There are certain magical names in Africa, names which conjure up images of mystery, of exotic fauna and flora and even of certain danger. I had the pleasure of visiting one of these places last year; the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in the south-west corner of Uganda, home to troupes of mountain gorillas. After a bone-jarring ten-hour drive from Kampala punctuated by traversing villages with the locals shouting "mzungu, mzungu" (white man, white man,) you reach the elegant Clouds Mountain Lodge, a 1930s inspired hill station building with commanding views of both the Bwindi forest and the Parc des Volcans in Rwanda.
The dense forest of Bwindi is reminiscent of the Vietnam jungles with steam and humidity rising from the green foliage. Hacking your way through, courtesy of the tough Uganda National park rangers, you will meet the tranquil beauty of the mountain gorillas at rest and at play, a sight which will stir the deepest humanity in every human who happens upon it.
From Bwindi, I traversed by Land Rover via the Queen Elizabeth National Park, home of the curious tree hanging lions, to the bottom eastern edge of Lake Albert. Semliki Lodge, situated in the Toro Semliki Game Reserve, had suffered much during the civil wars of the 1970s and 80s. It is now in a period of recovery and is home to a long-standing research project into chimpanzee behaviour and habitat. By boat and via a labyrinth of waterways I spied the extremely rare and prehistoric looking African Shoebill. If I was more of a birder, this sighting would have ranked as the summit of my passion and provoked huge jealousy amongst my peers.
Flying in the ubiquitous Cessna Caravan to the most northeasterly corner of Uganda, we crossed the Murchison Falls, another one of those seminal African names.
A simple hour and a half of flight and you arrive in the most splendid of wilderness areas, the Kidepo National Park which borders the newly christened South Sudan. If you enjoy your safari experience remote and exclusive, Apoka Safari Lodge is for you. The abundant game with large herds of elephant and buffalo, Rothschild giraffe and rarer breeds of antelope will entertain you in an area which was once earmarked for the personal lodge of Idi Amin. Dear old Idi is thankfully long gone but the skeleton of his lodge remains.
A delightful surprise is a visit to the remote local villages; these villagers carry on their business as they must have done for hundreds of years, with little modern intervention and are the perfect antidote to the most western cynic.
So there it is, Uganda, Winston Churchill’s "Pearl of Africa." I do not disagree.
Uganda the Pearl of Africa
Lemala Wildwaters Lodge
Lemala Wildwaters Lodge is a safari lodge located on a private island in the River Nile River, Uganda. With breathtaking views and luxurious suites, it offers nature enthusiasts a unique and tranquil retreat. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and relax at the secluded spa above the mighty Nile.
Wildwaters Lodge is committed to sustainability and provides opportunities to spot diverse bird species. A hidden gem in the heart of Uganda, Lemala Wildwaters Lodge is a paradise for those seeking an unforgettable experience.
Chobe Safari Lodge
Chobe Safari Lodge, located in Uganda's Murchison Falls National Park, is a 5-star retreat offering breathtaking views of the River Nile. With abundant wildlife, diverse bird species, and stunning flora and fauna, it provides a unique and unforgettable experience. The lodge's recent refurbishment makes it one of Africa's top fishing destinations.
Situated just a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Kampala, it is the ultimate retreat for discerning travellers seeking to explore Uganda's natural wonders.
Kibale Forest Camp
Escape to the enchanting oasis of Kibale National Park and experience the mesmerising beauty of Kibale Forest Camp. Immerse yourself in the lush surroundings, spot diverse primate species, and delight in delicious meals made with fresh, local ingredients.
With comfortable tents, a well-stocked bar, and exceptional service, the camp provides an extraordinary stay. Explore the captivating Kibale Forest National Park, indulge in chimpanzee tracking adventures, and embrace the serenity of this enchanting destination.
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.
Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge
Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge, located in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda, offers a captivating retreat in the heart of nature. Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, witness the vibrant ecosystem, and enjoy the comfort of luxury bandas with stunning forest views.
Indulge in locally-inspired cuisine, unwind at the Humula Forest Spa, and embark on unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences. Discover the wonders of nature, luxury, and vibrant flavours at Bwindi Lodge.
Adrift River Club
Adrift Uganda is your gateway to adventure on the Nile River. Nestled in the lush landscapes of Uganda, this Nile safari lodge offers unparalleled comfort, a unique swimming pool and a symphony of flavours in its dining experience.
Whether you're planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a business conference, Adrift Uganda ensures an unforgettable experience surrounded by the beauty of nature.
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.
Ishasha Wilderness Camp
Ishasha Wilderness Camp offers a unique and luxurious wilderness experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda. With private tented suites, stunning river views, and opportunities to observe wildlife like elephants and tree-climbing lions, this camp combines the thrill of safari with high-end service.
Their strong commitment to sustainability ensures a minimal environmental impact. Indulge in the untouched beauty of Ishasha Wilderness Camp for unforgettable memories.