Buhoma Sector

Explore Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma Sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Nestled in the northern part of Uganda’s renowned Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Buhoma Sector is a prime destination for gorilla trekking enthusiasts. This sector was the first to welcome the habituation of mountain gorillas in 1993, just after the park became a UNESCO World Heritage site. Buhoma remains one of the most popular and frequently visited parts of the park, housing the Mubare Gorilla family, the oldest habituated family, along with three other families: Habinyanja, Rushegura and Katwe.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of Africa’s oldest forests, known for its rich biodiversity, including over 350 bird species, 310 butterfly species, 200 tree species and a host of reptiles, moths and mammals. Among its most famous inhabitants are the endangered mountain gorillas, with approximately half of the world’s total population residing here. The park boasts more than 15 habituated gorilla families, with 8 permits available per family for daily trekking.

Where to Go Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is carried out across four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga. Buhoma, located in the northern part of the park, offers close proximity to Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it ideal for combining a gorilla trek with a game viewing experience. Rushaga and Nkuringo, located in the south, are near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is perfect for gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking. Ruhija lies in the northeastern part of the park and also offers excellent trekking opportunities.

How to Get to Buhoma Sector for Gorilla Trekking

By Road: Buhoma can be accessed by a scenic 8-9 hour drive from Entebbe or Kampala. From the Kabale-Kisoro road, look for signs marking the way to the Uganda Wildlife Authority office, which will direct you to Buhoma.

By Air: For a quicker option, you can fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kihihi Airstrip, located close to Buhoma. From the airstrip, a short drive will take you to your accommodation or the trekking starting point.

Gorilla Trekking Costs and Permits in Bwindi Buhoma Sector

The cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is:

• USD 800 for Foreign Non-Residents
• USD 700 for East African Residents
• UGX 300,000 for East African Citizens

This permit grants you one hour to spend with the gorillas once you encounter them on your trek, making for an unforgettable experience.

How to Purchase Gorilla Trekking Permits for Buhoma Sector

To trek in Buhoma, you need to purchase a gorilla trekking permit through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). If you’re traveling via Entebbe, it’s recommended to buy your permit from the UWA headquarters in Kampala. For visitors arriving through Kigali, permits can be bought at UWA’s Kisoro office, just a 1-2 hour drive from Bwindi. Trek Africa Gorillas can assist with the permit purchase process, helping you secure your permits in advance or on short notice. Once your dates are confirmed, we will tentatively reserve your permits, send you an invoice and immediately purchase your permits once payment is received. We’ll then send you scanned copies for your records.

Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma Sector

The best time to visit Buhoma for gorilla trekking is during the drier months, typically from January, February, June to early September. These months offer favorable weather conditions for trekking, as the trails are less muddy and the visibility of the gorillas is better.

What to Pack for Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Buhoma

When preparing for your gorilla trek, it’s essential to be comfortable and well-equipped. Here’s what to pack:

• Comfortable, sturdy hiking boots
• Insect repellent
• Torch/flashlight & spare batteries
• Water bottle
• Camera, lenses and memory cards
• Lightweight long-sleeve shirt and trousers to protect against the undergrowth
• Gardening gloves for protection during trekking
• Rain jacket and sunscreen
• Hat and sunglasses
• Binoculars for bird or game watching

Understanding Gorilla Trekking Difficulty in Buhoma Sector

Trekking in Buhoma is generally easier compared to other sectors, thanks to its gentle slopes. However, it’s important to note that the terrain in Bwindi can be challenging, as gorillas move through dense forest and steep paths. Some treks may be over in just a few hours, while others can take up to 8 hours. The weather can change suddenly, so it’s important to come prepared for any condition.

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options in Buhoma Sector

There are several excellent lodges in Buhoma where you can relax after your trek. Some of the popular options include:

• Buhoma Lodge
• Bwindi Lodge
• Buhoma Community Rest Camp
• Ride 4 a Woman

If you’re staying in Ruhija (another sector), some of the top accommodations include:

• Trekkers Tavern Cottages
• Agandi Eco Lodge
• Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge

These lodges offer comfort, stunning views and easy access to the starting points for trekking in Bwindi.

Why Choose Trek Africa Gorillas for Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma?

Trek Africa Gorillas is your trusted partner for gorilla trekking in Buhoma. We offer a range of packages, from budget to luxury options, including permits and accommodations. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing excellent service and ensuring that your experience is smooth and unforgettable.

With our easy-to-book gorilla trekking packages and great reviews from satisfied customers, you can be confident that your trip to Bwindi will be a memorable one. Reach out to us for more details on how we can help you plan your adventure in Buhoma.