The forest is their identity, character and stories, the Batwa pygmies; one of the shortest people in Uganda and world over. They originally settled in the Misty Jungle of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the Mgahinga Gorilla National park in Kisoro, both situated in southwestern part of Uganda.  The misty jungle of Bwindi Impenetrable national park and Mgahinga National park are habitats to the endangered mountain gorillas and a variety of other primates, birds and forest mammals. These share the vast Virunga chain of Mountains which sprawls through Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda

Until when Uganda Wildlife Authority displaced them to conserve the endangered mountain gorillas and these pristine forests in 1991, the Batwa lived in the forest as brave warriors; entirely depending on plants, wild animals and caves for shelter, herbal medicine, clothing and food.

They had to adapt to the life of farming and cattle keeping. Nonetheless, poverty is still a major issue to these Twa people, as most of them resort to drinking alcohol and sleeping; a reason for this launch of Batwa cultural trail by the government to help support their livelihoods through tourism.

After their eviction from the forest, Batwa people left behind a great mark in the forest, a reason for this Trail walk, primarily to uncover the life of Batwa pygmies in the forest. The activity is guided by an elderly yet very knowledgeable Twa guide, clad in traditional attire, with a walking stick and machete. It is done inside the forest to the caves like legendary Garama caves and Muhabura caves, the ancient homes of the Batwa.

During the walk, ancient hunting skills, honey harvesting techniques and making cups using the bamboo trees is exhibited. Furthermore, the guide will explain the use of different plants, leaves, and stems deep in the jungle. After a successful hike, women sing and dance to their traditional songs.

This activity is done either after or before tracking the endangered mountain Gorillas. It is done in the lush jungle of Mgahinga gorilla national park, between Mount Gahinga and Mount Muhabura.

It starts at the point when the guide kneels and prays, to evoke the gods for protection.  Remember the Batwa were evicted from the forest, so this is the only chance they can use to retreat to the place they most loved and adored.

As you traverse the place, you will have several stopovers and demonstrations such as explaining the importance of particular plants, sampling how fire can be made after striking some sticks and stones, identifying the footsteps of resident mammals and fruits. At one point you are mesmerized by the treasures in the forest. They may also showcase the tactics of making mugs, cups and bowels out of bamboo plants. The last bend of the trail is visiting the caves; a former dwelling place of these wanderers and gatherers.

Visiting Garama cave.

The Garama cave is an underground cave, situated at the base of Gahinga Mountain. It is approximately 200 meters long and was the residence of Batwa king, store for the stolen treasures, the disciplinary court and food store.

The Batwa Trail is so safe, with a lot of flora and Fauna. On a lucky day, you may encounter the endangered mountain Gorillas to or from the jungle or the elusive golden monkeys. The activity takes approximately 4 hours.

Batwa experience costs USD 80 per person per day. A portion of this money is used to support the community through projects such as schools, hospitals and running water.

The trail is open to everyone, all year round. It is a great activity, uncovering the life of the Batwa pygmies and what the forest is made of. Add the Batwa trail experience and cultural activity to your bucket list.