Buhoma SectorBudget

Gorilla Bluff Lodge

$40-$80 per night

Gorilla Bluff Lodge dining terrace overlooking Bwindi forest canopy, Buhoma sector, Uganda

Guest room at Gorilla Bluff Lodge with forest panorama views, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Gorilla Bluff Lodge outdoor seating area surrounded by Bwindi tropical forest, Uganda

Traditional Ugandan breakfast at Gorilla Bluff Lodge — avocado, rolex and French toast, Buhoma

Overview

Gorilla Bluff Lodge sits on a raised hillside in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, commanding open views across the dense forest canopy from its bar, dining terrace and guest rooms. Founded by local tourism pioneer Gordon Kwikiriza, the lodge was purpose-built to give budget-conscious travellers a clean, comfortable base within easy reach of the Buhoma gorilla trekking trailhead.

Rooms are spacious and simply furnished, each oriented to make the most of the forest panorama. The on-site restaurant blends international favourites with traditional Ugandan dishes prepared from locally sourced ingredients, and meals can be enjoyed indoors or on the terrace overlooking the treetops. A small library and lounge area provide a quiet retreat after a day in the forest.

Beyond gorilla trekking, the lodge arranges community walks through nearby Bakiga and Batwa villages, guided nature walks through the surrounding forest — home to over 350 bird species — and regional safari excursions. Three comfortable safari vehicles are available for hire, and the team assists with gorilla trekking permits, airport transfers and onward travel planning.

Location & Access

Distance to trekking gate: 800 m to Buhoma gate

Altitude: 1,550 m

Driving time: 25 min from Buhoma trading centre

Map

Room Types

Standard Double Room

Spacious room with double bed, en-suite bathroom with hot shower, mosquito net and a private area with forest views.

Up to 2 guests

Twin Room

Comfortable room with two single beds, en-suite bathroom with hot shower and mosquito nets.

Up to 2 guests

Family Room

Larger room with a double bed and a single bed, en-suite bathroom, suitable for families or small groups.

Up to 3 guests

Dining

The restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced meals blending international favourites with traditional Ugandan dishes. Breakfast includes eggs, fresh fruit, toast and Ugandan coffee or tea. Packed lunches are prepared for gorilla trekking days. Dinner features a set menu with dishes such as matooke, grilled meats, fresh vegetables and groundnut sauce. The bar stocks local beers, soft drinks and fresh juices. Vegetarian options are available on request.

Planning Your Trek

Staying at Gorilla Bluff 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 (Bakiga & Batwa)
Nature & forest walks
Bird watching (350+ species)
Regional safari excursions

Who Should Stay Here

Budget travellersSolo travellersBackpackersFirst-time gorilla trekkers

Why We Recommend It

Elevated position with panoramic forest views from rooms and terrace
Very affordable rates in the popular Buhoma sector
Helpful staff who assist with permits and transport
Good home-cooked food with local ingredients
Safari vehicles available for hire
Close proximity to Buhoma gorilla trekking trailhead

Things to Know

Rooms are clean and functional but basic — this is a budget lodge
WiFi is not available
Electricity relies on generator and solar power
The access road can be muddy during the wet season

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Gorilla Bluff Lodge from the Buhoma trekking point?

The lodge is approximately 800 metres from the Buhoma gorilla trekking registration point, about a 10-minute walk.

Can the lodge help arrange gorilla trekking permits?

Yes, the lodge team can assist with sourcing gorilla trekking permits through the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Permits should be booked well in advance as they sell out quickly.

Does the lodge offer airport transfers?

Yes, the lodge can arrange transfers from Kihihi or Kayonza airstrip, as well as road transfers from Entebbe or Kampala. Three safari vehicles are available.

Is there hot water?

Yes, all rooms have en-suite bathrooms with hot water showers.

Is Gorilla Bluff Lodge suitable for families?

Yes, the lodge has family rooms that can accommodate up to three guests. Note that children under 15 are not permitted on gorilla treks per Uganda Wildlife Authority regulations.