Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija Sector – Uganda Gorilla Safaris
Haven to four outstanding gorilla groups, Ruhija is the quietest and rarely-visited of the four gorilla trekking sectors of the incredible Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in south-western Uganda. This sector is nestled within the Eastern part of the Park and based on past experiences of visitors, it offers the most unspoilt and secluded gorilla trekking experience.
Rwamunyonyi Hill (also known as the Hill of numerous birds within Ruhija sector), is the highest and coldest point within Bwindi Impenetrable forest and boasts of unmatched views of the verdant rolling hills, the extensive swamp and far-away Virunga Mountains. It’s not just the breathtaking views that make Ruhija sector stand out but also the jaw-dropping gorilla trekking experience.
There are presently four fully-habituated gorilla groups in the sector, including Mukiza, Kyaguliro, Oruzogo and Bitukura groups. Kyaguliro group was set aside for research purposes and consent to trek the group has to be attained in advance from Uganda Wildlife Authority. The remaining three are open for trekking all year round and this means that only 24 gorilla permits are available per day, with 8 persons visiting each family per day.
Gorilla Permits for Ruhija (and other regions/sectors in Bwindi) go for $700 per person per trek for foreign non-residents, $600 for foreign residents and Shs 250,000 for East African Community residents. However, sometimes discounts are provided based on prevailing situation and at the time of writing, 57% discounts are being provided for foreign and foreign-nonresident permits.
Process of Trekking Mountain Gorillas in Ruhija sector
Gorilla Treks in Ruhija sector begin with assembling at the sector Headquarters for meeting and briefing with Park rangers on the dos and don’ts of treks. This is followed by allocation of 8 persons to a particular gorilla group and then assigning a knowledgeable Uganda Wildlife Authority Park guide to lead through the treks. Actual treks begin at 8am and tale up to 6 hours to find the allocated gorilla group, but it will be worthwhile once in their magical presence. You will have one unforgettable hour with them before returning back to the starting point to receive a trekking certificate.
Best time to trek Gorillas in Ruhija sector
The dry season is considered the best time to trek mountain gorillas in Ruhija sector. Months of December to February as well as June to September fall in this season and during this time of the year, temperature is moderate, the sky is clearer or less mist, forest floor is drier/not muddy and vegetation is more open. This season therefore makes trekking less challenging and rewards visitors with the best photographic views.
The wet season-March to May and October to November is avoided because rains are more frequent, slopes are misty, colder temperatures and forest floors are wet/muddy/slippery. This makes trekking more challenging but also, these conditions are responsible for blossoming vegetation and increased fruiting. This means more food for the mountain gorillas that will not move far to search for food.
Ultimate packing list for gorilla trekking in Ruhija sector
Gorilla Trekking is a bucket list because no feeling beats the excitement of staring in the gentle eyes of the Mountain gorillas. And if you have made up your mind to trek the gorillas from Ruhija sector, make sure to pack a warm sweater, sunglasses, rain jacket/poncho, strong hiking shoes, toiletries (face/body wipes, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, toothpaste, moisturizer, toothbrush, lip balm, lotion and deodorant), insect repellant, re-usable water bottle, gardening gloves, backpack, good camera, flashlight, sunscreen, long-sleeved shirts, hat, lightweight trekking pants and cotton socks among others.
Where to stay during gorilla trekking trips in Ruhija sector
Ruhija unlike other sectors has few places to stay but early risers can stay as far as Lake Bunyonyi, the nearby Buhoma Lodge or even Kabale Town. Nonetheless, exquisite accommodation is available at Gorilla Mist Camp, Gift of Nature Lodge, Ruhija Safari Lodge, Bakiga Lodge, Ruhija Community Rest Camp and Cuckooland tented Lodge among others.
Popular Gorilla Trekking Safaris to Ruhija Sector
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