Rushaga SectorBudget

Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

$40-$80 per night

Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge — Budget lodge accommodation, Rushaga sector, Bwindi Uganda

Overview

Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge provides comfortable and affordable accommodation in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The lodge is a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers who want a clean, well-run base for gorilla trekking without the high price tag of luxury camps. The warm hospitality of the staff makes every guest feel at home.

Rooms are arranged in simple but well-maintained cottages with en-suite bathrooms and hot water. The lodge sits on a hillside with views over the surrounding farmland and forest edge. A central dining room serves hearty home-cooked meals, and there is a small bar and lounge area where guests can relax and share stories after their treks.

The Rushaga sector is home to the largest number of habituated gorilla families in Bwindi, giving trekkers a high chance of a successful encounter. The lodge is a short drive from the Rushaga trekking registration point and the staff can help arrange permits, transport and local guides.

Location & Access

Distance to trekking gate: 2 km to Rushaga gate

Altitude: 1,800 m

Driving time: 10 min to Rushaga registration point

Map

Room Types

Standard Double Room

Simple room with double bed, en-suite bathroom with hot shower, mosquito net and basic furnishings.

Up to 2 guests

Twin Room

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

Up to 2 guests

Triple Room

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

Up to 3 guests

Single Room

Compact room for solo travellers with a single bed, en-suite bathroom and hot shower.

Up to 1 guests

Dining

The lodge serves hearty home-cooked meals in a communal dining room. Breakfast includes eggs, toast, fresh fruit and coffee or tea. Packed lunches are provided for trekking days. Dinner is a set menu of Ugandan cuisine, often featuring matooke, rice, vegetables and grilled meat or fish. Vegetarian options are available on request.

Planning Your Trek

Staying at Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge puts you close to the Rushaga 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
Batwa cultural trail
Nature walks
Bird watching
Community visits

Who Should Stay Here

Budget travellersSolo travellersBackpackersSmall groups

Why We Recommend It

Excellent value for money
Warm and welcoming staff
Close to Rushaga trekking point with many gorilla families
Hot water available in all rooms
Good home-cooked food
Helpful with permit and transport arrangements

Things to Know

Rooms are basic but clean and functional
WiFi is not available
Electricity is limited to generator hours and solar
The access road is unpaved and can be muddy in wet season

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge suitable for backpackers?

Yes, the lodge is one of the most affordable options near Bwindi and is popular with backpackers and budget travellers.

Does the lodge have hot water?

Yes, all rooms have en-suite bathrooms with hot water showers heated by solar or firewood systems.

Can the lodge help arrange gorilla trekking permits?

Yes, the staff can assist with permit bookings through UWA, though permits should be reserved as far in advance as possible.

Why choose the Rushaga sector?

Rushaga has the largest number of habituated gorilla families in Bwindi, which means more permit availability and a high chance of a successful trek.

Is there a restaurant on site?

Yes, the lodge has a dining room serving three meals a day plus packed lunches for trekking days.