How to plan a fly-in Gorilla Safari to Buhoma Sector During Christmas
Planning a fly-in gorilla safari to Buhoma Sector in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park during Christmas is an unforgettable adventure. This guide will help you understand everything you need to know about permits, logistics, accommodations, and making the most of your trip.
A gorilla trekking permit is the most important item when planning your fly-in safari to Buhoma. According to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) 2024–2026 tariff, the cost of a permit is:
- USD 800 per person per trek for foreign non-residents.
- USD 700 per person per trek for foreign residents.
- UGX 300,000 per person per trek for East African citizens.
This fee allows you one hour to view and take photos of the gorillas after locating them in the forest. Each day, 40 permits are available for trekking in Buhoma. Each gorilla family is visited by a maximum of eight people per day.
When you book a gorilla trekking package with Iconic Africa Safaris, we will guide you through the permit booking process. We first send you an invoice and tentatively book the permit in the UWA system. Once your payment is confirmed, we secure the permit from UWA headquarters in Kampala. A scanned copy of your receipt will be sent to you for reference. One week before your safari, we collect your physical permit card from UWA, which your driver-guide will present on your trekking day.
Gorilla permits are only available to visitors aged 15 years and above. It is essential to book permits in advance, as demand during the high season (July–September and December–February) is very high. Permits can sell out months before, especially for the Christmas season. To ensure your spot, we recommend booking up to two years in advance.
The Gorilla Trekking Experience
Gorilla trekking involves hiking through the dense Bwindi forest to find a gorilla family. Once located, you’ll have one hour to observe and photograph these fascinating creatures, which share 95% of their DNA with humans.
The activity begins at 7:00 am with a briefing at the park headquarters. During the briefing, guides explain the trekking rules and what to expect. The trek can be physically demanding, as you may hike uphill or traverse uneven terrain. If needed, you can hire a porter to carry your belongings and provide support during the trek.
Gorilla Families in Buhoma Sector
The Buhoma Sector is home to five habituated gorilla families:
- Mubare Gorilla Family
- Habinyanja Gorilla Family
- Rushegura Gorilla Family
- Muyambi Gorilla Family
- Katwe Gorilla Family
Each family can only be visited by eight people per day. If you have specific preferences, such as an easier trek due to fitness or health concerns, let us know when booking. Our driver-guide will communicate your request to park authorities to assign you a suitable group. Additionally, you can request to track a specific gorilla family by name.
Flying to Buhoma Sector
A fly-in safari is a convenient way to reach Buhoma Sector, especially if you are short on time. Two key airstrips serve the Buhoma area:
- Kihihi Airstrip (approximately a 1-hour drive to Buhoma).
- Ishasha Airstrip (about a 2-hour drive to Buhoma).
Flights to these airstrips operate daily from Entebbe International Airport and Kajjansi Airstrip. Both morning and afternoon departures are available. The primary domestic flight operator is Aerolink Uganda, which provides scheduled and chartered flights with a capacity of up to 11 passengers.
When you arrive at the airstrip, our professional driver-guides will be waiting to transfer you to Buhoma. We use 4×4 safari vehicles to ensure your comfort and provide a seamless experience.
Accommodation Options in Buhoma
To fully enjoy your fly-in gorilla safari, plan to stay at least two nights in Buhoma. The area offers a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget options:
Luxury Lodges:
- Gorilla Forest Camp
- Buhoma Lodge
- Bwindi Lodge
- Mahogany Springs Lodge
- Bwindi Trekkers Lodge
Midrange Lodges:
- Buhoma Haven Lodge
- Silverback Lodge
Budget Lodges:
- Crested Crane Buhoma Lodge
- Buhoma Community Camp
- Ride for a Woman Lodge
Let us know your budget and preferences, and we’ll recommend the best lodge or tailor your itinerary accordingly.
Why Choose Iconic Africa Safaris?
At Iconic Africa Safaris, we take care of every detail of your gorilla trekking adventure. From securing permits to booking flights, transfers, and accommodations, we ensure your safari is stress-free. Our experienced guides and 4×4 vehicles guarantee a safe and memorable journey through the beautiful landscapes of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
