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Hike the Habinyanja Trail in Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking & More

The Habinyanja (Raleigh) Trail – The Habinyanja Trail is located in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The trail offers amazing views of the Bwindi forest and the wild animals in the park.

It takes about 4 to 6 hours to hike the Habinyanja Trail. Tourists will see different physical features, animals, and birds.

The animals include elephants, buffaloes, duikers, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, forest hogs, mountain gorillas, and chimpanzees.

Bird species spotted include the African fish eagle, black-chested snake eagle, Ross’s turaco, cape robin chat, western nectar, olive thrush, Ruwenzori batis, black-billed turaco, lesser honeyguide, woodpeckers, and regal sunbird.

Some of the Physical Features Encountered

  1. Habinyanja Swamp: This is where the Habinyanja gorilla family is found. The family was named after this swamp. The swamp is important to the ecosystem as it provides a habitat for wildlife species like the African black duck.
  2. Muyanga River: Muyanga River is located in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi. It is a major tributary of the Nile. Tourists can spot this river and the various bird species that live there, such as the African black duck.
  3. Riyoyi Ridge: Tourists will climb this steep ridge and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
  4. Buhoma River: Buhoma River is also a major tributary of the Nile. Tourists can see the river and the various wildlife species that live nearby.

Best Time to Visit the Habinyanja Trail

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to September and December to February. During this time, the Habinyanja Trail is not slippery, making it easier for tourists to hike.

Also Check out our article on Tipping Guide in Bwindi.

How to Access the Habinyanja Trail

The Habinyanja Trail is located in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It can be accessed by road or air.

  • By Road: Tourists can travel from Kampala or Entebbe to Kabale and then head to Bwindi. From there, they can go to the Buhoma sector to hike the Habinyanja Trail. The journey takes about 9 to 10 hours.
  • By Air: Tourists can book a flight from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kisoro Airstrip or Kihihi Airstrip. From there, they can drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Hiking the Habinyanja Trail is more than just a hike—it is an adventure.



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