Buhoma SectorMid-range

Buhoma Community Haven Lodge

$80-$160 per night

Overview

Buhoma Community Haven Lodge is a community-run property managed by the Buhoma-Mukono Community Development Association (BMCDA). The lodge opened in 2014 as an upgrade from the original Buhoma Community Rest Camp model, providing a step up in comfort while maintaining community ownership. It sits above Buhoma village with views toward the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

The lodge has nine self-contained cottages: eight twin or double cottages and one family cottage, all with en-suite bathrooms. Each cottage has a private terrace with forest views. The main building houses a dining area and a lounge where guests can relax between activities. The setting is quiet, with the forest canopy visible from the terraces.

Profits from the lodge go back to the BMCDA, supporting local development projects in the Buhoma community. For travellers who want their accommodation costs to benefit the surrounding area directly, Haven Lodge offers a mid-range option with reasonable comfort and a genuine community ownership structure. The lodge is within reach of the Buhoma gorilla trekking briefing point and serves as a practical base for exploring the sector.

Location & Access

Distance to trekking gate: 600 m to Buhoma gate

Altitude: 1,550 m

Driving time: 22 min from Buhoma trading centre

Map

Room Types

Standard Cottage

Self-contained cottage with double or twin beds, en-suite bathroom with hot shower and a private terrace with forest views.

Up to 2 guests

Family Cottage

Larger cottage with multiple beds, en-suite bathroom and a terrace — suitable for families.

Up to 4 guests

Dining

The dining area serves home-cooked meals prepared using local ingredients. Breakfast, packed lunches for trekking days, and dinner are all available. The menu features a mix of Ugandan and international dishes. Vegetarian options available on request.

Planning Your Trek

Staying at Buhoma Community Haven 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
Community walks
Nature walks
Bird watching
Cultural experiences

Who Should Stay Here

Socially conscious travellersCouplesFamiliesValue-conscious travellers

Why We Recommend It

Community-owned with profits supporting local development
Comfortable mid-range step up from budget accommodation
Nine self-contained cottages with forest views
Quiet setting above Buhoma village
Close to the Buhoma gorilla trekking point
Genuine community ownership structure

Things to Know

WiFi may not be available
Facilities are comfortable but not luxury-level
Electricity may be limited to generator hours
The access road can be challenging in wet season

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the lodge community-owned?

Yes, Haven Lodge is managed by the Buhoma-Mukono Community Development Association (BMCDA), the same organisation that runs the Buhoma Community Rest Camp. Profits support local development.

How does Haven Lodge compare to the Rest Camp?

Haven Lodge was opened in 2014 as a mid-range upgrade from the Rest Camp. It offers self-contained cottages with en-suite bathrooms and more comfort, while still being community-owned.

How far is the gorilla trekking point?

The Buhoma gorilla trekking registration point is about 600 metres from the lodge, roughly a 10-minute walk.