Bwindi Safari Experience Uganda

Bwindi Safari Experience Uganda

Uganda is still seen as a more remote and mentally distant safari destination, even though it is next door to Kenya, the country which started the modern safari industry. Called "The Pearl of Africa" by Winston Churchill and in more recent memory the scene of great civil war under the mad dictator Idi Amin, it throws up many images. Most people go to Uganda today to see the famed mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei).

I have written in previous posts about the magic and wonder of encountering these magnificent mammals in their natural forest habitat, but I want to conjure up another image today.

At the edge of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, perched on a hill, you need to step back in time as you cross the threshold of Clouds Mountain Lodge. My instant thought was a hill station in a distant colonial country, Malaya or India. Built out of the local volcanic rock, the classic 1920s architecture is at once familiar and reassuring. This is an illusion, of course, as the lodge was built only a few years ago, but the illusion is strong. The wide verandah doors open to sublime mountainous forest views, in particular of the Parc des Volcans in Rwanda. The steam rising from these humid woodlands reminds me of many films about the Vietnam war I have seen; this time, the image is more tranquil and inviting.

Inside the public rooms, large cream coloured sofas abound, encouraging you to curl up with a good book or to relax with a whisky and soda. Large open fireplaces, well-provisioned from the forest, warm the chilly evenings and are particularly comforting after a good days trek searching for gorillas. The dining experience is more comfort food than grande cuisine but appropriate for the climate and just reward for the physical exertions. The rooms are large, stone cottages with sitting rooms and large beds stuffed with cushions.

The attention to detail here is good. Your bed is heated by hot water bottles; hot drinks, especially after your trek, are brought promptly by a dedicated butler. There is a spa specialising in massage, with open views to the mountains. All in all, this is one very relaxing lodge that encourages you to linger. My last stay was too short, focused essentially on the gorilla experience. Next time, I will stay longer, soak in the atmosphere, take walks and hikes in and around the surrounding villages, take more photographs and generally unwind. I can't think of a more ideal spot.

To see our selection of Safaris In Uganda that include the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Our Bwindi Safari Experience Uganda by the team at Uyaphi.com

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Popular Uganda Safari Lodges

  • Elephant Plains Lodge

    Elephant Plains Lodge is a luxury safari lodge located in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda. With eight enchanting private cottages offering captivating park views, the lodge provides easy access to the national park. Guests can indulge in a culinary journey, enjoy the refreshing swimming pool and vibrant bar, and embark on thrilling game drives and chimpanzee tracking.

    Engaging with the local community and discovering traditional salt mining practices are additional highlights. This pristine wilderness offers a haven for unforgettable photographic safaris.

  • Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

    Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge is a captivating retreat near Uganda's enchanting Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Engage in thrilling gorilla trekking adventures, cultural visits, and guided forest walks while enjoying gourmet dishes and fine wines.

    With eco-friendly practices, panoramic views, and dedicated personal butlers, the lodge offers a harmonious blend of luxury and natural beauty. This extraordinary lodge, recognized with prestigious awards, guarantees an unforgettable and cherished stay for discerning explorers.

  • Kyaninga Lodge

    Escape to Kyaninga Lodge in the heart of Uganda for a truly unique and adventurous experience within easy reach of the Kibale National Park. With its exclusive cottages and stunning architecture, this safari lodge offers the perfect blend of thrill and tranquillity.

    Immerse yourself in nature, indulge in exquisite meals, and rejuvenate at the spa. Whether you're an adventurer, nature enthusiast, or peace seeker, Kyaninga Lodge has something for everyone.

  • Mount Gahinga Lodge

    Mount Gahinga Lodge is an exceptional safari lodge located in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda. With just eight luxury bandas, guests can enjoy a serene retreat surrounded by the beauty of the Virunga Mountains.

    Mount Gahinga Lodge offers a unique opportunity to explore the park's wonders, including gorilla trekking and golden monkey encounters. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and embark on unforgettable adventures in the heart of the Ugandan wilderness.

  • Kyambura Gorge Lodge

    Kyambura Gorge Lodge is a safari lodge located in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda. With breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding savannah and gorge, guests can stay in one of the eight beautifully designed luxury bandas. Indulge in locally-inspired cuisine, relax by the sparkling swimming pool, and enjoy game drives and bird watching in the national park.

    After a day of adventure, unwind with spa treatments in this serene haven amidst majestic landscapes.

  • Gorilla Safari lodge

    Gorilla Safari Lodge, located on the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda, offers a serene haven amidst captivating natural beauty. With 21 beautifully designed chalets, the lodge provides breathtaking views and sustainable amenities such as solar-powered lighting.

    Guests can enjoy gorilla trekking, guided forest walks, cultural tours, and fine dining experiences using locally sourced ingredients. The lodge is committed to providing top-class service and a truly remarkable experience for visitors.

  • Mihingo Lodge

    Mihingo Lodge is a serene oasis nestled in Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda. With breathtaking views of the savannah and 12 tented grass thatched roof suites that blend comfort and nature, it offers an intimate experience of the surrounding environment.

    Visitors to the park can embark on exhilarating game drives, guided walks, or even horseback safaris, immersing themselves in the wild. For those in search of both opulence and a profound connection with nature, Mihingo Lodge stands as an idyllic sanctuary. Unwind by the infinity pool, while marveling at the captivating wildlife that surrounds you.

  • Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp

    Embark on an extraordinary adventure and encounter Uganda's endangered mountain gorillas at the Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Nestled within the captivating forest, this luxury camp offers a unique starting point for your gorilla trekking experience.

    Explore the sanctuary for rare forest elephants, primates and wildlife. With convenient access from Kihihi airstrip or road transfers from Kigali or Kampala, your journey to this enchanting destination is just a step away.