The Gorilla Resort Camp is a new venture in Buhoma section of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This intimate yet moderate safari resort has breathtaking views of the Bwindi impenetrable forest, right on a mountain side of the park.
The lodge is by the side of the main road through Buhoma, so you must descend and ascend some steep steps every day. This is usual in Buhoma due to the nature of the topography. Unfit people should be aware of this but it is good training for the actual mountain gorilla trekking experience.
The camp was designed to blend with the local surroundings, so wherever possible local materials and craftsmen were used.
Accommodation and Facilities at Gorilla Resort Camp
There are around 8 self-contained tents/chalets spread around the site, so all are quite private from each other. They contain the usual beds and washroom facilities ‘out back’ through an insect proof screen. There is even a claw foot bath for your post trek indulgence as well as wash basin, and water closet (WC). This area is outside of the main lodge, so you will be able to admire the views of the surrounding whilst lounging in your bath.
Lighting is by solar panel and hot water is supplied from the log fired boiler, at the rear. If anything, the tents at Gorilla Resort Camp could do with some hanging space for your clothes, caps or other trekking gear. There is also a better table to place your cameras and binoculars, and other equipment.
There are no nets because the environment is too cold for mosquitoes. However, every evening the beds are turned down when you’re having dinner to place hot water bottles, so that they get warm.
Views and Activities around the camp
There is a platform/verandah for each tent, because they are built on stilts due to the slope of the ground. So, you can enjoy the flowers and shrubs bustle with birds swinging around, including turacos and sunbirds. You can bird from your balcony or just kick back & admire the excellent view of the forest canopy over the valley.
Gorillas and chimps sometimes pass close by, from time to time, depending on where the food supply is ripe. The main lapa/restaurant is comfortably furnished and there is a bar which may have the brand of beer, spirit or soft drink of your first choice.
Food is excellently prepared with your orders, but sometime dinner choice is restricted. Pre and post prandial drinks can be taken on a platform outside and around the ubiquitous log camp fire. More birding can still be done here.
Service by the manager and staff is beyond reproach and you get the feeling that nothing is too much trouble for them.