Where to Stay in Buhoma Sector in Bwindi
Buhoma Sector is one of the most popular places for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda. It lies on the northern side of the park and offers the widest range of accommodation options compared to the other sectors: Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.
Most lodges and camps in Buhoma are within 4 km of the park entrance. It is also the only sector with a lodge inside the park—Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp.
Types of Accommodation in Buhoma
Luxury Lodges
These lodges offer beautiful views of the forest, excellent service, and full-board pricing. Most are within walking distance of the Buhoma trailhead. Ideal for honeymooners or guests looking for exclusive comfort.
- Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp – from $415 per person/night
- Buhoma Lodge – from $380 per person/night
- Mahogany Springs Lodge – from $300 per person/night
- Bwindi Lodge – from $800 per person/night
- Silverback Lodge – from $280 per person/night
Mid-Range Lodges
These options offer good comfort at a fair price. Meals and lodge amenities are included.
- Engagi Lodge – from $235 per person/night
- Gorilla Safari Lodge – from $250 per person/night
- Lake Kitandara Camp – from $200 per person/night
- Haven Community Lodge – from $201 per person/night
Budget Lodges
Budget lodges provide basic facilities with breakfast. Shared bathrooms and simple rooms are common, but some have private ensuite options.
- Ride 4 A Woman – $70 per person (B&B)
- Bwindi View Bandas – $80 per person (B&B)
- Eco Marvel Gorilla Resort – $80 per person (B&B)
- Gorilla Friends Lodge – $30 per person
Things to Do in Buhoma
Gorilla Trekking
The highlight of visiting Buhoma is gorilla trekking. Permits are required and allow you to spend one hour with a habituated gorilla family. Book your permit in advance through Uganda Wildlife Authority or with Iconic Africa Safaris.
Mountain Biking Trails
Mountain biking in Buhoma is run by Buhoma Community Rest Camp under the Ride 4 A Woman initiative.
- Ivy River Trail: A 13 km (8-mile) biking trail starting from the park headquarters to Ivy River. You might see bushbucks, red-tailed monkeys, or even forest elephants.
- Village Trail: A shorter 2-hour trail through local communities, a craft center, a school, and a Batwa homestead.
Bikes, guides, and a UWA ranger are provided.
Nature Walking Trails
These guided trails give you a deep look into the Bwindi forest ecosystem.
- Ivy River Trail: A flat 13 km walk (about 8 hours) with good chances of seeing monkeys, birds, and butterflies.
- Kashasha River Trail: A tougher 10-hour hike perfect for birders and hikers, connecting to Nkuringo Sector.
- Muzubijiro Loop Trail: Offers views of the Virunga Mountains and the Bwindi canopy.
- Rushura Trail: A 3-hour walk with distant views of Lakes Edward and George, and the Rwenzori Mountains.
- Munyanga Waterfall Trail: A 3-hour scenic trail through dense forest to a beautiful waterfall.
- Waterfall Trail: Leads to three lovely waterfalls—Ruizi, Muzabajirro, and Rushura.
Bird Watching
Bwindi has over 350 bird species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics. Top birds to look for include:
- Short-tailed Warbler
- Blue-headed Sunbird
- African Green Broadbill
- Shelley’s Crimsonwing
- White-tailed Ant Thrush
- Black Bee-eater
Bring binoculars and follow a birding guide through trails like the Ivy River, Kashasha, and Waterfall Trails.
Batwa Cultural Experience
The Batwa Trail lets you explore the forest from the Batwa pygmies’ point of view. This tribe lived in the forest for centuries before it became a national park.
On the trail, you will:
- Visit a Batwa homestead
- Learn about their hunting and gathering skills
- Watch traditional cooking and medicine preparation
- Enjoy music, dance, and stories from elders
- It’s a unique experience that connects you with ancient forest life and culture.
How to Get to Buhoma
Buhoma is located in southwestern Uganda at the edge of the Albertine Rift and near the DR Congo border.
From Entebbe by Road
Route 1 (Via Mbarara – Ntungamo – Kihihi):
- Distance: 471 km (292 miles)
- Drive time: 9 hours
- 4×4 vehicle needed for last 144 km dirt section
Route 2 (Via Kabale – Kanungu – Buhoma):
- Distance: 533 km (331 miles)
- Drive time: 10 hours
- Dirt road for 120 km (3 hours)
Route 3 (Via Kabale – Ruhija – Buhoma):
- Distance: 558 km (346 miles)
- Drive time: 11 hours
- 120 km on dirt road
From Queen Elizabeth National Park (Ishasha Sector)
- Distance: 68 km (42 miles)
- Drive time: 4 hours
- 4×4 required due to rough terrain
From Kigali, Rwanda
- Distance: 230 km (142 miles) via Cyanika or Gatuna borders
- Drive time: 6 hours
Cross-border delays possible—check with your tour operator
