Bwindi is a montane rainforest in south-western Uganda on the edge of the Rift Valley, ranging from about 1,160 to 2,600 m. It holds nearly half the world's mountain gorillas, and trekking requires permits issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
- Country
- Uganda
- Type
- Forest
- Approx. area
- 321 km²
- Best time
- June to August and December to February
- Suggested stay
- 2–3 days
- Main gateway airport
- Entebbe International Airport (EBB)
- Big Five
- Not all five
- Malaria
- Malaria area: see a travel doctor
Why go to Bwindi
- About 459 mountain gorillas, nearly half the world population
- Gorilla trekking in four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga
- Over 350 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics
- Cultural encounters with Batwa and Bakiga communities
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
Best time to visit Bwindi
Based on average weather and wildlife seasons, the best period to visit Bwindi is June to August and December to February.
The driest months; trails are relatively easier and demand for gorilla permits is high.
A shorter dry spell, though rain can fall at any time.
Rainy months make trails slippery; gorilla trekking continues year-round.
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 12–23 | some rain | ★★★★★ | busy |
| February | 12–23 | some rain | ★★★★★ | busy |
| March | 12–23 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| April | 13–22 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| May | 13–22 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| June | 11–22 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| July | 11–22 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | peak season |
| August | 11–22 | some rain | ★★★★★ | peak season |
| September | 12–23 | some rain | ★★★★★ | busy |
| October | 12–22 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| November | 12–22 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| December | 12–22 | some rain | ★★★★★ | busy |
What you can see
Wildlife you may see in Bwindi includes mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants and birdlife.
Things to do
- gorilla trekking
- birdwatching
- hiking
- cultural visits
Getting there
Daily scheduled flights from Entebbe reach Kihihi and Kisoro airstrips (about 1 hr 10 min), followed by a 4x4 transfer. By road from Kampala it is roughly a full day.
Trips to Bwindi
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Plan by travel style
- Bwindi for families
- Bwindi for a honeymoon
- Bwindi for photographers
- Bwindi for a first safari
- Bwindi on a budget
- Bwindi for luxury travel
Compare with
- Bwindi vs Murchison Falls
- Bwindi vs Queen Elizabeth
- Bwindi vs Volcanoes
- Bwindi vs Ngorongoro
- Bwindi vs Amboseli
- Bwindi vs Lake Manyara
Travelling to Bwindi from
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Bwindi?
Generally June to August and December to February. The driest months; trails are relatively easier and demand for gorilla permits is high.
How many days do I need in Bwindi?
Most visitors spend 2 to 3 days there, not counting travel days.
How do I get to Bwindi?
Daily scheduled flights from Entebbe reach Kihihi and Kisoro airstrips (about 1 hr 10 min), followed by a 4x4 transfer. By road from Kampala it is roughly a full day.
Is there malaria in Bwindi?
Yes, it is in a malaria-risk area. See a doctor or travel clinic well before your trip.
Sources: Uganda Wildlife Authority - Bwindi Impenetrable National Park · SafariBookings - Bwindi climate · Climates to Travel - Uganda (Kabale normals)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.