Buhoma SectorLuxury

Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp

$800-$1,500 per person per night (all-inclusive)

Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp — Luxury lodge accommodation, Buhoma sector, Bwindi Uganda

Overview

Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp is the only luxury camp located inside Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, giving guests an unparalleled sense of immersion in the forest. The camp occupies a clearing within the ancient rainforest near the Buhoma sector, and habituated gorilla families have been known to wander through camp grounds.

Eight spacious canvas-and-wood tents are raised on wooden platforms and furnished with handmade furniture, en-suite bathrooms with hot showers and flush toilets, and private decks overlooking the forest. The main tent houses a dining area, lounge and bar, all warmed by an open fire on cool evenings. The camp operates on a full-board basis with all meals, house drinks and laundry included.

Operated by Sanctuary Retreats, the camp sets a high standard for responsible luxury tourism. A portion of revenue supports local conservation and community programmes. The camp's location means that guests can walk to the Buhoma trekking assembly point in minutes, and the surrounding forest provides exceptional birding and nature walks.

Location & Access

Distance to trekking gate: Inside the park, 5-min walk to Buhoma gate

Altitude: 1,530 m

Driving time: 25 min from Buhoma trading centre

Map

Room Types

Luxury Forest Tent

Spacious canvas tent on a raised wooden platform with king or twin beds, en-suite bathroom with hot shower and flush toilet, and a private forest-facing deck.

Up to 2 guests

Family Tent

Two adjoining tents connected by a covered walkway, providing separate sleeping areas for adults and children with full en-suite facilities.

Up to 4 guests

Honeymoon Tent

The most secluded tent in camp with enhanced furnishings, a copper bathtub on the deck and complimentary sparkling wine on arrival.

Up to 2 guests

Dining

All meals are included in the full-board rate. The camp serves gourmet cuisine using fresh local produce, with multi-course dinners served by candlelight in the main tent. Breakfast includes a hot buffet before trekking, and packed lunches are provided for gorilla trekking days. House wines, beers, spirits and soft drinks are included. Special dietary requirements are happily accommodated.

Planning Your Trek

Staying at Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp 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
Forest nature walks
Bird watching
Batwa cultural trail
Community village visits
Night walks (seasonal)

Who Should Stay Here

CouplesHoneymoonersLuxury seekersWildlife photographers

Why We Recommend It

Only luxury camp located inside Bwindi National Park
Gorillas occasionally visit the camp grounds
All-inclusive pricing with meals and drinks
Exceptional forest immersion experience
Walking distance to Buhoma trekking point
Highly trained and attentive staff

Things to Know

Located inside the park so access is via foot from the parking area
No WiFi — the camp emphasises a digital detox experience
Limited to 8 tents so booking well in advance is essential
Not suitable for guests with significant mobility challenges due to forest terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the camp really inside the national park?

Yes, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp is the only luxury accommodation located within the boundaries of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Do gorillas actually come through the camp?

It does happen. Habituated gorilla families occasionally pass through the camp grounds, providing extraordinary close encounters. However, this cannot be guaranteed.

What is included in the rate?

Rates are fully inclusive of accommodation, all meals, house drinks (wines, beers, spirits, soft drinks), laundry and guided nature walks. Gorilla trekking permits are charged separately.

How do I get to the camp?

Guests are driven to a parking area near Buhoma and then walk a short distance into the forest to reach the camp. Luggage is carried by porters.

Is there a minimum stay?

There is no minimum stay, but most guests book at least two nights to allow for a gorilla trekking day and a nature walk or cultural activity day.