Family Adventure in Bwindi: Discovering Uganda's Gorillas

Discovering the Soul of Bwindi: A Day of Culture and Connection

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Bwindi, not just admiring its stunning landscapes, but truly connecting with the people who call this place home. After several days of gorilla trekking and marveling at the wonders of the forest, it felt important to dedicate time to understanding the community and contributing in a meaningful way. I was especially excited to share this experience with my family, hoping to instill in them a deep appreciation for the Ugandan culture.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Craft Shop Coffee Pot. The aroma of freshly brewed Ugandan coffee filled the air, mingling with the sweet scent of mandazi, a local fried bread. It was the perfect way to start the day. Moses, ever the early riser, was already chatting with the owner about the local coffee beans and the best way to prepare them. I enjoyed a cup while Hope captured the vibrant scene with her camera, already drawn to the colorful crafts displayed around the café. The coffee was grown near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, where gorillas are protected. It was part of the Gorilla Summit Coffee initiative, which allows farmers to earn more income on their coffee.


Discover the best pizza in Uganda at Craft Shop Coffee Pot—where culinary delights meet unique local crafts along Kabale-Kisoro Road.
From there, we set off to the ACTREC Africa Community Tourism and Research Centre. This center is dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism and community engagement. I had read about their work in preserving the local ecosystems and promoting cultural heritage, and I was eager to see it firsthand. The drive itself was an experience, winding through lush green hills and past small villages where children waved enthusiastically. I couldn't help but reflect on my own childhood in Kyenjojo and how much this landscape still felt like home, even after so many years in Canada.


Experience the essence of African culture at ACTREC Africa Community Tourism and Research Centre, where community and sustainability unite for an unforgettable journey.

The beauty of Bwindi isn't just in its forests and gorillas, but in the warmth and resilience of its people.

At ACTREC, we were greeted by a local guide who shared insights into the center's mission and the various projects they support. We participated in a guided tour, learning about the traditional practices of the communities in the area. We observed local artisans at work, crafting beautiful baskets and wood carvings, each piece telling a story of their heritage. I was particularly moved by the stories of the Batwa people, the original inhabitants of the forest, and their efforts to preserve their unique culture in the face of modernization. The Batwa are known for being the original dwellers in the Bwindi forest.

After a morning of cultural immersion, we headed to Buhoma community rest camp for lunch. This camp is a community-based enterprise that supports local development projects. The setting was idyllic, with views of the forest canopy and the sounds of birds filling the air. We enjoyed a delicious meal of matooke (mashed green bananas) and groundnut stew, a staple in Ugandan cuisine. The food was simple but flavorful, made with fresh, local ingredients. Moses, always eager to connect with his roots, struck up a conversation with the chef, reminiscing about the dishes his mother used to make. Hope, meanwhile, was busy sketching the surrounding landscape, capturing the vibrant colors and textures of the Ugandan countryside.


Discover tranquility and adventure at Buhoma Community Rest Camp - your ideal base for exploring Uganda's breathtaking landscapes.
In the afternoon, we had planned to simply relax, and decided to visit the Bwindi View Lodge for a drink. The lodge is known for its stunning views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. As we sipped our drinks, we watched the sun slowly descend over the horizon, casting a golden glow over the forest canopy. The view was simply breathtaking, a reminder of the incredible natural beauty that Uganda has to offer. I took a moment to reflect on the day's experiences, feeling grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with my family.


Experience the flavors of Uganda at Bwindi View Lodge, where exquisite cuisine meets breathtaking views in Luhizha.
Later in the evening, we made our way to Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge for dinner. The lodge is situated in the heart of the Nkuringo local community. As we enjoyed our meal, we shared stories and laughter, solidifying the bonds that tie us together as a family. The lodge is eco-friendly, inspired by natural materials sourced within the communities. The Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge sits at a high altitude, offering views of the Virunga Volcanoes.


Experience the beauty of nature at Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge near Uganda's breathtaking Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
As I sit here now, writing this entry, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about connecting with people and cultures, and giving back to the communities we visit. Tomorrow marks the end of our adventure in Bwindi, and we plan to visit the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - Buhoma visitor center and Bwindi Forest Farm & Campsite. We'll have breakfast at Kyamp's restaurant, lunch at Food Station, and a final dinner at Gorilla Heights Lodge. We'll also visit the Bwindi Women Bicycle Project, supporting local women and their entrepreneurial endeavors. It's been an incredible journey, one that I know we will all cherish for years to come.


Discover the stunning biodiversity and majestic mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Uganda.
I am so glad I got to share this experience with my family, and I can only hope that it has instilled in them the same love and appreciation for Uganda that I feel. As we prepare to leave this beautiful place, I know that a part of my heart will always remain here, in the heart of Bwindi.