My Special Review of Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija – By Ada

Special Review of Gorilla Trekking in Ruhija: The morning of my gorilla trekking adventure in the Ruhija sector of Bwindi was one of those moments that stay with you forever. I woke up early at the beautiful Gorilla Mist Lodge, surrounded by the cool mountain air and the distant sounds of the forest slowly coming to life. There was a sense of excitement in the air because this was the day I would finally meet the legendary mountain gorillas.

Setting Off to the Briefing Centre

After a quick breakfast and preparation, we set off from Gorilla Mist Lodge to the Ruhija Briefing Centre. The drive was short, taking about 7-8 minutes, but it was filled with anticipation. The winding road through the lush hills gave us glimpses of the dense forest that hides one of the world’s most incredible wildlife experiences.

When we arrived at the briefing centre, the atmosphere was lively. Travelers from different parts of the world gathered together, all eager for the same adventure. Before the briefing even began, we were treated to a wonderful cultural welcome by the Ruhija community women, who performed traditional dances and songs. Their colorful attire, rhythmic drumming, and energetic movements created a joyful environment that made us feel warmly welcomed. It was the perfect start to the day and a beautiful reminder that gorilla tourism also supports local communities.

The Ranger’s Briefing

Soon after the performance, a ranger from the Uganda Wildlife Authority called us together for the official briefing. He explained the do’s and don’ts of gorilla trekking, emphasizing the importance of respecting the gorillas and protecting their habitat.

Some of the key rules included maintaining a safe distance of about 10 meters from the gorillas, keeping voices low while in the forest, wearing face masks, avoiding flash photography, and never approaching a gorilla directly. These rules are crucial for both the safety of visitors and the well-being of the gorillas.

The ranger also gave us some fascinating background about Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. He said the park was established in 1991, it covers 321 sq.kms. The park has Apes such Chimpanzees, monkeys and humans around it. It has a total of 365 bird species, 23 are endemic to the Albertine rift valley.  He explained that the last population census in 2018 it had 1060 gorillas of which the park is home to around 400 mountain gorillas, which is almost half of the world’s population. The remaining gorillas live in the nearby Virunga Mountains region, where about 600 gorillas inhabit the forests that span Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He also explained saying 60% of the gorillas are habituated, this process takes 2 years. The park also is a home to forest Elephants, small antelope species, giant forest hog etc.

Gorilla Families in Ruhija

We also learned that the Ruhija sector hosts five habituated gorilla families available for trekking. They include Oruzogo, Bitukura, Kyaguriro, Mukiza.

Each family has its own territory and unique social dynamics. Our group was assigned to track the Bitukura family, one of the well-known gorilla groups in this sector.

The ranger divided us into trekking groups of eight people per group, which is the maximum number allowed to visit a gorilla family each day. This system ensures that the gorillas are not overwhelmed by too many visitors and helps preserve the authenticity of the experience.

Following the Trackers

As we walked deeper into the forest, the guides explained that trackers had already gone ahead earlier in the morning to locate the gorilla family. They stay in communication with the trekking guides so visitors can be directed to the exact location of the gorillas.

We had to stop twice along the way while waiting for updates from the trackers. These pauses gave us time to appreciate the beauty of the forest, towering trees, thick vegetation, and the unique sounds of birds and insects all around us.

Soon the message came through: The Bitukura family had been located.

Beginning the Trek

After the briefing, we drove to the starting point of our trek. The moment we stepped out of the vehicles, something incredible happened, we spotted a silverback gorilla nearby. Seeing a silverback for the first time in my life was breathtaking. His massive body, calm presence, and the distinctive silver hair on his back made him look powerful yet peaceful. Everyone quickly reached for their cameras, capturing this unforgettable moment.

The rangers and guides then led us toward the forest to begin the real trek. Our journey into the jungle officially started, and excitement filled the air.

Entering the Forest

The forest terrain was a bit steep and thick in places, which made the adventure feel even more authentic. As we entered deeper into the vegetation, something magical happened, I saw gorillas in the trees.

Some were feeding on bamboo shoots and leaves, carefully pulling branches toward themselves. Others moved gracefully from tree to tree despite their large size. It was incredible to witness such powerful animals behaving so peacefully in their natural habitat.

The Bitukura Family

The Bitukura family is a remarkable group, and we were lucky to encounter them on that day. The oldest silverback in the family is around 56 years old, which is quite impressive for a wild mountain gorilla.

We also saw mothers carrying their young babies on their backs, gently moving through the forest. Watching the young one’s cling to their mothers or play nearby was incredibly heartwarming.

At one point, we followed the group as they slowly moved through the forest while feeding. The guides carefully ensured we kept the proper distance while still allowing us to enjoy every moment.

Encountering the Mugisha Family

During our trek, we also encountered the Mugisha family. Seeing this gorilla family during one trekking experience made the adventure even more special.

Every movement, every sound, and every interaction between the gorillas felt magical. The forest was alive with their presence.

 One Unforgettable Hour

Once we reached the gorillas, we were allowed to spend one full hour with them. That hour felt like both a long and very short time. We watched them eat, move, and interact with each other.

Many of us took photos and videos, but we also took time to simply observe them quietly. There is something deeply humbling about standing in the presence of these magnificent creatures.

The trek itself did not take very long, since the gorilla family was located relatively close to the starting point. Still, the steep terrain and dense vegetation reminded us that we were truly inside one of Africa’s most remarkable forests.

Supporting the Trackers

After our hour with the gorillas came to an end, we expressed our appreciation by tipping the trackers. These dedicated individuals spend the entire day in the forest monitoring the gorillas to ensure they remain safe and to help trekkers find them. Their work is crucial for both conservation and tourism.

Returning to the Centre

We then began trekking back through the forest until we reached the starting point again. From there we returned to the Ruhija centre, where we were proudly awarded our gorilla trekking certificates—a small but meaningful reminder of an extraordinary experience.

Holding that certificate felt like completing a very special journey.

Advice for Future Gorilla Trekkers

If you are planning to go gorilla trekking, especially during the rainy season, there are some important things to carry:

• Waterproof hiking boots (the trails can be very slippery
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Gardening gloves for gripping vegetation
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
• Drinking water and energy snacks
• A walking stick (often provided at the centre)

Another very important tip is to book your gorilla permit early. Permits are limited and can sell out months in advance, especially during peak seasons.

A Must-Do Experience

Gorilla trekking in the Ruhija sector of Bwindi is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Standing just meters away from wild mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is something that cannot be fully described—it must be experienced.

From the cultural welcome at the briefing centre to the thrilling moment of seeing a silverback for the first time, every step of the journey was unforgettable.

For anyone who loves nature, wildlife, and adventure, gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is something you must do at least once in your lifetime.