Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is located in the South Western part of Uganda on the edge of the Rift Valley inside the most densely populated areas, which are Kanungu, Kabale, and Kisoro, occupying about 331km2 and in 1994, it was listed as a UNESCO world heritage site due to its ecological importance and it became popular to the world because of Gorilla trekking. With 24 fully habituated families, Bwindi has four sectors, namely: Buhoma sector in the northern part, Rushaga and Nkuringo in the southern part, and Ruhija in the eastern part of the forest. In 1932, two blocks of Bwindi were designated as Crown Forest Reserves. The Northern sector was known as Kayonza Crown Forest, and the Southern sector was known as the Kasatora Crown Forest. Ten years later, in 1942, the two sections were combined to create the Impenetrable Crown Forest. In 1964, it was designated as an animal sanctuary to provide extra protection for gorillas and was renamed the Impenetrable Central Forest Reserve.
Tourists can stay in any of the sectors to enjoy the unique experience of Gorilla trekking. Rushaga is the only sector that offers both trekking and habituation, and below are some of the options one can select from:
Buhoma is a popular lodge located within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, near the Buhoma sector, which is the main starting point for gorilla trekking. The lodge sits on elevated ground, providing stunning views of the rainforest right at the edge of the trekking trails. Buhoma Lodge features 10 chalets constructed with natural materials like wood and stone, each spacious, self-contained, and equipped with private balconies. With a focus on sustainability, the lodge uses solar power and eco-friendly building practices. It offers a variety of local and international cuisine and includes a central lounge and dining area.
Buhoma Community Haven Lodge
The Buhoma Community Haven Lodge is a charming mid-range accommodation located in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda. The lodge is managed by the Mukono Community Development Association to enhance the social and economic well-being of the communities, as the revenues are reinvested into the community by supporting schools, health insurance, women’s groups, water projects, and needy students. The lodge is an excellent choice for travelers looking to support sustainable tourism initiatives. Buhoma Community Haven has 10 double cottages and one family cottage, all fully self-sufficient.
Bwindi View Lodge
Bwindi View Lodge is another midrange accommodation option located near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. Situated in the Buhoma sector, this lodge offers comfortable accommodations and convenient access to gorilla trekking adventures. Since the lodge is strategically located near the entrance to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, it makes it an ideal base for gorilla trekking expeditions. The lodge offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and Lake Mulehe and is within walking distance or a short drive from the park headquarters.
Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
Located in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. The lodge provides easy access to gorilla trekking starting points. This sector is known for its diverse gorilla families and offers visitors the opportunity to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. With its scenic location, warm hospitality, and commitment to sustainability, it offers a memorable stay for guests seeking adventure and wildlife experiences in Uganda.
Rushaga gorilla camp
Another option is Rushaga Gorilla Camp, located in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. It offers a comfortable and immersive experience for visitors looking to embark on gorilla trekking adventures. The camp offers a range of accommodations, including cozy cottages and safari tents. These accommodations are designed to provide a comfortable and authentic safari experience. It also provides a comfortable and authentic accommodation option for travelers seeking to explore Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and encounter mountain gorillas. With its scenic location, warm hospitality, a permanent spring that has elephants visiting for water breaks occasionally, and commitment to sustainability, it offers a memorable and rewarding stay for guests.
Gorilla Valley lodge
Situated in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. It offers comfortable lodging and convenient access to gorilla trekking adventures. Nestled in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the Lodge provides guests with easy access to the starting points for gorilla trekking expeditions and also has fully self-contained cottages. The cottages are designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding forest environment, providing guests with a peaceful and authentic safari experience. The lodge is so close to the forest that the mountain gorillas occasionally lounge in their gardens, which makes the experience even better.
Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
Ichumbi gorilla lodge is a very comfortable lodge and strategically located just 10 minutes walk to Rushaga gate of Bwindi national park. The term Ichumbi from Rufumbira dialect which translates to “comfortable home”. Ichumbi gorilla lodge is a midrange lodge hidden in the misty canopies of Bwindi providing comfort as the ultimate goal.
Book your safari through a trusted travel company like Omangwa Safaris, we shall take you there.
