Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bwindi is world-renowned for its critically endangered mountain gorillas, offering unparalleled gorilla trekking...

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park at a Glance

Location
Southwestern Uganda (Gorillas & Mountains), Uganda, East Africa
Coordinates
-1.003723, 29.710772
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
High
Best Time to Visit
June to September and December to February (dry seasons) for gorilla trekking and wildlife.

Safari Activities in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

  • Gorilla Tracking
  • Batwa Experience

Getting to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Nearest airport: Gangara, 525 km away.

Weather & Climate in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The warmest temperatures in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park occur in February, averaging 19.2°C (up to 24.0°C). The coolest conditions are in November at 17.6°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in January with average rainfall of 72.0mm. Average humidity: 74.8%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 18.4°C (rainfall: 72.0mm)
  • February: 19.2°C (rainfall: 74.9mm)
  • March: 18.9°C (rainfall: 195.7mm)
  • April: 18.5°C (rainfall: 289.6mm)
  • May: 18.5°C (rainfall: 201.6mm)
  • June: 18.4°C (rainfall: 95.5mm)
  • July: 18.6°C (rainfall: 90.2mm)
  • August: 18.3°C (rainfall: 204.8mm)
  • September: 17.9°C (rainfall: 322.0mm)
  • October: 18.0°C (rainfall: 324.4mm)
  • November: 17.6°C (rainfall: 300.7mm)
  • December: 17.9°C (rainfall: 177.9mm)

Best Time to Visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The best months to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are July, January, February, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 18.45°C, rainfall 72mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 74.8%
  • February: Good, temperature 19.22°C, rainfall 74.9mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 71.7%
  • March: Good, temperature 18.95°C, rainfall 195.7mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 76.4%
  • April: Good, temperature 18.47°C, rainfall 289.6mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 81.2%
  • May: Good, temperature 18.54°C, rainfall 201.6mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 79.4%
  • June: Good, temperature 18.43°C, rainfall 95.5mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 71.6%
  • July: Great, temperature 18.57°C, rainfall 90.2mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 67.2%
  • August: Good, temperature 18.28°C, rainfall 204.8mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 76.1%
  • September: Poor, temperature 17.89°C, rainfall 322mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 82.6%
  • October: Good, temperature 18.04°C, rainfall 324.4mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 82.5%
  • November: Poor, temperature 17.61°C, rainfall 300.7mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 84.3%
  • December: Good, temperature 17.87°C, rainfall 177.9mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 81.3%

Wildlife in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Home to 73 recorded species including 42 iconic birds, 14 waterbirds, 13 birds of prey, 3 primates, 1 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Based on average temperature of 18.4°C, typical conditions, humidity 77%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 18°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

38 safari lodges available.

Other

ultra-luxury

luxury

Similar Parks in Southwestern Uganda (Gorillas & Mountains)

Visitor Tips - Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The sheer privilege of spending an hour with Bwindi's mountain gorillas is an unparalleled wildlife encounter. We find the deep emerald hues of the impenetrable forest, coupled with the profound gaze of a silverback, creates a memory that feels both ancient and intensely personal. It's a journey into the heart of wild Uganda that truly transforms.

Gate Times

Bwindi doesn't operate with traditional gate times; instead, gorilla trekking briefings typically commence around 7:30 AM. We strongly recommend securing your gorilla permits many months in advance, as they are strictly limited and essential for entry. There are no seasonal variations in these timings, but permits are always in high demand.

Tipping

Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated by the dedicated teams. For your gorilla trekking team, we suggest around $15-20 USD for your lead guide, $10-15 USD for trackers, and $10-15 USD for porters per day. Lodge staff can be tipped collectively in a communal box, perhaps $5-10 USD per guest per day. We always recommend tipping in local currency (Ugandan Shillings) or clean, small denomination US Dollars.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Uganda

Travel advisory for Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park FAQs

What is the best time of year to go gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

The ideal time for gorilla trekking in Bwindi is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February. During these months, the forest trails are less muddy and slippery, making the trek more manageable and enjoyable. While trekking is possible year-round, the wet seasons can present more challenging conditions.

How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost for Bwindi and how far in advance should I book?

A gorilla trekking permit for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park currently costs $800 USD for foreign non-residents. Due to high demand and limited availability (only 8 permits per gorilla family per day), it is highly recommended to book your permit at least 6-12 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during peak season.

What level of physical fitness is required for gorilla trekking in Bwindi's dense rainforest?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi can be physically demanding, involving hiking through steep, muddy, and sometimes dense vegetation for several hours. A moderate to good level of fitness is recommended, as treks can range from 2 to 8 hours depending on the gorillas' location. Porters are available for hire to assist with bags and offer support on challenging terrain.

Beyond mountain gorillas, what other unique wildlife can I hope to encounter in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

While gorillas are the main draw, Bwindi is a biodiversity hotspot home to several other unique species. You might spot other primates like chimpanzees, L'Hoest's monkeys, or black-and-white colobus monkeys, and it's a prime location for birdwatching with over 350 species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics. The park also boasts an incredible array of butterflies and various forest antelopes.

What are the accommodation options like near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and how do I choose the right one?

Accommodation near Bwindi ranges from luxury lodges to mid-range and budget camps, catering to various preferences and budgets. It's crucial to choose accommodation close to your assigned trekking sector (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, or Nkuringo) to avoid long transfers on the morning of your trek. Most lodges offer full-board packages and can assist with transport arrangements.

Recommended Books

  • Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa by Chris & Mathilde Stuart - Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe - Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Lonely Planet East Africa by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon - Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide) by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking - Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Bradt Guide: Uganda by Philip Briggs - The definitive guide to Uganda - gorilla trekking, Queen Elizabeth NP, Murchison Falls, and chimp tracking. Detailed practical information from Africa's leading guidebook author.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.