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
Mantana's Lake Mburo Camp
Mantana's Lake Mburo Camp is a hidden gem in Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda. With stunning panoramic views, luxurious tented suites, and abundant wildlife, it offers a tranquil haven for a memorable safari experience.
Enjoy Lake Mburo National Park activities like game drives, bush walks, and boat trips, and relax in the eco-friendly lodge with a refreshing swimming pool. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the African wilderness at Mantana Tented Camp.
Rwakobo Rock Lodge
Rwakobo Rock Lodge is a safari lodge located near Lake Mburo National Park in Uganda. With 17 uniquely designed rooms and luxury cottages, guests can enjoy exclusive access to one of Uganda's most diverse ecosystems.
The lodge staff and expert guides ensure a friendly and professional experience. Experience the serenity and adventure of Rwakobo Rock Lodge, a tranquil retreat in the Uganda wilderness.
Hotel No.5
Hotel No.5 is a stylish boutique hotel located in the peaceful suburbs of Entebbe, Uganda. With ten individually designed suites, a gourmet restaurant, rejuvenating spa treatments, lush gardens, and a sparkling swimming pool, it offers a tranquil retreat for a bespoke stay.
Hotel No.5's attention to detail and focus on guest satisfaction make it the perfect choice for a restful getaway in this vibrant town.
The Bush Lodge
Escape to The Bush Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda, for a wilderness retreat like no other. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, indulge in exquisite dining experiences, and embark on thrilling game drives and chimp-tracking expeditions.
With 12 exclusive 'bandas' offering breathtaking views and a commitment to sustainability, The Bush Lodge is the perfect blend of comfort and authenticity. Experience serenity and adventure in this more budget accommodation option.
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.
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.
Ndali Lodge
Ndali Lodge, nestled near Uganda's wild Kibale National Park, offers a unique experience combining luxury and adventure. With breathtaking views of Nyinambuga Crater Lake and the Rwenzori mountains, the ten quaint en suite luxury cottages provide a refuge from the ordinary.
Guests can indulge in fresh cuisine and impeccable service while exploring the untamed joys of the park, including chimpanzee tracking. Whether seeking adventure or tranquillity, Ndali Lodge is the perfect getaway.
Bakers Lodge
Bakers Lodge, located in Murchison Falls National Park, is a charming safari-style lodge nestled along the southern bank of the majestic Nile River. With direct river access, serene shaded trees, and vibrant wetland areas, it offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers.
Bakers offers sweeping views of the Nile, adorned with nesting sites for elegant egret birds, playful elephants, and graceful hippos. Surrounded by lush wilderness, this luxury lodge is the perfect gateway to Uganda's abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes.