Bwindi View Bandas are located in Buhoma, one of the most visited sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This area is popular because it is easily accessed by road from Kampala, Uganda’s capital, and is also close to Kihihi Airstrip for visitors arriving by flight.
Buhoma is well known for hosting the oldest habituated gorilla family in the park, which was habituated in 1992 and opened for tourism in 1993. Today, the sector has three habituated gorilla families: Habinyanja, Rushegura (originally for research but later opened for tourism), and Mubare, which is the oldest habituated gorilla family in Uganda.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to about half of the world’s mountain gorilla population. Gorillas live in social groups led by the silverback, the oldest male, who protects and guides the family. Gorillas share about 98% of their DNA with humans, making them our close relatives.
As the name suggests, the lodge sits on the edge of Bwindi Forest, close to the park headquarters where gorilla trekking begins. It is a mid-range lodge but is also popular with budget safari travelers.
Accommodation includes self-contained bandas with running hot and cold water. Rooms are available as singles, doubles, twins, and family units. The staff are trained in hospitality and offer good service to make your stay comfortable.
The lodge provides Wi-Fi, parking, laundry, reading materials, pet-friendly stays, soft and alcoholic drinks, and a range of meals. At an extra cost, guests can enjoy activities such as hiking, massage, canoeing, fishing, and village walks. Equipment like camping tents, binoculars, rain gear, and gumboots can also be rented.
Room rates at Bwindi View Bandas range from $80 to $220 for a family room.
Buhoma offers several accommodation options, from luxury lodges to mid-range choices, making it easy for travelers to find a lodge within their budget.
Planning for Gorilla Trekking from Bwindi View Bandas
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi usually starts in the morning after a briefing. The trek can take from 30 minutes to 7 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location and the hikers’ pace. Once you find a gorilla family, you are allowed one hour to watch and take photos. Only eight visitors can trek a single gorilla family per day.
Buhoma Gorilla Permits
Before booking your stay at Bwindi View Bandas, ensure you have secured a gorilla permit for Buhoma or Ruhija sector. Permits cost $700 per person per trek and should be booked 3–6 months in advance due to high demand, especially during the peak season.
If you want to know more about Uganda travel then you can read global village guest house, buhoma community bandas and buhoma lodge articles.
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