Family Adventure in Bwindi: Discovering Uganda's Gorillas

Homeward Bound, But Forever Changed

As our incredible journey through Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - Buhoma visitor center comes to an end, I find myself filled with a mix of emotions. There's a sense of accomplishment, a tinge of sadness at leaving this magical place, and an overwhelming gratitude for the experiences we've shared as a family. These past ten days have been nothing short of transformative, deepening our connection to each other and to the vibrant culture and wildlife of Uganda.

Our final day began with a hearty breakfast at Kyamp's restaurant. It felt like a proper Ugandan send-off, enjoying a delicious meal, reminiscing about our favorite moments, and planning for the journey ahead. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, much like the people we've encountered throughout our trip. After breakfast, we made our way to the Buhoma visitor center. It was a chance to revisit where our adventure truly began, to reflect on how much we've seen and learned since our arrival. The visitor center is a wonderful resource, providing insights into the park's ecosystem, conservation efforts, and the local communities that call this area home.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Our first stop was the Bwindi Women Bicycle Project. This project is more than just a bicycle rental service; it's a testament to the strength and resilience of the women in this community. We rented bikes and spent the morning cycling through the lush trails surrounding Buhoma, taking in the breathtaking views of the forest. It was inspiring to see how this initiative empowers local women, providing them with employment opportunities and a platform to share their knowledge of the area's flora, fauna, and cultural heritage. Hope especially loved this, feeling inspired by the women's stories and their entrepreneurial spirit. It reminded me of the importance of community-based projects, similar to the work I do back in Brampton, supporting immigrant families.


Discover the beauty of Buhoma while empowering local women at the Bwindi Women Bicycle Project – an unforgettable cycling adventure awaits.

Travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

Next, we visited the Bwindi Forest Farm & Campsite. This coffee plantation and campsite is a true gem, showcasing sustainable farming practices and offering a glimpse into rural Ugandan life. We took a tour of the farm, learning about coffee cultivation and the importance of ecological balance. Moses was particularly interested in the farming techniques, comparing them to his own experiences growing up in Uganda. The farm also offers volunteer opportunities, which I found particularly appealing. It's wonderful to see how they are working towards developing a biodiversity's gentle cultivation method without compromising crop yield.


Discover the beauty of Bwindi Forest Farm & Campsite, an enchanting getaway in Uganda's wilderness, perfect for camping and exploring nature's wonders.

For lunch, we stopped at the Food Station, where we indulged in authentic Ugandan cuisine. This restaurant is known for its flavorful dishes and commitment to cleanliness and customer satisfaction. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the food was simply delicious. It was a perfect way to refuel after our morning adventures. I tried the traditional stews, while the family enjoyed grilled specialties, each dish telling a story of Uganda's rich agricultural heritage.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Uganda at Food Station - where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.

In the afternoon, we visited the Bwindi Women Bicycle Project again, this time to support their craft shop. I was eager to purchase some souvenirs that would directly benefit the local community. We bought several beautiful handmade crafts, knowing that our contribution would make a difference in the lives of these women. It was heartwarming to see their skills and dedication, turning simple materials into works of art. This project reminded me of the Change A Life Bwindi charity, which trains locals in various income-generating activities. It’s inspiring to see how these initiatives empower communities and promote sustainable tourism.

For our farewell dinner, we dined at the Gorilla Heights Lodge. The Humura restaurant offered a delightful menu of both local and international dishes. The luxurious setting and exceptional service made it a truly special evening. Moses and I enjoyed a quiet moment, reflecting on our journey while Hope enjoyed the lodge’s amenities. It was a perfect way to celebrate our last night in Bwindi, surrounded by the sounds of the forest and the warmth of Ugandan hospitality.


Experience luxury and adventure at Gorilla Heights Lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest - your gateway to mountain gorillas and breathtaking landscapes.

As I sit here, writing this final blog post from Bwindi, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude. This trip has been a dream come true, allowing me to reconnect with my roots and share the beauty of Uganda with my family. We've encountered majestic mountain gorillas, explored lush rainforests, and immersed ourselves in the vibrant culture of the local communities. We’ve supported local businesses and initiatives, contributing to the sustainable development of this incredible region.

I am particularly proud to have shared this experience with my family. Moses and Hope have both been deeply touched by the warmth and resilience of the Ugandan people. We've learned so much about conservation, community empowerment, and the importance of preserving our natural heritage. This trip has reinforced my commitment to supporting immigrant families in Brampton, empowering them to thrive and contribute to our diverse community. It has reminded me that no matter where we come from, we all share a common humanity and a responsibility to care for our planet.

As we prepare to leave Bwindi, I know that this is not goodbye, but rather a see you later. I hope to return someday, to continue exploring the wonders of Uganda and to support the communities that have welcomed us with open arms. Until then, I will carry the memories of this incredible family adventure in my heart, sharing our experiences with others and inspiring them to embark on their own journeys of discovery.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Entebbe, and then onwards to Toronto. It’s the end of our adventure here in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, but I know this trip will stay with us forever.

Thank you, Bwindi, for the memories, the lessons, and the magic. You have captured our hearts, and we will never forget you.