Embarking on a gorilla safari to Buhoma region opens the door to an extraordinary adventure in the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. This tropical rainforest, adorned with a combination of bamboo and various mountainous vegetation, harbors an array of tall tree species, creating an enchanting backdrop for your gorilla trekking experience. As you plan your journey, Trek Africa Expeditions stands as your reliable source for updated and relevant information, guiding you through the intricacies of booking a gorilla safari to Buhoma region.
Situated in the southwestern part of Uganda, in the district of Kanungu, Buhoma stands as the cradle of gorilla tracking. In 1993, gorilla tracking took its first steps in this region with the habituation of the Mubare Gorilla family. Buhoma is now home to five habituated mountain gorilla families—Rushegura, Muyambi, Katwe, Habinyanja, and Mubare—awaiting exploration by a limited 40 visitors per day. With only 40 gorilla permits available for Buhoma daily, early booking is essential, especially considering the competitiveness spurred by the increased gorilla permit costs in Rwanda.
Buhoma is not just about gorilla tracking; it’s a treasure trove of activities and experiences. The primary highlight is, of course, gorilla tracking, but the region offers additional options, including community walks, Batwa experiences, visits to the community hospital, nature walks in Bwindi Forest, and a walking safari from Buhoma to Nkuringo through the lush forest.
Gorilla permits for Buhoma region are obtained through the Uganda Wildlife Authority. For every traveler interested in Buhoma Gorillas, a gorilla permit is a must for spending an hour with one of the habituated gorilla families. Trek Africa Expeditions facilitates the checking of Buhoma Gorilla permit availability and reserves them on your behalf, awaiting your payment. Permit costs vary: USD800 for non-foreign residents, USD700 for foreign residents, and UGX300,000 for East Africa citizens.
Buhoma region holds a unique historical significance as it was once inhabited by the Pygmies, the Batwa People. Forced out of the forest when Bwindi was declared a National Park, the Batwa community now offers cultural experiences, providing insight into their daily lives and survival strategies. Guided by living members of the Batwa community, visitors witness their former settlements, resource utilization, and are entertained with traditional songs and dances, offering a profound and immersive cultural experience.
Buhoma region is accessible either by air or road. A scenic drive from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala takes approximately 9-10 hours, offering stops at the Equator line for photos and informative talks, along with encounters with Ankore Long-horned cattle in Mbarara city.
For those opting for air travel, scheduled and charter flights are available from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi Airfield. Trek Africa Expeditions facilitates internal flights, providing a convenient option for travelers on a gorilla safari to Buhoma region.
Buhoma region boasts a variety of accommodation options catering to different budgets and preferences. From luxury stays at lodges like Gorilla Forest Camp, Buhoma Lodge, Mahogany Springs, Trekkers Lodge Buhoma, and Haven Lodge Buhoma, to more budget-friendly options like Ride 4 a Woman, Bwindi Community Rest Camp, and Bwindi View Bandas, Trek Africa Expeditions assists in recommending the best-suited option for your safari.
To ensure a seamless gorilla safari to Buhoma region, selecting a reputable tour operator is crucial. Trek Africa Expeditions, registered under the Uganda Tourism Board, stands as a trusted partner with positive customer reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor. The team collaborates closely with the Uganda Wildlife Authority, offering a memorable safari experience in Buhoma and various tourist destinations across Uganda.
Embark on a captivating journey to Buhoma region with Trek Africa Expeditions, where every detail is meticulously planned for an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure.