Buhoma Sector, Bwindi: A Prime Gorilla Trekking Destination
Buhoma sector features among the 5 main regions where gorilla trekking in Uganda usually starts from. It is the Northern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Kanungu district, Southwestern Uganda.
Buhoma region/sector also features as one of the 4 areas in Bwindi protected area where holidaymakers on Uganda gorilla safari begin their treks to see mountain gorillas. From Kampala/Entebbe, Buhoma region is approximately 8-9 hours’ drive away and from Kigali Rwanda-the Land of a Thousand Hills, it is 3-4 hours’ drive.
The sector sits within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of the world’s premier mountain gorilla destinations where all the 459 of the world’s 1063 mountain gorillas live.
These unique creatures in the world exist within only 3 countries; Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of the Congo. Visiting Buhoma sector Uganda to track to see mountain gorillas in the wild remarkably rewards holidaymakers on gorilla safaris with strikingly lifetime experiences.
Compared to the rest of the gorilla trekking regions, Buhoma happens to be the only area in Uganda where the first gorilla family was habituated and also to be opened for gorilla tourism purposes.
While on gorilla safari in Buhoma, trekking Mubare gorilla family-Uganda’s oldest and first habituated gorilla group should be a must-do. This is one of Buhoma’s 4 habituated groups and it underwent habituation from 1991 till 1993.
Mubare group was originally sighted within the scenic Mubare hills hence its name and during habituation, it comprised of 12 family members led by then leader Ruhondeza silverback. Ruhondeza died at 50 and Kanyonyi took over when the family had only 9 family members.
Habinyanja group also happens to be part of the 4 habituated families of Buhoma region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This particular gorilla trekking family underwent habituation process from 1997 to 1999 after it was spotted around the swamp.
After its habituation, the family group was led by Mugurusi silverback. It was later led by makara silverback gorilla after split of the group in 2002 and comprised of 17 members. Rushegura group-this broke off from Habinyanja gorilla family group and officially it was ready for trekking in 2000.
Unlike the other 3 gorilla groups of Buhoma, Rushegura gorilla family is considerably the most reachable from the northern section of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This family group is headed by Mwirima one of the calmest and peaceful silverbacks in Bwindi and it leads a family of 21 individuals.
Katwe gorilla family-of recent, Katwe and Christmas were the 2 newly habituated groups that Uganda Wildlife Authority officially opened for gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park. Katwe a family of about 7 individuals is within Buhoma gorilla region while Christmas in Nkuringo in the southern section of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Safari Activities to Do in Buhoma Sector Uganda
Gorilla Trekking
While on Uganda safaris in Buhoma region of Bwindi, visitor experience is never complete without a trek to see mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking is a great opportunity for holidaymakers to interact with the world’s rarest creatures-the mountain gorillas while in Bwindi’s jungles.
Buhoma gorilla trekking permits price
In 2025, the Buhoma sector gorilla permit Uganda in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park costs $800 USD for foreign non-residents, $700 for residents, $500 for other Africans, and 300,000 UGX for East Africans.
Permits allow one hour with habituated gorilla families, limited to 8 trekkers daily. Book early via UWA-approved operators like us.
Visitors on a tour in Buhoma get a chance to explore anyone of the 4 habituated families; Katwe, Habinyanja, Rushegura and Mubare groups.
Interestingly, trekking mountain gorilla families in Buhoma is affordable with Uganda gorilla permits currently sold at $700 for non-residents, $600 for foreign residents while citizens within East African Community obtain theirs at Uganda shs. 250,000.
You can easily have your Buhoma gorilla permit booked through our reservation team or contact Uganda Wildlife Authority’s reservation team through a local tour operator.
You might also like to know; What is gorilla trekking.
Hiking/Nature Walks
A visit to Buhoma sector isn’t only about trekking to see mountain gorillas, there is also a chance to get close to nature through hiking/nature walks.
Tourists can take on any of the available nature trails including waterfall trail, River Ivy trail, Muzubijiro loop, Rushura trail, Munyaga river trail.
Bird Watching in Buhoma
Bird watching is one other most interesting activity holidaymakers on Uganda safaris come to enjoy in Buhoma region.
The region shelters a significant population of avifaunal species for birders to sight ranging from bared long tailed cuckoos, Rwenzori batis, Jameson’s anti peckers, yellow fronted canary, dusky twin spot, cape wagtail, Tambourine dove, African goshawk, common bulbul, African blue catcher, great blue turaco to blue headed sunbird and others.
Mountain biking in Buhoma
Cycling is also possible while you are on the Buhoma sector side. This is a remarkable community experience initiated by the Ride 4 a woman and usually arranged by Buhoma Community Rest Camp.
Cyclists ride for 13kms trail to Ivi River and during the 6 to 7 hours’ cycling, you will come across interesting birds, primates to mention but a few.
Batwa Trail Experience
The Batwa trail experience offers a memorable cultural encounter for holidaymakers on Uganda safaris in Buhoma sector.
The trail takes visitors via Buhoma community to meet with the Batwa pygmies to learn in-depth about their cultures, ancient methods for hunting and gathering, tradition. Afterwards, you get some interesting entertainment as they will dance for you.
Accommodation & Lodging in Buhoma Sector
Buhoma Sector in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda, offers diverse lodging options tailored for gorilla trekkers, from opulent retreats to affordable stays. Nestled near the park headquarters, these accommodations provide easy access to trekking trails while emphasizing eco-sustainability. W
hether seeking luxury with forest views or budget-friendly basics, Buhoma ensures memorable stays amid the misty rainforest. Below, explore key categories based on popular searches.
Luxury Lodges in Buhoma Sector Bwindi
For indulgent escapes, Buhoma Lodge stands out as a mid-luxury eco-retreat inside the park, with 10 cozy chalets featuring verandas, solar lighting, and en-suite baths—rates from $350 per person/night (full board, low season).
Bwindi Lodge offers intimate bush luxury overlooking the valley, with spacious cottages named after gorillas and hot rain showers—around $300–$500/night.
Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp provides 10 upscale tents in a serene setting, blending comfort with exclusivity for $600+/night. These properties prioritize panoramic forest views and personalized service, ideal for post-trek relaxation.
Budget Accommodation Buhoma Uganda
Affordable options abound for value seekers. Buhoma Community Bandas offers simple, clean huts and camping near the park edge—$30–$50/night (B&B).
CTPH Gorilla Conservation Camp features basic tents and a guesthouse with shared facilities, supporting gorilla health initiatives—under $50/night.
Bwindi Guest House provides no-frills rooms close to trails for $40–$60/night, perfect for backpackers. Lake Kitandara Camp offers tented sites with basic amenities—$20–$40/night—emphasizing community ties. These spots deliver essential comfort without excess, fostering cultural immersion.
Buhoma Lodges Near Park Headquarters
Proximity to the Buhoma headquarters (5–10-minute walks) streamlines treks. Buhoma Lodge, inside the park, ensures seamless access with its elevated chalets and communal fireside lounge.
Buhoma Community Haven Lodge, a short stroll away, blends mid-range cottages with rainforest vistas—$100–$150/night. Silverback Lodge, another 3-star gem nearby, features eco-built rooms for quick starts—$150–$250/night.
Engagi Lodge offers intimate tents just minutes from the gate, prioritizing tranquility. These lodges minimize travel time, maximizing adventure.
Eco-Lodges Buhoma Sector
Sustainability defines Buhoma’s eco-lodges, using local materials and solar power to preserve the forest. Buhoma Lodge exemplifies this with its timber chalets and community-sourced builds, minimizing environmental impact while offering immersive views—rates $350+.
Buhoma Community Haven Lodge, community-owned by BMCDA, employs green energy and supports locals through jobs and cultural walks—$100–$150/night. Mahogany Springs Lodge integrates vegetable gardens and stone paths along the Muyanja River, promoting biodiversity—$200–$300/night.
These lodges harmonize luxury with conservation, aiding gorilla habitats and Batwa communities. Book early for 2025, as permits sell out fast.
The available lodging alternatives at Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park include Buhoma Lodge, Gorilla Forest Camp, , Engagi Lodge, Bwindi View Bandas, Mahogany Springs Camp, Buhoma Community Rest Camp and others.
Cost of staying near Buhoma Sector Lodges
Lodges near Buhoma Sector in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offer varied options for 2025. Budget stays like Buhoma Community Bandas cost $30–$50 per night (single/double, B&B). Mid-range, such as Buhoma Haven Lodge, range $100–$200 (full board).
Luxury Buhoma Lodge starts at $350 per adult/night (sharing, full board, low season; high season $500+). Prices include meals; book via operators for gorilla trekking proximity.
Getting to Buhoma Sector by road / air
Buhoma sector which sits along the Northern side of Bwindi National Park can be reached by road or by air.
By road, there is possibility to begin a trip from Entebbe/Kampala along Masaka-Mbarara connect to Ntungamo, Rukungiri, Butogota and then reach to Buhoma in the northern part of Bwindi in Kanungu district.
On this route, holidaymakers can spend about 8-9 hours to drive or take 3-4 hours from Kigali via Katuna border to Kabale or still after a game drive or boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park drive for 3 hours to Buhoma along Ishasha area with a chance to see the tree climbing lions.
Alternatively, take 2 hours on a flight from Entebbe airport/Kajjansi airfield to Kihihi airstrip.
Road Conditions to Buhoma Sector
Roads to Buhoma Sector in Bwindi are mostly paved from Kampala/Entebbe (8–9 hours, 440–510 km via Mbarara-Rukungiri), but the final 44 km from Kihihi is dirt and bumpy, worsening in rainy seasons (March–May, October–November) with mud and slips. Use 4×4 vehicles; conditions stable in 2025 dry months.
Best time to visit Buhoma for gorilla trekking
The best time for gorilla trekking in Buhoma, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is during dry seasons: June–September and December–February. Trails are less muddy, and trekking conditions are easier.
Rainy seasons (March–May, October–November) offer lush scenery but challenging hikes. Book permits early for peak dry months.
Which Bwindi Sector is best for first time gorilla trek
Buhoma Sector is ideal for first-time gorilla trekkers in Bwindi. It offers well-developed trails, proximity to park headquarters, diverse habituated gorilla families, and varied lodging (budget to luxury). The sector’s accessibility and infrastructure make it beginner-friendly,
What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma
- Essentials: Pack lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirts and pants (neutral colors), sturdy hiking boots, waterproof raincoat, and hat for sun/rain. Include insect repellent, sunscreen, and reusable water bottle.
- Gear: Bring binoculars, camera with telephoto lens, and extra batteries. A lightweight backpack for snacks and first-aid kit is vital.
- Extras: Gardening gloves for gripping vegetation, gaiters for mud, and a walking stick (often provided) for rugged Buhoma trails.
Health Requirements for Visiting Buhoma
- Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory (carry certificate). Hepatitis A, typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis are recommended for Uganda’s rainforest environment.
- Fitness: Moderate fitness is required for Buhoma’s strenuous, muddy treks (2–7 hours). Disclose medical conditions to operators.
- COVID-19: As of 2025, no active mandates, but check UWA updates for testing/vaccination rules. Carry sanitizer and masks for enclosed spaces or local requirements.
Rules for Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma
- Group Size: Maximum 8 trekkers per gorilla family daily to minimize disturbance, per UWA regulations.
- Behavior: Maintain 7-meter distance from gorillas, avoid flash photography, and follow guide instructions. No eating, smoking, or loud noises near gorillas.
- Health: No trekking if sick (e.g., flu) to protect gorillas. Only those 15+ years allowed; permits ($800 in 2025) must be pre-booked via UWA-approved operators.