The Bamboo trail is one of the enriching hiking or nature walking trails that usher enthusiastic nature lovers deep into the jungles of Bwindi National Park. Embarking on hiking excursion through Bamboo trail is a perfect way to unearth the wonders of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
The Bamboo hiking trail is a 7-hour nature walk trail in Ruhija, Eastern Bwindi National Park. It is an amazing nature walk trail that comes with breathtaking views of the Rwamunyonyi hills (2607m), Mafuga forest and also the scenic Lake Bunyonyi plus other surrounding Virunga Mountain ranges.
What awaits you on the Bamboo Trail?
The Bamboo nature walk trail introduces nature enthusiasts via the lush bamboo forest-dominated area. On a nature walk through the Bamboo trail, you have a chance to get exposed to diverse species. The trail enriches visitors with great sights of bird species, primates plus other mammal species and along it there are also more than 14 plant species and varied vegetation types. Around walk trip along this trail is a perfect opportunity to experience the wonders within Bwindi’s abundant wonders.
When to go nature walking through Bamboo trail
Nature walks in Bwindi are generally open all year round. However, the most favorite time is during the dry months when there is limited rainfall and the ground is kept relatively drier. This makes it the best time for one to conquer trails such as the Bamboo trail in Ruhija sector. The dry months of the year to consider when planning for your hiking adventure through the Bamboo trail occur twice a year that is from June, July, August, September and December, January to February.
Being an all year-round activity, it is also possible to go nature walking during the wet season –period when the vegetation cover is really so green. This usually takes place from March to May, October to November –the months characterized by heavy rains.
The challenge with the rainy season is that the trails often become somehow muddy or slippery and walking through them requires some keenness.
Where to stay
If you plan to explore the Bamboo trail, then consider booking accommodation option in or around Ruhija sector. This sector is found in the Eastern side of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and has myriad of accommodation alternatives ranging from budget, midrange to luxury. Even visitors from Buhoma can get to Ruhija and experience what the Bamboo trail has to offer. From Buhoma sector to Ruhija, it may take visitors about an hour drive.
The key places worth considering for a night stay in and around Ruhija include Ruhija Safari Lodge, Ruhija Community Rest Camp, Bakiga Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge, Trekkers Tavern, Agandi Lodge, and more. Around Buhoma area, you can book lodges such as Buhoma Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Ride 4 a Woman Guesthouse, Bwindi View Bandas, Engagi Lodge Bwindi, Silverback Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge, The Haven Lodge Buhoma, Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge and more.
Getting to Ruhija
Traveling to Ruhija to explore the Bamboo trail is possible starting from Kampala/Entebbe through Masaka-Mbarara route, about 8-9 hours’ drive. Or drive from Kigali capital via Katuna border to Kabale to Ruhija which is 4-5 hours’ drive. By air, you can also set off from Entebbe airport to Kihihi airport, then connect by road up to Ruhija.
Other amazing nature walking trails in Bwindi
Bwindi has other interesting hiking trails worth exploring on Uganda safari. They include the Kashasha River trail which is 4-5 hour trek through a 600m trail to steep incline area connecting from Nkuringo to Buhoma area.
Mubwindi Swamp trail –An enriching trail especially when it comes to monkeys, plus other mammals like bush pigs, elephants, and also bird species.
Muzabajiro Loop – 3 to 4 hour guided forest walk trail leading visitors via the Rukubira hill and comes with remarkable views of the Virunga Volcanoes plus the rift valley areas.
Ivy River trail -14 km trail perfectly explored along Buhoma-Nkuringo path and takes 4-6 hours.
Habinyanja trail – 5 to 6 hour guided nature walk trail through River Munyanga and slopes down to the ridge of Riyoyi and Habigorogoro overviewing River Buhoma.
Rushura Hill –this takes visitors via the lush gardens where great views of the Rushura Hill can be enjoyed.