Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma sector

Gorilla Trekking is the most thrilling wildlife activity that involves taking a walk in the lush rainforest in order to have a sight of the gentle giants the mountain gorillas. Bwindi is found in the southwestern parts of Uganda. The park is well known for having half of the mountain gorilla population and the most biodiverse rain forest in the world.  It’s made up of four sectors that is Buhoma, Rushaga, Nkuringo and Ruhija sector. Buhoma is the most popular and oldest gorilla trekking sector found in the northern parts of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Gorilla trekking was first done in Buhoma that is in 1993 and remains the most accessible and well-developed sector. Buhoma has well-established trails and infrastructure, making it the most convenient sector and an ideal destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda.

Gorilla Families in Buhoma

Gorilla trekking is the main activity done in Buhoma, it involves trekking through a dense rainforest in search of the habituated mountain gorillas and it attracts many visitors from around the world. Buhoma is home to a number of habituated gorilla families, that is Mubare, Muyambi, Habinyanja, Rushegura, Binyindo and Katwe among others. Each family group has a unique behaviour as explained. Mubare group is the oldest habituated gorilla group in Uganda. Habinyanja group is the biggest and it tends to move deep into the thick forest hence offering a more adventurous trek to visitors. Rushegura is the most friendly group and it’s often seen close to the park lodges. Muyambi and Katwe group are the most recently introduced families hence offering a fresh trekking experience. However, due to Buhoma’s popularity, it tends to be more crowded compared to the other sectors, but despite of this Buhoma offers a rewarding and an enriching gorilla trekking experience.

gorilla trekking

Gorilla Trekking Experience in Buhoma

You will wake up very early in the morning and head to the park headquarters where you will receive briefing on how to conduct yourself around the gorillas. When briefing is done, you will be divided into groups of eight people where each group will have a guide and armed ranger to start your trek. The time taken to find the mountain gorillas depends on their movement. On your trek you will have a chance to see a number of bird species, primates and a variety of plant species. Once you find the mountain gorillas, you will be allowed to spend one hour with them. During this time, you will have a chance to take photos of the gorillas eating, breastfeeding and grooming each other. After the trek you will head back to the park headquarters where you will be given a certificate.

Apart from gorilla trekking there are also other activities to do in Buhoma

Nature Walks

Buhoma offers several scenic walking trails through Bwindi’s dense rainforest. These guided nature walks give visitors a chance to enjoy the forest’s rich biodiversity. The nature walk can be done either in the morning or evening. During your trek you will be led by a knowledgeable guide and an armed park ranger. Some popular trails include Munyanga Waterfall Trail that leads to a stunning waterfall deep in the forest. Ivy River, Muzabajiro loop trail, Munyanga river trail, Rushura hill trail and Buhoma-Nkuringo trail among others. All the trails offer stunning views of the forest and wildlife. These walks, offer visitors a chance to see different primates, birds, rare tree species, and learn about the forest’s ecosystem from experienced guides.

Bird Watching

Buhoma is often referred to as a birder’s paradise, since it has over 360 species of birds, including over 23 Albertine Rift endemics. This birding activity is carried out with the help of a knowledgeable birding guide along trails like Habinyanja trail, ivy river trail, Rushura and Munyanga river trail among others. The most notable species include African Green Broadbill, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, Rwenzori Batis, Dusky Crimsonwing, Bar-tailed Trogon, Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, White-tailed Blue Flycatcher, Western Green Tinkerbird, red headed bluebill, pink footed puff back, cape wagtail, among others. Birding is the most rewarding activity done around the Buhoma Waterfall Trail and forest edges.

Batwa Cultural Experience

The Batwa were the original forest dwellers of Bwindi before it was gazetted as a national park in 1991. The Batwa cultural experience in Buhoma allows visitors to learn about their traditional lifestyle, forest survival skills, hunting techniques, music, and dances. Visitors can also hear their ancient stories, visit traditional huts, and engage with Batwa elders. This experience promotes cultural understanding and supports the local Batwa communities.

Community Tours

Community tours around Buhoma give visitors a deeper understanding of the lives and culture of local people living near Bwindi. This can be done through visiting local schools, women’s craft groups, banana breweries, traditional healers, and farms. The Ride 4 a Woman women’s cooperative is a great stop where you can learn about local weaving, bicycle repairs, and enjoy performances and meals. This tour provides a meaningful cultural exchange and directly supports community livelihoods.

Best Time to Visit Buhoma

The best time to visit Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for all the activities mentioned above is during the dry season that is the months of June to August and December to February. Since in this time the weather is more comfortable, the trails are less muddy, and it provides better visibility. However, you can also visit Buhoma in the wet season in the months of March to May and November. This time is the greatest for bird watching because it’s the breeding period for the birds.

How to Get to Buhoma

By Road from Kampala

The drive from Kampala to Buhoma takes about 8–9 hours via Masaka, Mbarara, and Kabale depending on the traffic. A 4WD vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season.

By Road from Rwanda

You can also travel from Kigali, Rwanda, to Buhoma via the Cyanika or Katuna border. The drive takes about 4–5 hours, making it a shorter route than from Kampala.

By Air

Travelers can also fly from Kajjansi Airstrip to Kihihi Airstrip, which is about an hour drive to Buhoma. Flights are offered by Aero Link Uganda and Bar Aviation.

Where to Stay in Buhoma Sector

Luxury Accommodation

  • Buhoma Lodge
  • Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp
  • Mahogany Springs Lodge

Mid-Range Accommodation

  • Silverback Lodge
  • Engagi Lodge
  • Gorilla Safari Lodge

Budget Accommodation

  • Buhoma Community Rest Camp
  • Bwindi Guesthouse
  • Ride 4 a Woman Guesthouse