Why you should combine gorilla trekking in the Ruhija and Buhoma sectors of Bwindi

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that takes you deep into Uganda’s misty jungles. Nestled in the southwestern part of the country, Bwindi is home to more than half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Among its four trekking regions, the Ruhija sector in the east and the Buhoma sector in the north stand out as ideal destinations to combine for an unforgettable gorilla safari.

Why Combine Ruhija and Buhoma for Gorilla Trekking?

Increased Chances of Seeing Mountain Gorillas

Both Ruhija and Buhoma host multiple habituated gorilla families, which greatly increases your chances of encountering these gentle giants.

• Ruhija Sector: Home to four families—Bitukura, Mukiza, Oruzogo, and Kyaguliro.
• Buhoma Sector: Also has four families—Habinyanja, Mubare, Katwe, and Rushegura.

Since each gorilla family has unique characteristics and behaviors, trekking in both sectors allows you to experience diverse encounters and create richer memories.

Opportunities for Additional Activities

Beyond gorilla trekking, the two sectors offer rewarding experiences such as guided forest walks, bird watching, and cultural encounters with the Batwa community. These activities add depth to your safari while giving you time to relax after a trek.

Easy Accessibility Between the Two Sectors

Accessibility is another strong reason to combine Ruhija and Buhoma. Buhoma is the easiest sector to reach from Kampala, either by road or domestic flight. Once in Bwindi, the drive between Ruhija and Buhoma takes only 1 to 2 hours, making it simple to combine treks in both areas. Many visitors even choose to trek in Ruhija while staying in Buhoma, thanks to the wide range of accommodations available there.

Wide Range of Accommodation

Both Ruhija and Buhoma offer excellent options for every budget:

• Ruhija Accommodation: Bakiga Lodge, Agandi Lodge, Broadbill Forest Camp, Chameleon Hill Lodge, Bwindi Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Gorilla Mist Camp, Ruhija Gorilla Lodge, and more.
• Buhoma Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Buhoma Haven Lodge, Gorilla Bluff Lodge, Bwindi Guest House, and Kigezi Forest Cottages, among others.

Notably, Buhoma is famous for its luxurious lodges, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking comfort after adventurous treks.

Planning a Combined Gorilla Trek in Ruhija and Buhoma

Gorilla Trekking Permits

You will need a separate permit for each sector, as a permit issued for Ruhija cannot be used in Buhoma. Booking should be done 3–6 months in advance to secure availability. The current permit fees are:

• $800 for foreign non-residents
• $700 for foreign residents
• UGX 300,000 for East African citizens

Transport

From Kampala or Entebbe, the drive to Bwindi takes about 8–9 hours using a 4×4 safari vehicle. Between Ruhija and Buhoma, the drive is shorter (1–2 hours), though road conditions can vary with the weather. Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight from Entebbe or Kajjansi to Kihihi Airstrip, which is close to both sectors, then connect by road.

Preparing for the Trek

The terrain in Bwindi is rugged, with steep slopes and dense vegetation. To fully enjoy the experience:

• Acclimatize to the high altitude
• Carry appropriate trekking gear
• Hire a porter if needed to help with luggage

The Gorilla Trekking Experience

Your day begins early with a briefing at the sector’s headquarters. Rangers guide you through trekking rules before assigning groups of up to 8 trekkers to each gorilla family. The trek can last anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Once you find them, you spend one magical hour observing the gorillas as they feed, nurture their young, and interact with one another.

Rules and Regulations for Gorilla Trekking

To protect both gorillas and visitors, you must follow strict guidelines:

• Attend the mandatory pre-trek briefing
• Minimum age for trekking is 12 years
• Only 8 trekkers are allowed per gorilla family per day
• Maintain a 7-meter distance from the gorillas
• You may spend a maximum of 1 hour with the gorillas
• Do not trek if you are sick
• Follow ranger instructions at all times
• Avoid littering or spitting in the forest
• Human waste must be buried 30 cm deep
• Do not wander off from the group

Best Time to Visit Ruhija and Buhoma

You can visit Bwindi throughout the year, but the dry season (June–September and December–February) is the most recommended. Trails are less slippery, and gorilla trekking is more manageable. However, this is also the busiest time, with higher prices and larger crowds.

If you prefer fewer tourists and more affordable accommodation, the wet season (March–May and October–November) is ideal. Though trails are muddy, the lush forest scenery and lower costs make it rewarding.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking

When preparing for a combined trek in Ruhija and Buhoma, essential items include:

• Neutral-colored, lightweight long-sleeved shirts and trousers
• Warm clothing (sweaters, ponchos, scarves)
• Waterproof rain jacket and backpack
• Comfortable waterproof hiking boots
• Gardening gloves and socks (tuck trousers into socks to prevent insect bites)
• A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
• Insect repellent and sunscreen
• Camera with extra batteries and waterproof bag
• Binoculars for bird watching
• First aid kit
• Refillable water bottle

Final Thoughts

Combining gorilla trekking in Ruhija and Buhoma allows you to double your chances of encountering different gorilla families, enjoy diverse trails, and experience Bwindi more fully. With comfortable lodges, cultural activities, and easy accessibility, this combination offers the ultimate gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda.

For a seamless safari, let Experiya Tour Company help you plan and organize your gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.