Uganda, home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, with more than 500 out of the 1,100 gorillas that survive in the Virunga ranges, domiciled in the country while DRC, Rwanda and Uganda share the remaining 50% that roam across the three countries has proved itself as the conservation country with Bwindi Impenetrable Forest host of the endangered wildlife species.
An hour spent with gorillas is an experience that stays forever in the hearts of those who interact with the primates. Families of gorillas, led by strong silver backs like Christmas, Manyindo, and Muhoozi, live and play in the thick forest, giving a lot new experience for the visitors. Most silver backs are known for their strong spirit and watchful eyes.
A Safer, Better Experience
With human wildlife conflict keeping the two at arms-length where their interactions are often met with clashes and attacks, Uganda Wildlife Authority took an innovative approach so that the two can peacefully coexist. Through community involvement and revenue sharing arrangements with the frontier communities, the authority has managed to reduce the human-wildlife conflicts and created harmony, where locals now protect gorillas and their home.
With permit fees increasing from $700 to $800, this offers better revenue for the communities near the parks and also helps fund the conservation effort, while fight poaching. Cameras have also been placed inside the park to monitor nature and ensure gorillas live in safety.
Visitors are reminded to respect gorillas. No direct eye contact, no eating near them and no quick moves. A silverback can mistake body language for a challenge. As one guide jokes, “If you resist sharing your bottle of water or rolex, the silverback may remind you of his strength!”
The authority has continued to habituate more gorilla families and as of now, there are 23 gorilla families open for tracking. Over 170 local porters help visitors walk the steep slopes, making the journey possible for young and old alike. In fact, Charles Njonjo, Kenya’s former attorney general, trekked at the age of 98.
Another high profile visitor to the park has been Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft and chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, who is also one of the wealthiest entrepreneurs in the world.
Easier Access to Bwindi
Traveling to Bwindi is now easier than ever. Roads are improving and new airfields are opening. With the completion of Kabalega International Airport, plus upgrades at Kihihi and Kasese Airstrips, visitors can choose to come by road or by air.
Redefining Luxury in the Wild
Bwindi is not just about gorillas. It is also about luxury in the jungles. Gorilla Sanctuary has re-opened with a brand-new look. The lodge promises unmatched comfort for luxury guests only.
From its perch on the mountain, the lodge offers panoramic views of the misty forest. Guests can spend the morning trekking gorillas, then return to a world-class spa. Here, the sounds of the forest blend with soft luxury, creating moments that soothe the body and soul.
For those who love nature in its purest form, Bwindi’s greenery offers the perfect setting to fall in love again.
Meeting the Batwa People
A visit to Bwindi is also a chance to meet the Batwa people, the first inhabitants of the forest, where legend had it that they would just vanish out of sight. The Batwa lived side by side with gorillas for generations, gathering food, hunting small animals, and using forest herbs for medicine.
“We never needed money in the forest,” recalls John Nkugwa, a Batwa elder. “The forest gave us everything we wanted, food, water, shelter and herbs. But in town, you must pay for even water or a place to rest.”
The Batwa also share their spiritual beliefs. They say gorillas are like sons who disobeyed their father and were cursed. Gorillas eat like humans, use sticks to harvest ants and even show jealousy. These stories give visitors a deeper understanding of life in Bwindi.
A Journey of Purpose
Bwindi is a travel destination and a place where luxury meets conservation. Every gorilla trek helps protect the species, supports local communities and preserves one of the world’s richest forests.
Here, travelers do not just enjoy comfort. They become part of a bigger story, protecting nature, learning culture and experiencing rare moments found nowhere else.
In Bwindi, the fairytale of the forest continues and now with a touch of redefined luxury.