Located in the southwestern region of Uganda at the boarder
of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bwindi impenetrable forest national park
covers an area of 331 square kilometers in the highest parts of the Kigezi
hills. It is a home to almost half of the world’s only remaining mountain gorillas,
and this is its flagship, offering the best gorilla safaris in Uganda.
Most of the travelers, or probably all popularly know this
park as the most prominent destination for the most ultimate gorilla trekking experience in Africa.
This has made the park to majorly attract gorilla lovers yet it also features other
tourism activities like the Batwa
cultural encounters and nature walks.
Nature walks are simply walks in the jungles that let you
appreciate the tranquility and gifts of nature. It is one of the greatest ways
to soothe your mind.
About nature walks in
Bwindi impenetrable forest, six trails have been developed and well
maintained to ensure that tourists have unforgettable experiences to view
different birds plus primates like the mountain gorillas, monkeys, baboons
among others while on their safaris in Uganda.
Muyanga Waterfall Walk departing from Buhoma along the River
Ivi-Nkuringo trail and culminates in the historic sight of the falls. The walk
is partially along the track going through the forest and the other part is a
bush track with log bridges at river crossings. The trail covers a total
distance of about 9km return and offers a pleasant afternoon's walk. Both the
journey to and from the waterfalls themselves are very scenic making a nature
walk a delightful way to spend an afternoon while on a Uganda safari in Bwindi.
Rushura Hill Walk.
This passes through the one forest shared by two countries. Depending on the
weather, on a clear day you have an opportunity to view Lakes Edward and
George, the Rwenzori Mountains and the conical peaks of the Virunga Volcanoes
as you climb up to the highest point around Buhoma and you descend through
cultivated fields regenerating forests.
The Habinyanja Trail
also known as the Railegh trail takes 4-6hrs. Having crossed the Munyaga River,
it fairly slopes down of the Habigorogoro and Riyovi Ridge overlooking Buhoma
River. Along the trail you find the legendry “African Corner” which was named
after a rock piece depicting a map of Africa. Further descending, hikers enjoy
a more relaxed gentle slope to the mighty Habinyanja swamp. Also birders on
this trail can spot the Pel’s Fishing Owl, African Black Duck and Black Bee
Eaters, among others.
The Buhoma-Nkuringo
Trail crosses right through the park. It takes three to four hours
connecting the two villages and offering stunning views of the misty hillsides.
This trail can also be completed as part of the Ivi River Walk. Identify
several bird and butterfly species, trees and primates like gorillas, monkeys
among others all on a nature walk along this trail in Bwindi.
Muzubijiro Loop 6km
trail walks around a hill and gives one a chance to encounter primates, birds
and enjoy a view of the Virungas. As you ascend through the forest to the
Rukubira Hill, you are rewarded with excellent views of the Virunga Volcano
chain and the Western Rift Valley below. The top of this trail is an amazing
place for a picnic lunch.
The Ivi River Walk is
14 km passing a place known as Mukempunu which means “a place of pigs” because
many wild pigs are always found here. The trail goes through an old road in the
forest and it’s a full day’s hike with the most fabulous experience. It is very
scenic with viewpoints along the way, monkeys, bush pigs, butterflies, birds
and villagers on the way some coming from the market.
If you ever come for a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, particularly in Bwindi impenetrable forest
national park, you can alternatively go for the popular Buhoma Village walk and have an experience of its own.
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