How Is Gorilla Tracking Experience in Ruhija Area Bwindi

Ruhija gorilla tracking area in Bwindi is one stop center for gorilla tracking and birding. In case you are a keen birder this is the best place to book.

Gorilla permits in Bwindi forest are currently sold according to areas however if you have genuine interest in birding, you may request for gorilla permits in this area.

From the main conservation center in Buhoma, Ruhijah is about 2 hours from Buhoma headquarters.

What to see in Ruhija Gorilla tracking Area in Bwindi Forest

Gorilla tracking is top on the list for the main activities that this area prides in. You need to pack gears to enjoy gorilla tracking in this area because of its slippery ridge top route, huge forest cover to mention but a few.

 Lots of primates like Blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, olive baboons, black and white colobus monkeys and so many others find home in this area.

Hiking to Mubwindi Swamp is a double opportunity for tourists especially keen birders. Lots of rare bird species can be identified like shoe bill, African Openbill Stork, Cattle Egret, Crested GuineaFowl, Blue Quail, Nahan’s Francolin, Red-Necked Spurfowl, Barred Owlet, Rwenzori Nightjar to mention but a few.

When you hike the bamboo zone in Ruhija, you enjoy the view of Afromontane vegetation and panoramic views towards Lake Bunyonyi and Mafuga forest.

Other Activities to Add To Gorilla Tracking within Bwindi Forest

A visit to the local community gives you a sneak-pic into the village life of lay people. Have a moment in the homesteads of Bakiga and Batwa pygmies.

Visit the local banana brewery, learn about traditional healers that are respected by indigenous communities in this area.

If communicated in time, a local dance group may perform a traditional dance or music for you after gorilla tracking. All funds collected are given to the community to improve there livelihood.

Tour the local Bwindi Hospital where the community people receive treatment.

 Take a walk through the tails of Bwindi Forest to enjoy what you may have missed while trekking to see the gorillas.

During the walk you get to find amazing waterfalls, hike to Muzabajiri Loop trail to get to Rukubira hill for a breathtaking views of Bwindi forest, western rift valley and Virunga volcanoes.

Gorilla Tracking Guidelines To Follow in Ruhijah Area Bwindi Forest

Keep your mask on when with the gorillas and sanitize too regularly while in the forest.

No person under 15 years is allowed to track mountain gorillas as he may not be physically fit to endure hikes and slippery ground.

In case you have a cold or any other communicable infection volunteer to stay behind before start of the gorilla tracking adventure.

Try to avoid littering the forest as it spoils the natural feeding environment of the gorillas.

When with the gorillas try not to surround them as this may frighten them and send them into hiding.

Flash photography may send a mixed message to the gorillas and prompt them to hide.

During your encounter with mountain gorillas try to keep a distance of about 8 meters away from the gorillas. This is in order reduce chances of spreading any infections.

Keeping your voices low when with the gorillas allows you to exhaust that one precious hour without causing any suspicions.

Avoid spiting on the vegetation because this is food for the gorillas and it’s unhygienic too.

In case you want to ease yourself, burry all fecal materials at least 30 cm deep beyond recognition.

When with the gorillas try not to eat or smoke within 200m. This may prompt the gorillas to grab your eats which may not be healthy to them.

Spend just one hour with the gorillas as advised by UNESCO and Uganda Wildlife Authority. They were habituated to be in the presence of humans for just one hour.

How To get To Ruhijah Gorilla Tracking area in Bwindi Forest

From Kampala or Entebbe, take a road trip through Kabale, then Ruhija section. This root is in very poor condition so you need to have a 4×4 WD vehicle to maneuver.

Alternatively, you may take the route from Kabale to Kanungu to Buhoma area where you may spend the night. Early in the morning, drive to Ruhija gorilla tracking area for briefing.

What To Pack As Wear For Gorilla Tracking In Ruhija Area Bwindi

Ruhijah area is normally wet and ground boggy throughout the year so you need tracking boots to maneuver

A rain gear to protect you from getting wet as Bwindi rains falls any time with no warning.

A flash less camera to keep memories of your experience with mountain gorillas in Ruhijah

Garden gloves will help you hold tightly to creepers when you slide.

A camouflaged trouser or shirt to protect your body from getting scratches.

Insect repellant to protect your skin from biting nettles

What Is The Best Time For Booking Gorilla Tracking Safari In Ruhijah Area

Gorilla tracking in Bwindi Forest is generally throughout the year inclusive of Ruhijah area. Although gorilla tracking here requires you to be with tracking boots you need get all your gears together.

What is the cost of Gorilla tracking in Ruhijah area

The gorilla permit in Ruhijah area costs $700. You need to book in advance so that you don’t miss-out on the beauties of this primate haven.

What accommodation to book for gorilla tracking in Ruhijah Area Bwindi

Rujiah gorilla tracking area has a range of accommodation you can book but you can as well spend your night in Buhoma area and drive to Ruhijah for briefing. You however need to plan in time so that you get to the briefing point on time.

You have the chance to book luxury, mid-range or Budget accommodation for you to get the best of your safari experience.

Which Game Safari Activities to do with Gorilla tracking In Ruhijah

 After gorilla tracking, you may head for a game drive in close by Queen Elizabeth National park home of tree climbing lions. Enjoy a game drive as you get into the park, amazing views, incredible scenery and so much more.  Some of the animals you may get a chance to see include lions, elephants, herds of buffaloes, water bucks, bush bucks, leopards to mention but afew