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The Rushaga region, located in the southern part of the enchanting Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, is home to some of the best lodges that cater to the needs of avid gorilla trekkers. Whether you're planning a Uganda safari or a dedicated gorilla trekking adventure, these lodges will ensure your stay is both comfortable and unforgettable.

The Rushaga sector was opened in 2009 and has 10 habituated gorilla families. It is also only in the Rushaga sector where gorilla habituation is done and the gorilla habituation permit cost is $1500 per person for foreign non-residents, $1000 for African citizens and foreign residents, and UGX 750, 000 for East African citizens.

The Four Gorillas Lodge is a recently constructed 4-star luxury accommodation facility located in the Rushaga sector of the southeastern Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Nestled within the park, the lodge offers guests unparalleled proximity to the trekking starting point, just a 10-minute drive away.

Surrounded by the lush, verdant forests of the national park, the lodge provides a secluded and private setting for visitors. The tranquil environment is filled with the soothing sounds of chirping birds, creating a serene and rejuvenating ambiance. The lodge's strategic location places it close to the park headquarters, offering guests convenient access to the park's amenities and resources.

The accommodation at the Four Gorillas Lodge consists of 8 luxury en-suite cottages, each designed to reflect the traditional African architectural style. These well-appointed cottages feature natural local materials, including wood and thick grass roofs, and are equipped with modern amenities such as mosquito nets, hair dryers, flushing toilets, bathtubs, showers with hot and cold water, bottled water, flat-screen televisions, and fire extinguishers. The rooms come in various configurations, including single, twin, double, triple, and family options, catering to the diverse needs of guests.

In addition to the comfortable accommodations, the lodge offers a range of facilities and services to enhance the guest experience. These include:

• An on-site restaurant serving both continental and local cuisine,
• A fully stocked bar
• Breakfast and dinner areas
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access
• Airport pickup and drop-off services
• A craft shop for souvenirs
• A business center with meeting rooms
• Ample Parking space for all guests
• A standby generator

Activities: The Four Gorillas Lodge offers a variety of activities. Guests can embark on a Gorilla habituation experience, track Gorillas, engage in birdwatching, explore the Batwa cultural trail, and partake in guided forest walks, all within close proximity to the lodge.

With its strategic location, luxurious accommodations, and diverse amenities, the Four Gorillas Lodge provides an exceptional base for visitors to explore the rich biodiversity and captivating landscapes of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

The Wild Olives Lodge is located in the Rushaga sector and is one of the budget-friendly accommodation facilities in this sector. The lodge has 9 self-contained rooms decorated with local material making each of the rooms unique in its setting. The Lodge has different facilities and features including the following:

• Parking area
• A winery
• Laundry facilities
• Water heaters
• 24/7 security services
• Housekeeping daily
• A fully stocked bar with both hard and soft drinks
• WIFI for all the guests
• Showers having cold and hot running water
• Local and continental food served in the dining or the comfort of your room upon request.

There are several activities you can engage in while on a gorilla safari to the Rushaga sector and these include gorilla trekking, gorilla habituation, bird watching with over 300 bird species, nature walks, and the Batwa cultural experience.

The Gorilla Valley Lodge is strategically situated in the Rushaga sector, near the border of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, making it an ideal accommodation choice for tourists visiting the area for gorilla trekking. The lodge's proximity to the Rushaga ranger station and the Impenetrable Forest itself allows for the unique opportunity of spotting the elusive mountain gorillas directly from the lodge's grounds.

Accommodation: The lodge's accommodation consists of 12 well-appointed en-suite rooms, constructed on a steep slope to provide guests with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. Each room features a private terrace, allowing visitors to relax and soak in the tranquil natural surroundings. The rooms are equipped with comfortable beds, solar-powered water heaters, and private bathrooms furnished with twin beds. The lodge caters to a diverse range of guests, including solo travelers, families, business travelers, and couples, offering flexible meal options such as full board, bed and breakfast, or half board.

In addition to the comfortable accommodations, the Gorilla Valley Lodge offers a range of amenities to enhance the guest experience. These include:

• A well-stocked bar serving a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages,
• A classic restaurant serving both local and international cuisine.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access and ample parking space for visitors.

The Gorilla Valley Lodge's prime location within the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park allows guests to partake in a variety of activities during their stay. These include the renowned gorilla trekking experience, birdwatching, the gorilla habituation experience, sightseeing, the Batwa cultural experience, and guided nature walks, all within close proximity to the lodge.

The Ichumbi Lodge is a mid-range luxury accommodation facility that offers accommodation to all travelers and trekkers in the Rushaga sector. It is 10 minutes away from the trek start point offering some of the best views around the forest. The lodge offers some of the best amenities and facilities and includes:

• Free private parking space
• A Sun terrace
• Free WIFI
• Restaurant serving continental dishes and local foods
• Business center
• Lounge area
• A garden
• Bike rides

The tourist activities that you can carry out while at Ichumbi Lodge include gorilla trekking, gorilla habituation, bird watching, Batwa trail cultural experience, a visit to Mutanda Island, Guided nature walks, and canoeing among others.

Nestled along the border of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the Rushaga Gorilla Camp is a mid-range accommodation facility that caters to a diverse range of tourists visiting the Rushaga sector for gorilla trekking. Situated just a 15-minute drive from the gorilla trekking starting point, the camp strategically serves both the Nkuringo and Rushaga sectors, making it a convenient choice for visitors.

Spanning an area of 6 acres, the Rushaga Gorilla Camp is designed with an eco-friendly approach, blending seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape. The camp is built along the slopes, offering guests breathtaking views of the forest and the opportunity to spot wildlife, including the elusive forest elephants.

Accommodation: The accommodation at the Rushaga Gorilla Camp comprises a variety of options, catering to the diverse needs of guests. The camp features 6 self-contained bandhas (traditional hut-style accommodations), 2 family bandhas, and 3 to 6 self-contained luxury tents, with a total capacity of 30 guests. For those seeking a more immersive camping experience, the camp also provides the option to pitch your own tent, subject to prior communication and availability.

Activities: The Rushaga Gorilla Camp offers a range of activities for visitors to explore the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and its surrounding areas. These include the iconic gorilla tracking experience, the unique gorilla habituation program, birdwatching, the Batwa cultural trail, a visit to Lake Mutanda, and the opportunity to trek in search of the golden monkeys in the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Guests can also embark on guided nature walks to immerse themselves in the lush, verdant forest ecosystem.

With its strategic location, eco-friendly design, diverse accommodation options, and a wide array of activities, the Rushaga Gorilla Camp provides an ideal base for travelers seeking an authentic and immersive experience in the heart of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Located in the heart of the Rushaga sector, the Rushaga Gorilla Safari Lodge is a luxurious accommodation facility that caters to the needs of trekkers visiting the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The lodge boasts 18 spacious, en-suite rooms, each offering unparalleled views of the lush, tropical rainforest that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your private veranda.

At the heart of the lodge is a well-appointed restaurant, serving both local and continental cuisine. Guests can savor their meals in the main lounge area or, for a more intimate setting, opt to dine on the private deck of their room or in the tranquil gardens. The lodge also offers the option of candlelight dinners and can accommodate a variety of dietary preferences, including packed lunches for those on the go.

In addition to the culinary offerings, the lodge's rooms are thoughtfully designed, providing guests with comfortable, well-furnished beds and en-suite bathrooms equipped with hot and cold water showers. The rooms are decorated in bold, welcoming colors, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Activities: The Rushaga Gorilla Safari Lodge offers a diverse range of activities for guests to immerse themselves in the wonders of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. These include the iconic mountain gorilla trekking experience, the unique gorilla habituation program, guided nature walks, and birdwatching, with over 300 bird species to be discovered. Visitors can also embark on excursions to the Bayenda Falls and explore the cultural heritage of the Batwa people.

Strategically located just 10 minutes from the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park headquarters, the Gorilla Leisure Lodge is a newly constructed luxury accommodation facility catering to both gorilla trekkers and business travelers in the Rushaga sector.

Accommodation: The lodge offers 12 well-appointed, en-suite rooms, including singles, doubles, and family cottages, all decorated in a stylish African aesthetic. Guests can enjoy amenities such as toiletries, complimentary bottled water, TVs, mosquito nets, hot and cold showers, flushing toilets, wooden balconies, and hair dryers.

Beyond the accommodations, the Gorilla Leisure Lodge provides a range of on-site facilities and services, including a well-stocked bar, WiFi, laundry and housekeeping, a restaurant serving both local and continental cuisine, ample parking, and terraces offering stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

Activities: For guests seeking to explore the wonders of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the lodge arranges a variety of activities, including cultural trips, guided nature walks, gorilla habituation, gorilla trekking, and community walking tours.

As you plan your gorilla trekking safari and interested in the Rushaga sector, here are the key things you need to know about gorilla trekking in this remarkable region.

Securing Your Gorilla Permits

Gorilla permits in the Rushaga sector are in high demand, especially during the peak seasons of June to September and December to February. To ensure availability, it's recommended to book your permits at least 6 months in advance. The cost of a gorilla permit varies depending on your residency status: $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, UGX 300,000 for East African citizens, and $500 for African citizens.

Experiencing the Gorilla Habituation

The Rushaga sector is the only area in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park that offers the unique Gorilla Habituation Experience. This specialized program allows a maximum of 4 trekkers to join researchers in studying the behavior of a semi-habituated gorilla family, spending 4 hours observing their interactions. The cost of the Gorilla Habituation Experience is $1500 for foreign non-residents, $1000 for foreign residents, $1000 for African citizens, and UGX 750,000 for East African citizens.

Other Activities: Beyond the iconic gorilla encounters, the Rushaga sector offers a diverse array of activities for travelers to explore, including guided nature walks, cultural visits to local communities, and the opportunity to witness the breathtaking Bayenda Falls. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari enthusiast, the Rushaga sector promises an unforgettable and enriching experience in the heart of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

To secure your gorilla trekking permits and plan your Rushaga adventure, don't hesitate to reach out to us for personalized assistance and expert guidance. 

Packing for a gorilla trekking safari to Uganda requires some careful planning. Here are some essentials to bring:

• Pack some warm clothes like sweaters for when the weather drastically changes.
• A raincoat is necessary whether you are travelling in the dry or wet season.
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers protect your skin from insect bites, keep you warm, and protect your skin from tree scratches. The clothes packed should be neutral or in brown, khaki, and green colours. Avoid blue, any other brightly coloured clothes, and black. Also, make sure to avoid jeans.
• First aid kit fully packed with all the medicines prescribed by your doctor, bandages, spirit, iodine, cotton, tummy ache medicines, pain killers, and other things needed to treat scratches during the trek.
• Gaiters, socks, and garden gloves are needed. The socks are used to keep you warm, and during the trek, trousers are tucked into the socks to prevent insects from crawling up your pants. The garden gloves and non-surgical gloves protect your hands from tree scratches during the trek, and the adjustable gaiters are mainly used during the wet season.
• Strong ankle-length boots are necessary to keep your feet steady on the trek, especially during the wet season. They should be well-fitting to avoid blisters and waterproof if you can get them.

Other items that you need to pack include a refillable water bottle, flashlight, extra batteries, camera and extra lenses, binoculars, wet wipes, biodegradable toilet paper, scarf, sandals, sunscreen, insect repellent, a sun hat, and toiletries, among others.

When it comes to planning a gorilla trekking safari in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the timing of your visit can significantly impact your overall experience. Here's a closer look at the best times to go gorilla trekking in Uganda.

The Dry Season: Peak Trekking Conditions

The dry season, spanning from June to September and December to February, is generally regarded as the prime time for gorilla trekking in Rushaga. During these months, the tracking routes are typically dry and well-maintained, making the trekking experience more comfortable and accessible. However, it's important to note that this is also the busiest time of year, so it's crucial to book your safari well in advance to secure your gorilla permits and accommodations.

The Rainy Season: A Budget-Friendly Alternative

While the dry season is the most popular choice, the rainy season, from March to May and October to November, can also be a viable option, particularly for those on a more modest budget or seeking a more intimate trekking experience. Though the tracking routes may be slightly more challenging due to the wet conditions, the rainy season often offers more affordable rates and fewer crowds.

Regardless of the season, Rushaga boasts a diverse range of accommodations, catering to the needs and preferences of all types of travelers. From luxury lodges to more budget-friendly options, your tour operator can provide valuable guidance in selecting the perfect place to stay, ensuring your gorilla trekking experience is tailored to your individual needs.

To unlock the full potential of your Rushaga gorilla trekking adventure, Contact Our Team for more Information on your next gorilla trekking safari in Uganda.