Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park covers an area of 330 square kilometres and sits at an altitude that varies between 1100 metres to 2,600 metres. With annual rainfall of up to 239 cm, it is a wet and thick forest that is home to c.325 mountain gorillas, almost half of the worlds population. It is an Afro-montane forest, beneath which a dense layer of ferns, vines and shrubs give the park its name. It has 324 recorded species of tree. As well as the gorillas it is also home to 7 other diurnal primates and over 100 other species of mammal. Add to this over 350 types of bird and 200 types of butterfly and there is an amazing variety for such a comparatively small area.

For Real Africa's video of Gorilla trekking at Bwindi Inpenetrable Forest - Click here. (Opens in new window.)

The main attraction in the Park is of course the gorillas and there are currently 4 groups open to visit, subject to the booking of permits. As only 6 permits per group per day are sold, it is vital to reserve early so that they can be acquired. Its also a good idea to get yourself into shape. The area is mountainous, the undergrowth is thick and the ground slippery. Remember, you have to go to the gorillas and not vice versa.

If you have more time than a quick visit to try to find the gorillas, there are some excellent walking and hiking trails that can be done with a guide. Especially good for bird-watchers and flora lovers, the diversity of the terrain and the sheer rugged beauty of the landscape makes it a memorable experience.