Rushaga sector located in the southern part of Bwindi and is among the four sectors of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in the Kisoro district. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is home to more than half of the world's endangered mountain gorilla population. Click here to view mountain gorilla safaris

Rushaga Sector of Bwindi has the largest number of mountain gorilla families compared to other sectors with three or fewer gorilla families; thus, Rushaga Sector is one of the best regions in Bwindi for mountain gorilla trekking and mountain gorilla habituation. Click here to see our recommended mountain gorilla trekking tour.

Rushaga mountain gorilla families include the Busingye mountain gorilla family, the Nshongi gorilla family, the Mishaya gorilla family, the Bweza gorilla family, and the Kungye gorilla family.

Rushaga sector has a high number of habituated gorilla families compared to other sectors of Bwindi. The Uganda Wildlife Authority issues 40 mountain gorilla permits per day in this region as compared to other sectors; therefore, travelers have higher chances of getting these gorilla permits.

However, travelers are advised to book early enough for gorilla permits, at least three months prior to their travel dates of trekking and one may suggest a particular gorilla family they would like to trek because each gorilla family is in different areas of Rushaga.

Rushaga Sector Mountain Gorilla Family is led by a silverback that guides all the gorilla movements in the group and activities of the day within each family.

As you enjoy the trek through Bwindi forest in search of the habituated gorillas, you may be lucky enough to view other wildlife species such as colorful butterflies, black and white colobus monkeys, and bird species singing in the forest, colorful butterflies; chimpanzees, and beautiful scenery within the forest.

Rushaga Sector is situated in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is renowned for its unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking experiences. However, tourists can engage in several activities beyond mountain gorilla encounters. Here are some top things that can be done in the Rushaga sector after gorilla trekking.

Bird Watching in Rushaga

Rushaga is a bird-watching paradise, with over 350 bird species; some species belong to the Albertine Rift endemics. Rushaga sector famous bird species include African Green Broadbill, Dusky Crimsonwing Rwenzori Batis, Regal Sunbird, and Black Bee-eater.

Nature Walks and Scenic Hikes

Nature walks in Rushaga offer tourists a chance to Bwindi’s lush forest, hills, and rivers, popular trails in Rushaga nature walks include the Mishaya River Trail – A serene route that takes tourists through beautiful forested areas. Lake Mutanda Hike – this is another scenic hike that provides breathtaking views of Lake Mutanda and the Virunga chain- Volcanoes.

Batwa Cultural Experience

Engage with the local Batwa pygmy community and learn more about their ancient lifestyle. The Batwa experience includes storytelling, traditional music and dance, and demonstrations of how they used to hunt and gather fruits, which medicinal plants were used in the old days.

Canoeing on Lake Mutanda

Visit Lake Mutanda for an exciting canoeing experience. Glide across the world’s calmest waters while enjoying the picturesque views of the surrounding interlocking volcanoes and spotting aquatic birds.

Visit the local Community and Handicraft Shopping

A local community tour allows tourists to interact with the people of the Rushaga sector. Guests can visit the local homesteads, interact with residents, and buy handmade crafts such as baskets, fabrics, and locally beaded jewelry.

The best time to explore the Rushaga Sector is during the dry season, which lasts from June to September and December to February. However, the sector can be toured throughout the year. The dry season is ideal because the trekking trails are dry, making it easier to trek mountain gorillas in the jungle.