Buhoma SectorMid-range

Buhoma Lodge

$180-$320 per night

Buhoma Lodge — Mid-range lodge accommodation, Buhoma sector, Bwindi Uganda

Overview

Buhoma Lodge is one of only two lodges situated within the boundaries of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, giving guests an unmatched sense of immersion in the rainforest. Ten individually designed chalets — built from locally sourced materials in a treehouse style — sit amongst the canopy with spectacular and uninterrupted views across the ancient forest.

The open-air lounge and bar look directly into the trees, and the restaurant serves traditional Ugandan cuisine alongside international dishes, with the lodge's soups drawing particular praise from returning guests. Complimentary post-trek massages help soothe tired muscles, and the staff provide full trekking support including packs, gloves, trekking poles, gaiters and rain ponchos.

As a community-owned and operated lodge, tourism revenue directly benefits local families. The lodge's position within the park means guests can walk to the Buhoma gorilla tracking meeting point in minutes, with trekking success rates exceeding ninety per cent. Free WiFi is available in the main lodge — a rarity in the Bwindi area.

Location & Access

Distance to trekking gate: 600 m to Buhoma gate

Altitude: 1,570 m

Driving time: 25 min from Buhoma trading centre

Map

Room Types

Treehouse Chalet

Individually designed chalet built from local materials with a treehouse feel, en-suite bathroom with hot shower and private balcony with forest views.

Up to 2 guests

Superior Chalet

Larger chalet with enhanced furnishings, king-size bed, en-suite bathroom with bathtub and shower, and a spacious balcony over the canopy.

Up to 2 guests

Family Chalet

Two-room chalet with a double bed and two single beds, en-suite bathroom and shared veranda, suitable for families.

Up to 4 guests

Dining

The restaurant serves buffet-style breakfasts and set-menu three-course dinners featuring a mix of Ugandan and international dishes — the soups are a particular highlight. Packed lunches are prepared for trekking days. Fresh vegetables come from local farms and the kitchen caters for vegetarian and other dietary needs with notice. The bar offers wines, beers, spirits and fresh fruit juices.

Planning Your Trek

Staying at Buhoma Lodge puts you close to the Buhoma sector trailhead — the briefing starts at 7:30 a.m.

A gorilla trekking permit costs $800 per person and is booked separately through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) — not included in your lodge rate. $10 from each permit goes directly to local communities surrounding Bwindi, linking conservation with the livelihoods of the people who live alongside the gorillas.

Source: Uganda Wildlife Authority (ugandawildlife.org) — permit prices subject to change.

Gorilla Permit Guide All Bwindi Experiences

Activities

Gorilla trekking
Nature walks
Bird watching
Batwa cultural experience
Community visits
Waterfall hikes

Who Should Stay Here

CouplesSolo travellersSmall groupsValue-conscious travellers

Why We Recommend It

One of only two lodges located inside Bwindi National Park
Community-owned lodge supporting local livelihoods
Complimentary post-trek massages and full trekking equipment provided
Free WiFi — rare in the Bwindi area
Individually designed treehouse-style chalets
Walking distance to the trekking point with 90%+ success rate

Things to Know

Located inside the park — access involves a walk from the parking area
WiFi is available in the main lodge but can be slow
Electricity may be intermittent; generator hours apply
Minimum 2-3 nights recommended; overnight stay required before early-morning treks

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Buhoma Lodge community-owned?

Yes, the lodge is owned and operated by the local Buhoma community, with tourism revenue directly supporting local development projects.

How far is the lodge from the gorilla trekking starting point?

The Buhoma registration and briefing point is approximately 600 metres downhill from the lodge, about a 10-minute walk.

Is the lodge suitable for families with children?

Yes, the lodge has family cottages and welcomes children. However, children under 15 are not permitted on gorilla treks per UWA regulations.

What views can I expect?

The lodge is positioned on a hilltop with panoramic views over the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest canopy and across to the Virunga volcanoes on clear days.