Gorilla Families in Nkuringo Sector

Three trekking groups of eight tourists leave the UWA trailhead at the Nkuringo sector and head to the south of the Bwindi jungle to find and spend an hour with the mountain gorillas. These daily gorilla trekking excursions are the main attraction to Nkuringo village.

Though mountain gorilla groups usually maintain a maximum of 16 sq mi home range, their movements are unpredictable, and it could take approximately 30 minutes to one hour to find them. Treks in Nkuringo leave at 08:00 every day after a short briefing, at the UWA hall, for rules and regulations.

Two armed rangers for security and an expert tracker are assigned to each trekking group to take through the thick, pristine jungle and help them fruitfully spend one hour at a safe distance of 32 ft (10 meters) from the mountain gorilla family.

All trekkers should carry two masks, one fresh one to wear when you meet the gorillas and the other at the briefing. They should have tested negative for COVID-19 before they are allowed to trek. Wear a long-sleeved shirt, trousers, and waterproof hiking boots to navigate the uneven terrain that leads to the gorillas.

A gorilla trekking permit for the Nkuringo sector costs $800 for all non-resident foreign guests, which is the same permit price for all the other three Bwindi sectors.

Nkuringo sector is a preferred choice for travelers coming from Kigali and who want to trek Bwindi gorillas.

Other Activities in Nkuringo Sector

After your gorilla trekking adventure in the Nkuringo Sector, step even deeper into the heart of Bwindi’s ancient jungle with a guided nature walk. With an expert by your side, explore the forest’s hidden wonders and learn about its rich ecosystems teeming with life. Bird lovers, be sure to bring your binoculars—Bwindi is a birder’s paradise, home to over 350 bird species, including 90% of Albertine Rift endemics.

As the sun rises and spills golden light across the forest floor, the jungle awakens. Early mornings are ideal for exploring, with wildlife and birds stirring to begin their day. Follow winding trails through the lush rainforest, where flashes of color from butterflies, frogs, and shy forest creatures reveal themselves among the dense vegetation. Listen to the rustling leaves and birdsong above as the canopy comes alive with fluttering wings and calls.

Bwindi’s biodiversity is astounding, preserved in a largely untouched habitat. Every trail is an opportunity to witness nature at its most vibrant.

For panoramic views and elevated experiences, take on the Ivy River or Kashasha River trails, or climb to the “Top of the World” viewpoint. From above, you’ll gain a new perspective on the vast, untamed forest—and spot the birds and animals that remain hidden from the forest floor.

Nature Walking Trails

• Kashasha River Trail (17 km, 6-7 hrs)The Kashasha River trail starts at the Nkuringo Sector trailhead and meanders gently through the ruggedly beautiful landscapes of the park’s boundary with several viewpoints overlooking lush mist-shrouded valleys. The trail then penetrates the jungle to find the Kashasha River and walk along the river for an hour.The meditative walk along the Kashsha River with calming sounds of babbling brooks and the natural soothing melodies of the forest will leave you relaxed enough to finish the second half of the walking trail.One can take around trail going back to Nkuringo sector or continue the route to Buhoma sector. The latter is preferred by most hikers coming from Buhoma to stay in Nkuringo or coming from Nkuringo to connect to Queen Elizabeth National Park via the Buhoma sector.Monkeys, duikers, bush pigs, and some of Bwindi’s world-renowned bird and butterfly species can be sighted on this nature walking trail. This trail is very popular with birders.

  Ivy River Trail (4 hrs)

  

  The Ivy-River-trail-in-Bwindi

  There are three ways to hike the Ivy River trail: the first one leaves Nkuringo, walking 12 kilometers to Nteko village, and another 5 kilometers down the steep valley to Ivy River and back. The second starts at the Nteko outpost, 12 km from Nkuringo, where your driver would have dropped you and hiked down the valley to the river and back. The third one is the most interesting, starting from Nteko, down the valley, and across the jungle to the Buhoma sector on the northern side of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

  The trail from Nteko, over the newly built bridge on River Ivy, and through the jungle follows a seemingly paved road abandoned in the ’80s for unexplained reasons. The trail is approximately a 5-hour walk to Buhoma and about 4 hours back to Nkuringo.

  The path is averagely flat with no significant uneven terrain. You will encounter some famous forest inhabitants like primates, various bird species, and hundreds of butterfly species.

  Buniga Forest Trail (3 hrs)

  The Buniga Forest Trail showcases the symbiotic relationship the Batwa pygmies had with the wild Bwindi jungle before they were ousted to turn the forest into a protected reserve.  To reveal their unique heritage and traditions to the world, the Batwa people, through their community organization NCCDF take tourists into their small pocket forests, showcasing their historical nomadic cultures when they occupied the jungles.

  The Buniga forest trail is a USAID initiative started to help the Batwa community earn a living from tourism around the UNESCO world heritage site.

  You’ll walk an hour to a Batwa enacted settlement, where you’ll observe how the women prepare, cook and serve a meal. You’ll engage with medicine men, learn about the lush forest flora’s medicinal properties, and hear ancient legends and traditional songs. You’ll earn about the Batwa’s fascinating way of life, from religion to their food gathering and hunting techniques, and how they made fires from rubbing sticks.

  The Buniga forest trail is one of the most leisurely activities around Nkuringo, popular with many tourists. It starts at the NCCDF office located a few meters from the UWA office and Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.

  Suma Waterfall Trail (4 to 5 hrs)

  Suma waterfall is a pristine 50-meter waterfall hidden away at the edge of Suma village about 7 kilometers from the Nkuringo sector. The waterfall rumbles on the edge of the village to later stream a river through a family-owned valley across the village, the sight of which is a magnificent wonder.

  As the first rays of the golden sun strike the dying night, wildlife and birds tune their sound, set off Nkuringo hill, and slide through the waking villages to catch the first life movements of an authentic African village.  You’ll see kids taking their animals to graze; mother’s heading out to their gardens with hoes of their shoulders and a basket balancing off their heads—Marvel at men and women plowing gardens steeped at 45 degrees. View the gorgeous, meditative landscapes that get revealed as you tumble through uneven terrain.

  A woman with her kids controls the entrance to the falls, which is practically the entrance to their home. After paying the entrance fee (20,000 Uganda shillings), you’ll be escorted through the family’s beautifully cultivated farm on a valley that ends at the falls’ river. Going around a big rock as the rumbling waterfalls sound becomes louder, nature’s most magical creation, a roaring and powerful yet serene and calming waterfalls, is revealed. It’s hard not to look up at Suma waterfall and feel inspired; the power and the beauty always leave guests mesmerized.

  Water is a perfect traveler because after falling off those crackling rocks, the path itself down the valley through the village, leaving you yarning for its graceful movements to stay with you. There’s a bench to sit and marvel at the beauty of Suma waterfall valley; sit and let the time walk away from your presence.

  There’s a man famous for marrying 16 wives in that village; you might hear something about him or even visit his home.

  The waterfall is surrounded by different species of trees that are home to plenty of endemic bird species that will interest bird watchers. Birds like the Northern Double Collared Sun Bird, the Violet Backed Starling, and the Great Blue Eared Starling are common sightings along the Suma Waterfall trail.

  Birding Trails (2-6 hrs)

  Nkuringo sector, south of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, offers some of the best montane-forest birding in Africa. A birding foray of 350 species that fly through and up the forest canopy will be a delight for birding nads in ticking off this list on a 2-3 hour excursion that is hosted by an expert guide.

  It is a journey of discovery, traversing along a winding trail framed by exotic and emerald vegetation through this ancient jungle and outside undulating terraced farms on the slopes of rugged western Uganda.

  Winding through evergreen and montane marshes that intertwine across the lush forest floor, your birding trail leads you to enchanting falls, booming out a thunderous roar of pristine river water crushing against enormous rocks. Set in exquisite verdant terrain, the waterfalls that rumble in the Bwindi jungle is truly a sight to behold. Prolific with birds, the cacophony of chatter, and the cascading falls is a magnificent sound that will vibrate through your eardrums and bring life to your unconscious body.

  Ambling along the Kashasha River Trail, be sure to look out for the White-tailed Ant Thrush and dapper francolin, the splendid Black Bee-eater, Yellow-eyed Black and African Sooty Flycatchers along the river.

  Venture to the Mubwindi Swamp trail in Ruhija, where sightings of the endemic and localized African green broadbill are frequent. Gaze up at the treetops and keep your binoculars handy to spot the Short-tailed Warbler and Blue-headed Sunbird as well as the African Green Broadbill and Shelley’s Crimsonwing.

  Nkuringo Village Walk

  Organized by Nkuringo Walking Safaris, the village walk sets off at 08:00 or earlier from your lodge in Nkuringo, going through a misty waking town with the word ‘gorilla’ on all business names written at the top of the entrances.

  Off the main road and onto a small path, you’ll follow your guide into a village spread across a valley with impressive structures popping up the hillside. The homesteads built on hills are pretty impressive, with a blanket of Bwindi swathe painting the fore drop. These meditative moments will capture your undistracted attention till you’re woken up by jubilant kids shouting “Mzungu.”

  Any foreigner carrying a backpack and looking through a small reflective box in their hands is Mzungu to the village. “Mzunguuuu, … maaany!” will become a disruptive ringtone from a smiley bunch of kids singing from their home compounds. At least wave back and smile like an ignorant politician; you’re a guest,r and smiles don’t come cheap!

  You’ll have a chance to visit a local homestead and witness their daily home activities like preparing meals, and coffee, fetching water for home use, gardening, and listening to some of their stories.

  Observe the local production of sorghum beer, see the local blacksmith at work, visit the Women’s craft center and enjoy dances performed by a youth group atop the Nkuringo hill viewpoint known as ‘Top of the World’ – Experience a 360° view of Bwindi, the Virunga and far into the DRC

  Itineraries in Bwindi tend to be at a relaxed pace, in a small group, so it shouldn’t be too hard to find a few minutes to do nothing but watch the world go by.

  Your guide will generally take you on a tour of the village, with a stop at the local school, if it is term-time, along with a demonstration of local practices. On top of this, you can ask them to introduce you to locals and translate your questions, if necessary.

  Where To Stay in Nkuringo

  Nkuringo Sector is very remote with very few accommodation choices. It has two upmarket priced facilities, one mid-range priced, and very sparsely spread hostels. Most of the budget accommodation to access Nkuringo is more than 20 kilometres away from Nkuringo.

• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
  Luxurious cottages perched on a ridge at the forest edge, offering stunning views and elegant, locally inspired interiors. Just an 8-minute walk to the gorilla trekking trailhead.

• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
  High-end volcanic stone cottages with fireplaces and views of the Virunga Volcanoes. Practically at the trailhead, it’s ideal for those seeking exclusive comfort.

• Gorilla Heights Lodge
  Modern luxury in the jungle with a swimming pool and contemporary amenities. A stylish choice for those who enjoy city-style comfort, just 10 minutes from the trailhead.

• Wagtail Eco Safari Lodge
  Budget-friendly and basic, located in Rubuguri town about 30 minutes from Nkuringo. A practical option for cost-conscious travelers.

• Chameleon Hill Lodge
  Colorful and artistic, this lodge offers vibrant chalets with panoramic lake and volcano views. Located about an hour from Nkuringo.

• Mutanda Lake Resort
  Peaceful lakeside setting with charming cottages, ideal for nature lovers and adventurers. About a one-hour drive to Nkuringo.

  How To Get To Nkuringo

  Nkuringo is in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, near the DRC border. It’s 34 km (1.5 hrs) from Kisoro Town/Airport and 83 km (2.5 hrs) from Kabale Town.

   By Road:

  • Via Kabale–Muko–Nkuringo (Best Option):

    • 497 km from Entebbe (~10 hrs drive)

    • Last 38 km is dirt road, 4×4 vehicle recommended.

  • Via Kisoro–Mutanda–Nkuringo (Longest Option):

    • 527 km from Entebbe (~11 hrs drive)

    • 34 km of dirt road from Kisoro.

  • From Rwanda or DRC:

    • Use Cyanika (Rwanda) or Bunagana (DRC) borders to reach Kisoro, then drive to Nkuringo.

  • From Ishasha (Queen Elizabeth NP):

    • Via Kihihi, Kanungu, and Rubanda (~5 hrs, 160 km), rough roads, 4×4 needed.

   By Foot:

  • Buhoma–Nkuringo Hike:

    • 17 km trail through Bwindi forest (via Ivy/Kashasha River trails)

    • A scenic alternative to a 5-hour drive.

  • Kisoro–Lake Mutanda–Nkuringo Walk:

    • Guided village walk + canoe across Lake Mutanda

    • Great cultural experience if flying into Kisoro.

  By Air:

  • To Kisoro Airport (Best Option):

    • 1-hour drive to Nkuringo

    • Daily flights by AeroLink from Entebbe.

  • To Kihihi Airport:

    • 4-hour drive to Nkuringo, best if connecting via Buhoma trail.

Best Time to Visit Nkuringo for Gorilla Trekking

Nkuringo is open for trekking all year, but the experience can vary with the seasons:

Dry Seasons (Best Time to Visit)

June–August & December–February

• Ideal for trekking: trails are drier, less slippery.

• Better visibility and photography conditions.

• Less chance of getting soaked while tracking gorillas.

• These are peak seasons in Uganda—permits sell out fast, so book in advance.

• Perfect for those who want the most comfortable experience in the jungle.

Wet Seasons (Low Season / Rainy Months)

March–May & October–November

• Fewer tourists—permits and lodges may offer discounted rates.

• Roads, especially the 38–43 km dirt stretch from Muko to Nkuringo, can be muddy, but manageable with a 4×4 vehicle.

• Trails are more challenging, but lush scenery and more dramatic jungle atmosphere.

• Ideal for budget travelers and those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path adventure.

• Rain is common, but gorilla trekking still happens daily, rain or shine.

  Conclusion

  Gorilla trekking in the Nkuringo Sector is more than just an adventure—it’s a deeply moving experience that connects you to one of the world’s most majestic and endangered creatures. The challenging trek through lush, misty forests is richly rewarded with unforgettable encounters with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. With fewer crowds and breathtaking views of the Virunga ranges, Nkuringo offers a uniquely intimate and authentic trekking experience. For nature lovers, conservationists, and adventure seekers alike, a journey to Nkuringo is a life-changing opportunity to witness the wild, raw beauty of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.