At Nshongi Camp, nature writes its own unforgettable stories.
Nestled on the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, our camp holds a secret that only a fortunate few will ever experience — the gentle giants of the jungle, the mountain gorillas, sometimes come to visit us.
Yes, it’s true. Without stepping into the national park or holding a gorilla permit, some of our guests have witnessed these majestic creatures wandering gracefully through the very grounds of Nshongi Camp. Drawn by the calm, the quiet, and the deep connection to their forest home, gorillas have been known to appear — unannounced, unbothered, and breathtaking.
It’s not guaranteed. It’s not scheduled. It’s simply a gift from nature — a once-in-a-lifetime moment that stirs the soul and humbles the heart.
At Nshongi, you don’t just stay close to the forest. The forest comes to you.
And for those who wish to embark on a full gorilla trekking experience, Nshongi Camp is happy to arrange gorilla permits and organize guided visits into Bwindi National Park, ensuring your encounter with these magnificent beings is both unforgettable and official.
ULow Season Primate Permit Discounts
On 26 February 2026, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), under Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi, announced reduced rates for low-season gorilla and chimpanzee permits, updated conservation fees, and significant changes to the booking procedures. This move is designed to attract more visitors during quieter months and strengthen Uganda's position as one of Africa's premier primate destinations.
Discounted Low Season Months
The low-season discounts apply during **April, May, and November**, with immediate effect, and are valid through 2027.
Gorilla Trekking Permit Prices
**Low Season (April, May, November):**
- Foreign Non-Residents: **$600** (down from $800 — a saving of $200 per permit)
- Foreign Residents (with valid Uganda work permit): **$500**
These discounts apply to gorilla trekking in **Bwindi Impenetrable National Park** and **Mgahinga Gorilla National Park**.
**High Season:** $800 for Foreign Non-Residents (unchanged)
### Chimpanzee Tracking Permit Prices (Kibale National Park)
**Low Season (April, May, November):**
- Foreign Non-Residents: **$200** (down from $250 — a saving of $50 per permit)
- Foreign Residents: **$150**
**High Season:** $250 for Foreign Non-Residents (unchanged)
Key Booking Conditions
- Low season permits **cannot be rescheduled** — confirm your dates carefully before booking.
- The previous 7-day unpaid hold system has been abolished. **Full payment is required at the time of booking**, ensuring fair, transparent, first-come first-served access to permits
Why Travel in Low Season?
The trekking experience is identical to the high season — the same habituated gorilla families, the same rangers, the same magical hour in the forest. What changes is the atmosphere: lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, a quieter and more intimate rhythm around the parks. Savings on permits can also be redirected toward upgraded lodge stays or an extended safari itinerary.
Upcoming 2027 Price Changes
The Gorilla Habituation experience will increase to **$1,800** for Foreign Non-Residents from January 2027. Travelers are encouraged to secure permits early to lock in current rates.
Nshongi Camp is your ideal base at the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest — perfect for gorilla trekking and reconnecting with nature.
We offer a range of accommodation options to suit every travel style:
Deluxe and Standard Rooms:
Choose between our Deluxe Rooms for added space and comfort, or our cozy Standard Rooms for great value. All rooms include:
Comfortable double or twin beds
Private bathrooms with hot showers
Mosquito nets
Private verandas overlooking the forest
24/7 electricity
Satellite Wi-Fi to stay connected
Warm, home-style hospitality
Traditional African Bandas:
Rustic and charming, our bandas offer a unique and peaceful stay in nature with the same comfort features as our rooms — ideal for those who want authenticity with convenience.
Camping Area:
Prefer to bring your own tent? We offer a dedicated campsite where you can fully immerse yourself in the wild while still enjoying access to showers, meals, and lodge facilities.
Whether you're looking for comfort, adventure, or a bit of both, Nshongi Camp welcomes you with warm hospitality and an unforgettable forest experience.
Experience the Best of Bwindi 🐾
Gorilla Trekking: Nshongi Camp is just a few minutes' walk from the Uganda Wildlife Authority headquarters, the starting point for gorilla trekking in the Rushaga sector. Guests have access to multiple gorilla families, including Nshongi, Mishaya, Kahungye, Busingye, and Bweza.
Bird Watching: The camp's proximity to Bwindi's diverse habitats makes it an excellent spot for birdwatching, with over 350 bird species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics.
Cultural Experiences: Engage with the local Batwa community to learn about their traditional forest lifestyle, hunting techniques, and medicinal plant use. The camp also organizes community walks and traditional Ugandan music and dance performances.
Nature Walks: Explore guided forest hikes leading to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and opportunities to spot colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and other wildlife.
🍽️ Dining
Savor Local and International Cuisine
Our restaurant and bar serve fresh, locally prepared Ugandan and international meals. Guests can enjoy a 3-course meal and relax by the campfire area after a day of trekking. Lunch boxes are available for those on gorilla trekking activities.
Nshongi Camp is located in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, approximately 340 km from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala city.
By Road: Drive approximately 8–10 hours via Mbarara to Rushaga.
By Air: Flights from Entebbe to Kisoro Airstrip take about 1.5 hours, followed by a 2-hour drive to Nshongi Camp.
The camp is just a few minutes' walk from the Uganda Wildlife Authority headquarters and the starting point for gorilla trekking.