Things to Do in the Buhoma Region of Bwindi

Things to Do in the Buhoma Region of Bwindi

Planning a stay in the Buhoma region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park? This northern sector, famous for its rich gorilla trekking opportunities, was the first part of Bwindi to be habituated in 1993 following its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Buhoma is home to some of the oldest and most popular gorilla families, including the Mubare, Habinyanja, Rushegura, and Katwe families. But beyond gorilla trekking, there’s a wide range of other experiences to enjoy. Here’s a guide to top activities in the Buhoma region.

Batwa Cultural Experience

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Batwa people, the indigenous forest-dwellers of Bwindi. Led by Batwa guides, this cultural experience allows you to discover the traditional lifestyle of the Batwa, from making fire using ancient methods to participating in vibrant traditional dances. It’s a unique way to understand the history and skills of one of the region’s oldest cultures.

Gorilla Health and Research Tour

At the Gorilla Conservation Camp, operated by Conservation Through Public Health, visitors can explore efforts in gorilla health monitoring and conservation. Bwindi park staff and community volunteers receive training in gorilla health, helping protect these rare primates. You can even dine with dedicated “gorilla doctors,” who share insights into their important work protecting the world’s last mountain gorillas.

Cultural Experiences at Ride 4 a Woman

Staying at Ride 4 a Woman offers a chance to experience local life and cuisine. Learn to cook traditional Bakiga dishes, sample local fruits, and enjoy meals prepared with community members on the scenic dining deck overlooking the misty hills of Bwindi. Participate in cooking and savor a truly local meal as part of this immersive experience.

Nature Walks in Bwindi

A guided nature walk through Bwindi Forest offers an incredible chance to learn about its diverse flora and fauna beyond gorilla trekking. In the Nkuringo area, you can walk along the Ivi-Nkuringo trail and see the beautiful 33-meter-high waterfalls, surrounded by Bwindi’s lush landscape.

Safari Excursion to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Since Buhoma is near Queen Elizabeth National Park, many visitors add a safari experience to their stay. Visit the Mweya and Ishasha sectors to view incredible wildlife, including the famous tree-climbing lions, elephants, buffalo, and more. This makes for a great addition to a gorilla trekking adventure.

Bird Watching

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a bird-watcher’s paradise with over 350 bird species, including several rare and endemic types. Birding trails like the Buhoma Waterfall Trail and the bamboo zone offer excellent sightings. Bring a bird guidebook and enjoy spotting the diverse species that inhabit the park’s trails and even the gardens of nearby lodges.

Community Visits and Local Village Tours

Explore the lives and traditions of the Bakiga and Batwa people in nearby villages. Community visits offer insights into local cultures, farming practices, crafts, and daily life. Other unique activities include yoga sessions at lodges, mountain biking, volunteer opportunities in local schools, and nighttime butterfly watching.

For more information on booking these activities, reach out to us to enhance your Buhoma adventure. Whether you’re interested in cultural experiences, nature walks, or adding a safari to your gorilla trek, there’s something in Buhoma to make your trip unforgettable.

Getting to the Buhoma Region for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

By Air

For a quicker and more comfortable journey, you can fly to the Buhoma region. AeroLink, a domestic airline, offers both scheduled and chartered flights to Kihihi Airstrip, which is the closest airstrip to Buhoma. From Kihihi, our professional guide will meet you and drive you to your lodge, a scenic journey of about one hour. Although there’s no direct flight to Buhoma, the Kihihi option is the most convenient air travel route. Passengers should check in 90 minutes before departure, and note that baggage allowance on AeroLink flights is 15 kg per person, with excess baggage charged at $3 per kilogram. Private charter flights are also available for those with custom timing or special routes. Children under two fly free, while children over 12 are charged 70% of the adult fare.

By Road

You can reach Buhoma by road from several major locations. From Entebbe or Kampala, the drive takes around 8 to 9 hours, passing through the town of Kabale before reaching Buhoma. Alternatively, you can drive from Kigali, Rwanda, which is approximately a 4-5 hour journey. Both routes offer beautiful views of Uganda’s landscape, making for a scenic adventure.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in the Buhoma Region

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, including the Buhoma region, is open for gorilla trekking all year round, but the best months to visit are June to August and December to February. These months typically see less rainfall, making forest trails less slippery and the trekking experience more comfortable. During the rainy months of March to May and November, you may encounter higher rainfall, but some lodges offer discounts during this time, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking value.

Where to Stay in Buhoma

Buhoma offers a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly options:

• Luxury Lodges: Buhoma Lodge, Gorilla Sanctuary Forest Camp, Bwindi Lodge, Mahogany Springs, Silverback Lodge, and Egangi Lodge offer top-notch comfort and amenities for a luxurious stay.
• Budget Lodges: Buhoma Community Havens Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, and Buhoma Camp are great options for budget-conscious travelers.

When you book a safari with Trek Africa Expeditions, we ensure you receive a full-board meal plan at any of these accommodations, so you can relax and enjoy your stay without any extra planning.

Why Book Your Gorilla Trek in Buhoma with Trek Africa Expeditions

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in organizing unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Our dedicated team is here to assist you through every step of the booking process, offering a variety of packages to suit all budgets—from budget-friendly options to mid-range and luxury gorilla safaris.

We also handle all the details, including securing your gorilla trekking permit. Take a moment to browse our TripAdvisor reviews and see what our happy clients say about their experiences. With our focus on excellent service and customer satisfaction, we aim to provide you with a remarkable and memorable Uganda safari holiday. Our knowledgeable tour consultants are ready to answer any questions you may have, ensuring you enjoy a seamless and memorable gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi.