Background and Camp Mission

Broadbill Forest Camp was established with a clear conservation purpose: to promote low-impact tourism that highlights Bwindi’s biodiversity beyond gorillas alone. The camp takes its name from the African Green Broadbill, one of the Albertine Rift’s most sought-after bird species, which can be found in the Ruhija area.

Its mission centers on environmental protection, conservation awareness, and community inclusion. By operating on a small scale and employing local staff, the camp helps preserve Ruhija’s fragile montane ecosystem while supporting surrounding communities.

Location and Access to Gorilla Trekking

The camp is located in Ruhija, one of Bwindi’s highest and coolest sectors. This area is quieter than Rushaga and Buhoma and is internationally recognized as Bwindi’s top birding zone.

Access to the Ruhija gorilla trekking briefing point is straightforward, with short morning transfers. The forest begins right at the camp, allowing guests to experience Bwindi’s sounds, mist, and wildlife from the moment they step outside.

Accommodation Style and Comfort

Accommodation at Broadbill Forest Camp consists of rustic forest cottages and bandas designed to blend naturally into the surrounding vegetation. The emphasis is on warmth, privacy, and immersion rather than luxury.

Rooms feature comfortable beds with mosquito nets, ensuite bathrooms with hot showers, and verandas overlooking dense forest. Interiors are simple but cozy, well suited to Ruhija’s cool evenings and ideal for resting after long treks or birding walks.

Dining Experience

Dining at the camp is intimate and relaxed. Meals are freshly prepared using locally sourced ingredients and served in a communal dining area surrounded by forest.

Breakfasts are arranged early for gorilla trekking days, packed lunches are available for forest excursions, and dinners are calm, social affairs often accompanied by forest sounds and evening mist. The focus remains on nourishment and warmth rather than elaborate presentation.

Activities at the Camp

Broadbill Forest Camp emphasizes nature-based and low-impact activities that showcase the richness of Ruhija’s ecosystem.

Activities commonly arranged from the camp include:

Gorilla trekking in the Ruhija sector

Guided birdwatching excursions, including searches for the African Green Broadbill

Forest walks focusing on flora, butterflies, and ecology

Community village walks

Scenic hikes in montane forest habitats

These activities make the camp especially appealing to travelers interested in biodiversity and conservation.

Services Offered

The camp provides essential services tailored to nature-focused travelers. Staff assist with gorilla trekking coordination, early wake-up calls, packed lunches, and guiding arrangements. Laundry services and drinking water are available on request.

Service is friendly, personal, and unobtrusive, matching the camp’s quiet forest atmosphere.

Conservation and Social Impact

Broadbill Forest Camp supports conservation through low-density tourism, environmental education, and local employment. By attracting birders and eco-travelers, the camp helps diversify Bwindi’s tourism value beyond gorillas and reduces pressure on more crowded sectors.

Its operations reinforce the importance of protecting Ruhija’s montane forest and rare Albertine Rift species.

Who Should Stay at Broadbill Forest Camp?

This camp is ideal for birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, photographers, researchers, and travelers seeking a peaceful forest immersion. It also suits gorilla trekkers who prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Travelers seeking luxury amenities or lively lodge environments may find it too simple, but for conservation-minded guests, the experience is deeply rewarding.

Planning Your Stay

Advance booking is recommended due to the camp’s small size and limited availability in Ruhija. Pairing your stay with a Ruhija sector gorilla permit ensures smooth logistics and a tranquil trekking experience.

For travelers seeking authentic forest immersion, outstanding birdlife, and responsible tourism, Broadbill Forest Camp remains one of the most respected and distinctive accommodation choices in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.