Trekking Gorillas in the Buhoma Region of Bwindi

Trekking Gorillas in the Buhoma Region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The Buhoma region, nestled in the northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is a premier destination for gorilla trekking. Recognized as the first sector to be habituated back in 1993, just after Bwindi was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Buhoma is the park’s most popular and frequently visited area. Here, you can encounter the oldest gorilla family, Mubare, along with three other families: Habinyanja, Rushegura, and Katwe.

If you’re excited about trekking gorillas in the Buhoma region, you’re in luck! Booking with Trek Africa Expeditions ensures you have a fantastic opportunity to observe these majestic creatures, whether you’re traveling solo or with a group. To embark on this unforgettable experience, you will need a gorilla permit. The cost for the permit is USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents, and 300,000 Uganda Shillings for East African citizens. This permit allows you to spend one hour with the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Important Considerations for Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

1. Secure Your Gorilla Permit in Advance

The Buhoma sector has a limited number of 32 gorilla permits available each day, so it’s crucial to book your permit in advance to guarantee your spot. You can reserve your permit by paying 100%, 70%, or 30% of the total amount upfront. We recommend booking at least 3 to 4 months before your planned trek, especially during high season, as permits tend to sell out quickly on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information on securing your gorilla permit for the Buhoma region, feel free to contact us.

2. Book Your Accommodation Early

Selecting your accommodation is vital for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience in Buhoma. Depending on your budget, you can choose from a variety of options. For a luxury stay, consider lodges like Bwindi Lodge and Gorilla Sanctuary Forest Camp, both situated within the Bwindi forest. Other upscale options include Buhoma Lodge, Mahogany Springs, and Silverback Lodge. If you’re looking for budget-friendly alternatives, you can check out Buhoma Camp, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, and Bwindi Forest Lodge. When you book your safari with Trek Africa Expeditions, you’ll enjoy meals on a full-board basis at any of these lodges.

3. Comfortable Travel to Buhoma

For a smooth journey to Buhoma, we recommend traveling in a 4×4 Land Cruiser, which provides comfort on the often bumpy roads. Alternatively, you can opt for a flight to Kihihi Airstrip, which is conveniently close to Buhoma. This option significantly cuts down your travel time from Entebbe or Kampala, which usually takes about 8-9 hours by road, to just 1 hour from Kihihi to your lodge in Buhoma.

4. What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in the Buhoma Region of Bwindi

Planning a gorilla trek in the Buhoma region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park? You might be wondering what to wear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here’s a handy guide to help you pack for your adventure:

1. Long-Sleeved Sweater: The temperatures can drop in the park, so bring a cozy long-sleeved sweater to stay warm during your trek.
2. Two Pairs of Long Trousers: Opt for durable, lightweight trousers that can withstand the forest terrain. Avoid shorts to protect your legs from thorns and insects.
3. Waterproof Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots are essential for navigating muddy paths and uneven ground. Ensure they are well broken-in to avoid blisters.
4. Hat and Sunglasses: Depending on the weather, a hat and sunglasses can protect you from the sun. While optional, they can enhance your comfort during the trek.
5. Camera with Extra Batteries: Capture the magic of your gorilla encounter! Bring a camera with long-lasting batteries, and don’t forget to keep the flash off to avoid startling the animals.
6. Binoculars: Spot the diverse bird species and other primates in the dense forest with a pair of binoculars. They’re great for enhancing your wildlife viewing experience.
7. Gardening Gloves: These will come in handy when you need to hold onto branches or trees for support during your trek.
8. Raincoat: The weather in Bwindi can be unpredictable, so a lightweight, packable raincoat is a must to keep you dry in case of rain.
9. Mosquito Repellent: Protect yourself from insect bites by applying mosquito repellent. This is especially important in the forest environment.
10. Sunscreen: Depending on the season, it can get quite sunny, so bring along sunscreen to protect your skin from potential sunburn.
11. Neutral Colors: It’s best to avoid bright colors, as they can disturb the gorillas. Black and blue are also not recommended because they attract tsetse flies. Opt for neutral tones to blend into the environment.

How to Reach the Buhoma Sector for Gorilla Trekking

By Air

Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Buhoma. Aero Link offers scheduled and charter flights to Kihihi Airstrip, where you will be picked up by our professional guide for a scenic one-hour drive to your lodge. Make sure to check in 90 minutes before your flight. Note that the luggage allowance is 15 kilograms per person, with excess baggage charged at $3 per kilogram. For families, infants under 2 years old fly free, while children over 12 years pay 70% of the adult fare.

By Road

If you prefer to drive, Buhoma is accessible via the main highway from Entebbe/Kampala, taking about 8-9 hours. The route passes through Kabale town before reaching Buhoma. You can also access the park from Kigali, Rwanda, which is approximately a 4-5 hour drive.

Best Time to Trek Mountain Gorillas in Buhoma

Buhoma is open for trekking year-round, but due to its tropical rainforest climate, rain can occur at any time. The best months for gorilla trekking are June to August and December to February, as these months typically experience the least rainfall and drier conditions. If you choose to travel during March to May or November, be prepared for higher chances of rain, though you might find discounted accommodation rates during these months.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Gorilla Trekking Experience

Trek Africa Expeditions specializes in creating unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda and Rwanda. With top ratings on TripAdvisor, we combine eco-friendly adventures with high-quality wildlife safaris. Our itineraries also include activities such as chimpanzee trekking, Big Five safaris, mountain hiking, boat excursions, and cultural encounters, ensuring you have the best possible African safari experience.

Feel free to contact us to start planning your gorilla trekking adventure in the Buhoma region of Bwindi!