Buhoma Sector Bwindi
The Buhoma Sector sits in the northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It is the birthplace of gorilla tourism in Uganda. For many people, this is the first place they think of when they want to see mountain gorillas. It offers a mix of deep history, easy forest access, and high-quality lodging. In 2026 and 2027, the Buhoma Sector remains the most popular choice for travelers. This is due to its lower altitude compared to the southern sectors. If you worry about your fitness or have knee issues, this part of the forest is usually the best fit. The hills are less steep here. The paths are well-worn and easier to walk.
The History of the North Forest
Buhoma became famous in 1993. This was the year the first group of tourists came to see the mountain gorillas. Before this, the forest was mostly closed to visitors. The Uganda Wildlife Authority 
(UWA) worked hard to make the gorillas feel safe around people. This work started with just one family called the Mubare.
The story of the Mubare group is the story of Bwindi itself. A silverback named Ruhondeza led the group for many years. He was a calm leader who helped people understand that gorillas are not dangerous. When he passed away in 2012, he was buried near the park office. You can still see his grave today. It serves as a reminder of how far conservation has come.
Since 1993, the number of families you can visit has grown. There are now more permits available than in the early days. However, because Buhoma is so popular, these permits sell out fast. You often need to book them six months to a year in advance.
Why Choose Buhoma for Your 2026 Trek?
Choosing where to see gorillas is a big decision. Bwindi has four sectors: Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija, and Nkuringo. Each has its own feel. Buhoma stands out for three main reasons. First is the terrain. Most of the trekking happens between 1,160 and 1,400 meters above sea level. In
the south, you might climb up to 2,400 meters. The lower altitude in Buhoma means there is more oxygen in the air. You will not get tired as quickly. The slopes are also more gradual.
Second is the travel time. If you are coming from Queen Elizabeth National Park, Buhoma is very close. You can see tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector in the morning. By the afternoon, you can be at your lodge in Buhoma. This makes it easy to combine a savannah safari with a forest trek.
Third is the lodging. Buhoma has some of the best places to stay in Uganda. Some lodges sit right at the park boundary. You can walk from your room to the briefing point in five minutes. This saves you from early morning drives on bumpy roads.
Meet the Gorilla Families of Buhoma
There are seven habituated gorilla families in this sector. Each group has a different number of members and a unique story.
The Mubare Family
As mentioned, this is the oldest group. After the death of Ruhondeza, the group changed a lot. A silverback named Maraya now leads them. He is a strong leader who worked hard to keep the family
together. Currently, the group has about nine members. They often stay close to the park home, making the walk very short.
The Habinyanja Family
This group was habituated in 1997. The name comes from “Nyanja,” which means water. They were first found near a swamp in the forest. This is a large family with about 15 members. They are led by a silverback named Makara. They love to travel deep into the forest. If you are assigned this group, expect a longer walk.
The Rushegura Family
This family split from the Habinyanja group in 2002. They are known for being very calm. Sometimes, they even wander into the gardens of local lodges. A silverback named Kabukojo leads them. They have about 17 members, including many young ones. They are great for photography because they often stay in open areas.
The Katwe Family
This is a newer group in the sector. They were opened for tourism recently to meet the high demand for permits. They have about nine members. Their home is on the Katwe hill. The climb to see them can be a bit steep, but the forest views are worth the effort.
The Muyambi Family
The Muyambi group started in 2019. It is led by a silverback who came from the Mubare family. They have about seven members. Because the group is small, the bond between them is very tight. They are often seen playing and grooming each other.
The Binyindo Family
This group is also a recent addition. They live in the thicker parts of the northern forest. There are about nine members here. They are led by a silverback named Binyindo. Tracking them requires a bit of patience as they move through dense vines.
How to Reach the Buhoma Sector
Getting to Bwindi requires some planning. You have three main ways to reach the north forest.
1. Flying from Entebbe. This is the fastest way. You can take a small plane from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi Airstrip. The flight takes about 90 minutes. From Kihihi, it is a one-hour drive to Buhoma. This option is great if you want to avoid long days in a car. Several companies, like Aerolink, run these flights daily.
Check the availability of our 3-day gorilla trekking flying safari
2. Driving from Entebbe or Kampala. This is a long journey, but very beautiful. The drive takes
about 8 to 9 hours. You will pass through many small towns and see the green hills of the west. You will likely stop at the Equator for photos. Most people spend a night in Mbarara or at Lake Mburo to break up the trip. You must use a 4×4 vehicle. The roads near the park can be muddy and slippery.
3. Coming from Kigali, Rwanda Many people fly into Kigali because it is closer to Bwindi than Entebbe. The drive from Kigali to Buhoma takes about 5 to 6 hours. You will cross the border at Cyanika or Gatuna. This is a good way to save time. However, you will need an East African Tourist Visa to move between the two countries.
The Trekking Day: A Step-by-Step
Your day starts early. Most lodges serve breakfast at 6:30 AM. By 7:30 AM, you should be at the park office.
The Briefing: The rangers will talk to you first. They explain the rules of the forest. They tell you to keep a distance of 10 meters from the gorillas. They also remind you to wear a mask when you are near the family. This is to protect the gorillas from human colds or flu.
The Assignment: You will be put into a group of eight people. Each group is assigned one gorilla family. If you have trouble walking, tell the rangers now. They will try to give you a family that is
closer to the park gate.
The Hike: The trek can take two hours or six hours. It depends on where the gorillas slept the night before. You will walk through thick ferns and under tall trees. The ground is often damp. Rangers use machetes to clear a path. You will hear the sounds of birds and monkeys.
The Encounter: When the trackers find the family, you leave your bags behind. You approach with just your camera. You get exactly one hour with them. You might see the silverback eating bamboo. You might see mothers holding their babies. The gorillas are usually very quiet. They go about their day as if you are not there.
The Return After the hour is over, you walk back to the office. You will receive a certificate to show that you finished the trek. Most people are back at their lodge by mid-afternoon for a late lunch.
Buhoma vs. Rushaga: Making the Choice
Many travelers ask if they should go to Buhoma or Rushaga. Here is the direct truth. Rushaga is in the south. It has more gorilla families. This means it is easier to get a permit there at the last minute. However, the hills in Rushaga are much steeper. The forest is thicker. It is a more tiring experience. Buhoma is better for those who want comfort. The lodges are generally of a higher standard. The road access is better. If you are traveling with older family members, Buhoma is the clear winner. If you want the “Gorilla Habituation Experience” (where you spend four hours with the gorillas), you must go to Rushaga. Buhoma only offers the standard one-hour trek.
Best Places to Stay in the North
Lodging in Buhoma ranges from high-end luxury to simple community camps.
Luxury Options
Buhoma Lodge Buhoma Lodge: This lodge is inside the park. It has large wooden chalets with great views. It is very close to the start of the trek.
Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp: This is a tented camp. It is very private. Sometimes gorillas walk right through the camp.
Bwindi Lodge: This place has a modern feel. They have a great bar where you can try local drinks after your hike.
Mid-range Options
Mahogany Springs: This is a very popular choice. The rooms are large, and the gardens are
Haven Lodge beautiful. It sits along the Munyanga River.
Haven Lodge: This is a community-owned lodge. The views of the forest canopy are some of the best in the area.
Budget Options
Buhoma Community Rest Camp: This is the best choice for those on a budget. They have simple tents and cabins. The money goes directly back into the local village.
Permit Prices and Booking for 2026/2027
As of 2026, the price for a gorilla permit in Uganda is $800 for foreign non-residents. For foreign residents, it is $700. East African citizens pay 300,000 UGX. This price includes the park entry fee and the ranger guides. It also covers your security in the forest. It does not include your transport or your lodge. You must pay for the permit in full to secure your date. There are no refunds if you change your mind, but you can sometimes move the date if there is space. Booking is done through the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Most people use a tour operator to do this. Operators can check the live availability and grab the permits before they disappear.
Technical Packing List for Buhoma
The northern forest is a rainforest. It can rain at any time, even in the dry season. You need the right gear to stay comfortable.
Hiking Boots: You need boots with a good grip. The mud can be very slippery.
Long Trousers: Do not wear shorts. There are stinging nettles and ants in the forest. Tuck your trousers into your socks.
Long-Sleeved Shirt: This protects your arms from scratches and insects.
Rain Jacket: A lightweight, breathable jacket is best.
Gardening Gloves: You will often grab onto branches or vines to stay steady. Gloves protect your hands from thorns.
Water and Snacks: The park does not provide food. Your lodge will pack a lunch for you. Bring at least two liters of water.
Porter Cash: You can hire a local porter for about $20. They carry your bag and help you over difficult spots. This is also a great way to support the local economy.
Beyond the Gorillas: What Else Can You Do?
If you have an extra day in Buhoma, do not just stay in your room. The Batwa Experience. The Batwa people lived in the forest for thousands of years. They were
moved out when it became a national park. You can go on a walk with them to learn how they hunted and gathered. They will show you how they make fire and use plants for medicine.
Village Walks You can visit the local hospital or the primary school. You can see how the local women make crafts. This helps you see the real lives of the people who live near the forest.
Bird Watching Bwindi is a top spot for birds. There are over 350 species. In Buhoma, you can see the Great Blue Turaco and the Bar-tailed Trogon. A morning walk with a bird expert is very rewarding.
Munyanga Waterfall Trail: This is a short walk that does not require a permit. It takes you to three beautiful waterfalls. The path is easy and follows the river. It is a great way to see the forest if you did not get enough during your gorilla trek.
Common Questions About Buhoma (FAQ)
How long does a gorilla trek in Buhoma take?
The trek usually lasts between 3 and 6 hours. This includes the time spent walking to find the gorillas and the one hour you spend with them. Some days are shorter if the gorillas are near the park edge. Other days require more hiking through the hills.
Is Buhoma better than Rushaga?
Buhoma is better for people who want easier walking and better luxury lodges. Rushaga is better if you want to spend more time with the gorillas through the habituation experience. Buhoma is easier to reach from the northern parks like Queen Elizabeth. Rushaga is closer to the Rwanda border.
What is the best month to visit Buhoma?
The best months are June to August and December to February. These are the dry seasons. The trails are less muddy, and the sun is out. However, you can trek all year round. The forest is always green and beautiful. Some lodges offer lower prices during the rainy months
Can I see gorillas if I am not fit?
Yes, you can. Buhoma is the best sector for those with lower fitness. You can also hire a “sedan chair” where local porters carry you into the forest. This costs about $300 to $500. It allows everyone, regardless of age or ability, to see the gorillas.
How many people can visit a gorilla family?
Only eight people can visit one gorilla family per day. This is to keep the gorillas healthy and calm. Because there are seven families in Buhoma, only 56 permits are available each day. This is why booking early is so important for the 2026 season.
Is it safe to visit Bwindi?
Bwindi is very safe. The Uganda Wildlife Authority and the tourism police guard the park. Rangers go into the forest every day to check on the gorillas. You will have armed rangers with you during your trek. The local community also works closely with the park to keep it secure.
Check our current dates for gorilla trekking packages to secure your spot for the 2026 season.
