The most striking first impressions of Uganda is how incredibly green it is: the universal measure of fertility, life and bounty is evident wherever you look. Despite its rather dark post-colonial history when Uganda did little to protect the wild spaces within, the amazingly friendly people of this small country have a long, deeply cultural, practice of cherishing their natural heritage. In recent decades this innate custodianship has resulted in a massive resurgence of the country’s prolific biodiversity – and it continues to grow as local communities set aside more and more land for conservation.       

Herds of elephants traverse large swathes of both savannah and forest; the diminutive blue duiker antelope feeds on the fallen fig scraps of chimpanzees; lions seek cool respite in the branches of giant Candelabra trees; Kob, giraffe and buffalo mingle peacefully between iconic Acacia groves; and forest canopies sway with primates of every shape, size and colour.

However, there is one place and one primate that is Uganda’s Ambassador for Nature – and that is the endangered Mountain Gorilla of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. With its innumerable shades of green, ‘the Bwindi’ is home to half of the world’s Mountain Gorilla population. Many years of careful management, patient habituation and astute guardianship has meant that this incredible habitat with its incredible residents is accessible to a few people for a few hours every day.   

Last Chance Safaris offers both private guided adventures and bespoke itineraries that will uplift your spirit and renew your faith in humanity’s ability to cherish the natural world. 

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: A Pristine Haven for Mountain Gorillas

Hidden deep in the heart of East Africa, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth. Situated in southwestern Uganda, this ancient rainforest is best known as home to roughly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. A visit to Bwindi is more than a safari—it is a profound and life-changing experience.

A Forest Like No Other

Bwindi’s misty, mountainous terrain is covered in dense, lush vegetation that has remained relatively unchanged for millennia. The forest’s name, ‘Impenetrable,’ speaks to its thick undergrowth, towering trees, and tangled vines that make exploration both challenging and rewarding. With altitudes ranging from 1,160 to 2,607 meters above sea level, Bwindi’s cool climate provides a unique environment for an incredible variety of flora and fauna.

Gorilla Trekking: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

The highlight of any visit to Bwindi is the opportunity to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Guided treks through the forest lead visitors to habituated gorilla families, allowing for an awe-inspiring, up-close experience with these gentle giants. Trekking can range from a few hours to a full day, depending on the location of the gorilla groups.

• Best Time for Gorilla Trekking:

  • Dry Season (June-September & December-February) – Easier hiking conditions and better visibility.

  • Wet Season (March-May & October-November) – Lush greenery and fewer tourists, but more challenging trails.

Other Wildlife and Biodiversity

While gorillas steal the spotlight, Bwindi is also home to a stunning array of wildlife:

• Other Primates: Chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys.

• Birdlife: Over 350 bird species, including the African green broadbill and the great blue turaco.

• Mammals: Forest elephants, duikers, bush pigs, and numerous bat species.

• Flora: Over 1,000 plant species, with rare orchids and ancient ferns covering the forest floor.

Activities Beyond Gorilla Trekking

• Birdwatching: Bwindi is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with endemic species found nowhere else in the world.

• Cultural Experiences: Visit the Batwa pygmies, the original inhabitants of the forest, to learn about their traditions and way of life.

• Guided Nature Walks: Explore waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and hidden trails with expert local guides.

• Conservation Programs: Participate in eco-tourism efforts and support gorilla conservation initiatives.

Why Visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest?

Bwindi is one of Africa’s last true wilderness areas, offering an unmatched combination of adventure, wildlife, and cultural heritage. Gorilla trekking here is not just a wildlife encounter—it is a humbling experience that fosters a deep appreciation for conservation and the fragile balance of nature.

Plan your expedition with Last Chance Safaris and step into the mystical world of Bwindi, where the echoes of the wild call you into an unforgettable journey.