Homestay

Introducing Our Homestay Experience in Uganda and Rwanda

We’re excited to offer our clients a unique and immersive cultural experience through our homestay program. Our homestays are carefully selected to provide a genuine and enriching experience, allowing you to connect with local families and communities. We have four Homestay locations: two in Uganda (Kibale and Buhoma) and two in Rwanda (Kinigi and Biyimana).

1. Kinigi Homestay:

Located at the foot of the majestic Virunga mountains, Kinigi is a village surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The climate is cool, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C, making it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and scenic views. Kinigi is approximately 160 km from Kigali, a 4-hour drive through scenic countryside.

2. Biyimana Homestay:

Biyimana is a village surrounded by lush green hills and tea plantations. The climate is mild, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a serene getaway. Biyimana is approximately 120 km from Kigali, a 2.5-hour drive through scenic countryside.

3. Buhoma Homestay

Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Buhoma is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Our homestay experience offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic culture and breathtaking natural beauty of Uganda, where lush forests, rolling hills, and sparkling lakes create a stunning backdrop for unforgettable adventures.

4. Kibale Homestay

Located near the stunning Kibale National Park, our Kibale Homestay offers a chance to experience the vibrant rhythms of rural Ugandan life. Surrounded by lush forests, tea plantations, and sparkling lakes, this homestay provides a warm and welcoming environment to connect with local communities, explore diverse wildlife, and discover the rich cultural heritage of Uganda’s countryside.

Experience Rural Life

During your stay at our four locations, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Farming: Participate in farming tasks like planting and harvesting crops such as bananas, coffee, and beans. You’ll learn about traditional farming practices and the importance of agriculture in the local community.
• Cooking: Learn traditional Ugandan and Rwanda recipes and cooking methods, including preparing dishes like matooke, Rolex, and isombe. You’ll discover the local ingredients and cooking techniques that make Ugandan cuisine unique.
• Animal Care: Help with animal care tasks like feeding and tending to livestock such as cows, goats, and chickens. You’ll learn about the importance of animal husbandry in the local community.
• Household Chores: Assist with household chores like cleaning, laundry, and fetching water. You’ll gain insight into the daily routines and responsibilities of local families.
• Local Craft Making: Learn traditional crafts like basketry, woodcarvings, and pottery. You’ll discover the skills and techniques passed down through generations of local artisans.
• Pottery: Create traditional pottery pieces using local materials and techniques. You’ll learn about the significance of pottery in the local culture.
• Traditional Brewing: Learn about traditional brewing methods and ingredients used to make local beverages. You’ll gain insight into the cultural significance of brewing in the community.
• Local Basket Weaving: Create traditional baskets using local materials like papyrus and grasses. You’ll learn about the importance of basket weaving in the local culture and economy.

Experience the Wilderness and Culture

During your stay, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in various activities that showcase the best of Uganda or Rwanda’s wilderness and culture. Advance booking is required to ensure availability, particularly for experiences like gorilla and chimpanzee tracking, which we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.

Kinigi Culture and Wilderness Activities include but not limited to;

• Muhabura-Gahinga Hike: A 2-day hike including camping, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Karisimbi Hike: A 2-day hike with camping, taking you through diverse landscapes and ecosystems.
• Bisoke Hike: A 1-day hike to the summit of Mt. Bisoke, featuring a stunning crater lake.
• Gorilla Trekking: Observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat (book at least 3 months prior).
• Golden Monkey Trekking: Track and observe golden monkeys in their natural habitat.
• Dian Fossey Grave Hike: A day hike to the grave of renowned primatologist Dian Fossey.
• Musanze Caves Exploration: Explore the unique geological formations and ecosystems of the Musanze Caves.
• Dian Fossey Museum Visit: Learn about the life and work of Dian Fossey and her contributions to primate conservation.
• Twin Lakes Exploration: Visit the twin lakes, offering stunning views and opportunities for relaxation.

Biyimana Wilderness and Culture Activities outside your homestay include but not limited to;

• Kabaya Genocide Museum: Visit the museum to learn about the history of the genocide and its impact on Rwanda.
• Tea Plantation Visit/Tour: Learn about tea production, from plucking to packaging, and experience the tea-making process.
• Explore local farms and markets.

Buhoma Rural Life and Wildlife Adventures to engage in include,

• Gorilla Trekking: Explore Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
• Bird Watching: Spot bird species like the African green broadbill and other unique species found in the region.
• Guided Forest Walks: Take guided walks through the Bwindi forest and learn about local flora and fauna, including medicinal plants and trees.
• Batwa Trail Experience: Learn about the Batwa people’s culture, traditions, and way of life.
• Community Visits: Visit local communities and learn about their daily lives, traditions, and customs.
• Local Markets: Experience daily commerce and browse stalls selling fresh produce, handicrafts, and local snacks.
• Wildlife Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park: Explore the park’s diverse wildlife with game drives, boat cruise, chimp tracking, lion tracking, and tree climbing lion viewing.

Kibale Rural Life and Wildlife Adventures outside your homestay include;

• Chimpanzee Tracking: Explore Kibale National Park and track chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
• Other primate tracking: Spot primate species like red-tailed monkeys, mongoose, bush babies, L’Hoest’s monkeys etc.
• Community Visits: Visit local communities and learn about their daily lives, traditions, and customs.
• Local Markets: Experience daily commerce and browse stalls selling fresh produce, handicrafts, and local snacks.
• Crater Lake Hike/Drive: Explore the scenic crater lakes and take in the breathtaking views.
• Guided Nature Walks: Take guided walks through the Kibale forest and learn about the local ecosystem.
• Tea Plantation Visits: Visit a tea plantation and learn about the tea-making process.
• Birdwatching: Spot a variety of bird species, including the African green broadbill and other unique species.
• Night Guided Nature Walks: Take a guided walk through the Kibale forest at night and spot nocturnal animals, such as bush babies and nightjars.

Accommodation Options

We offer flexible accommodation options to suit your needs:

1. Overnight with your Host Family: Live with a local family and experience authentic rural life.
2. Overnight at Community-Owned Guest House/Lodge: Enjoy comfortable accommodations in a community-managed guest house or Lodge.

HEALTHY AND SAFETY 

Your safety is our top priority. We provide 24/7 BAR SOS Emergency Support in both countries, cover includes;

1. 24/7 Emergency Response Coordination and Risk Management: Our team ensures swift and effective response to emergencies, managing risks to minimize harm.
2. 24/7 BAR SOS Safety Phone App: Stay connected with your emergency team through our dedicated app, with unlimited access to security and safety alerts, message or you can as well initiate an emergency phone call.
3. Air Evacuation: Rapid evacuation services are available in emergency situations to the most suitable medical facility using BAR EMS (Medical Services) aircraft by fixed wing. Helicopter evacuations are not covered but can be arranged.
4. Remote Medical Assistance: Our medical team provides remote support and guidance for non-critical situations, offering timely advice and care when evacuation isn’t necessary.
5. Satellite SOS Communication Devices: Reliable satellite connectivity enables instant communication, allowing any member to initiate calls or send SOS alerts in emergency situations even when in very remote areas.

We’re committed to your safety and well-being throughout your stay.