Bwindi’s Engagi Lodge in the Buhoma Region

Engagi Lodge: Your Serene Retreat in Buhoma, Bwindi

Engagi Lodge, a mid-range accommodation option, is located in the Kanungu district of Western Uganda just outside the entrance to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The lodge sits on a large tract of land contiguous with the park, providing guests with the opportunity to explore the surrounding nature. The rooms are stylishly furnished with glass sliding doors serving as entrances, offering a unique touch. The lodge boasts a breathtaking setting that provides stunning views of the forest canopy. Its GPS coordinates are 00.58’50.48S – 29.37’05.24E, with an altitude of 4,790ft.

Engagi Lodge boasts a spacious main building with a bar, dining room, and an outdoor veranda viewing platform, making it suitable for both larger and smaller groups seeking privacy. The lodge offers stunning views of the Bwindi forest from every corner inside the building. The lodge comprises 8 en-suite cottages hidden in the foliage, providing guests with double or twin beds, a bathroom with flushing toilets, and hot and cold running water. Each cottage also features a private veranda where guests can enjoy their morning tea or coffee while taking in the scenic view of the forest canopy.

The primary source of electricity at the lodge is solar power, which is backed up by a generator. In keeping with their eco-friendly approach, the hot water is supplied by wood-burning boilers. The main reception area is located near the Buhoma road and is separate from the main lodge buildings. Additionally, there is a large secure car park available for guests, situated at a distance from the main lodge area.

Engagi Lodge’s En-Suite Cottages and Rates

Engagi Lodge features eight en-suite cottages nestled in the lush foliage, offering either double or twin beds, and equipped with a bathroom, flushing toilets, and hot and cold running water. Guests can savor their morning tea or coffee on the private verandahs while gazing at the breathtaking forest canopy. The lodge uses solar power to reduce its environmental footprint and promote sustainable tourism, with several charging spots available for guests. Hot water is provided through eco-friendly wood-burning boilers.

Rates start as low as USD 250 per person per night for full board meals, with prices varying depending on the travel season. High season, from July to September and December to February, tends to have higher rates and limited availability, so early booking is advised.

Getting to Engagi Lodge in Buhoma

Getting to Engagi Lodge in Buhoma is easy with road and air transportation options. If you’re coming from Kampala or Entebbe, you can take a road trip that lasts about 8-9 hours. Alternatively, if you’re coming from Kigali, Rwanda, you can take a short 5-6 hour drive via the Katuna Border between Uganda and Rwanda. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to see some beautiful sights. For those who prefer air travel, Kihihi Airstrip is just an hour’s drive from the lodge and is located near Buhoma sector and Bwindi. There are daily domestic flights available with morning and afternoon schedules provided by domestic airline companies for visitors to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Things to Do During Your Stay at Engagi Lodge

Whether you’re on a honeymoon, holiday vacation, or just a weekend getaway with friends and family, there are plenty of activities to enjoy during your stay at Engagi Lodge. One of the most popular activities is gorilla tracking, as Engagi Lodge is located near the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Other activities include bird watching, forest walks, and cultural tours to visit local communities and learn about their way of life. For those seeking more adrenaline-fueled adventures, there are opportunities for mountain biking and canoeing on nearby rivers. Whatever your interests, there is something for everyone to enjoy during their stay at Engagi Lodge.

Gorilla Trekking at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from Engagi Lodge

At Engagi Lodge, guests have the opportunity to participate in one of the most sought-after activities in Uganda, gorilla trekking. The lodge’s location just outside the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park allows visitors to easily access the Buhoma and Ruhija sectors for gorilla tracking. Buhoma sector is only a 20-minute drive from the lodge while Ruhija sector takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach.

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is a once-in-a-lifetime experience where visitors get to walk through the forest to find the gorillas. Once found, guests are allowed one hour to observe and photograph the gorillas, while also receiving information from the experienced guides. As the gorillas share 95% of their DNA with humans, observing them up close is an unforgettable experience. Trek Africa Tours offers packages for gorilla trekking in Buhoma and Ruhija sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, combined with a stay at Engagi Lodge.

Bird Watching in Bwindi Forest

Bwindi Forest is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 350 bird species calling it home. Mubwindi swamp is the ideal spot for birding, and visitors can spend an entire day birding in this area. Dwarf Honeyguide, Stripe-breasted Tit, Ruwenzori Apalis, African Hill Babbler, Grauer’s Scrub-Warbler, and many other rare and localized bird species can be found here. Engagi Lodge’s proximity to the forest allows guests to enjoy bird watching any time of the day. Some bird species even visit the lodge gardens, and others can be spotted during walks to the nearby river stream.

Discover the Beauty of Bwindi with Nature Walks

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Bwindi forest with private walking trails around Engagi Lodge and a stroll down to the nearby river. Extend your stay to enjoy a breathtaking walk through the forest and discover waterfalls and other wonders. Uganda Wildlife Authority has established nature walk trails in Bwindi Forest and Buhoma sector for visitors who want to experience guided walks. Guided walks can be arranged at any time of the day and take visitors through the forest to explore different tree species, spot forest birds, and cross streams and swamps. Expert guides will accompany visitors on various trails, providing an unforgettable experience.

Experience the Culture of the Batwa Community during your Stay at Engagi Lodge

While at Engagi Lodge, you can arrange a visit to the Batwa community and learn about their unique culture and way of life. The Batwa people used to inhabit Bwindi Forest until they were evacuated as a conservation measure to protect the endangered primates and apes.

During the cultural encounter, the Batwa will introduce you to their traditional forest life, including hunting, fruit gathering, honey collection, and rituals. They will also share their dances and food with you. The Batwa trails are organized to appreciate their culture and support the livelihoods of the communities around the park.