Gorilla Trekking in Nkuringo Sector – Nkuringo sector is located in the southern region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Bwindi is known as the premier national park for gorilla trekking in Africa, as it has the highest number of habituated gorilla individuals.
The park is home to over 459 mountain gorillas, which accounts for almost half of the population remaining in the wild. Bwindi was established as a national park in 1991 to protect these endangered primates.
The park covers an area of 331 square kilometers and is one of the most biologically diverse forests in the world, with over 350 bird species, 120 mammal species, 220 butterfly species, reptiles, various plants, and more.
Nkuringo is located in the rolling hills of Bwindi, at an altitude of 6,800 feet above sea level, making it one of the more challenging sectors to trek.
The Nkuringo sector is home to three gorilla families: Nkuringo, Bushaho, and Christmas gorilla families.
Gorilla Trekking in Nkuringo
Gorilla trekking in the Nkuringo sector is a fascinating activity that begins early in the morning, around 7 a.m., at the Nkuringo park headquarters.
Tourists receive a briefing on the rules and regulations for a successful trekking experience.
Tourists are then divided into groups of eight people, which is the maximum number allowed to trek each gorilla family per day.
A well-trained park ranger leads the group into the wilderness to track the gorillas.
The park ranger provides valuable information about the gorillas, ensuring tourists have a memorable and educational experience.
Cost of Gorilla Trekking Permits in Nkuringo Sector
- USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents
- USD 700 per person for foreign residents
- UGX 300,000 per person for East African citizens
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is during the dry season, as there is little rainfall, and the slopes are less slippery, making the hike to see the mountain gorillas easier.
The dry months are from June to August and December to February.
Accommodation
- Gorilla Heights Lodge
- Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge
- Nkuringo Guest House
- Virunga Campsite
- Albertine Gorilla Campsite
Other Activities
- Bird watching
- Nature walks
- Batwa cultural experience
- Biking
- Hiking
- Gorilla habituation
What to Carry
- Hiking boots
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Rain jacket
- Long trousers
- Binoculars
- Backpack
- Camera
- Gorilla permit
- Light sweater
- Insect repellent