Discover an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in the Ruhija sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Meet four habituated gorilla families, explore scenic jungle trails, and connect with the Batwa community for an authentic Ugandan experience.
Ruhija Gorilla Trekking Experience
The Ruhija sector lies in the eastern part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. It offers a peaceful and authentic gorilla trekking experience. Unlike the busy Buhoma sector, Ruhija provides a quieter setting surrounded by misty hills and dense forest.
Bwindi has four main gorilla trekking regions — Ruhija, Buhoma, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Ruhija stands out because of its four habituated gorilla families: Mukiza, Bitukura, Oruzogo, and Kyanguriko. Each group has a unique story and offers visitors a special encounter.
Gorilla Families in Ruhija
1. Kyanguriko Gorilla Family
The Kyanguriko family was habituated in 1999. At first, it was reserved for research, but it later opened for tourism. The family now has 15 members, including two silverbacks. Tracking this group gives visitors a rewarding and active experience.
2. Bitukura Gorilla Family
Known for its calm behavior, the Bitukura family was named after the river where it was first seen by researchers. It has 13 members, among them four silverbacks — Ndahura, Rukumu, Karamuzi, and Rukara. This group is ideal for trekkers who enjoy observing peaceful gorilla interactions.
3. Mukiza Gorilla Family
The Mukiza family is one of the newest groups available for trekking. It has 10 individuals, including one silverback and several infants. Because of its small size and shorter trekking routes, this family is perfect for visitors who prefer a lighter hike.
4. Oruzogo Gorilla Family
The Oruzogo group is famous for its playful nature and energetic youngsters. Photographers often favor this family because it offers lively and memorable encounters.
Gorilla Trekking Process
Every gorilla trek begins early in the morning. At around 7:30 a.m., visitors gather at the Ruhija park headquarters for a briefing session. Rangers explain the trekking rules and assign each group a specific gorilla family.
After the briefing, trekkers set off around 8:00 a.m. with experienced guides. The hike leads through forest trails, bamboo zones, and ridges until the trackers locate the gorillas. Depending on the location, the trek lasts between two and seven hours.
Once the gorillas are found, visitors can spend one full hour observing them. You may take photos, record videos, and learn about their habits and family structures. This moment creates a lifelong memory for every traveler.
Gorilla Trekking Permits
Visitors must have a gorilla trekking permit before joining the activity.
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Foreign non-residents: USD 700 per person
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Foreign residents: USD 600 per person
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East African citizens: UGX 250,000
It is best to book permits two to five months in advance, since they sell out quickly. You can buy them through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or an approved tour operator. Early booking ensures availability and better travel planning.
Other Activities in Ruhija
Ruhija offers more than gorilla trekking. Travelers can:
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Visit the Batwa community to learn about their forest traditions.
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Enjoy birdwatching, with over 300 bird species recorded in the area.
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Take forest walks to explore Bwindi’s rich ecosystem.
These activities complement your gorilla safari and create a well-rounded travel experience.
Best Time to Visit Ruhija
You can visit Ruhija at any time of the year. However, the dry seasons — from June to September and December to February — are ideal. During these months, trails are drier and easier to navigate.
In contrast, the rainy seasons — from March to May and October to November — make the roads and forest paths muddy. Yet, these months offer lush scenery and fewer crowds, which some travelers prefer.
Where to Stay in Ruhija
Ruhija features comfortable accommodation options that suit all budgets. Popular lodges include:
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Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge
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Bakiga Lodge
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Broadbill Forest Camp
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Cuckoo Land Tented Lodge
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Trekkers Tavern
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Gift of Nature Lodge
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Ruhija Gorilla Mist Camp
These lodges provide cozy rooms, en-suite bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and restaurants serving both local and international dishes. Many of them also offer scenic views of the forest and guided walks around the area.
Final Thoughts
A Ruhija gorilla trekking safari is more than a wildlife encounter — it’s a life-changing experience. The peaceful forest, the close connection with mountain gorillas, and the warmth of the local people make Ruhija a must-visit destination in Uganda.
Plan your trip early and book your gorilla permits in advance for a smooth and memorable adventure.
