Renowned for being the only destination in Africa where gorilla habituation unfolds, Rushaga is located in the southern section of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Accessing Rushaga is easy but requires prior planning. Here’s a general travel guide to it ahead of your adventure in or around Bwindi, a UNESCO Heritage site with over 20 habituated gorillas that can be trekked at anytime of the year:
Travel to Uganda
If you’re coming from abroad, you can access Rushaga from Rwanda’s Kigali International Airport or Uganda’s Entebbe International Airport, the main international gateway for the country.
Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
From Entebbe, you can either take a domestic flight to Kihihi or drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The park is approximately 8-10 hours by road from Kampala, the capital of Uganda.
If travelling via Kigali Airport, connectivity from there to the park/our location is a 4 hours drive via Gatuna border or Kyanika border.
Gorilla Permit
You’ll need to obtain a gorilla trekking permit or gorilla habituation permit prior to your visit. These permits are limited and need to be booked well in advance. You can obtain permits through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or authorized tour operators.
Transport within Bwindi
Once you are in Bwindi, you may need transportation to get to the Rushaga sector. This can be arranged through your accommodation or tour operator.
Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking in Rushaga is the main attraction. On the day of your trek, you’ll gather at the Rushaga Park headquarters for a briefing before setting out with experienced guides to track the gorillas.
Follow Park Regulations
It’s crucial to follow all park regulations and guidelines during your visit to ensure the safety of both visitors and the gorillas. Respect the wildlife and the natural environment.
Return Journey
After your gorilla trekking experience, you can either stay in the area or proceed with your journey. If you have pre-arranged transportation, it will take you back to your starting point.