Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Starting from Buhoma

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Starting from Buhoma

Planning a Gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi, starting from Buhoma? With Trek Africa Expeditions, this is entirely possible! Whether you’re traveling during the low season (April, May, and November) or peak times, we ensure a seamless experience. Low season is a particularly great time to visit, as Uganda receives fewer tourists, allowing for a more private and tranquil safari experience. During this period, accommodations and gorilla permits are more readily available, making it an excellent opportunity for budget travelers.

About the Buhoma Sector

Located in the northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Buhoma was the first sector to be habituated for gorilla trekking back in 1993 after the park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the most famous and frequently visited sector of Bwindi, Buhoma is home to four gorilla families: Mubare, Habinyanja, Rushegura, and Katwe.

Buhoma offers a unique appeal for several reasons:

• Rich History: It’s where gorilla trekking in Bwindi began.
• Abundant Gorilla Families: This sector boasts multiple gorilla groups, making it easier to secure permits.
• Luxurious Lodging Options: Buhoma features two exclusive lodges located within the forest itself – Gorilla Sanctuary Forest Camp and Bwindi Lodge – along with several other luxury options.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Enjoy stunning views of Bwindi’s lush forest and surrounding landscapes.

These features make Buhoma a preferred destination for gorilla trekking, especially for luxury travelers or those seeking a memorable, comfortable experience.

Key Considerations for Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma

1. Booking Gorilla Permits in Advance

We recommend securing your gorilla permits at least 3–4 months before your safari, especially during the high season (June–September). Gorilla permits are limited and sell out quickly.

Permit Costs:

• $800: Foreign Non-Residents
• $700: Foreign Residents
• UGX 300,000: East African Citizens

These permits grant you an hour of magical, up-close interaction with the mountain gorillas. Contact us to help you book permits and plan your trekking adventure.

2. Accommodation in Buhoma

For a luxury experience, Buhoma offers some of the best lodges in Bwindi, including Bwindi Lodge, Gorilla Sanctuary Forest Camp, Mahogany Springs, and Silverback Lodge. These accommodations provide exceptional comfort and service, enhancing your safari experience.

If you’re traveling on a budget, we can also recommend more affordable options near Buhoma to ensure you have a comfortable stay.

3. Travel to Buhoma

There are two main ways to get to Buhoma:

• By Air: Fly to Kihihi Airstrip via AeroLink, a domestic airline offering scheduled and charter flights. From Kihihi, it’s a short 1-hour drive to Buhoma. This is a quick and stress-free option, reducing travel time significantly compared to road trips.

  Flight Tips:

  • Check in 90 minutes before departure.
  • AeroLink allows 15kg of luggage per person (additional baggage costs $3 per kg).
  • Private charters are also available for those with specific timing or routing needs.
• By Road: Drive from Entebbe or Kampala, which takes approximately 8–9 hours. Alternatively, if you’re traveling from Kigali, Rwanda, it’s a shorter 4–5-hour drive. We recommend using a 4×4 Land Cruiser for a more comfortable journey.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma

Dressing appropriately is crucial for a comfortable and successful trekking experience. Here’s what we recommend:

• Long-sleeved sweater: Keeps you warm in the cool forest environment.
• 2 pairs of long trousers: Ideal for hiking through dense vegetation.
• Waterproof hiking boots: Essential for navigating slippery terrain.
• Gardening gloves: Protect your hands while holding onto branches during the trek.
• Raincoat: Bwindi’s rainforest is unpredictable, so always be prepared for sudden rain.
• Mosquito repellent: Protects against insect bites in the forest.
• Neutral-colored clothing: Avoid bright colors that might scare the gorillas and black/blue tones that attract tsetse flies.

Optional items include a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, binoculars, and a camera with extra batteries (keep the flash off).

How to Reach Buhoma Sector in Bwindi

1. By Air: Fly to Kihihi Airstrip and take a short 1-hour drive to Buhoma. This is the fastest and least exhausting option.
2. By Road: Drive 8–9 hours from Kampala/Entebbe or 4–5 hours from Kigali, Rwanda.

Our team can arrange all your travel logistics to ensure a smooth journey.

Why Book Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves in creating tailored gorilla trekking safaris that cater to your preferences and budget. Our dedicated team of professional tour consultants ensures every detail is taken care of, from securing permits to arranging accommodations and transportation. We offer quick responses to inquiries (within 30 minutes) and work diligently to make your safari stress-free and unforgettable.

Whether you’re looking for a 2-day budget safari, a 3-day trek, or a 4-day fly-in luxury experience, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to start planning your gorilla trekking adventure in Buhoma!