Batwa Cultural Experience is one of the true signature experiences of Uganda, allowing travellers to learn about the traditions and lifestyle of an aboriginal tribe known as the “keepers of the forest”. These pygmies have been able to maintain their century-old traditions that include use of herbal medicine for treating patients, dwelling in small huts, making fire by rubbing sticks and so much more.
You will see how the Batwa make fire from rubbing sticks, try out the bow and arrow which they used in the past for hunting in the jungles. You will also see some of the plants that are fundamental in making herbal medicine, see how meals are prepared and even enjoy a portion of what you have prepared.
To enjoy this signature experience, you have to book for an independent Batwa cultural experience or as an add-on to your gorilla trekking safaris. The Batwa people mainly live in the south-western side of the country and the experience is led by local Batwa guides who take travelers through the jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks.
More details about Batwa Cultural Experience
The Batwa Cultural Experience was launched in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks as a way of helping the Batwa to be independent. Since these aboriginal people were evicted from the forests in 1992 to pave way for the establishment of these Protected Areas, their lives were unfortunately changed forever – they became homeless and poor.
Before becoming national parks, the forests were their home, source of food, shelter and medical centers. At that time, they stayed in huts made of tree branches and leaves, and surprisingly they lived harmoniously with the forest and its wild animals.
While the Batwa cultural experience provides travelers with an insight into the life of the “keepers of the forest”, it is a way of improving their standard of living and reducing on poverty levels. They can now afford land, school fees and improved health. Besides, Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, the Batwa cultural experience is also possible in communities living around Semliki National Park.
You will visit the traditional medicine man to have an insight into the different flora that have special herbal value. Hike through the forest while identifying the specific plants, roots, barks and leaves that are sources of food, while getting taught on the different hunting skills using bows and arrows. You will also take a tour of the homesteads to learn how to prepare and serve traditional foods and finally hearing the ancient legends as well as traditional songs that will most likely warm your heart.