Buhoma Sector of Bwindi impenetrable National Park

Buhoma Sector in the Northern Region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Gateway to Gorilla Tracking and Habituating Gorilla Families

Situated strategically in the Northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, the Buhoma sector is one of the four main zones serving as the starting point for Gorilla tracking. The other sectors include Ruhija in the East, Nkuringo, and Rushaga in the South. Buhoma stands out as one of the most popular sectors, offering an extraordinary Gorilla tracking experience for visitors on Gorilla safaris to Uganda. Those who have ventured to track Mountain Gorillas in this sector can attest to the richness it brings to the exploration.

Gorilla Tracking in Buhoma

Nestled in the Northern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the Buhoma sector is home to five different habituated Gorilla families: Rushagura, Katwe, Muyambi, Habinyanja, and Mubare Gorilla families. This sector rewards Gorilla tracking enthusiasts with stunning views of magnificent scenery and landscapes. Only 40 visitors are allowed to visit its five Gorilla families each day, with a maximum of 8 visitors per Gorilla family.

Buhoma sector is approximately 550 kilometers away and typically takes 9-10 hours to reach from Kampala or Entebbe. In addition to Gorilla tracking, visitors can immerse themselves in the culture of the Batwa Pygmies, discovering their unique way of life, cultural practices such as hunting and fishing, and enjoying traditional music, dance, and storytelling.

While in the Buhoma sector, visitors can take a serene ride on Lake Bunyonyi using a dugout wooden canoe, offering beautiful sights of bird species within the forest and panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes on the Uganda-Rwanda border.

Nature/Forest Walks

Apart from Gorilla treks, the Buhoma area is an ideal destination for nature or forest walks. Nature enthusiasts can explore a variety of primates, including monkeys, baboons, forest pigs, and more during morning and evening walks.

Bird Watching

Birding enthusiasts will find Buhoma an ideal spot for bird watching. The region offers the opportunity to spot various bird species such as the African emerald cuckoo, white-tailed blue flycatchers, short-tailed warbler, yellow-eyed black catcher, Kivu ground thrush, Africa blue flycatcher, garners warblers, and black bee-eaters, among others. Binoculars are essential for an excellent birding experience.

Cultural Experiences

Cultural enthusiasts can engage in cultural encounters within the Batwa and Bakiga community villages. Guided by well-trained locals, cultural tours provide insights into local traditions, norms, and cultures. Exploring banana plantations and community trails adds to the uniqueness of the cultural experience. Traditional dances, songs, and poems are showcased by local performers, creating a memorable cultural immersion.

Where to Stay in Buhoma Sector

Accommodation options in Buhoma cater to various preferences, ranging from budget to luxury. Notable establishments include Four Gorillas Lodge, Buhoma Lodge, Gorilla Forest Camp, Engage Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge, and more.

In conclusion, a visit to the Buhoma sector promises a diverse and thrilling adventure experience. From Gorilla tracking to habituation experiences, bird watching, nature walks, and cultural interactions, this region stands as a testament to the captivating allure of Uganda’s wildlife and cultural heritage.