Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Located in the south-western corner of Uganda, in the Virunga Mountains along the border with the DRC, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a thick, lush, green jungle, housing heaps of wildlife and half of the world's remaining mountain gorilla population. This pocket of huge primeval forest is one of the most biologically diverse areas on earth. It has an eco-system that defines the very essence of the continent and has therefore been designated as a World Heritage Site.
Explore Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Things to See & Do
Highlights and experiences in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
While there may be some wildlife experiences to match it, there is surely no animal encounter in the world to beat gorilla trekking. It is a truly emotional and enthralling experience, with the very idea of hacking through the jungles of central Africa being enough to tingle the toughest of nerves. Spending time with our majestic cousins, while being dwarfed by the mighty silverbacks, is one of those hours which you wish could last a lifetime
Aside from the gorillas, Bwindi supports numerous other primates - including chimpanzees, black and white colobus, red colobus and blue monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey and L'Hoest's monkey - as well as wildlife such as forest elephants, giant forest hogs and small antelope (although these are rarely seen).
On days spent in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest when you are not gorilla trekking, there are many other beautifully scenic hikes available within the national park. One particularly good trek takes you right through the park, from Buhoma to Nkuringo. The beauty of this particular hike is that you can then trek different gorilla families in both northern and southern Bwindi.
Best Time to Visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Month-by-month travel guide with weather, highlights, and expert recommendations.
Compare with other destinationsBwindi Impenetrable Forest in May
Weather
May sees a decrease in rainfall compared to April, but it's still a wet month, with temperatures from 16°C to 23°C. Expect intermittent rain.
Highlights
The forest remains incredibly green and beautiful. Good for birdwatching as the forest recovers from the heaviest rains.
Best Areas
Buhoma and Ruhija are generally more accessible. Nkuringo and Rushaga will be more challenging due to mud.
Pros
Fewer tourists and lower prices. The forest is at its most verdant.
Cons
Trails can still be very muddy and slippery. Rain can still impact trekking and visibility.