Kampala, Uganda — In a ceremony that celebrated bold visions for sustainable travel, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was named the third-best adventure destination in the world at the TOURISE Global Tourism Awards, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on November 11, 2025. The recognition places Uganda at the forefront of global adventure tourism and highlights Bwindi’s unique blend of biodiversity, culture, and conservation-focused experience
Uganda’s Bwindi Faces Off Against Global Titans
Bwindi’s ascent into the top tier of adventure destinations comes amid growing demand for nature-based, low-impact travel. Competing against renowned landscapes worldwide, Bwindi secured the third position behind Ancash in Peru and the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. The award signals a broader trend of travelers seeking authentic encounters with nature while supporting local communities and conservation goals.
Leadership Reaction and Significance
Professor James Kalema, Chairman of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Board of Trustees, accepted the award on Uganda’s behalf. He described the accolade as a powerful endorsement of Uganda’s conservation-led approach to tourism. “Bwindi demonstrates how protecting nature can create unforgettable adventure experiences while empowering communities and driving national development,” Kalema said. The recognition aligns with Uganda’s ongoing efforts to balance biodiversity protection with sustainable visitor experiences and economic benefits for local communities.
Bwindi’s Signature Experience: Gorillas and Forest Adventures
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is globally renowned for its misty, dramatic montane forest and its role as a sanctuary for critically endangered mountain gorillas. The park supports nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, making gorilla trekking one of the most coveted wildlife experiences on Earth. Beyond adventure gorilla safaris in Uganda, Bwindi offers community-driven cultural encounters, forest walks, birding, and scenic viewpoints that showcase Uganda’s rugged beauty.
Economic and Conservation Implications
The TOURISE award highlights how Bwindi’s conservation-first model translates into tangible benefits for local communities and national development. Revenues from responsible tourism support park management, anti-poaching efforts, and community projects—an approach many conservationists view as essential for protecting fragile habitats while delivering sustainable livelihoods. The latest recognition is expected to boost visitation, encourage longer stays, and attract high-value travelers attentive to sustainability credentials.
Regional and Global Context
Bwindi’s global recognition adds to Uganda’s growing reputation as a premier adventure and ecotourism destination in Africa. The award complements other regional success stories, reinforcing the importance of protecting ecosystems while delivering transformative visitor experiences. As travel rebounds post-pandemic, awards like TOURISE serve as catalysts for destinations that invest in conservation, community benefit, and authentic nature-based adventures.
What This Means for Tour Operators and Visitors
- For operators: The accolade can be leveraged in promotions, helping to differentiate Bwindi-based itineraries and attract high-spending adventure travelers.
- For visitors: The award signals a mature, sustainability-minded destination with established gorilla-trekking protocols and community engagement opportunities.
- For conservation: Increased attention may bolster funding and governance improvements, reinforcing Bwindi’s status as a model for conservation-led tourism.
About Bwindi and Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in southwestern Uganda and hosts approximately half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. The park’s biodiversity extends beyond gorillas to a rich array of flora and birdlife, all set within a landscape of rolling green hills and dense rainforest. Uganda’s tourism strategy has increasingly emphasized conservation outcomes and community benefits, positioning the country as a leading voice in sustainable African wildlife tourism.
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Planning a safari to Uganda and would love to include gorilla trekking to your itinerary, we will be more than delight to organize for you a memorable tour to Bwindi national parks, securing gorilla permits and booking accommodation for you. You can contact us now by sending an email to [email protected] or calling us on +256-700135510 to chat or speak with reservations team.