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Bwindi's Impenetrable Forest is a true African jungle. It's called this because the dense undergrowth,
vines, and other vegetation make it almost 'impenetrable.' It's located in southwestern Uganda on the edge
of the western Rift Valley and lies on the Zaire border adjacent to the Parc National des Virungas. It's
one of the largest natural forests in East Africa (128 sq mi) and contains both montane and lowland
forest.
It supports a large number of plants and animals endemic to the region, but most notably half
of the world's population of mountain gorillas. There are more than 300 mountain gorillas, divided into a
dozen groups, which make up the largest surviving population. The other half is split between Zaire and
Rwanda, where they used to roam freely until they were separated by encroachment and farming.
Even if you don't go see the gorillas, there is plenty to do in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. For example,
you can join guided walks ranging from a two-hour stroll to some beautiful waterfalls to a seven-hour
hike leading to a number of peaks. The area around Buhoma (north area of park)
is an excellent place for watching primates and birds. The forest is home to 120 species of mammals, 346 species of birds,
202 species of butterflies, and 163 species of trees, making it one of the richest ecosystems in Africa.
To learn more about Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, check out their web site:
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
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Copyright © 2002, Dawn M. Dalton.
All rights reserved.
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