Buhoma Gorilla Permits – Buhoma sector is located in the northern region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is found in the southwestern part of Uganda, within the districts of Kanungu, Kisoro, and Kabale.
The park was declared a national park in 1991 and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1994.
The Mubare gorilla family is the oldest in the region, having been opened for trekking in 1993.
Other gorilla families in the sector include Habinyanja, Rushegura, Katwe, and Muyambi.
Buhoma Gorilla Permits
A gorilla permit is an authorization document that allows tourists to participate in gorilla trekking in the Buhoma sector.
Gorilla permits are secured through the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
Buhoma sector has 32 gorilla permits available per day for trekking in Bwindi. Since Buhoma sector receives the highest number of tourists in Bwindi, booking a permit should be done 3 to 4 months prior to the trekking date.
The Cost of a Gorilla Permit in Buhoma
- USD 800 for foreign non-residents
- USD 700 for foreign residents
- UGX 300,000 for East African nationals
Important Things to Consider When Planning to Visit Buhoma Sector
- Securing a Gorilla Permit: Tourists should book their permits with the Uganda Wildlife Authority at least 3 months before the trekking date because Buhoma sector receives the highest number of tourists. Securing your permit guarantees your opportunity to trek gorillas in this sector.
- Booking Accommodation: Choosing the right accommodation that fits your gorilla safari budget is crucial for a wonderful experience. Buhoma offers a range of accommodations from luxury to mid-range and budget options, all of which come with high-quality amenities for a perfect stay.
- Using Comfortable Transport Methods: Tourists traveling by road are advised to use a 4×4 land cruiser for a comfortable and safe journey. Those who can afford air transport should book in advance, as air travel is the shortest means to connect to the region.
Best Time to Visit Buhoma
The Buhoma sector can be visited year-round; however, the best time is during the dry season, from June to August and December to February.
These months experience little rainfall, meaning the trails are not slippery or muddy.
How to Access Buhoma Sector
- By Road: The Buhoma sector of Bwindi can be accessed by road from Entebbe or Kampala, with a 10-hour drive covering a distance of 340 km. Tourists will travel via the Kampala – Masaka – Mbarara – Kabale road and then proceed to the Buhoma Park headquarters.
- By Air: The park can also be accessed by air, with tourists booking either scheduled or chartered flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Kihihi Airstrip, and then traveling by road to Buhoma Park headquarters.
Accommodation in Buhoma
- Silverback Lodge
- Engagi Lodge
- CPTH Gorilla Conservation Camp
- Buhoma Community Rest Camp
- Mahogany Springs Lodge
- Buhoma Lodge
- Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge
- Crested Crane Bwindi
What to Carry
- A long-sleeved sweater
- Long trousers
- Waterproof hiking boots
- A hat
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Cameras
- Binoculars
- Insect repellent
In Conclusion, Buhoma gorilla permits offer tourists a fascinating opportunity to trek the majestic mountain gorillas in the heart of the jungle.
