Home to almost half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas — fewer than 1,100 individuals survive in the wild. Trekking through Bwindi’s ancient rainforest to spend one permitted hour with a habituated gorilla family is widely described as the most profound wildlife encounter available anywhere on earth. The forest itself is extraordinarily ancient — a botanical relic that survived the last Ice Age — and harbours exceptional plant and bird diversity. Permits are strictly limited.
Ratings
Wildlife Density: ★★★☆☆ Infrastructure: ★★★☆☆ Photography: ★★★★☆
Adventure: ★★★★☆ Exclusivity: ★★★☆☆ Value for Money: ★★☆☆☆ Scenery: ★★★★★
Key wildlife: Mountain gorilla (~half the world’s population, ~550 in Bwindi), black-and-white colobus, L’Hoest’s monkey, forest elephant, giant forest hog, African golden cat (rare), 350+ birds including 23 Albertine Rift endemics
Best for: Mountain gorilla trekking, serious birdwatchers, Batwa cultural experiences, once-in-a-lifetime travelers
Best time: June–September; December–February (drier months, better trekking; gorilla trekking year-round)
More about this park will be added here over time.
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