Established
1991
Size
331 km²
Elevation
1,160–2,607 m
Ecosystem
Montane Rainforest
Best Time
June – September, December – February
Entry Fee
$700 per gorilla permit
About Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's most important mountain gorilla sanctuary, home to approximately half of all remaining mountain gorillas. This ancient rainforest — one of the oldest and most biologically diverse in Africa — drapes the steep hillsides of southwestern Uganda in an impenetrable tangle of vines, ferns, and towering trees. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is more physically challenging than Rwanda due to steeper terrain, but the experience is equally life-changing and significantly more affordable ($700 vs $1,500 for a permit). The forest supports 120 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 220 butterfly species.
What Makes It Special
Half the world's mountain gorillas
UNESCO World Heritage Site
$700 gorilla permits (vs $1,500 Rwanda)
Gorilla habituation experience
Batwa pygmy cultural heritage
Wildlife & Species
Things to Do
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
Best wildlife viewing
JunJulAugSep
Shoulder Season
Fewer crowds, good value
DecJanFeb
Green Season
Lush landscapes, birding
MarAprMayOctNov
Where to Stay
Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp
Ultra-LuxuryLuxury tented camp in the heart of the forest with gorillas visiting the camp grounds.
From $1,000/night / night
Buhoma Lodge
LuxuryCommunity-owned lodge at Buhoma trailhead with forest-view cottages.
From $400/night / night
Bwindi Backpackers
BudgetBasic but clean accommodation near Buhoma with helpful gorilla trek logistics.
From $50/night / night
Safari Packages
3-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trek
Life-changing hour with a mountain gorilla family in Uganda's ancient forest