Background and Camp Mission

Nshongi Camp Annex was established to meet growing demand for affordable lodging in Rushaga while maintaining the operational standards of the main camp. Its purpose is to widen access to gorilla trekking and ensure tourism benefits continue to reach surrounding communities.

The mission focuses on accessibility and community inclusion—providing budget accommodation that supports local employment and conservation through responsible tourism.

Location and Access to Gorilla Trekking

The Annex is positioned close to the Rushaga gorilla trekking briefing point, minimizing early-morning transfers and simplifying logistics on trekking days. Rushaga is known for hosting multiple habituated gorilla families and for offering the gorilla habituation experience, making it a flexible base for different permit options.

The location allows guests to return quickly after long, steep forest treks, which is especially valuable for budget travelers.

Accommodation Style and Comfort

Accommodation at Nshongi Camp Annex consists of simple bandas and rooms built for function and rest. The design emphasizes cleanliness, ventilation, and privacy without decorative extras.

Rooms typically include proper beds with mosquito nets, basic furnishings, and shared or simple private bathroom facilities depending on availability. Hot water is commonly provided via solar systems or bucket showers, and electricity is available in the evenings. Comfort is modest but dependable—well suited to active trekkers.

Dining Experience

Guests at the Annex usually dine at shared facilities associated with Nshongi Camp. Meals are straightforward, filling, and timed around trekking schedules.

Early breakfasts prepare guests for the forest, packed lunches are arranged for trekking days, and dinners are relaxed, communal affairs. The cuisine blends local Ugandan dishes with simple international options, focusing on nourishment and portion size.

Activities at the Camp

Nshongi Camp Annex serves primarily as a trekking base, but guests can access a small range of complementary activities in and around Rushaga.

Activities commonly arranged from the Annex include:

Gorilla trekking in the Rushaga sector

Gorilla habituation experience (permit-dependent)

Guided community village walks

Cultural encounters and storytelling

Forest-edge nature walks and birdwatching

These activities add context and cultural depth to the gorilla trekking experience.

Services Offered

The Annex provides essential services tailored to budget travelers. Staff assist with early wake-up calls, trekking coordination, packed lunches, and porter arrangements. Drinking water and laundry services are available on request.

Service is practical, friendly, and efficient, reflecting the camp’s no-nonsense approach to safari accommodation.

Conservation and Social Impact

By operating as a budget option linked to Nshongi Camp, the Annex helps distribute tourism income across the Rushaga community. Employment opportunities and local sourcing reduce reliance on forest resources and strengthen community support for gorilla conservation.

Staying here directly contributes to conservation through livelihood support tied to responsible tourism.

Who Should Stay at Nshongi Camp Annex?

This accommodation is ideal for budget-conscious travelers, backpackers, students, volunteers, and physically fit gorilla trekkers who want excellent permit access at lower cost. It suits guests who value location and purpose over comfort extras.

Travelers seeking ensuite luxury or scenic lodge settings may prefer higher-end options.

Planning Your Stay

Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons, as budget rooms in Rushaga fill quickly. Aligning your stay with a Rushaga sector gorilla permit—or a habituation permit—ensures smooth logistics and efficient trekking mornings.

For travelers seeking affordable, well-located accommodation with strong access to gorilla trekking, Nshongi Camp Annex remains a dependable budget choice in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.