When it comes to safaris, we at Shadows of Africa believe that it is not just about the animals; rather, it is about the people, the places, and the significant experiences that unfold along the way.
So, when Claudia and Ralf Bonmann, a lively German couple, asked for an active experience to complement their gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, we designed a tailor-made adventure to make it truly special
Their journey would leave tour vans behind in favor of canoe rides, forest trails, and authentic community encounters — the kind of experiences that bring southwest Uganda alive.
From the hilltop, the expanse revealed almost all the Bunyonyi islands. They paddled on to Habukomi Island, where Tom’s Homestay lies, but after a local dinner, our travellers returned to the comfort of BirdNest Resort.
Their energy was needed for the next day’s leg through the mystical Echuya Forest. This highland jungle, stretching into Rwanda, is home to the Batwa people. Led by a “Pygmy” leader and his son, the Bonmanns ventured into the grand swamp at its heart. A picnic surrounded by greenery was a perfect pause before heading to Lake Chahafi Resort, skipping our usual camping stop at Lake Kayumbu. The welcome there was unmatched: hot meals, warm beds, and a crackling fire restored their spirits.
Day three took them to Kisoro town for a tasty lunch, followed by a visit to a nearby family farm for a comprehensive bean-to-brew coffee experience. As the sun set, Claudia and Ralf retreated to the serene Mutanda Lake Resort, ready for the final day. The route to Bwindi’s Rushaga sector ended with a glimpse of the primates ahead. Exhausted but elated, they were prepared for the real deal the next day!
… We promise to give Bwindi more love from now on. Our “Virungas” territory has been renamed “Gorilla National Parks” and will embrace it fully.
The purpose of this trip was not to fulfill a list of requirements; instead, it was to integrate aspects of culture, environment, and community into a seamless vacation experience. By working with Shadows of Africa,tourists like Claudia and Ralf can acquire more than just a safari experience; they can gain tales, friendships, and experiences that last long after the trips are over.
Planning to track gorillas in Uganda? Let us craft an itinerary that adds depth, culture, and comfort to your once-in-a-lifetime experience.
