Visiting Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is very safe compared to most national parks.
The same applies even when you are starting your trip from Kigali in Rwanda.
You will be accompanied by an armed game ranger to trek mountain gorillas, and the forest is actually very safe to explore.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park can only pose a threat during mountain gorilla trekking.
Gorillas are wild animals, so you must be very keen and follow the gorilla trekking rules and regulations in order to avoid being attacked by mountain gorillas, which can lead to severe injuries or even death.
Though visiting Bwindi is safe, you will be recommended to take measures against malaria, as this is a tropical forest where mosquitoes breed, especially in the rainy season.
You can take antimalarial medication or carry a strong insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites and bites from other insects.
Most hotels within or near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park have security personnel who ensure the safety of their clients.
Tourism police have also been allocated to different parts of the park to ensure that tourists are safe while trekking gorillas, and they are always on standby in case of any danger.
Uganda has ensured that trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is safe, as some part of the money obtained from gorilla trekking is used for conservation efforts and safety measures in Bwindi National Park.
Though Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is safe to visit, those intending to visit the park should also take measures for personal safety and use a trusted tour company, especially those registered with the Association of Uganda Tour Operators.
Best Time to Visit Bwindi
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is an all-year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry months of June to September and December to February when the vegetation is not as thick, and the trekking trails are easier to traverse.
What to Bring
Mountain gorilla trekking is not just an ordinary activity. You will need some physical fitness to hike and find the gorilla family, so you need to come along with garden gloves, waterproof hiking boots, raincoats, warm clothes, long-sleeved clothes, insect repellent, plenty of drinking water, and energy snacks, among other items.
You should also endeavor to book a gorilla permit at least 3 months in advance before coming to visit the country.