Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Records Surge in Gorilla Trekking Visits

Kisoro, Uganda — Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of Africa’s most celebrated biodiversity hotspots and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is experiencing a notable rise in tourist visits as travelers return to Uganda’s wilderness in growing numbers Radio 5 Reports.

According to park officials, visitor numbers for gorilla trekking—the park’s flagship activity—have steadily increased over the past several months, bringing renewed optimism to conservationists and communities that depend on tourism income. Bwindi is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it one of the most sought-after wildlife destinations on the continent.

Local tourism operators say the surge is driven by a combination of improved infrastructure, heightened global interest in eco-tourism, and Uganda’s reputation for offering intimate and responsible gorilla encounters. “We’re seeing more travelers from Europe, North America, and Asia,” said a lodge owner in Buhoma. “Many people had Bwindi on their bucket list, and now they’re finally making the trip.”

Beyond gorillas, the park’s rich rainforest ecosystem—one of the oldest in Africa—continues to draw scientists and nature lovers. Bwindi hosts more than 350 bird species, dozens of endemic butterflies, and over 200 tree species, making it a prime destination for biodiversity research.

Local communities surrounding the park are also benefiting from the tourism revival. Revenue-sharing programs and community tourism initiatives have helped fund schools, medical centers, and conservation education projects. “Gorilla conservation and community welfare go hand in hand,” noted a Uganda Wildlife Authority spokesperson. “Every visitor contributes to protecting the species and supporting the people who live near the park.”

Despite the encouraging numbers, conservationists caution that the mountain gorillas remain endangered and require continued protection. Strict trekking rules—including limited group sizes, mandatory briefing sessions, and hygiene protocols—remain in place to safeguard the primates.

As Bwindi’s trails fill once again with excited trekkers from across the world, stakeholders hope that sustainable tourism will continue reinforcing Uganda’s role as a leader in wildlife conservation.

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