Ruhija sector trekking review

Ruhija sector is located in the eastern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The sector sits at an elevation of about 2,350 meters, making it one of the highest and coolest areas in the park.

Ruhija offers close gorilla encounters deep in the forest. It is also well known among bird lovers because of the many bird species found in this area.

Gorilla trekking in Ruhija is more demanding than in Buhoma due to the steeper slopes. However, it is less difficult than Nkuringo, which is known to be more strenuous.

A gorilla trek in Ruhija starts early in the morning at 7:00 am with a briefing at the park headquarters led by experienced park rangers. After the briefing, tourists are divided into groups of eight people, with each group assigned to one gorilla family. The trek can last from 30 minutes to six hours, depending on where the gorillas are located.

Once a gorilla family is found, visitors are allowed to spend only one hour with them. During this time, park rangers explain gorilla behavior and daily life in the forest. Tourists are also allowed to take photos.

Ruhija is known for offering quieter and less crowded trekking experiences. A limited number of permits are sold each day, usually about 24, which helps keep visitor numbers low.

Although gorilla trekking is the main activity, Ruhija is also popular for bird watching. Some of the well known bird species found here include the African Green Broadbill, Grauer’s Rush Warbler, and Regal Sunbird.

Ruhija currently has four habituated gorilla families available for trekking. These include Bitukura, which has 13 members and is known for being calm, Oruzogo with 17 members and playful juveniles, Kyaguriro with 10 members which is mainly used for research, and Mukiibiza with 12 members.

The sector has several accommodation options that suit different budgets. These range from budget to midrange and luxury lodges. Popular choices include Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge, Bakiga Lodge, Gorilla Mist Camp, Broadbill Forest Camp, and Ruhija Community Rest Camp.

Ruhija offers a quiet and authentic gorilla trekking experience in the forest of Bwindi.