Discover the hidden secrets in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park by embarking on the guided waterfall trail hike with an expert. The waterfall trail takes about 3 to 4 hours for you to experience the scenic waterfalls located in the Rushaga area of Bwindi National Park. The waterfall hiking trail dates back to the 1970s when it was established to create a connecting route to Kisoro town.
The waterfall hiking trail ushers you via the magnificent River Munyaga and the 3 adjoining waterfalls. A guided hike on the waterfall trail rewards you beyond the magnificent sceneries. Visitors also get a chance to identify some of the finest bird species, colorful butterflies, and other attractions.
The Waterfalls
Beyond the rare mountain gorillas, Bwindi National Park is also known for its scenic waterfalls worth catching a glimpse. The available waterfalls in Bwindi are of great cultural and historical significance to the surrounding local communities. The cascading waters have an attachment to the spiritual beliefs, and traditions of the Batwa pygmies.
The waterfalls in Bwindi exist in the northern and southern regions. A guided hike through the waterfall trail guarantees picturesque views of the waterfalls plus some birds, and monkeys.
The Munyaga Falls lies in the Buhoma region in the Northern end of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The waterfall is reachable on a guided nature walk on the scenic Bizenga Creek. The complete hike through the Munyaga River fall trail involves conquering 1.5 km. Visitors can start their hikes from Buhoma with the expectation of immersing themselves in the enriching Bwindi Impenetrable Forest ecosystem.
Enthusiastic birders have great sights of birds to enjoy. There are also lots of monkeys to encounter including l’hoest, black and white colobus monkeys. The Munyaga River falls cascade 33-meters down creating a scenic pool of water below it. Visitors also explore the scenic Bizenga Creek that connects the Munyaga River.
Bayenda Waterfalls
Set in the Rushaga region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the Bayenda waterfall should be a must-visit in addition to gorilla treks. The hike through the Bayenda fall trail takes you to the scenic rainforest where you can keep an eyes on the diverse primates, floral species, and birds.
Buhoma-Munyaga Fall Trail
Buhoma region features one of the scenic waterfall trails which connects to the beautiful Munyaga waterfalls. Visitors enjoy moderate hikes and the trail is ideal for guests with limited time. Along the trail, there is a chance to come across beautiful butterfly species, birds, and many monkeys.
Rushaga Falls
Visitors can also explore the Rushaga Falls and the hike is ideal for those who desire slightly more challenging treks. You begin the hike from the Rushaga region and then ascend via steep slopes on rocky outcrops also featuring thick undergrowth. Expect to explore the lush vegetation and embrace panoramic views of the rolling hills and undulating valleys.
When to go hike the Waterfall Trail
When planning your vacation to explore the waterfall trail, you need to know the most ideal period to get there. The dry season is without doubt the most preferred time to experience the best of waterfall trail. The longest dry months occur from June, July, August, to September. The shorter dry season happens to take place from December, January to February.
The rainy/wet season comes with heavy rains and often makes it challenging to enjoy guided hikes through the waterfall trail. The rainy months run from March, April, to May then October to November. The beauty of embarking on a guided hike during the rainy season is that you can enjoy the natural beauty of vegetation and also waterfall flow increases due to heavy rainfalls.
What to pack
Pack the right gear starting with long-sleeved shirts, waterproof daypack, waterfall hiking boots, gardening gloves, a pair of socks, a safari hat, a camera, snacks, long trousers, insect repellents, a rain jacket, and more.
Where to stay
Book accommodation facilities around the Rushaga region to ease your connectivity to the waterfall trail. Top places to stay in the Rushaga area include Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Wild Olives Lodge, Gorilla Leisure Lodge, Bweza Gorilla Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Gorilla Valley Lodge, and others.
How to get there
Travel by road or air –whereby road trips take between 8-9 hours to reach Rushaga region starting from Kampala or Entebbe city. 4-5 hours’ drive starting from Kigali via Katuna or Chanika border crossing. By air, you can take less than 2 hours from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro/Kihihi Airstrip where you can drive to Rushaga.