Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth and a highlight of any trip to Uganda. The main attraction is gorilla trekking, where visitors have the rare opportunity to observe nearly half of the world's mountain gorilla population in their natural habitat. The park consists of steep mountains and deep valleys covered with impenetrable rainforest. Besides gorillas, the forest is home to over 120 mammal species and hundreds of bird species, making it a paradise for nature photographers. The hikes are physically demanding, but meeting the 'gentle giants' is a life-changing experience. Local cuisine provides specialties like matooke (cooking bananas). The best time to visit is during the dry seasons from June to August and December to February. Access is usually via long drives from Kampala or by domestic flight to the nearby Kihihi airstrip.

Nearby cities

Kisoro

Kisoro is a significant city in Uganda, known for its vibrant culture and economic importance in the region.

Buhoma

The primary gateway for mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, surrounded by dense rainforest.

Lake Mutanda

A picturesque freshwater lake framed by the majestic Virunga Volcanoes, offering absolute tranquility.

Rutshuru

Rutshuru is located in a fertile volcanic region north of Goma in North Kivu.

Rukungiri

Rukungiri is a significant city in Uganda, known for its vibrant culture and economic importance in the region.

Kabale

Kabale is a significant city in Uganda, known for its vibrant culture and economic importance in the region.

Burera

The administrative center of a northwestern district, located right next to the spectacular twin lakes and nearby volcanoes.

Kinigi

This base camp for tourists is located right next to the Volcanoes National Park and benefits massively from ecotourism.

Rwaza

An important historical place in the north, looking back on a long mission history and the construction of old churches.

Gatuna

The busiest border crossing to Uganda, which handles a large part of the national imports via the Northern Corridor.

History & landmarks

Ruhengeri Cathedral

The main cathedral of the Diocese of Ruhengeri in the city of Musanze, a major hub for gorilla trekking tourists.

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Kerzaz

Kerzaz is an oasis town in the Saoura valley, known for its palm groves and the historic ksar.

Nature

Lake Bunyonyi

A scenic crater lake in southwestern Uganda.

Lake Burera

A picturesque lake near the Virunga volcanoes.

Lake Ruhondo

Twin lake to Lake Burera, known for its peaceful nature.

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Isasha River

A river forming the border between Uganda and Congo.

Mukungwa River

An important river that originates from Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo.

More places

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Kinyara Sugar Works

A major sugar producer in western Uganda, making a significant contribution to the local economy.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site and sanctuary for mountain gorillas.

Wambe Forest

A protected forest area near Bwindi National Park.

Highland Potato Farms

Cultivation of potatoes in the cool highland regions.

Bwindi Forest

An UNESCO World Heritage rainforest famous for its mountain gorillas.

Kigezi Highlands

A hilly mountain region in the southwest, known for terraced farming.

Kigezi Terraces

Artificially created slopes in the hilly landscape of the southwest.

Mount Muhavura

A prominent volcano in the Virunga Mountains.