The Nteko Ridge marks the highest point in Nkuringo region or sector. Nteko ridge is one of the isolated areas in the Nkuringo set at an altitude of about 2134 meters. A hike to the Nteko ridge allows you to enjoy mesmerizing views of the scenic Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and its surrounding. A hike through the steep Nteko ridge is perfect for adventure seekers who desire altitudinal hiking challenge.
Nteko ridge village hike takes about 3 to 4 hours. The hikes are conducted with the lead of an experienced community guide. During the guided hikes, expect to explore the unique cultures, interact with locals, and embrace the stunning Bwindi National Park, scenic Virunga volcanoes and misty clouds over the Nkuringo.
Hikes to the Nteko ridge begin from the Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge. Depending on your speed of walking, the entire walk can last for about 3 to 4 hours.
Great View at the Nteko Ridge
At the Nteko Ridge, expect to enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding areas. The ridge is set on the highest point of the Nkuringo trailhead where visitors can enjoy not only the lush Bwindi Impenetrable rainforest but also the surrounding volcanoes. A glimpse at the staggering 8 Virunga volcano peaks plus the rainforests leave memories although this is perfectly done on a clear.
Other activities to do
In addition to hiking the Nteko ridge, visitors also other multiple options of experiences to enjoy. They include;
- Gorilla trekking –a trek with mountain gorillas should be a must in addition to guided hikes on the Nteko ridge. Gorilla trekking is an enriching primate adventure and visitors can begin their journey at the Rushaga, Nkuringo, Ruhija or Buhoma trailhead. To engage in the gorilla expedition in Bwindi, visitors should have a valid permit which is available for booking at USD 800 per visitor.
Obtaining a valid gorilla trekking permit is possible through the local tour company and booking should be done at least 2-6 months earlier. Talk to the expert now to start planning and have your permit plus a gorilla tour booked.
- Hiking through the Buniga Forest trail to explore more about the indigenous Batwa pygmies. The Buniga forest trail hike takes about 2 to 3 hours.
- Hike to the Suma waterfalls where you can spend about 3 to 4 hours.
- Experience 360 degree view of the Nkuringo and surrounding at the top of the world. The hike to the top of the world in Nkuringo takes 1 to 2 hours.
- Birding tours. Nature enthusiasts can also take part in the rewarding birding excursions about 2 to 3 hours. Nkuringo birding excursion takes you on a search for birds such as the yellow eyed black flycatchers, short tailed warblers, African emerald cuckoos, Kivu ground thrush, African blue flycatchers, and more.
- Explore more about the nearby schools, get to interact with pupils and students. On a visit to the surrounding schools, you can also inspire and encourage the young to appreciate the value of education and wildlife conservation. Visitors can provide some support, especially to the needy at school. A guided walk in the nearby schools can take between 1 and 2 hours.
- Do not miss to witness how local beer is made. Visitors can spend about 2 to 3 hours as they explore the different process or stages undertaken to make local beer.
- Pay a visit to one of the homesteads to enjoy authentic cultural experiences and also have a taste of the local cuisines.
- Visitors on a guided walk through the Nteko ridge can also be explore the traditional blacksmith works. The entire journey takes about 2 to 3 hours.
- Support women’s initiatives. Visit one of the craft centers or projects set by women where you can purchase some of the craft items. By purchasing craft items from the available gift shops, you have incredibly supported the local initiatives.
- Do not miss to experience the local dances as showcased by locals, especially the Batwa women and children.
When to visit Nteko
Hiking adventures on the Nteko ridge are perfectly enjoyed during the peak dry months of the year. The two useful phases of dry season anyone should mark on their travel calendar run from June to September then December to February. It is around these peak dry months when the trails are relatively drier and can be easier to navigate through due to less rains.
Where to stay
Top places to consider for overnight stays include Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Gorilla Heights Lodge, Gorilla Leisure Lodge, Mutanda Eco Community Centre, and Bwindi Backpackers Lodge.
Getting there
Access to the Nteko can be by road or air. Using road transportation, expect to drive from Entebbe or Kampala through Masaka-Mbarara to Nkuringo –the Southern trailhead of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Getting to Nkuringo takes about 8-9 hours’ drive or you can cross from Kigali via Chanika/Katuna border and this takes 4-5 hours’ drive.
Setting off from Entebbe or Kampala to southwestern Uganda to explore Nteko ridge comes with multiple options to spice up your vacation. En route, don’t miss to make a stopover at the Equator crossing around Kayabwe.
By air, a flight can be arranged and often, visitors set off from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) or Kajjansi Airfield to Kihihi/Kisoro Airstrip. Visitors can be picked up at the airstrip and dropped off to their respective accommodation around the Nkuringo region. With flights, visitors can save much time compared to road transport.