Bwindi View Bandas are located in Buhoma, one of the most visited sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
This area is highly frequented due to its easy road access from Kampala, the capital of Uganda, and its proximity to Kihihi Airstrip for those arriving by flight.
The Buhoma sector is also renowned for hosting the oldest habituated gorilla family in the park, which was habituated in 1992 and opened for tourism in 1993.
In this sector, you can find three habituated gorilla families: Habinyanja gorilla family, Rushegura gorilla family (originally habituated for research but later opened for tourism due to high demand for permits), and Mubare gorilla family, which is the oldest habituated gorilla family in Uganda.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to half of the world’s mountain gorilla population.
Gorillas live in social groups led by the oldest male known as a silverback, who commands all the group’s activities and protects the family, even at the risk of his life.
Gorillas share about 98% of their DNA with humans, making them close relatives.
Bwindi View Bandas
As the name suggests, Bwindi View Bandas are located on the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, providing breathtaking views of the ancient forest.
The lodge is also conveniently close to the park headquarters, where your Bwindi gorilla trekking adventure begins.
It is one of the best mid-range lodges in Bwindi, also used by tourists on budget gorilla safari tours.
Accommodation at Bwindi View Bandas consists of self-contained bandas with running hot and cold water, comfortable beds in single, double, twin, and family rooms.
The lodge’s staff are well-trained in hospitality and offer exceptional services during your stay.
The lodge also offers Wi-Fi, free parking, laundry services, reading materials, pet-friendly accommodations, a variety of beverages (both soft and alcoholic), and a range of delicious meals.
Additionally, there are various activities available at an extra charge, including hiking, massage, canoeing, village and community walks, and fishing.
At Bwindi View Bandas, you can also rent equipment such as camping tents, binoculars for bird enthusiasts or gorilla trekkers, rain gear, and gum boots, among other items.
Accommodation at Bwindi View Bandas ranges from $80 to $220 for a family room.
Buhoma Sector Accommodation
In the Buhoma sector of Bwindi, there are various accommodation options, including luxurious lodges and mid-range choices, catering to different budgets.
Planning for Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park typically takes place in the morning following a briefing at your starting point.
The duration of the trek can vary from 30 minutes to 7 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family and the pace of the hikers.
Once you find the gorilla family, you are allowed an hour to observe and take photos.
Each day, only a group of eight people is permitted to trek a specific gorilla family.
Securing your Gorilla Permits
Before booking accommodation at Bwindi View Bandas, ensure you have obtained gorilla permits from either the Buhoma or Ruhija sector of the park.
Uganda gorilla permits cost $700 per person per trek and should be booked well in advance, ideally 3-6 months prior to the trekking date, due to their limited availability, especially during the peak season.
