Buhoma Sector in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Nestled in the northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the Buhoma Sector is the birthplace of gorilla trekking in Uganda — the place where it all began. Established as the first gorilla trekking trailhead in 1993, Buhoma remains one of the most famous and rewarding sectors for visitors seeking to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas. Beyond the trek itself, Buhoma’s charm lies in its stunning forested slopes, vibrant community life, and serene lodges overlooking the misty jungle canopy of Bwindi’s UNESCO World Heritage wilderness.

The Gateway to Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Buhoma was the very first area in Uganda where mountain gorillas were habituated for tourism, starting with the Mubare Gorilla Family, the country’s oldest habituated group. Since then, several more families have been opened for trekking, offering visitors multiple options and varied forest experiences. The treks begin early each morning from the Buhoma Visitor Centre, where travelers receive a briefing before heading into the forest with professional rangers and trackers.

Each trek is an adventure — an immersion into the dense rainforest that Bwindi is famous for. The hike can range from one to six hours depending on the location of the gorilla family, winding through lush vegetation, cascading streams, and steep ridges. When you finally meet the gorillas — observing them feed, play, and interact — the moment feels timeless, a humbling reminder of our connection to nature.

Gorilla Families in Buhoma Sector

Several gorilla families have been habituated in the Buhoma area, including:

• Mubare Family – The first and most historic group, known for its calm demeanor and accessibility.

• Habinyanja Family – Famous for its large size and long-established history of observation.

• Rushegura Family – A breakaway group from Habinyanja, often seen near the forest edges and lodges.

• Katwe Family – A newer group offering a fresh trekking experience for returning visitors.

Each group offers a slightly different experience in terms of group size, behavior, and location, but all guarantee the awe-inspiring one-hour encounter with the mountain gorillas.

Nature and Wildlife Beyond the Gorillas

While gorillas are the main attraction, Buhoma offers far more for nature enthusiasts. The region’s biodiversity is staggering — over 120 species of mammals, 350 bird species, 200 butterflies, and over 160 species of trees thrive in the thick forest. Among the birds, the African green broadbill, black bee-eater, and Rwenzori batis make Buhoma a dream for birdwatchers.

Guided forest walks, such as the Waterfall Trail or the Munyaga River Walk, reveal a different side of Bwindi’s beauty, from sparkling waterfalls to glimpses of primates like black-and-white colobus monkeys and blue monkeys.

Cultural and Community Experiences

The Buhoma community offers a rich cultural backdrop to complement the gorilla trekking adventure. The Buhoma Community Village Walk provides insight into local life — visiting traditional healers, banana breweries, craft makers, and Batwa pygmy communities who share stories of their forest heritage. These experiences are not only educational but also contribute directly to local livelihoods and conservation efforts.

Many lodges partner with community projects, ensuring that tourism supports the people who live alongside the park. The warmth and hospitality of the local Bakiga and Batwa people make every visit deeply personal and meaningful.

Accommodation and Comfort in the Forest

Buhoma offers the widest range of accommodation options within Bwindi, from luxury eco-lodges to midrange retreats and budget guesthouses. Some of the most renowned lodges include:

• Buhoma Lodge – Luxury wooden cottages with panoramic forest views.

• Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp – An exclusive retreat where gorillas occasionally visit the camp itself.

• Mahogany Springs Lodge – Spacious suites along the Munyanga River, offering tranquility and comfort.

• Engagi Lodge and Silverback Lodge – Popular midrange options with warm hospitality and scenic views.

These lodges are located close to the park entrance, minimizing transfer times and allowing visitors to start their trek with ease.

Accessibility and Getting There

Buhoma is accessible by both road and air. Travelers can drive from Kampala or Entebbe (approximately 8–9 hours), passing through scenic countryside and the towns of Mbarara and Kabale. Alternatively, scheduled flights from Entebbe or Kajjansi Airstrip land at Kihihi Airstrip, just a 1.5-hour drive from Buhoma.

For those combining safaris, Buhoma is a convenient entry or exit point for cross-border connections to Rwanda or Queen Elizabeth National Park, particularly the Ishasha sector known for its tree-climbing lions.

Best Time to Visit Buhoma Sector

The best time to visit Buhoma is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February, when trekking trails are less slippery and visibility is excellent. However, gorilla trekking operates year-round, and the wet seasons (March–May and October–November) offer lush scenery and fewer tourists, ideal for photographers seeking moody forest scenes.

Buhoma – Where It All Began

Buhoma is not just a gateway to gorilla trekking — it’s the heart of Bwindi’s story. Here, conservation, community, and nature intertwine in perfect balance. Every trek through its dense forest feels like a pilgrimage to the wild — a journey that leaves travelers transformed. Whether it’s your first gorilla trek or a return to the wild, Buhoma Sector captures the spirit of Bwindi: mysterious, ancient, and profoundly moving.