Are you planning a budget gorilla safari to Buhoma during the low season? Trek Africa Expeditions makes this possible! The low season months—April, May, and November—bring fewer tourists to Uganda, offering a quieter, more private experience. During this time, popular attractions like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are less crowded, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the park’s wonders in peace. Trek Africa Expeditions also helps you find the best budget lodges in Buhoma to ensure a comfortable stay during your safari.
Buhoma is located in the northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It was the first sector to be habituated for gorilla trekking in 1993, just after the park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Buhoma is home to the oldest gorilla family, Mubare, along with three others: Habinyanja, Rushegura, and Katwe. As one of the most popular sectors for gorilla trekking, Buhoma attracts visitors even during the low season due to its rich history and diverse wildlife.
Buhoma also boasts the only two lodges located within Bwindi Forest—Gorilla Sanctuary Forest Camp and Bwindi Lodge—providing a stunning experience for trekkers. This sector has a high concentration of gorilla families, second only to the Rushaga sector, which makes obtaining gorilla permits more accessible. Additionally, it offers a range of luxury accommodations, making it a top choice for travelers.
We highly recommend booking your gorilla permits 3 to 4 months before your travel date, even if you’re visiting during the low season. Permits are limited and often sell out, especially during high season. Gorilla permits for Buhoma cost USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, and 300,000 Uganda shillings for East African citizens. Each permit allows you to spend one unforgettable hour with the mountain gorillas. Contact us for assistance with permit bookings and safari planning.
Choosing the right accommodation is essential for a memorable safari experience. Buhoma offers a range of options, from budget to luxury. Some popular choices for budget travelers include Bwindi Lodge, Mahogany Springs, and Silverback Lodge. While Buhoma is known for its luxury lodges, Trek Africa Expeditions will help you find the best budget-friendly options for your stay.
For a smooth journey, we recommend traveling in a 4×4 Land Cruiser, offering both comfort and reliability on the roads. If you prefer to avoid long drives, you can also fly to Kihihi Airstrip, located just an hour away from Buhoma. This shortens the drive from Entebbe or Kampala, which typically takes 8-9 hours, making your trip more convenient and comfortable.
Wondering what to wear for your trek? Here’s a handy list of essentials:
It’s best to wear neutral colors to avoid disturbing the gorillas. Avoid bright colors and stay away from black or blue, as they attract tsetse flies.
By Air: The fastest way to reach Buhoma is by flying to Kihihi Airstrip. AeroLink offers both scheduled and charter flights. From Kihihi, it’s just an hour’s drive to your lodge in Buhoma. Flights have a baggage limit of 15kg, with extra baggage charged at USD 3 per kilo. Private charters are also available for travelers with specific schedules.
By Road: Buhoma is an 8-9 hour drive from Entebbe or Kampala, passing through Kabale town. It’s also accessible from Kigali, Rwanda, with a 4-5 hour drive, making it an ideal option for those starting their journey in Rwanda.
At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in tailor-made safaris, ensuring a personalized experience for every traveler. Our team of professional consultants will answer all your queries within 30 minutes and help you plan your trip to the finest detail. We also have knowledgeable safari guides who cater to different language preferences.
We offer a variety of budget-friendly safari options, including:
No matter your preference, we’ve got the perfect safari package for you. Contact us today for more details!