Organizing Your Gorilla Trip to Buhoma

Organizing Your Gorilla Trip to Buhoma

Organizing Your Gorilla Trip to Buhoma — If you’re excited about planning a gorilla trek in Buhoma, Trek Africa Expeditions is here to make it happen! We specialize in securing gorilla permits for tracking in the Buhoma sector year-round, even during the busy high season from June to September when demand is high. Many travelers flock to Bwindi during these months, making it challenging to find available permits. However, with our expertise, you can avoid the rush and enjoy your trek in this beautiful region.

About Buhoma Sector

Buhoma is located in the northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and holds a special place in the park’s history. It was the first sector to be habituated back in 1993, shortly after Bwindi was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Buhoma is the most visited area of the park, home to the oldest gorilla family, the Mubare family, along with three other groups: Habinyanja, Rushegura, and Katwe.

Tourists are drawn to Buhoma not only for its gorilla families but also for its unique accommodations. The sector is home to the only two lodges located within Bwindi Forest: Gorilla Sanctuary Forest Camp and Bwindi Lodge. These lodges provide a remarkable experience for visitors during their gorilla trek. Being the original site for gorilla trekking adds to the confidence of many travelers who prefer Buhoma over other sectors. Moreover, Buhoma has a higher concentration of luxury accommodations compared to other areas in Bwindi, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a more upscale experience. This high demand for permits and services often leads to early sellouts in Buhoma.

Key Considerations for Organizing Your Gorilla Trip to Buhoma

Booking Your Gorilla Permits in Advance

To ensure you secure your spot for a gorilla trek in Buhoma, we recommend booking your permits at least 3 to 4 months before your intended safari date. During the high season, permits are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, and they can sell out quickly. The cost for a gorilla permit is as follows: USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, and 300,000 Ugandan Shillings for East African citizens. This permit allows you to spend one unforgettable hour with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi. For more details on how to book your gorilla permits for Buhoma, feel free to contact us.

Choosing Your Accommodation in Buhoma

Finding the right place to stay is crucial for an enjoyable gorilla trekking experience. Buhoma offers a range of luxury accommodations to enhance your comfort during your safari. The Gorilla Sanctuary Forest Camp and Bwindi Lodge are the two lodges located within the forest itself, providing a unique experience. Other luxury options in the area include Mahogany Springs and Silverback Lodge. For those on a budget, options like Buhoma Community Rest Camp and Buhoma Camp are also available.

Traveling to Buhoma

Consider traveling in a 4×4 Land Cruiser for a comfortable journey to Buhoma. If you prefer a quicker option, you can fly to Kihihi Airstrip, which is conveniently located near Buhoma. This choice can significantly reduce your travel time from Entebbe or Kampala, cutting the usual 8-9 hour drive down to just about an hour from Kihihi to your lodge.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma

Wondering what to pack for your gorilla trekking adventure in Buhoma? Here’s a helpful guide on what to wear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience:

1. Long-Sleeved Sweater: The temperatures in the park can drop, so it’s wise to bring a long-sleeved sweater to keep warm during your trek.

2. Two Pairs of Long Trousers: Opt for lightweight, breathable trousers to protect your legs from scratches and insects while trekking through the forest.

3. Waterproof Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential for navigating the sometimes muddy and uneven terrain.

4. Hat and Sunglasses: Depending on the weather, a hat and sunglasses can help protect you from the sun. These are optional but recommended.

5. Camera with Extra Batteries: Capture the unforgettable moments of your trek with a camera. Be sure to bring long-lasting batteries and remember to keep the flash off to avoid startling the gorillas.

6. Binoculars: A pair of binoculars will enhance your wildlife viewing experience, allowing you to appreciate the diverse birdlife and other primates in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

7. Gardening Gloves: These can be handy for gripping onto branches and trees as you navigate through the dense forest.

8. Raincoat: Given that Bwindi is a tropical rainforest, rain is always a possibility. Pack a lightweight raincoat to stay dry during unexpected downpours.

9. Mosquito Repellent: Protect yourself from insects by applying mosquito repellent or wearing it. This is particularly important in forested areas.

10. Sunscreen: Depending on the season, the sun can be strong. Using sunscreen can help prevent sunburn during your trek.

11. Color Choices: Avoid wearing bright colors, as they may scare off the gorillas. Also, it’s best to steer clear of black and blue, as these colors can attract tsetse flies. Neutral tones are ideal.

How to Get to Buhoma for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

By Air: Flying is a quick and convenient option for reaching Buhoma. Aero Link, a domestic airline, offers scheduled and charter flights to Kihihi Airstrip. While there are no direct flights to Buhoma, you can take a flight to Kihihi, where our professional guide will meet you and drive you to your lodge—a journey that takes about an hour. Be sure to check in 90 minutes before your scheduled departure, and note that Aero Link allows 15 kilograms of baggage per person, with excess baggage charged at $3 per kilo. Children under 2 years fly free, while children aged 12 and over are charged 70% of the adult fare.

By Road: You can also reach Buhoma by road from Entebbe or Kampala, which takes approximately 8-9 hours. The scenic route passes through Kabale town. Alternatively, Buhoma can be accessed from Kigali, Rwanda, with a drive time of about 4-5 hours.

Best Time to Organize Your Mountain Gorilla Tour to Buhoma

Buhoma is open for gorilla trekking year-round, but keep in mind that it’s a tropical rainforest, meaning rain can occur at any time. The best months for trekking are typically from June to August and December to February, as these months tend to have the least rainfall, making the trails less slippery. Traveling during the rainy seasons from March to May and November may present challenges but can also come with discounts on accommodations.

Why Book Your Gorilla Tour to Buhoma with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves on being a local tour operator dedicated to creating personalized safari experiences. Our professional team is committed to addressing your inquiries promptly—typically within 20 minutes! We take care of all the details, ensuring that your travel plans are seamless and that all services are booked in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.

Our knowledgeable safari guides, who can accommodate different language preferences, will enhance your experience. We also offer various mountain gorilla safari packages, including the 2-day, 3-day, and 4-day Gorilla Fly-In safaris, tailored to your preferences.

Ready to start planning your unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Buhoma? Feel free to contact us for assistance in organizing your trip!