Introduction to Gorilla Trekking Ruhija Sector
The Ruhija Sector can be found in the southern part of Uganda namely in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and among the many routes to take while approaching the area for the gorilla tracking exercise. The sector, this region especially is associated with the high bio-diversity and density of tree coverage for instance it tends to be a hub for the calamity stricken villagers. The fact that Ruhija is a distant region and the area sits at somewhat higher altitude, make the region somewhat isolated and this is the kind of jungle tourist would like to be dropped in the middle with not much company. This sector is rather sleepy and has many gorilla groups that makes it suitable for those who wish to see these giants in state conservation area.
Besides gorillas the Ruhija Sector holds the following regional plants and animals that makes up the bio-diversity. Due to this fact this region is a bird lover’s paradise because this region is home to many bird species some of which can only be found here. The continuously closed canopy that is accorded by big trees with very small interspaces, slopes and narrow valleys make this area more appropriate for trekking. This makes the climate of Ruhija to be relatively low and this involves some fog and this makes the feel of the jungle during the exploration to be so exiting.
The Gorilla Trekking Experience
The sector that can be conducted in this region comprises of one of the greatest natural draws that can be done early morning, which is the gorilla trekking. The trekkers reach the park following a briefing session by the park rangers at the starting point, and then trek into the thick forest. This distance is flexible and it might be as short as several hours or tab and entire day to get to the gorillas depending on their location. The forest trip is thus arduous but tiring with indicative features of a thick forest, steep gradients, and muddy grounds. At the same time the voices of the featured animals; the birds and even rustling of the leaves all just gives the feel of the jungle.
The meeting with the gorilla family is simply enchanting. Standing face to face with these massive wonders of nature in their natural environment is uncanny. The devoted activity, social relations, and innocent show of the gorillas as they go about their daily life is rather interesting. Climbers are permitted to stay with the gorillas up to an hour giving the animal’s limited interferences while at the same time giving the visitors an amazing experience. This interaction can be described as a very thrilling experience that is normally recommended as one that might alter one’s lifetime perspective with a firm conviction of the importance of wildlife conservation of these majestic animals.
The park rangers are very essential in the conduct of the trekking activities within the forest and more particularly in encountering the mountains of gorillas. They do not only know all the behaviors of the gorillas and the details of the forest’s environment, but also protect from any illness or difficulty the trekkers and the gorillas involve. Their love for the creatures and devotion to preserving their species is apparent as they explain various anecdotes and details concerning the gorillas as well as steps that are taken to ensure the species’ survival. In this regard, the main concern of many people, who undertake the trek, is the commitment of rangers as a positive aspect of the concept of sustainable tourism, focused on the protection of endangered species.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Ruhija Sector
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a one of the oldest forest projects of the world and situated in the South Western Uganda to be specific. Covering an area of 321 sq km, this park has particularly a reputation for housing a large population of large colorful primates where more than half of the entire world’s mountain gorillas are found. There are so many plant species, mammals, bird species, bug species and etcetera which make the park a very important place for bio conservation. Ruhija sector, located on the eastern side of the park is among the four main sectors used for the trekking activities of the primates especially the gorillas together with Buhoma, Rushaga, and Nkuringo sectors.
The whole area of Bwindi as well as the Ruhija Sector falls under the tropical climate, there are two rainy seasons in the region, these are from the month of March up to May and the other part of the year is from September up to November. The park has a cool climate because is situated at an altitude of 1,160 to 2,607 meters above sea level. This altitude hence leads to the park having its own weather with mist and heavy rains that are however support the growth of the thick natural forest. Although there are steep roads that can be closed during the rainy seasons, the park is always open, preferably for the two dry seasons in June-August and December-February for gorilla trekking.
Road network to this park has also developed over the period thus enhancing accessibility of tourists to the park. Bwindi is about 8-10 hours’ drive by road from Kampala Uganda’s capital through spectacular terrain and through the Uganda rural countryside. The route to Ruhija Sector is a narrow road which is curly and at some points is regarded as a track and this, despite its inconveniences, provides the sharpest picturesque view of the hills and valleys. For the other centralized option, there are domestic flights from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips and then approximately 45 minutes to the park.
The residents of Ruhija sector have a very significant role as far as conservation of Bwindi Impenetrable National park is concerned. These groups mainly include the Bakiga and the Batwa people and as such are closely associated with the forest. The Batwa or the people traditionally called ‘Keepers of the Forest’ are autochthonous people who have always depended on the forest. Now, they engage themselves in cultural tourism where they provide information and educate the world on their culture as well as conserve their culture to generate income.