Visiting The Pangolin Rescue Center in Buhoma

Visiting The Pangolin Rescue Center in Buhoma. Founded by Moses Arineitwe in 2015, the Pangolin Rescue Center is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of pangolins in Uganda. Located on the outskirts of Buhoma village, a short drive from Buhoma Gorilla Trekking sector of Bwindi, the Pangolin Rescue Center provides a wonderful visitor experience where you can meet and greet these fascinating creatures and learn more about the work being done to protect them.

Over the years, Moses and his team have successfully rescued over 150 pangolins and reformed over 70 poachers. As well as providing a temporary home for rescued pangolins, Moses also works closely with local communities to promote conservation and prevent illegal trade and poaching.

Pangolin Conservation Experience

Working in collaboration with the Pangolin Rescue Center, we are delighted to offer the Pangolin Conservation Experience, where you can get up close to these remarkable animals, take photos and learn all about their care.

This activity is available through Eco Adventure Safaris and is open to all visitors staying in Buhoma. The estimated time for this activity is 90 minutes with return transfers available on request. Pick up from your accommodation in Buhoma is at 3pm and return is at approx. 5pm. Please note there is a minimum of 2 people required for transfers.

The cost of Visiting The Pangolin Rescue Center in Buhoma is $75 per person without transfers and $150 per person with return transfers.

Visiting The Pangolin Rescue Center in Buhoma after Gorilla Trekking

Visiting the Pangolin Rescue Center in Buhoma after gorilla trekking is a unique and meaningful way to round out your experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Here’s what to know:

About the Pangolin Rescue Center

The center focuses on the rescue, rehabilitation, and protection of pangolins, which are among the most trafficked mammals in the world. It’s a relatively new and low-key conservation effort situated near Buhoma, the northern sector of Bwindi.

💡 What to Expect During Your Visit

• Educational Tour: Learn about pangolin biology, threats from poaching and trafficking, and what the center is doing to protect them.
• Meet Rescued Pangolins: If any are currently in care and it’s safe, you may get a chance to see them this is rare and special, as pangolins are shy and nocturnal.
• Community Involvement: The center works with local communities to raise awareness and prevent poaching. You’ll learn how conservation benefits both wildlife and locals.
• Support Conservation: Entry fees or donations go directly to protecting pangolins and rehabilitating those that have been rescued.

When to Go

You can usually visit in the afternoon after a morning gorilla trek. Treks generally end by midday, giving you time to rest and then visit the center—it’s just a short drive or walk from many lodges in Buhoma.

Getting There

• Located right near Buhoma village, very accessible if you’re staying in lodges like Buhoma Lodge, Mahogany Springs, Gorilla Forest Camp, or Haven Lodge.
• No rugged travel needed perfect as a light and informative post-trek activity.

Buhoma Leisure & Conservation Day Itinerary (Post-Gorilla Trek)

Base: Buhoma, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Morning: Gorilla Trekking Experience

• 6:30 AM: Early breakfast at your lodge
• 7:00 AM: Report to the park headquarters for briefing
• 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi – duration depends on gorilla location (1–5 hours). After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and rest.

Afternoon: Pangolin Rescue Center

• 2:30 PM: Walk or drive to the Pangolin Rescue Center in Buhoma
• 2:45 PM – 4:00 PM: Guided visit at the center
  • Learn about pangolin conservation
  • Possibly see a rescued pangolin (subject to availability and health of the animals)
  • Hear from caretakers and conservationists about local and global challenges pangolins face
• 4:00 PM – 4:15 PM: Walk back or transfer to your lodge

Optional Add-ons (Choose One or Two):

• Batwa Cultural Experience (4:30 – 6:00 PM)
  • Visit a local Batwa community for storytelling, music, and a glimpse into their forest heritage.
• Munyaga Waterfall Hike (if you skip the Batwa visit)
  • Light hike starting near the visitor center, 1–2 hours round trip.

Evening:

• 6:30 PM: Dinner at your lodge
• 8:00 PM: Optional campfire storytelling or relaxation

Notes:

• All activities are easy to moderate and suitable after a physically demanding trek.
• Let your lodge or guide know in advance if you’d like to add the pangolin visit or Batwa walk so they can arrange entry and guides.
• The Pangolin Center does not require a permit, but small donations are encouraged to support their work.

You can book a trip for Visiting The Pangolin Rescue Center in Buhoma through Eco Adventure Safaris. Contact is here.