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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Travellers Rest Hotel
Travellers Rest Hotel is a Safari Lodge located in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda. With 12 ensuite luxury shower room options, it offers a harmonious blend of luxury, history, and nature. Guests can enjoy tracking gorillas in their natural habitat and experience the captivating beauty of the surrounding landscape.
This iconic hotel has a rich history dating back to 1955 and has been a sanctuary for explorers, conservationists, and adventure enthusiasts. Come and immerse yourself in the world of gorilla conservation at Travellers Rest Hotel.
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.
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.