Bwindi Impenetrable National Park lies in southwestern Uganda on the edge of the Rift Valley. Its mist-covered hillsides are blanketed by one of Uganda’s oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests, which dates back over 25,000 years and contains almost 400 species of plants. More famously, this “impenetrable forest” also protects an estimated 400 mountain gorillas – roughly half of the world’s population, including several habituated groups, which can be tracked. This biologically diverse region also provides shelter to a further 120 mammals, including several primate species such as baboons and chimpanzees, as well as elephants and antelopes. There are around 350 species of birds hosted in this forest, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics. The neighboring towns of Buhoma and Nkuringo both have an impressive array of luxury lodges, rustic bandas and budget campsites, as well as restaurants, craft stalls and guiding services. Opportunities abound to discover the local Bakiga and Batwa Pygmy cultures through performances, workshops and village walks.
Overview
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a protected area located in southwestern Uganda, in the district of Kanungu. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to one of the world’s last remaining populations of mountain gorillas. The park covers an area of 331 square kilometers and is named after the Bwindi forest, which is one of the most biologically diverse forests in Africa.
In addition to mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to many other species of primates, including chimpanzees, baboons, and colobus monkeys. It is also home to over 350 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.
