Celebrate your holidays with an unforgettable encounter with majestic mountain gorillas in the wild! A flying gorilla safari to Buhoma the northern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), Buhoma is home to several habituated gorilla families and a variety of other park activities. With a 98% chance of spotting gorillas, Bwindi shelters half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, making it a must-visit destination in southwestern Uganda.
Gorilla trekking involves hiking through the dense jungle in search of these incredible primates, followed by a magical hour observing them in their natural habitat. The experience begins at 7:00 AM with a briefing at the park headquarters, where guides explain the trekking guidelines. If the hike becomes strenuous, you can hire a porter to assist with your gear and even offer a helping hand.
Buhoma is home to five habituated gorilla families:
Mubare Gorilla Family
Habinyanja Gorilla Family
Rushegura Gorilla Family
Muyambi Gorilla Family
Katwe Gorilla Family
Only eight visitors per day are allowed to trek each gorilla family, ensuring an intimate wildlife experience. When booking with Experiya Tour Company, your fitness level and preferences will be considered to match you with a suitable gorilla family whether you prefer a shorter, easier trek or a more challenging adventure.
A gorilla permit is mandatory for trekking, with prices as follows:
Foreign Non-Residents: $800 per person
Foreign Residents: $700 per person
East African Citizens: UGX 300,000 per person
Only 40 permits are available daily in Buhoma, with each gorilla family allocated eight permits. To secure your spot, Experiya Tour Company recommends booking permits well in advance especially during peak seasons (July-September and December-February). Permits can be reserved up to two years ahead.
Once you book your gorilla safari package with us, well:
Send an invoice and temporarily hold your permit.
Secure the permit from UWA upon payment confirmation.
Provide a scanned copy for your records.
Deliver the physical permit card a week before your trek.
Note:Â Only travelers aged 15+ are eligible for gorilla permits.
To maximize your time and comfort, consider fly-in gorilla safari to Buhoma. The closest airstrips are:
Kihihi Airstrip (1-2 hours from Buhoma lodges)
Ishasha Airstrip
Daily domestic flights operate from Entebbe International Airportor Kajjansi Airstrip, with Aero Link Uganda being the primary operator (11-seater aircraft). Private or group charters are also available.
Upon arrival, our professional English-speaking driver-guide will meet you and handle all transfers in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle.
Buhoma offers a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly options. We recommend staying at least two nights for the best experience.
Luxury Lodges:
Gorilla Forest Camp
Buhoma Lodge
Bwindi Lodge
Mahogany Springs Lodge
Bwindi Trekkers Lodge
Mid-Range Lodges:
Silverback Lodge
Buhoma Havens Lodge
Budget Lodges:
Crested Crane Buhoma Lodge
Buhoma Community Camp
Ride for a Woman Lodge
Let Experiya Tour Company customize your stay based on your preferences and budget.
Save Time: Reduce road travel by up to 10 hours.
Flexible Itineraries: Fly in and drive back, with scenic stops like the Equator or Igongo Cultural Centre.
Tailored Packages: Choose from 3-day gorilla treks, 4-day gorilla & community experiences, or custom itineraries.
Ready to embark on your holiday gorilla adventure?
Email us at info@experiyatourcompany.com to book flights, permits, lodging, and more!
Let Experiya Tour Company craft your dream gorilla safari to Buhoma this holiday season!