Rushaga Sector of Bwindi; Rushaga region is one of the four gorilla regions or sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in the southern part of the park and it is renown in the history of tourism as home that protects our closest relative the endangered mountain gorillas whom are said we share 98% of human genes. More fact, Bwindi National Park a UNESCO World heritage site, located in the southwestern region of Uganda and become popular worldwide because it hosts world’s highest population of mountain gorillas that still exist in the wild with a record of 650 individuals out of the remaining total of 1100 individuals.
Location; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is approximately 8 to 9 hours’ drive. Alternatively, you can choose to fly to Kigali International Airport and then connect to the park headquarter via Cyanika border in Kisoro district.
Another option, you can access Rushaga sector by a domestic flight through booking scheduled or charter flights by Aero link from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro Airstrip and then connect to the park headquarters by road.
Despite the fact, Rushaga sector is one of the gorilla regions in the park with the largest number of gorilla families -groups including;
Mishaya Gorilla Family
Mucunguzi Gorilla Family
Rwigi Gorilla Family
Bikingi Gorilla Family
Nshongi Gorilla Family
Bwenza Gorilla Family
Busingye Gorilla Family
Why one should be advised to trek in this region?
When you’re travelling to Rushaga you have got a great chance to view the Volcanoes Mountain at far distance but with the gainful views of the Virunga, Gahinga and Muhavura with is such a beautiful scenery to view, have also got a chance to view Lake Bunyonyi the deepest crate lake in Africa and home known for little birds.
Well, the traveling journey to this region is quite rewarding with an amazing experience of the topography made, the hills, valleys. Besides that, you will also get to enjoy the beauty of Kisoro district, the mountain slopes around.
Due to many habituated Gorilla families in this sector, it is very easy to book your permit in advance since a number of 40 permits are on sell everyday and 8 people only are allowed to trek each Gorilla group. Although, Rushaga sector is the only sector among the three other gorilla regions where Gorilla Habituation Experience is carried out. Therefore, only four people are allowed to participate in habituation experience. Note, Gorilla habituation can take 2 to 3 years under training to get used to eye contact of the people and the moment the park rangers notes that the group is ready to be visited – it will be open for tourism.
Gorilla Habituation Experience;

This is quite unforgettable experience which is a full day activity don by the help of the researchers, doctors, park rangers, guides who lead through thick forest in search for the gorilla family. Once it is allocated you will be permitted only 4 hours to spend with them as you get to learn about their behaviors, feed, play, survive in the forest as well as taking memorable pictures with them. Note, depending on their unpredictable movements, you’re advised to be physically fit in order to come up with successful trip in the Pearl of Africa.
Where to stay in Rushaga Sector?
Rushaga region has got classic lodges which are owned by the local community members in this region as well as outside. Lodges in Rushaga sector ranges from Luxury, Mid-range and Budget and some lodges includes; Four Gorilla Safari, Rushaga Gorilla Haven lodge, Nshongi Gorilla Camp, Gorilla Valley Lodge, Bwindi Guest House, Chameleon Hill Lodge, Wagtail Eco Safari Camp, Nshongi Camp, Mutanda Lake Resort, Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Gorilla Safari lodge among others.
As you plan to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and have a chance to take part of Gorilla Safari activity, visit this developing region and community and take part in Gorilla habituation experience. Other activities to do in Rushaga sector includes; Nature walk, Birding, Cultural tour among others.
Best time to visit Rushaga sector
Rushaga sector can be visited throughout the year but the best time is during the dry season from the month of June, July, August, September, December, January and February. During the dry season rain can be less thus making roads to the sector and trekking trails passible
Wet season happens from the month of March to May and November, this is the best time for birdwatching and accommodation rates at a lower price due to few people visiting the park.
For more information about things to do and history of Rushaga sector, do not hesitate to contact us at Achieve Global Safaris or visit our website to book an affordable and perfect Uganda safari package.
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