Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Tucked away in the lush, mist-covered highlands of southwestern Uganda lies one of Africa’s most extraordinary and awe-inspiring natural wonders Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Revered worldwide as a sanctuary for the endangered mountain gorilla, Bwindi’s dense rainforest, dramatic valleys, and towering peaks offer an unforgettable safari experience unlike any other. When you explore Bwindi with Lero Safaris, you embark on a journey that is not only breathtaking but also deeply meaningful.

Why Bwindi Impenetrable National Park?

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bwindi spans approximately 331 square kilometers of ancient tropical rainforest. Its complex network of trails weaves through thick foliage, bamboo forests, and moss-covered trees, creating a sanctuary for over 400 mountain gorillas nearly half of the world’s total population.

Beyond gorillas, Bwindi is home to an impressive variety of wildlife including chimpanzees, baboons, forest elephants, duikers, and over 350 species of birds, making it a hotspot for biodiversity and a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers alike.

The Lero Safaris Experience: Expertly Guided Gorilla Encounters

At Lero Safaris, tracking mountain gorillas is much more than a safari activity it’s a profound encounter with nature and conservation. Their expert guides are certified and experienced trackers who lead you safely through the forest to observe these gentle giants at close range while minimizing disturbance to their natural behavior.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The highlight of any visit to Bwindi, gorilla trekking involves a rewarding hike through rugged terrain to find habituated gorilla families. Lero Safaris ensures you get ample time (typically one hour) to observe these magnificent creatures as they feed, play, and nurture their young moments that inspire wonder and respect.

Nature Walks and Birdwatching

Complement your gorilla trek with guided nature walks through Bwindi’s diverse habitats. Discover rare plants, orchids, and medicinal herbs while spotting elusive forest birds like the African green broadbill and black-billed turaco. Lero’s knowledgeable guides enrich these walks with insights on ecology and conservation.

Community and Conservation Engagement

Lero Safaris integrates community visits into your itinerary, connecting you with the local Batwa and Bakiga people who live alongside the forest. Learn about their traditional lifestyles, conservation efforts, and how sustainable tourism benefits both the environment and local livelihoods.

Where to Stay: Comfort Amidst the Wilderness

Lero Safaris partners with a range of lodges and camps that combine comfort with ecological sensitivity. From luxury lodges with panoramic views over the forest canopy to intimate eco-camps nestled within the park’s edge, your accommodation enhances the magic of Bwindi without compromising its fragile environment.

Sustainable Tourism and Conservation

Conservation lies at the heart of Lero Safaris’ mission. Each visit to Bwindi helps fund anti-poaching patrols, gorilla monitoring programs, and community development projects that promote environmental stewardship and cultural preservation.

Best Time of the Year to Trek Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi 

The park offers unforgettable encounters with these endangered primates. While gorilla trekking is possible throughout the year, the experience can vary greatly depending on the season, accessibility, and permit availability.

Best Months for Gorilla Trekking

Dry Seasons (June, September & December, February)

The most recommended time to trek gorillas in Bwindi is during the dry months of June to September and December to February.

Trails are less muddy, making the trek more manageable.

Weather is generally favorable, with less rain.

Better conditions for photography and enjoying the forest’s scenery.

Rainy Seasons (March, May & October, November)

These are considered low seasons for tourism.

Trails become slippery and challenging, requiring extra effort.

Rain is frequent, though it often comes in short bursts.

Roads leading to Bwindi may be harder to navigate.

However, rainy season trekking has advantages:

Fewer visitors, making the experience more private.

Accommodation facilities often reduce rates.

Gorilla permits are easier to secure compared to the peak season.

Gorilla Permit Availability in Bwindi

What is a Gorilla Permit?

A gorilla permit is an official document issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) that allows you to join a guided trek to see a habituated gorilla family in Bwindi.

Cost of Gorilla Permits 2025/2026

Foreign Non-Residents: USD 800 per person per trek

Foreign Residents: USD 700 per person per trek

East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 per person per trek

(Prices updated by UWA in 2024 and valid for Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks.)

Availability by Season

High Season (June–September & December–February):

Permits sell out quickly due to high demand. It is recommended to book at least 3–6 months in advance to secure your spot.

Low Season (March, May & October, November):

Permits are generally easier to obtain, sometimes even at short notice. Budget traveler’s benefit during this time as some lodges offer discounts.

Where to Get Gorilla Permits

Directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) offices in Kampala.

Through a member of registered Tour operators like Lero Safaris, we handle bookings, transport, and accommodation.