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
Buhoma Lodge
Buhoma Lodge is a luxurious safari lodge located in the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda. With stunning forest views, eco-friendly chalets, and a range of exciting activities, including gorilla trekking, it offers guests an unforgettable experience.
The lodge features a central lounge and bar, exquisite meals from locally sourced produce, and attentive staff. Buhoma Lodge combines luxury with the raw beauty of nature for a truly memorable stay.
Mweya Safari Lodge
Mweya Lodge is a safari lodge located in Queen Elizabeth Park, Uganda. With 54 elegant rooms and suites, the lodge offers a luxurious and comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy a fusion of local and international cuisine, relax by the infinity swimming pool and rejuvenate at the Mweya Health Club and spa.
The lodge also provides thrilling game drives, boat journeys, and chimpanzee tracking experiences. With breathtaking views of the Rwenzori Mountains and the Great Rift Valley, Mweya Safari Lodge is the perfect gateway to an unforgettable African adventure.
Gorilla Valley Lodge
Gorilla Valley Lodge, nestled on the border of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, offers a unique and enchanting experience. With its proximity to resident mountain gorillas, stunning views, and meticulously designed rooms, it's the perfect retreat for wildlife enthusiasts.
Indulge in exquisite dining, relax on the veranda, and enjoy activities like gorilla tracking and bird watching. Experience the beauty of nature and create lasting memories at this majestic 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.
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.
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.
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.
The Boma Entebbe
The Boma Entebbe is a boutique hotel located in Entebbe, Uganda. Situated in a peaceful suburb with lush tropical gardens, this hotel uniquely blends 1940s charm and modern amenities. With 11 rooms, including family-friendly options and luxurious four-poster beds, guests can enjoy a comfortable and distinctive stay.
The hotel boasts an on-site restaurant that offers a delightful blend of European and exotic flavours. Additionally, guests can enjoy complimentary wi-fi access and have access to essential office amenities.