Rivers in Bwindi – Bwindi is a water catchment area and a source of water for various rivers that flow through the national park and pour their waters into nearby lakes.
Tourists can visit these rivers during gorilla trekking if the particular family they are visiting resides around the area, or they can go for guided nature walks.
Rivers in Bwindi include:
- River Muyanga: River Muyanga is located in the northern region of the Buhoma sector in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Tourists can access the river via the Muyanga Waterfall Trail to engage in activities such as bird watching and gorilla trekking. The river is about 13 km within Bwindi and is one of the major rivers visited by tourists.
- River Ivy: River Ivy is located in the northern and southern regions of the Buhoma and Nkuringo sectors. River Ivy can be accessed via the River Ivy Trail during nature walks and gorilla trekking. Tourists can view different bird species and mountain gorillas that inhabit this area. Gorilla families include the Mubare in Buhoma and the Nkuringo family, among others.
- River Ishasha: River Ishasha is found in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi in the northern region. The river flows through Bwindi and passes through the Kanungu Dam to Lake Edward, forming a border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The river is 100 kilometers long and features a waterfall at Kanungu, which has influenced the existence of the Kanungu Hydroelectric Power Station, also known as Ishasha Power Station.
- River Ntengyere: River Ntengyere flows from the hills of Bwindi and pours its waters into Lakes Mutanda, Edward, and Bunyonyi. The river forms several tributaries and serves as a wildlife habitat for diverse bird species.
Importance of Rivers in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Rivers in Bwindi are sources of drinking water for various animals in the park year-round, including elephants, buffaloes, bush pigs, chimpanzees, and giant forest hogs.
- The rivers act as habitats for diverse wildlife species, such as birds and mountain gorillas, contributing to their protection.
- Rivers provide food in the form of fish and other aquatic animals, supporting the survival of many species.
- Rivers contribute to water cycle regulation in Bwindi by ensuring a steady water supply and maintaining the park’s hydrological balance.
- The rivers support agriculture by supplying water for irrigation to nearby farms, thus ensuring food security.
Simultaneously, the rivers in Bwindi are a treasure that deserves protection due to the important roles they play in sustaining the park’s biodiversity and supporting the local communities.
