They say some moments in life leave you speechless—and trekking to see mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of them.
Nestled in the misty highlands of southwestern Uganda, Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. It’s wild, untouched, and as the name suggests—impenetrable. But what lies within those thick forests is more powerful than words.
The Journey Begins
After volunteering for two weeks on a community project with Adventure Volunteers, I decided to treat myself to something truly special. The drive to Bwindi was long but beautiful—winding through tea plantations, banana groves, and rolling hills that earned Uganda its nickname, “The Pearl of Africa.”
Our lodge was perched on the edge of the forest, offering stunning views and the haunting calls of jungle birds as our soundtrack. I could barely sleep that night—half nerves, half excitement.
Into the Forest
We started our gorilla trek just after sunrise, led by experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. The trek itself was no walk in the park. We climbed steep trails, ducked under vines, and crossed muddy streams. The air was thick, the forest alive. But the anticipation kept us moving.
After about two hours of hiking, our guide stopped. He whispered, “They’re just ahead.” We left our backpacks behind and crept closer.
And there they were.
Face to Face with Giants
A silverback sat in the clearing, calm and commanding. Around him, mothers cradled their babies, juveniles swung from branches, and one cheeky little guy thumped his chest like a movie star. We stood just meters away, silent, in awe.
You get one hour with them—just 60 minutes—but time stretches and collapses all at once. Watching their human-like gestures, their deep eyes, their family interactions—it’s emotional. Raw. Transformative.
This isn’t a zoo. This is their world. And you’re a guest.
More Than Just a Trek
What makes Bwindi even more special is its connection to conservation and community. Every permit sold supports local initiatives: protecting gorillas, funding schools, building clinics, and creating jobs. You’re not just visiting—you’re contributing.
As someone who volunteered and then trekked, I saw the full picture: how tourism, when done ethically, can uplift both people and wildlife.
Final Thoughts
Bwindi isn’t an easy place to reach. The trek isn’t easy either. But maybe that’s the point. It’s one of the last truly wild places, and it demands your respect—and your effort.
If you’re looking for something unforgettable after your volunteer work, this is it. A gorilla trek in Bwindi isn’t just an activity. It’s a privilege. One that will stay with you long after the mist has cleared.
Tips for First-Time Trekkers
- Train a little: Some hikes can be steep—get your legs ready!
- Bring gloves: The forest is thick and scratchy.
- Dress in layers: It starts cold and gets hot fast.
- Pack snacks and water: You’ll need them.
- Listen to your guides: They’re not only experts—they’re protectors of this endangered species.
