What is Buhoma?
Buhoma is a small trading center and the main gateway to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda. It is the most popular starting point for gorilla trekking — one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on Earth.
Bwindi lies on the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park protects more than half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas — roughly 460 individuals across around 25 habituated groups. Buhoma is the park's northern entrance and the first sector where gorilla trekking tourism in Uganda began.
Nestled at approximately 1,500 meters elevation, Buhoma sits at the northern edge of the Bwindi forest. The village is home to a growing community of lodges, restaurants, craft shops, and local guides who welcome visitors from around the world.
Beyond gorilla trekking, Buhoma offers community walks, coffee experiences, birdwatching, Batwa cultural encounters, and nature trails through one of Africa's most biodiverse forests.
Learn More About Buhoma
Gorilla Trekking in Buhoma
Buhoma is where gorilla trekking began. As the first sector of Bwindi to open for tourism, it has the longest history and some of the most habituated gorilla families. Several gorilla groups can be tracked from the Buhoma trailhead, making it the busiest and most accessible sector.
A gorilla trekking permit costs $800 USD for foreign non-residents. Treks depart daily at 8:00 AM and can last between 2 and 8 hours depending on where the gorillas are. Once found, you spend one hour with the gorillas.
Gorilla tourism generates income across the entire local economy. Uganda Wildlife Authority returns a portion of park fees to border communities through its Community Revenue Sharing programme — locally elected committees decide which projects to fund, from school improvements to clean water access. Visitor spending on porters, BodaBoda rides, market food, and crafts goes directly to Buhoma families.
Story from Buhoma
When tourism stopped — Norman's week without customers during an Ebola alert
Read the story →Complete Gorilla Trekking GuideWhere to Stay in Buhoma
From luxury forest camps where gorillas occasionally wander through the grounds, to community-run guesthouses from $25 per night — Buhoma has accommodation for every budget. Gorilla Bluff Lodge sits at the forest edge and is among the most established options in the area. Staying in a community lodge puts money directly into local projects.
Luxury Lodges
Premium forest camps and eco-lodges with full-service dining, spa facilities, and gorilla-view suites. From $350/night.
Mid-Range Lodges
Comfortable cottages and tented camps with en-suite facilities, restaurants, and warm hospitality. From $100/night.
Budget Stays
Community-owned rest camps and social enterprise guesthouses. Authentic experiences from $25/night.
Things To Do in Buhoma
Gorilla trekking is the main draw, but Buhoma offers much more. Explore the community, learn about local culture, and discover the incredible biodiversity of Bwindi.
The Batwa are the indigenous forest people of Bwindi. For centuries, they lived within the forest before it was designated a national park. Batwa cultural experiences in Buhoma are led by Batwa community members, who share their traditions, their knowledge of medicinal plants, and their history as the forest's original inhabitants.
Stories from Buhoma
Real encounters with real people in the village at the edge of the forest.
Frequently Asked Questions
About gorilla trekking, permits, lodges, and life in Buhoma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Buhoma at a Glance
Location
Southwestern Uganda
Elevation
~1,500m / 4,920ft
National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable
Famous For
Mountain Gorillas
Gorilla Permit
$800 USD
Best Time
Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb
Nearest Airport
Kihihi Airstrip
Drive from Kampala
8–10 hours