in Queen Elisabeth national park and wish to proceed to Bwindi national park it is like 3-hour drive through Ishasha sector after seeing the tree climbing lions then one will go up to Buhoma sector. And those travelling direct from Kampala they will move up to Butogota town then continue to park headquarters which are in Buhoma and it is about 9 to 10 hours.
By Air
Those tourists who do not wish to travel for long can decide to use air transport from kajjansi airfield up to Kihihi airstrip which is the nearest airstrip to the park headquarters in Kisoro then they will be transferred to the park by car to any sector where the visitor is going to trek the gorillas
From Kigali Rwanda to Bwindi national park
Moving from Kigali to Bwindi national park it is like 4hours from Gatuna boarder, and those visitors can either access Buhoma and Ruhija. And those that use the Kyanika boarder will be accessing Nkuringo and Rushaga sector and it 4-to 5 hours.
- What to Consider When Traveling to Bwindi national park
- Road Conditions: Bwindi is located in a remote area, and some roads can be quite rough. It’s essential to travel with a well-equipped vehicle, particularly if you are going during the rainy season (from March to May).
- Weather: Bwindi is a rainforest, so rain is common, and the trekking conditions can be muddy and slippery. Make sure to pack appropriate clothing, including waterproof gear.
- Accommodation: Lodging near Bwindi varies from budget campsites to luxurious lodges. It’s highly recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Trekking Permits: Gorilla trekking permits must be booked in advance through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or a licensed tour operator. These permits are often in high demand, particularly in peak season.
Rules and regulations to follow while you are in Bwindi national park
No one is allowed in the bush to trek the gorillas when he or she is sick with communicable diseases like flu and cough and diarrhea because gorillas are like humans and can easily catch human diseases.
Flash photography is not allowed while taking pictures.
Do not eat or smoke Infront of the gorillas because gorillas may want to attack or eat can lead to spread of diseases.
Viewing time at the gorillas after trekking them and finding them is strictly one hour.
No one is allowed to go for gorilla trekking below the age of 15 if visitors have the children under the age of 15years they are always advised to wait until they are that age the Uganda wildlife authority wants in order for them to get trekking permits.
When you’re with gorillas avoid making noise or sudden movements because gorillas may think you want to attack them.
What to pack while going to Bwindi national park
Long sleeved shirts and long trousers
One needs to put on long – sleeved shits and trousers because of the thick vegetation and thorns or any thing that can prick and scratch your body.
Hiking shoes
The hiking shoes should be comfortable and well-fitting because the trekking trials some times are muddy and slippery and steep, and they should be water proof to enable easy movements.
Gardening gloves
These gloves will protect you from thorns because as you trek in the forest you need to hold some of the vegetation so that you can easily access the trials and holding tree branches.
Rain jacket
Since we all know that Uganda’s weather is un predictable. Because you will never know when it is going to rain so you need to pack the rain jacket to protect you in case it rains.
Insect repellent
It is very important to pack it because as you trek you move through a forest and there are different insects and if you smeared the insect repellent your body will be protected from insect bites.
CONCLUSION
There are several ways to get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, with the most common routes being by road from Kampala or Kigali and by air to nearby airstrips. While the journey can be long, it is undoubtedly worth the effort for the opportunity to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Whether you choose to drive or fly, planning ahead and booking your permits and accommodations in advance will ensure that your visit to this remarkable destination is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
With a careful planning and preparation, with the help of African vacation safaris, your trip to Bwindi national park for gorilla trekking tour will be a once life time experience. While on Uganda gorilla trekking tour, you will have an opportunity to see the majestic creatures in their natural habitat, and explore the stunning landscapes, cultures and create memories that will stay with you for the rest of your life.