Attractions in Ruhija Uganda: Gorillas of Ruhija Sector & Bird Species
Ruhija sector in the East of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the gorilla trekking regions that make up this fantastic destination. This secluded sector is one of the least visited for gorilla treks yet it is the most topographically rich region and most gorilla studies/research are conducted within Ruhija sector, given the fact that it shelters Bwindi’s only research-based gorilla family-Kyaguliro.
The following are the magnificent attractions within Ruhija sector;
Mountain Gorillas of Ruhija
Mountain gorillas are undeniably the main attraction in Ruhija sector with four fully habituated gorilla families with only 24 gorilla permits available for 3 gorilla families. All the other three sectors of Bwindi feature habituated gorilla families but what makes gorilla trekking in Ruhija Uganda sector extraordinary is the fact that it is quieter, serene and even closer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Other wildlife species
Besides Mountain gorillas, Ruhija sector shelters other unique wildlife species that include L’Hoests monkeys, olive baboons, vervet monkeys, red-tailed monkeys as well as black and white colobus monkeys among others. Interestingly, Ruhija sector is the only sector/region in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park where the forest elephants are found. You will also see duikers, bushbucks, sitatunga, giant forest hogs and many others.
Breathtaking hills
This sector, in the East of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the most topographically diverse sector sheltering a number of breathtaking hills. Ruhija Hills for instance towers at 2500 meters above sea level and offers jaw-dropping views of the nearby forest ridge as well as the far-away Virunga Mountains. Also, the highest point in Bwindi (Rwamunyonyi peak) towering at 2607 meters above sea level is also found in Ruhija sector. This Hill has numerous bird species and also rewards visitors with unmatched views of the lush forest as well as the extensive swamp below.
Plethora of colorful feathered beauties
Ruhija sector alone is home to over 100 unique species of birds. Ruhija Hill, Mubwindi swamp and Rwamunyonyi peak are the three fantastic birding spots in this sector. While here, expect to see the African green broadbills, helmeted guinea fowl, African Goshawk, Yellow-rumped tinkerbird, African Paradise flycatcher, handsome francolins, Grey-throated barbets, Ross Turaco, Dwarf honeyguide, Ayre’s hawk eagles and many others. You may like birding in Ruhija sector experience.
Best time to explore Ruhija sector
Ruhija sector is open to visitors all year round but exploring during dry months-January, February, June, July, August, September and December means more comfortable treks, less muddy trails and drier Park roads.
Exploring during the wet months-March, April, May, October and November means muddy trails, more difficult/challenging trekking conditions. However, it is increasingly becoming challenging to predict weather patterns thus it is possible to receive rain at any time of the year. Also, Safari Lodges tend to offer discounts during wet months thus better deals.
Where to stay when exploring Ruhija sector
Ruhija being secluded also has few places to stay but visitors can be accommodated within the neighboring Buhoma sector, Kabale Town or on the lush shores of Lake Bunyonyi. For visitors opting to stay within the Lodge have amazing options of Bakiga Lodge, Ruhija Safari Lodge, Gorilla Mist Camp, Ruhija Community Rest Camp, Cuckooland Tented Lodge and many others.
How to access Ruhija sector
From Kampala City (the main departure point for Uganda safaris) to Ruhija sector in the East of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the journey lasts 8-9 hours on good tarmac roads. Daily scheduled flights are organized from Entebbe International Airport/or Kajjansi Airstrip to Kihihi Airstrip, lasting about 90 minutes. This is the fastest and stress-free way to get to Ruhija sector. On arrival at Kihihi Airstrip, the drive to the sector lasts 1-2 hours.