Top Mid-Range Lodges in Rushaga Sector of Bwindi – The Rushaga sector is one of the four sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to endangered mountain gorillas, with an estimated 459 individuals remaining in the wild.
Rushaga has the highest number of these primates, with about five gorilla families residing in this sector.
Gorilla Families in the Rushaga Sector
- Nshongi Gorilla Family: This family has about 26 members. Originally numbering 36, some members left the group, leaving a total of 26.
- Busingye Gorilla Family: Comprising 9 members, including one silverback, 5 blackbacks, and 3 infants, this group was named after its silverback leader, Busingye.
- Kahungye Gorilla Family: This family has 13 members, though the number may vary due to factors like new entrants and natural causes.
- Bweza Gorilla Family: Made up of 14 members, including 3 silverbacks, 1 blackback, 4 adult females, 1 subadult female, 1 subadult male, 1 juvenile, and 3 infants.
- Mishaya Gorilla Family: Formed in 2011 following a split from the Nshongi group, led by the silverback Mishaya, this group now includes 12 members.
The Rushaga sector offers scenic views of the Virunga volcanoes, such as Gahinga and Muhavura, and Lake Bunyonyi, Africa’s deepest crater lake.
Rushaga is open for gorilla habituation, allowing up to 4 people per session.
Gorilla trekking is also available, with around 40 permits issued daily, and 8 people permitted per gorilla family.
Top Mid-Range Lodges in the Rushaga Sector of Bwindi
- Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge: Managed by Uganda Cultural Lodges, this lodge provides high-quality services to travelers in Rushaga. Located in a prime position overlooking Lake Mulehe, it offers stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes. The lodge consists of 11 cozy rooms with private bathrooms and verandas, each constructed with traditional African architecture. The staff is welcoming, ensuring comfort for guests.
- Gorilla Valley Lodge: Situated close to the Rushaga ranger station, this lodge provides amazing views of the surrounding environment. It offers 12 rooms, each with a private bathroom, balcony, or patio for scenic views. The rooms are well-furnished with amenities such as solar water heaters and comfortable beds for a restful stay.
- Ichumbi Lodge: Located just a few minutes’ walk from the Rushaga headquarters, this lodge offers air-conditioned luxury rooms and a pleasant atmosphere. Facilities include individual bathrooms, hot tubs, private verandas, free WiFi, free bikes, garden access, parking, TVs, and breakfast options including buffet-style, full English, or vegetarian. Known for its beauty, Ichumbi Lodge provides excellent service to guests.
- Four Gorillas Lodge: Situated in the southeastern part of Bwindi, in the Rushaga area, it is just a 10-minute drive from the trekking starting point. All rooms are en-suite, and the lodge offers shuttle services, a restaurant, and a bar.
- Rushaga Gorilla Safari Lodge: Managed by Crystal Lodges Uganda, this lodge provides 8 magnificent and spacious suites, each with private verandas offering stunning views of Bwindi Forest. Facilities include babysitting services, fast WiFi, phone charging, ample parking, and laundry services.
What to Pack
- 2 pairs of long trousers
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Gloves
- Raincoat
- Insect repellent
How to Get to Rushaga
By Road: Rushaga can be accessed by road via the main highway from Entebbe or Kampala to Kabale town, and then proceeding to Rushaga, which takes about 8 to 9 hours.
By Air: Air travel to Rushaga is faster than road travel. Travelers can take a flight from Entebbe Airport to Kisoro, and then connect to Rushaga in about 1 to 2 hours.
In conclusion, the mid-range lodges in the Rushaga sector are highly comfortable and affordable, offering guests a safe and enjoyable stay in Bwindi.
