Gorilla Trekking in Rushaga – Bwindi’s Lively Southern Sector

Rushaga sector, along with Nkuringo in Kisoro district, is located in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Buhoma and Ruhija are the other two sectors, located in the north and east of the park.

Uganda is a country in East Africa, bordered by South Sudan, Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Rushaga is one of the well-known sectors of Bwindi, with over five gorilla families open for trekking and two for habituation. The five gorilla families available for trekking are Bweza, Nshongi, Mishaya, Kahungye, and Busingye.

Only eight people aged 15 and above with valid permits can visit each of these groups per day, guided by park rangers.

Gorilla Permit Prices in Rushaga Sector

A gorilla trekking permit in Rushaga costs 800 USD for foreign non-residents, 700 USD for foreign residents, and 250,000 UGX for East African residents, including Ugandans.

A gorilla habituation permit costs 1500 USD per person. These permits can be obtained from the Uganda Wildlife Authority in Kampala or booked through a professional local tour operator.

On the day of your trek, you will go to the sector headquarters early in the morning with your permit. After a briefing session with a knowledgeable ranger guide, you will head into the forest for 1 to 8 hours of trekking, followed by an additional hour to observe the gorillas and take photos.

Due to the hilly and rugged terrain, the Rushaga sector is best suited for young and energetic visitors, though older travelers can also manage.

Best Time to Visit Rushaga Sector

Rushaga is open to visitors all year, with trekking starting early in the morning and lasting about 2 to 7 hours, plus an hour of gorilla observation.

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to September and December to February, when the trails are easier to navigate.

Budget travelers can consider trekking during the rainy season, which offers discounts on accommodation and permits and has fewer visitors on the trails.

However, the trails can be muddy and slippery, making trekking more challenging during this time.

What to Carry for a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rushaga

Besides your trekking permit, carry only essential items, including:

• Waterproof backpack
• Rain jacket
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Garden gloves
• Water bottle
• Camera
• Binoculars
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
• Long socks

You will also need your yellow fever vaccination certificate, visa, and passport. Hiring a porter for 10-20 USD is recommended, as they can help carry your bags during the trek.

Where to Stay in Rushaga Sector

Rushaga has a range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury lodges, all offering good services. Since trekking starts early in the morning and missed treks are non-refundable, it is recommended to stay at a lodge within the Rushaga sector to ensure you arrive on time for your trek.

Booking your Rushaga gorilla permit in advance is possible and highly recommended. Rushaga is one of the busiest sectors of Bwindi, with some of the most popular gorilla families.

To avoid last-minute disappointment, book your permit at least six months in advance.

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