Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in south west Uganda situated along the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Virunga National Park. The park dates back to the Pleistocene Ice Age and is considered one of the most biologically diverse forests in Africa, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The Park itself is characterised by thick mountain rainforest, often shrouded in mist, and is one of the best places in the world to experience mountain gorilla trekking.
Over half the world's population of mountain gorillas live in Bwindi and three families, Mubare, Habinyanja and Rushegura have been habituated to human presence. For many, sitting with the awe inspiring gorillas for a just a moment remains a true highlight and memory of an African trip. Given the long distances in Uganda and the time taken to reach Bwindi, those with less time, find that Rwanda and the Virunga Mountains are preferable.
Bwindi also has over 90 species of mammal, including 11 primate including good numbers of chimpanzee. The forest birding ranks with the best in Uganda, with over 350 birds recorded along with 23 highly localised Albertine Rift endemics present including the African green broadbill and the white-tailed fly catcher.
Accommodation within the park offers a selection of excellent low key, stylish eco-lodges including the excellent Bwindi Lodge, which commands spectacular and uninterrupted views of the forest, along with the more simple Buhoma lodge and the luxury Gorilla forest camp.
For more information on Bwindi or advice on wildlife tours to Uganda, please contact Chris our Uganda specialist on 01285 643 333.