Uganda the Pearl of Africa
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
Travel To Uganda Now
Map of Lodges in and around Uganda
Lodges And Camps In Uganda
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.
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.
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.
Protea Hotel Entebbe
Protea Hotel Entebbe, boasting 86 rooms and suites, each offering breathtaking views, the hotel offers a plethora of amenities to enhance your stay. Indulge in the experience of a full-service spa, take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool, or maintain your fitness regime in the fitness centre. Guests can indulge in delectable dining choices, complimentary Wi-Fi, and impeccable room service. The hotel's exceptional location, a mere 1 kilometre from Entebbe International Airport, renders it an ideal option for discerning travellers.
Crater Safari Lodge
Crater Safari Lodge, nestled on a hilltop, offers stunning views of Uganda's second-largest crater lake. With deluxe chalets, standard cabana rooms, and a cosy restaurant, it provides a serene escape near Kibale National Park. Immerse yourself in nature, enjoy trekking for Chimpanzees and numerous other activities as well as indulge in impeccable service to make your stay unforgettable.
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.
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.
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.