Size of Bwindi Forest – Bwindi Forest covers an area of 331 square kilometers, which were gazetted to protect the endangered mountain gorillas.
Before Bwindi was established as a national park, it was designated as a conservation area and divided into two major parts: the northern part, referred to as Kayonza Forest Reserve, and the southern part, known as Kasatore Forest Reserve.
These two areas covered about 270 square kilometers when combined.
In 1942, the reserve was expanded to create one gazetted area, which was named the Impenetrable Central Forest Reserve, covering 298 square kilometers.
Today, Bwindi Forest has grown to its current size of 331 square kilometers, primarily to protect the endangered mountain gorillas and other wildlife species.
In 1991, Bwindi Forest was established as a national park, making it the third smallest national park in Uganda after Mgahinga and Semuliki National Parks.
Major Wildlife Species in Bwindi Forest
- Mountain Gorillas: Mountain gorillas are the main tourist attraction in the forest, which is why Bwindi was established as a national park. There are about 459 individuals living in the forest, divided into 20 gorilla families.
- Birds: Bwindi Forest is home to many bird species that can be spotted during gorilla trekking. These include the White-eyed Slaty Flycatcher, Brown-capped Weaver, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, Dusky Crimsonwing, Blue-headed Sunbird, Stripe-breasted Tit, and White-tailed Blue Flycatcher among others.
- Snakes: Bwindi is home to 14 species of snakes, including the Great Lakes Bush Viper, Pale-headed Forest Snake, African Tree Cobra, and Gunther’s Green Tree Snake.
- Other Primates: In addition to mountain gorillas, Bwindi is home to other primates, including chimpanzees, black and white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, and olive baboons.
- Butterfly Species: Bwindi is also rich in butterfly species, such as the Cream-banded Swallowtail, African Giant Swallowtail, Spalgis Lemolea, Pentila Alba, Graphium Gudenusi, Charaxes Fournierae, Lachnocnema Vuttauxi, Eresina Bilinear, Geritola Liona, Papilio Leucotaenia, and Cigaritus Homeyeri.
Tree Species in Bwindi Forest
Bwindi is characterized by tall tree species that grow between 55 to 75 feet high, with broad leaves and hardwood. Some notable tree species include:
- Ceiba Trees: One of the tallest species with enormous roots visible above the ground.
- Cecropia Trees: Smaller trees that produce fruits eaten by animals in the forest.
- Ebony Tree Species: Tall trees with dark grey bark covered with lichens and mosses. These trees produce both male and female flowers.
- African Brown Mahogany Trees: Another important tree species in Bwindi.
Major Tourist Activities
- Gorilla Trekking
- Gorilla Habituation
- Bird Watching
- Batwa Cultural Experience
- Lake Mutanda Visit
- Nature Walks
- Community Walks
Best Time to Visit Bwindi Forest
The best time to visit Bwindi Forest is during the dry season, as the trails are easier to navigate for tourist activities. The most favorable months are June to September and December to February.
Bwindi Forest is a dense, stunningly beautiful forest, offering tourists a memorable experience through its diverse wildlife, unique primates, rich biodiversity, and incredible natural beauty.
