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Visiting Bwindi? Here's what you should know!
Conservation Has Not
Benefited the Batwa
Batwa Culture Is Alive and Evolving
Not All “Batwa Cultural Experiences” Are Ethical
The Batwa Want Their Stories to Be Heard
How to Support the Batwa While Visiting Bwindi
Before your trip
Learn about Batwa history and culture
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Watch short videos or read articles on the Batwa’s connection to the forest.
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Explore the IHAMBA Project website to understand their lived experience
Research ethical tourism options
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Choose accommodations or guides who actively support Batwa communities.
Pack intentionally
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Bring extra school supplies, clothes, or medical essentials to donate.
During Your Visit
Visit a Batwa-led experience
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Look for cultural tours or storytelling sessions organized and hosted by Batwa themselves.
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Ask questions like: “Are Batwa the ones designing and leading this experience?” and “Where does the money go?”
Shop locally and ethically
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Buy crafts or artwork made by Batwa artisans.
Practice responsible photography
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Ask for permission before taking photos of Batwa individuals or settlements.
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Don’t post or share photos of Batwa people without their consent, especially in vulnerable contexts.
After Your Visit
Share what you learned
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Post about your experience with respect and purpose—amplify Batwa voices rather than speaking for them.
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Tag @ihambaproject or link to Batwa-led initiatives to direct others to trustworthy sources.
Donate to Batwa-led organizations
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Support initiatives that invest directly in Batwa leadership, education, and storytelling.
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Regular contributions—even small ones—help fund youth training, research, and cultural revitalization.
Host a screening or info session back home
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Share the IHAMBA documentary with your school, workplace, or community group.
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Use the film as a catalyst for deeper conversations about conservation and Indigenous rights
