How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma

How to Book Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma

Are you excited about the prospect of gorilla trekking in Buhoma? You’re in for an incredible adventure, and with Excursia Adventures, booking your trip is straightforward. The ideal time to embark on your gorilla trek in Buhoma is from June to October and December to March. During these peak months, gorilla permits and services often sell out quickly, so we highly recommend making your reservations well in advance to secure your spot.

Buhoma is a popular destination for gorilla trekking enthusiasts, attracting many visitors throughout the year, especially during high season. This sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to two lodges: the Gorilla Sanctuary Forest Camp and Bwindi Lodge, both of which offer a unique experience during your trek. As the birthplace of gorilla trekking in Uganda, Buhoma instills confidence in travelers, knowing that they are likely to encounter gorillas here. Additionally, it boasts several gorilla families, second only to the Rushaga sector, making it easier to obtain a permit. With an array of luxurious accommodations, Buhoma caters to those seeking a premium experience, which is another reason permits and services can book up quickly. Excursia Adventures can assist you in finding budget-friendly lodging options for your gorilla safari during the high season.

About Buhoma Sector

Located in the northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the Buhoma sector is significant in the history of gorilla tourism, as it was the first area to be habituated back in 1993, shortly after the park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. This sector is renowned for its popularity and is home to the oldest gorilla family, Mubare, along with three other families: Habinyanja, Rushegura, and Katwe.

Key Considerations for Planning Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Buhoma

Advance Booking of Gorilla Permits

To enjoy a successful gorilla trekking experience in Buhoma, we advise booking your gorilla permits at least three to four months before your planned safari date. Due to high demand, permits are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The cost of a gorilla permit is USD 700 for foreign non-residents, USD 600 for foreign residents, and 250,000 Uganda Shillings for East African citizens. This permit grants you a one-hour encounter with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi. For further details on booking gorilla permits in advance, please reach out to us.

Staying in Luxury Accommodations

When planning your gorilla safari, consider the benefits of staying in luxury accommodations to enhance your comfort and overall experience. Buhoma offers several upscale lodge options, including the only two lodges situated within Bwindi Forest: Bwindi Lodge and Gorilla Sanctuary Forest Camp. Other luxury options in the area include Mahogany Springs and Silverback Lodge, among others.

Comfortable Travel to Buhoma

For a comfortable journey to Buhoma, we recommend traveling in a 4×4 Land Cruiser. Alternatively, you can opt for a quicker flight to Kihihi Airstrip, which is located close to Buhoma. This option significantly reduces the lengthy 8-9 hour drive from Entebbe/Kampala to just a one-hour transfer from Kihihi to your lodge in Buhoma.

Packing Essentials for Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma

Wondering what to wear for your trek? Here’s a helpful packing list:

• A long-sleeved sweater, as temperatures can drop in the park.
• Two pairs of long trousers for comfort and protection.
• Waterproof hiking boots to navigate the rugged terrain.
• A hat and sunglasses, depending on the weather (optional).
• A camera with long-lasting batteries to capture unforgettable moments. Remember to keep the flash off.
• A pair of binoculars to appreciate the diverse birdlife and other primates in the forest.
• Gardening gloves for gripping trees and branches during your trek.
• A raincoat, as rain can be unpredictable in the rainforest.
• Mosquito repellent to protect against various insects.
• Sunscreen, especially during warmer seasons, to prevent sunburn.

Avoid wearing bright colors, as they can startle the gorillas. Neutral tones are recommended, as well as avoiding black and blue, which can attract tsetse flies.

Getting to Buhoma for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

By Air: The quickest way to reach Buhoma is by air. Aero Link offers scheduled and charter flights to Kihihi Airstrip. Although there are no direct flights to Buhoma, you can take a flight to Kihihi and then enjoy a one-hour drive to your lodge. It’s important to check in 90 minutes before departure, and be aware of the 15-kilogram baggage limit per person, with excess fees applicable. Private charters are available for those needing flexible timings, and infants under two years can fly for free.

By Road: Buhoma can also be reached by road from Entebbe/Kampala, which takes approximately 8-9 hours, passing through Kabale. Alternatively, it is about a 4-5 hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda.

Why Choose Excursia Adventures for Your Gorilla Trekking Experience in Buhoma?

At Excursia Adventures, we offer affordable gorilla trekking safaris to Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. Our tours combine eco-friendly practices with unforgettable wildlife adventures, contributing to biodiversity preservation and local community upliftment. In addition to gorilla trekking, we offer a variety of experiences, including chimpanzee trekking, Big Five safaris, mountain hiking, boat cruises, and cultural encounters, all designed to create memorable African safari experiences across popular destinations like Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia.

Our gorilla safari packages to Buhoma include options such as a 2-day Budget Gorilla Safari, a 3-day Luxury Gorilla Fly-in Safari, and a 4-day Gorilla Trekking and Batwa Cultural Tour, allowing you to choose according to your preferences. Feel free to contact us for more information and to book your unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure in Buhoma!