A magnificent verdant swathe across the steep ridges of the Albertine Rift Valley, this ancient rainforest – one of the few in Africa to have flourished throughout the last Ice Age – is home to roughly half of the world’s mountain gorillas
The vegetation, as the park’s name implies, is composed of tropical rainforest with dense undergrowth. This rugged terrain makes hiking in search of gorilla strenuous work. Visitors who trek should be prepared for up to 8 hours of hiking. Good physical condition is required. A maximum of only 6 permits per day are available for advance booking, so confirmation 4-12 months in advance is required to avoid disappointment.
Along with the gorillas, there are nine other species of primates including chimpanzee, blue monkey, redtail monkey, L’hoest’s monkey, black and white colobus, potto, Demidoff’s and needle-clawed galago.Three hundred forty-seven species of birds have been recorded in Bwindi; seven species are listed as endangered. Species of particular interest include the Kivu ground thrush, white-bellied robin chat, red-throated alethe, collared apallis, short-tailed warbler, yellow-eyed black flycatcher, Rwenzori batis, blue-headed sunbird, strange weaver and the Shelley’s crimsonwing. Over 200 species of butterflies have also been recorded here.
Area -330 km2
From Kampala :- approximate distance 560 kms, estimated driving time: 8-10 hrs