Africa · Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Home to half the world's remaining mountain gorillas — Africa's most profound wildlife encounter in a UNESCO World Heritage forest draped in perpetual mist.

About Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest sits on the edge of the Albertine Rift in southwestern Uganda, a 321 km² ancient montane forest that has been continuously forested for over 25,000 years. It shelters roughly 459 of the estimated 1,063 mountain gorillas left on earth — the single highest concentration anywhere — making it the undisputed capital of gorilla trekking in Africa. The forest is also extraordinarily rich in other wildlife: 120 mammal species, 348 bird species (including 23 Albertine Rift endemics), 220 butterfly species, and 310 plant species. A gorilla permit grants one hour in the presence of a habituated gorilla family, an encounter that travellers consistently describe as one of the most moving experiences of their lives.

Highlights

Home to ~459 mountain gorillas — half the world population
UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994
23 Albertine Rift endemic bird species
Four gorilla trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, Nkuringo
Batwa cultural experiences with indigenous forest people
Ancient forest up to 25,000 years old

Best Time to Visit

June–August and December–February offer the driest, most comfortable trekking conditions. The forest is accessible year-round but Jun–Aug is peak season.

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Weather & Seasons

Bwindi sits at 1,160–2,607m altitude giving it a cool, misty highland climate. Rainfall is high year-round due to the ancient forest; the two drier windows are June–August and December–February.

Ideal

Dry Season 1

Jun – Aug

12–23°C

Best trekking window. Trails are firmer, gorilla groups easier to follow, and the forest is atmospheric but passable. Peak demand — book permits 3–6 months in advance.

Ideal