DISCOVER UGANDA
Buhoma gorilla trekking sector
Nestled within the magnificent Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector is a world-renowned destination for travelers seeking to have a close encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas. Located in southwestern Uganda, this sector offers an unparalleled opportunity to track and observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, as well as experience the park’s lush vegetation, stunning scenery, and diverse wildlife. Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector is home to four habituated gorilla families that can be tracked by visitors on a daily basis. The trek to find the gorillas can take anywhere from 1 to 8 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family, their movements, and the terrain. Along the way, visitors have the opportunity to witness various other wildlife species that inhabit the forest, such as monkeys, birds, and other primates.
In addition to gorilla trekking, Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector offers a range of other activities for visitors to enjoy, such as forest walks, bird watching, cultural encounters with the local Batwa tribe, and visits to nearby waterfalls and tea plantations. The sector also boasts a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly lodges to luxury eco-friendly camps, providing visitors with a comfortable base from which to explore the park and its surroundings.
With its breathtaking natural beauty and unparalleled wildlife experiences, Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector is a must-visit destination for any nature lover or adventure seeker looking to experience the best that Uganda has to offer.
gorilla families in Buhoma gorilla trekking sector
There are three gorilla families that are habituated for tourism in the Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector of Bwindi. These include:
- Mubare Gorilla Family: This was the first gorilla family to be habituated for tourism in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. It is made up of 9 members, including 1 silverback.
- Habinyanja Gorilla Family: This family has 18 members, including 2 silverbacks. They are known for their playful behavior and are one of the most popular gorilla families to visit.
- Rushegura Gorilla Family: This family has 19 members, including 1 silverback. They are known for being calm and gentle and are a good choice for visitors who want a more relaxed gorilla trekking experience.
Each gorilla family offers a unique experience, and visitors are assigned to one of the families based on their fitness level and interests. It’s important to note that the availability of each family can vary depending on the season, as they are free to move throughout the forest.
Activities to do in Buhoma gorilla sector
Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector is one of the most popular destinations for gorilla trekking in Uganda, and offers a wide range of fun activities and experiences for visitors. Here are some of the top activities to enjoy in the sector:
Gorilla Trekking
The highlight of any visit to Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector is, of course, the chance to trek through the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in search of mountain gorillas. Visitors are led by experienced guides who track the gorillas and ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. Gorilla trekking permits are required and can be obtained through the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
Community Walks
Visitors to Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector can take part in community walks, which provide an opportunity to learn about the local culture and way of life. Visitors can visit nearby villages, schools, and community projects, and interact with the friendly local people.
Forest Walks
The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, and visitors can enjoy guided forest walks to learn more about the ecosystem and the unique flora and fauna. Visitors can also enjoy bird watching, with over 350 species of birds to be found in the forest
Batwa Cultural Experience
The Batwa people are indigenous to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and visitors can enjoy a cultural experience where they learn about their traditional way of life, including hunting and gathering, traditional medicine, and dance.
Nature Photography
Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector is a nature lover’s paradise, with stunning landscapes and wildlife to capture on camera. Visitors can take guided nature walks and photography tours to capture the best shots of the forest and its inhabitants
How to get to Buhoma gorilla trekking sector
Getting to Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector is an adventure in itself, as it requires traveling through the rugged terrain of southwestern Uganda. Here are some of the main transportation options for reaching Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector:
By Road
The most common way to get to Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector is by road. From Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, visitors can take a private car or public transport to the town of Buhoma. The journey takes about 8-10 hours, depending on road conditions, and passes through scenic landscapes and local villages.
By Air
Visitors can also choose to fly to the nearby Kihihi Airstrip or Kisoro Airstrip, which are located about 2-3 hours away from Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector. From there, visitors can take a private car or arrange for a transfer to the sector.
By Tour Operator
Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation to and from Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector, as well as guided tours and activities within the sector. This is a convenient option for visitors who want a hassle-free experience and a chance to explore other parts of Uganda as well.
Once visitors arrive at Buhoma, they can access the gorilla trekking sector by foot or by vehicle, depending on the location of their accommodation and the activities they have planned. It is important to note that the roads in the sector can be challenging, especially during the rainy season, so visitors should be prepared for some rough driving and wear comfortable shoes for walking. Overall, getting to Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector requires some planning and patience, but the journey is well worth it for the chance to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of the region.
Accommodations on Buhoma gorilla trekking sector
Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, ranging from budget-friendly lodges to luxury eco-friendly camps. Here are some of the most popular accommodation options in the sector:
Buhoma Lodge
Buhoma Lodge is a luxury eco-friendly camp that offers stunning views of the forest and is located just a few minutes’ walk from the gorilla trekking meeting point. The lodge features spacious and comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, a restaurant serving delicious meals made with locally-sourced ingredients, and a bar/lounge area for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Mahogany Springs Lodge
Mahogany Springs Lodge is a luxury lodge located near the entrance of the park and offers breathtaking views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The lodge features spacious and comfortable rooms with private balconies, a restaurant serving delicious meals made with fresh local ingredients, and a spa offering a range of treatments.
Bwindi Lodge
Bwindi Lodge is a luxury lodge located on the edge of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, offering stunning views of the forest and the surrounding hills. The lodge features comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, a restaurant serving delicious meals made with locally-sourced ingredients, and a bar/lounge area for relaxing after a day of explorin
Buhoma Community Rest Camp
Buhoma Community Rest Camp is a budget-friendly option located near the park entrance and offers basic but comfortable accommodation in safari tents or cottages. The camp also features a restaurant serving simple meals and a bar/lounge area for socializing and relaxing after a day of exploring.
Overall, visitors to Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector have a variety of accommodation options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury lodges. Regardless of the choice, visitors are guaranteed a comfortable and memorable stay in the heart of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
What to pack on your trip to Buhoma gorilla trekking sector
If you are planning to do a day tour around Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector, it’s important to pack the right items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some items you should consider packing:
- Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes that can handle uneven terrain.
- Weather-appropriate clothing: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest can be unpredictable, so it’s best to dress in layers and bring a raincoat or umbrella in case of rain.
- Insect repellent: The forest is home to many insects, including mosquitoes, so it’s important to bring insect repellent to protect yourself from bites.
- Sunscreen and hat: Even though the forest is shaded, you should still bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
- Snacks and water: It’s important to stay hydrated and energized during the trek, so pack some snacks and water to keep you going.
- Camera: You’ll want to capture the memories of this unique experience, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone to take photos and videos.
- Trekking permit: You’ll need to have a valid gorilla trekking permit, which you can obtain through the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
It’s important to pack light and only bring essential items, as you’ll be carrying your own backpack during the trek. Make sure to check with your tour operator for any specific items you should bring or leave behind. With the right gear, you’ll be able to enjoy a memorable and comfortable day tour around Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector.
In conclusion, Buhoma Gorilla Trekking Sector offers a memorable tourism experience, with the chance to witness one of the world’s most endangered species in its natural habitat, as well as opportunities to learn about the local culture and ecosystem. The sector is a must-visit destination for any nature lover and adventure seeker.
