Top Luxury Lodges in Rushaga Sector of Bwindi – Rushaga sector is located in the southern region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
It boasts the highest number of gorilla families in the world, with 8 habituated gorilla families. These families include the Busingye, Nshongi, Bweza, Mishaya, Kahungye, Mucunguzi, Bwigi, and Bikyingi gorilla families.
Rushaga is home to over 200 individuals of these magnificent apes, and tourists are 100% guaranteed to see the gentle giants.
One unique aspect of the Rushaga sector is that it is the only place worldwide where gorilla habituation is conducted, allowing tourists to spend more than an hour with the gorillas.
A gorilla trekking permit costs about USD 700 per person per trek.
Approximately 40 gorilla permits are available in this sector, making it relatively easy to book a permit.
Eight people are allowed to trek each gorilla family, and 4 people are grouped for the gorilla habituation experience.
Top Luxury Lodges in Rushaga Sector of Bwindi
- Gorilla Leisure Lodge: Gorilla Leisure Lodge is located in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi, just a 10-minute drive from the gorilla trekking and briefing point. The lodge comprises 12 luxurious en-suite rooms, categorized into single deluxe for individuals, double, and family cottages, all offering uninterrupted views of the forest canopies. Amenities include: Flushing toilets, hot and cold showers, bottled water, bathtubs, mosquito nets, flat-screen TVs, hairdryers, white duvets and pillows, fire extinguishers, ceiling fans, and free toiletries. Services provided: WiFi, spa and massage, airport pick-up and drop-off, power supply, free parking, laundry services, housekeeping, and room service.
- Mutanda Lake Resort: Mutanda Lake Resort is situated on 3.5 acres of land along Lake Mutanda. The resort features 13 cottages constructed on wooden platforms, each with a private veranda and en-suite bathroom. The cottages are available in single, double/twin, and triple configurations, all equipped with beds and mosquito nets. The main building, which houses the restaurant, resembles a Swiss chalet with an African touch and offers stunning views of the lake, as well as a fireplace for warmth on colder days. Services offered: Free WiFi, laundry services, and airport pick-up and drop-off.
Best Time to Visit Rushaga Sector
Tourists are encouraged to visit the Rushaga sector during the dry season, as it provides the best conditions for gorilla trekking. The dry seasons occur from June to September and December to February.
How to Access Rushaga Sector
- By Road: The sector can be accessed via the Kampala-Mbarara-Kisoro route, which takes approximately 8 to 9 hours by car. Tourists coming from Rwanda can access the Rushaga sector via the Cyanika border, taking about 4 to 5 hours. This is a shorter route compared to those traveling from Entebbe or Kampala.
- By Air: Tourists can book a flight from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kisoro Airstrip, which takes 1 to 2 hours. From Kisoro Airstrip, it is about a 1-hour drive to Rushaga.
In conclusion, luxury lodges in Rushaga offer the best accommodation options and are highly recommended for both local and international tourists.