Besides Gorilla Tracking, several activities can be done around Ruhija;
The lodge is a good base to explore for Gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Ruhija sector.
Birdwatching
A walk into the forest which ranks the best in Uganda with 23 highly localized forest Albertine Rift endemics will expose you to your dream forest bird species. Ruhija being the highest peak of the forest offers the best view of rear species such as white starred robin, grey cuckoo shrike, strange weaver, banded Prinia, brown chested Alethe, slender billed Greenbul, yellow streaked Greenbul, white browned Crombec, mountain Illadopsis, Ludher’s bush shrike, grey bush shrike, grey green bush shrike; all these and many others are among the 345 species recorded in this park.
Visit the Mubwindi swamp a rewarding steep mountain as you drop from 2400m to 2050m. Birding in the bamboo zone is good for handsome francolin, archers robin chat, stripe breasted tit, purple breasted sunbird, mountain Greenbul, duikers, warblers, dusky Crimsonwing, mountain Illadopsis, mountain yellow warbler to mention a few. Birders who come with camping equipment can camp at Ruhija campground.
Forest walk and Nature walk
This walk will expose you to Bwindi’s broad biodiversity with varied mammal species which include; primates like Chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkey, blue monkey baboon, while the black and white Columbus with its lovely flowing white tail is prominent. The shoddy trail will expose you to an array of butter fly species, species of moths, species of reptiles, tree species, the bamboo forest, flowers and many other attractions.
The Ruhija ridge top route offers visitors the insight of a deep valley containing the undisturbed rainforest as they watch the duikers, primates and both forest and grassland bird species. Visitors can also climb through the bamboo zone to find afromontane vegetation and panoramic views towards Lake Bunyonyi and Mafuga forest.
Village Walk
Ruhija is a great place for village walks and guests who are interested in visiting the local community, Please let our staff know for special arrangements.
Options include visiting a local school, a traditional local healer, a banana brewery or combine the community tour with a nature tour towards the forest.
Whatever tour you take will equip you with knowledge on how the people in and around Ruhija live.
If required, the lodge can arrange a private performance for the guests at the lodge by children from the local orphanage – A beautiful sing and dance performance which will take you away into the Ugandan culture.
Do not forget the visit to the batwa community. The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to some of the greatest biodiversity on the planet, a profusion of exotic plants and animals that includes the endangered mountain gorilla. For thousands of years, the forest was also home to an indigenous people—the Batwa pygmies.
Step back in time to see how the Batwa lived for millenia in the Bwindi, one of the most beautiful jungles on earth. Enjoy an incredible day hike in the rainforest with Batwa guides, see how the Batwa lived and hunted, learn about medicinal plants, and watch for animals and birds.
You will hear ancient legends and traditional songs, watch energetic dances, and join in on a mock hunting party. You can even test your skill with a Batwa bow and arrow.
Gorilla tracking is the main activity in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Track gorillas with us and explore them for their true self. We offer tracking that will truly redefine your travel experiences. We talk the language of comfort and offer unique camping styles that cater to one and all with destinations people only dream of.
Discover a world of thrilling adventure in a place surrounded by nature and blessed with year-round sunshine. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, adrenaline junkie or simply love being in nature, there is something for everyone. Gorilla Mist Camp is a naturalist’s paradise and endless hours can be spent exploring the great outdoors, with many activities to suit your mood.
