Agandi Lodge is an Eco friendly Lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable forest offer luxurious accommodation to travelers. It is located within the Ruhija and it is found within a few minutes walk from the Uganda Wildlife Authority briefing point.
Mid range Lodges in Bwindi
Description
This is an Eco friendly Lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Ruhija and a few minutes to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) briefing point. You do not have to wake up in the Dawn to reach the Gorilla tracking briefing point. Here you are on top of the Hill.
The eco-lodge is only with a 180°C panoramic view over the primary forest and the range of volcanoes. You’ll be welcomed by a wonderful team fully available to make your stay an unforgettable experience up arrival at the Agandi lodge.
It offers typical reinvented Ugandan style accommodations only made with local materials and arts. These include the Ugandan Huts, the Volcanic Cottages and, the Tree Nests. They will bring you all the comfort you need to enjoy your stay whether you are tracking gorilla or just taking your time to visit the region.
They have the below accommodations which are self-contained with toilets and a shower.
– 2 cottages
– 2 nest trees for the ones who want sightseeing adventures.
– 2 traditional Uganda huts made with wood
– 2 platforms with grass roofs for the campers
Services
– 1 reception and dining room with a relaxing area in front of the view
– 2 public toilets and 2 public showers for campers
– 1 campfire to spend the night for discussing, listening to stories, listening to music, taking a drink
– 1 barbecue to make it simple and warm.
– 1 green farming school garden
– WIFI is provided through 3G network.
-Traditional meals, based on indigenous and local food prepared by local chiefs. Meals can be served:
- at Agandi Uganda Eco-lodges in the diner room or around the campfire;
- in the village at our partnering restaurant;
- in a Ugandan family and have lunch/diner with them ;
Having dinner at the campfire is an old tradition in Uganda you must experience.
Agandi Eco lodge and the environment.
- They maximize the use of renewable energies like solar for lighting and use energy efficient equipment;
- Visitors find renewable electricity for their personal electric devices.
- They pay important attention to water as Ruhija is not connected to the water supply network. They harvest water and treat all wastewater onsite.
- They use improved cook-stoves for cooking and to reduce the use of firewood.
- Part of the land is dedicated for a green farming school garden
Tourist activities at Agandi Eco Lodge
- Nature walk
- Bird watching
- Community walk – especially during local market day
- Discovering the Batwa’s (pygmies) story,
- Vulnerable and orphan school visit ;
- Community programs discovery
Bakiga Lodge
Mid range Lodges in Bwindi
Bakiga Lodge
Bakiga Lodge is one of the best mid range lodges in Ruhija Sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This nonprofit safari lodge is part of the Bakiga Community Project – a registered NGO in Uganda and a registered charity in the UK. The lodge is a great place to stay if you are looking at gorilla tracking in Rushaga Sector.
Description
It’s a luxury safari lodge, situated in the Ruhija sector of Bwindi national park, just a few minutes’ drive from the Gorilla Trekking meeting point.
Its 8 h 42 min (459.5 km) via Masaka Rd and Kabale – Mbarara Rd.
Built on the top of a beautiful valley overlooking Bwindi forest, Bakiga lodge is a wonderful accommodation for visitors looking for a real African experience with great views of Bwindi impenetrable forest.
They are a nonprofit safari lodge – part of the Bakiga Community Project – a registered NGO in Uganda and a registered charity in the UK.
They offer warm African service and fantastic food.
The Lodge offers 6 family Cabins and 2 twin tents, all self-contained with ensuite bathrooms and spectacular views.
Relax in comfort around the fire or at the bar after your Gorilla Trek or bird watching tour.
WIFI internet is available at the lodge.
They work across Kabale district to help communities’ access safer water. Our staff would be delighted to chat to you about the water development work we do. All profits of Bakiga Lodge are used to finance the water projects.
It’s an Eco Lodge because the trees used to construct Bakiga Lodge were sourced locally in Ruhija, from sources that will regrow.
Impact on the environment:
They collect all water from rain harvesting tanks at the lodge. This water is used for the client showers, flushing toilets, and washing bedding, cooking and cleaning the lodge.
They currently have 9 water harvesting tanks at the lodge. All flush toilets and showers are connected to septic tanks, to avoid polluting the ground.
All power comes from solar panels on the roof of the lodge. Generators pollute with fumes and noise.
The steep grounds of the lodge have been terraced and planted to help avoid soil erosion.
Tourist activities
Gorilla Trekking -The Gorilla groups in Ruhija are the Bitukura or Oruzogo guerilla groups
- Bird Viewing Tours
- Guided hikes in the Forest
- Guided walk to the famous Mubwindi Swamp in Bwindi Forest
- Forest walks
- Relax and take in the breathtaking views at the lodge
- Performances of dance and song by local children
- Community based activities: Dancing, crafts, singing, visiting the trading centre
- Bakiga Lodge is an ideal venue for retreats and conferences
- Bakiga Community Project also offers the opportunity of working on community water projects across Kabale district.
Buhoma Community Haven Lodge
Buhoma Haven Lodge is a spacious site lying above Buhoma village, a 5-minute drive from the main road, and this elevated location guarantees best views across Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Description
Buhoma Haven Lodge is a spacious site lying above Buhoma village, a 5-minute drive from the main road, and this elevated location guarantees best views across Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
It was opened in December 2014 to help BMCDA cater for clients interested in something more than budget accommodation.
It offers 6 beautifully designed twin/double cottages, self-contained en suite safari tents, 3 self-contained cottages, and 2 non-self-contained twin cottage bandas.1 family cottages, all self-contained en suite and merging simple elegance with local materials.
All the bandas are built with local materials and are of African architectural design. We also offer guests a 6-bed dormitory as well as several camp
They serve Western and African cuisine prepared by Ugandan chefs using locally grown products. The meals would, for example, consist of a fresh mushroom soup, pan-seared tilapia fish or vegetable masala, roasted potatoes, saucy mixed vegetables, crepes with honey sauce, tea/coffee and hot chocolate.
Your breakfast will be fresh fruits and toast accompanied by your choice of prepared eggs (scrambled, fried, boiled, poached, omelet) along with coffee/tea and juice.
For gorilla trackers, a pack for you is a sandwich (egg, tomato and cheese, peanut butter/jelly, tomato, or cheese), a juice box, and two pieces of fruit, a boiled egg, and biscuits.
Services at the Haven lodge;
- artisan craft shop
- Back-up power generator
- Cigarettes for sale
- Complimentary coffee/tea
- Cell phone/laptop charging
- Laundry services
- Mosquito nets
- Transportation and Parking lot
- Postcards for sale
- Reading materials/games
- Restaurant/well-stocked bar
- Massage and Shower facilities
- Walking sticks for rent Tourist activities
- Gorilla Tracking
- Butterfly watching
- Bird Watching
Bwindi Jungle Lodge
Bwindi Jungle Lodge Mid range Lodges in Bwindi is located on Lake Mulehe, Mucha area, about 10 km from Kisoro town along the road to Rubuguri. It is about 20 km from the Southern gate of Bwindi National Park in Rushaga and Nkuringo. This lodge is made by cottages, all en-suite and with raised verandah overlooking Lake Mulehe, built using the local volcanic stones and timber.
Mid range Lodges in Bwindi
Description
Bwindi Jungle Lodge is located on Lake Mulehe, Mucha area, about 10 km from Kisoro town along the road to Rubuguri. It is about 20 km from the Southern gate of Bwindi National Park in Rushaga and Nkuringo. The lodge is located a few kilometers away from Kisoro Airstrip, where landing domestic flights from Entebbe Airport connecting to the Southern sector of Bwindi National Park land.
This is a beautiful location, ideal for the tourist activities in Bwindi National Park (Southern sector) and Mgahinga National Park. The lodge, embedded into a forest cover, enjoys the peace of the Lake, it is a natural birding area and it has a natural bay on the shores of the lake.
Bwindi Jungle Lodge is made by cottages, all en-suite and with raised verandah overlooking Lake Mulehe, built using the local volcanic stones and timber.
Tourist Activities at Bwindi Jungle Lodge
- Canoe Boat Ride on Lake Mulehe
The canoe trip in Lake Mulehe is a guided activity which takes about two hours, starting from the dock along Lake Mulehe, particularly for birding in the delta of rive Mucha, where you can see variety of bird species including pelicans, African Jacana, kingfishers, cormorants, fish eagle and many more. Continue your excursion at leisure as you also visit the fishing site and some islands.
- Batwa visit at Echuya Forest
- Meet the Batwa the original human inhabitants of Echuya Forest Reserve who have now been moved out of the Forest and now have taken on the responsibility of guarding this forest. They will give you briefing and a demonstration of their lives including hunting, harvesting and way of life.
You can also have a beautiful view of Lake Bunyonyi and the neighboring environments. This forest also offers fantastic sites for picnic lunch. This activity starts at 9.00am and can take between 4-5 hrs.
Gorilla Tracking
Mountain gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable may run between 1-5hours of trekking and hiking the sleeply slopes. Upon meeting the gorillas, people tracking spend an hour with the gorillas as you enjoy the alpha male (silver back) take control of the family while young ones play around with mothers where as gorilla habituation clients spend more time looking for the gorillas and once found clients stay with the gorillas for 4 hours in the wild trying to monitor their behaviors.Villages walk on Lake Mulehe.
Here you will meet a family of farmers and you interact with them as they show you how to make bee hives and how crops like Matooke (banana), beans and rice are cultivated in this area.
From the house you can also see the preparation of food and the head of the house will tell stories about traditional dances, music and about life in the Bafumbira region.- After the interaction, you continue for a walk along the hills and see more gardens, some plants, fruits and vegetables as you proceed toward Muhanga village, visit Muhanga Primary and Secondary Government School where you can interact with the pupils and students. This walk is about 2 km. Slope to the dock where the canoe is waiting to take you back to the lodge
Bwindi Trekkers Tavern Cottages
Description
Bwindi Trekker’s Tavern Cottage is located 2 kilometers from the park headquarters past the trading center of Ikumba. It is 52 kilometers from Kabale, 44 kms from Buhoma, 462 kms from Kampala and 502 kilometers from Entebbe.
The lodge rests on a hill top overlooking the magnificent Virunga volcanoes and the panoramic views of the Bwindi forest.
The lodge is very eco-friendly and has a lovely cozy atmosphere with 8 spacious cottages all with ensuite bathrooms with hot showers and flush toilets.
On a clear day, the beautiful sunrise, Lake Edward and Bwindi forest in the south. It is around 2 kms from the park headquarters.
The staff with one of the best chefs in the country Trekker’s Tavern is an unforgettable experience: the lodges’ special atmosphere, friendly and welcoming staff all from local villages and trained by the lodge.
The uniqueness of its location provides outstanding views, and a birders paradise as the Albertine endemics and other bird species are often seen in the cottages and around the lodge premises.
Rooms
- Five cottages
- Private bath room and showers
- Towels and toiletries
- Cozy double beds
- Each cottage can accommodate four guests
- Flush toilets
- The Lodge has 24 hour CCTV surveillance system for your security.
TOURIST ACTIVITIES
- Gorilla trekking- one gorilla group open for tracking which is Bitukura group.
- Nature walks
- Bird watching
Second to gorillas is bird watching whereby a bird watcher may have a chance to see 29 of the 34 Albertine endemics. The African Green Broadbill in the Mubwindi swamp, Grauer’s Rush Warbler and many other Albertine rift endemics can easily be seen here in Ruhija.
A day walk to the mines offers a bird watcher a chance to see the Spotted Eagle Owl in a day roost, Doherty’s Bushshrike, Mackinnon’s Bushshrike, Red throated Wryneck, Dusky Twinspot, a variety of Waxbills and many others
Bwindi View Lodge
Overlooking the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Bwindi View Lodge is the finest budget lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This budget friendly lodge has been fully operational since in 2002. It is now prestigious known for its fabulous redesigned guest lounge and dining area that bring the feel of the forest into the stylish interiors.
Description
Overlooking the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Bwindi View Lodge is the finest low budget lodge at Bwindi.
This budget friendly forest lodge in Bwindi, fully operational since in 2002, now prestigious known for its fabulous redesigned guest lounge and dining area that bring the feel of the forest into the stylish interiors. The gardens area has a central fireplace which acts as a focal point for guests to relax and discuss their gorilla tracking experience. A newly designed outdoor terrace gives dramatic views of the impenetrable forest and is a great place to spot the monkeys and birds hidden in the foliage.
The gorillas frequently come to relax in the verdant bush around the lodge! The lodge is perfectly located for a Uganda jungle gorilla tracking experience. Overlooking the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Bwindi View Lodge is the finest low budget lodge at Bwindi. With dramatic intense views of the forest canopy across a serene stream, it is one of Africa’s unique properties.
Pocket friendly, Best Accommodation
The Lodge and campsite is within walking distance of the main gate of the park (20 meters). from there the gorilla trekking will depart. In the afternoon after the gorilla trekking you come back again, and you can quietly chat in the cafe on the campsite to share your experiences. There is a café on site serving breakfast, simple lunch (packed to go if you prefer) and evening meal. Toilets are all western style with water flush and there are cold water showers. And most importantly – it’s the best value in Bwindi!
Accommodation:
- Family room at 250 US Dollars
- Double room is 120 US Dollars
- Twin room at 120 US Dollars
- Single room at 90 US Dollars
- Camping at 10 US Dollars
With a view to die for and set next to the western main gate of Bwindi Impenetrable National park, Bwindi View Lodge & Camp Site looks directly at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest; so close that sometimes you can see gorillas from the grounds on the mountainside opposite. Lush vegetation and an emphasis on being ecologically aware it is an ideal place to spend a night….. or more. Close to the start of the gorilla trekking and Buhoma village but nestled in a quiet location where the only noise you will hear is the birds, river and the local wildlife, it is an ideal place to rest and unwind.
Cuckooland Tented Lodge
Cuckooland Lodge is a midrange lodging in Ruhija Sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Park. This small lodge is set on a large land area and offers superb views of the tropical rain forest.
Description
Cuckoo land tented lodge, is located in the south western part of Uganda at the edge of Bwindi impenetrable forest National park about 40 minute drive from Ruhija gorilla trekking centre it’s a mid range accommodation lodge providing very comfortable safari tents built and designed in an African architecture.
Accommodation contains exclusively furnished safari tented houses on wooden platforms with lavish botanical gardens for relaxation and often visited by gorillas.
The Cuckoo land tented lodge, is situated in a very peaceful quite place within the forest with only chattering of birds.
They also have a gym within the lodge premises Cuckoo land lodge also provides freshly grown fruits from within the lodge
Rooms offered here include:
Four tented houses
Single beds, towels bath room with warm water among others.
Facilities include:
- Laundry service
- Security
- Electricity
- Gym
- Balcony/Patio
Tourist activities
At cuckoo land one can experience a true feeling of being in the wilderness. You will be able to do:
- Gorilla trekking
- Nature walks
- Hiking
- Bird watching
- Cultural visits to the locals among others.
Ecomarvels Gorilla Resort
Ecomarvel Hotel is located between Buhoma and Ruhija Sector in northern Bwindi. The lodge is located at Kitahurira Mpungu close to the ranger outpost. The lodge offers high quality accommodation at reasonable unbeatable rates.
Description
Ecomarvels gorilla resort is strategically located near Bwindi Kitahurira Ranger post between Buhoma and Ruhija Gorilla trekkers are at close proximity to Mubare, Habinyanja, Rushegura, Bitukura, Oruzogo, and Kyaguriro Gorilla Groups in both Ruhija and Buhoma sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
You will have magnificent views of the legendary Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a world heritage site and home to more than half the World’s remaining population of Mountain Gorillas.
The resort offers
- Room service
- Laundry (Additional charge)
- Airport shuttle
- 24-hour front desk
- Sun terrace
- Terrace
- Garden
- Internet (WiFi)
At Eco marvels you are guaranteed with high quality accommodation of international standard at an unbeaten price in a breathtaking superlative tropical forest environment.
At Ecomarvels gorilla resort, you will have full board or bed and breakfast, in cottages or camping. Our breakfast includes natural fruit juice, tea, coffee; with lunch and dinner prepared in our stocked restaurant.
Full board means Accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner and all drinks are included, at meal times and throughout the day too, snacks between meals are also included.
Tourist activities while at the resort
You could spend many days just relaxing, taking in the natural beauty and looking at the prolific wildlife at the forest edge or viewing the magnificent canopy of the impenetrable forest. However, many other opportunities exist for the more adventurous.
These include:
- Gorilla tracking which has to be booked in advance.
- Guided walks in the forest with a park ranger
- Touring the local community, including visiting the Batwa, seeing farms, tea small-holdings, schools etc.
- Visit to a tea factory
- Bird-watching with an expert local guide
- Sunbathing while enjoying the breathtaking magnificent view of the forest and the community landscapes
- Community walks are organized free of charge to all our guests who wish to tour the community environment
Enjoy your stay at Ecomarvels Gorilla Resort, with full board or bed and breakfast, in cottages or camping. Our breakfast includes natural fruit juice, tea, coffee; with lunch and dinner prepared in our stocked restaurant. Fullboard means Accomodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner and all drinks are included, at meal times and throughout the day too, snacks between meals are also included.
Getting There
Ecomarvels Gorilla Resort is located few meters from Hakikome trading center, Mpungu Subcounty, near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Kitahurira Ranger Out post. The Resort can be reached from Kampala via Kabale-Ruhija-Mpungu-Buhoma road Or from Kampala via Rukungiri-Kihihi-Butogota-Mpungu road. A 4×4 is recommended during the rains. There are daily bus services leaving Kampala for Butogota via Rukungiri and Kihiihi or Kampala to Kabale. A vehile can be hired from Butogota or Kabale to Mpungu, Ecomarvels Gorilla Resort. The Kabale – Ruhija- Kitahurira segment on this route is 41 km on a murram road branching off at Harutenga junction on the Kabale-Kisoro road.Travelers can fly from Entebbe or Kampala (Kajjansi airfield) to the grass Kayonza or Savannah airstrips.
Engagi Lodge
The Engagi Lodge is found in Kanungu district in Western Uganda. The lodge is located just outside the gate to Bwindi Impenetratable National Park. The lodge is situated in a large tract of land contiguous with the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, making it a great place for nature exploration.
Description
The Engagi Lodge is found in Kanungu district in Western Uganda. The lodge is located just outside the gate to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The lodge is situated in a large tract of land contiguous with the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, making it a great place for nature exploration.
It is a mid range lodge. The furnishings and style of the rooms is made of glass especially the glass sliding doors used as room entrances.
The lodge is in a breathtaking setting that offers stunning views over the forest canopy.
Engagi lodge is found on GPS Coordinates: 00.58’50.48S – 29.37’05.24E Alt 4,790 ft
The main lodge building is divided into a bar cum sitting room, the dining room and a large outdoor veranda viewing platform. The lodge building is big enough to cater for larger groups but still allows for smaller individual groups to spread out in the various different areas for privacy.
While at Engagi Lodge, You can view Bwindi forest from every corner inside the building. The lodge consists of just 8 en-suite cottages, spaced out and hidden in the foliage. Each cottage has either double or twin beds, a bathroom with flushing toilets and hot and cold running water. All have private verandas where guests can enjoy their morning tea or coffee as they watch out over the forest canopy.
Electricity is provided by solar power with a back-up generator. Hot water is supplied by eco-friendly wood burning boilers.The main reception area has been built up near the Buhoma road and we have a large secure car-park; both of these are a good distance away from the main lodge buildings.
Tourist activities while at Engagi lodge
- Gorilla tracking adventure
- Bird and butterfly watching
- Guided forest walks to see different flora and fauna, huge and unique tree species, insects among others
- Guests will be able to enjoy a number of private walking trails around the lodge and down to the river. They may also enjoy a visit to a functioning tea farm inside the site which is maintained by members of the community.
Buhoma Community Village Walk
This walk provides guests with an opportunity to support the local community whilst enjoying visiting various interesting places as you follow a walking trail through the village. Highlights include the traditional healer, banana brewery and Mukono Primary school where you may interact with the children.
Bwindi Community Hospital
Established during 2003 and has grown from small beginnings to become an essential service provider for the immediate communities and much of the surrounding areas too, caring for more than 100 000 individuals. Visit it to learn how it is helping to improve the quality of many lives .
Four Gorillas Lodge
One of the built and exceptional lodges to stay in when visited Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Four Gorillas lodge is a 4-star luxury accommodation, is located in southeast of Bwindi in Rushaga sector.
Description
It’s one of the closest gorilla lodges of Rushaga which is only 10 minutes’ drive to the trekking starting point. Traveling to Bwindi Impenetrable and opting to stay in a comfort and unique eco-friendly place, the Four Gorilla Safari Lodge is a safe place for you. The lodge is business friendly to guests who want to explore the park with its breathtaking views, soft breezes, rustling trees and the forest canopy.
Four Gorillas lodge Uganda offers the finest luxury accommodation. In this oasis of privacy, serenity and rejuvenation, there are no crowds, just Mountain Gorillas as well as the soothing sound of birds, rustling trees, soft breezes and breath-taking views. So, the Four Gorillas Lodge is the closest to the headquarters of the Bwindi National Park, only 10 minutes away from the Gorilla tracking and briefing center.
The Four Gorillas Lodge in Bwindi National Park Uganda offers perfect contemporary luxury while satisfying the human craving to become one with nature and our fellow apes. Our signature cottages are surrounded by dense forest and feature upscale elegance within a cozy homesteading.
Accommodation
The Four Gorilla lodge comprised of 8 elegant and luxury en suite cottages that reflects African traditional building style with grass thatched roofs and natural materials of local woods. Rooms are well decorated, elevated with raised platform and furnished with en suite private facilities of flushing toilets, hot and cold showers, complementary bottled water, bathtubs, mosquito nets, flat screen TVs, hair driers, satellite, extinguishers and many more facilities.
All rooms have terraces and sitting areas and wooden balconies. At the cottages you relax while enjoying the stunning breathtaking view of the canopy forest and surrounding areas. Four Gorilla Lodge rooms have excellent and clean Comfortable beddings with wooden floor and ceiling fan.
Rooms varies in Different categories and sizes; single, double, twin, triple and family cottages. Rooms cost 300$ and above per person per night, sometimes rate goes lightly high in peak season than low season.
The lodge has fire places where guests relax and share experiences about the safaris not only that it also provides warmth to the guests during night.
Facilities and Services at Four Gorilla Lodge
- A restaurant that serves different food both local and continental food that meets clients appetite served by well trained, friendly and organized staff.
- A Breakfast in the room or gardens while facing the forest Lunch and three course dinner in the main dining area both in and out door dinner.
- A well- stocked bar with a shared lounge with both hard and soft drinks (beers, sodas, wines etc.).
- You relax on the terraces/deck en sip the cocktail while overlooking the canopy forest, thrilling gorilla viewing, soft breezes and surrounding areas.
- Laundry services are offered,
- WIFI available at the lodge that keeps you connected to families and friends,
- Airport pick up and drop off services offered,
- Stand by generator available,
- Ample parking space
- Business centers with meeting rooms and Honey moon package etc.
- Healthy and fitness center with sauna, steam bathe, massage services.
- Craft shop with African craft gifts like; shoes, clothes, safari essentials.
- Guides book to mention but a few.
Adventures to undertake when slept at Four Gorillas Lodge
Several activities can be done during your stay at the Four Gorillas Lodge. Among these activities include; Gorilla trekking experience, gorilla habituation experience, Batwa cultural trail and cultural experience, bird watching as the park accommodates over 300 bird species, nature walks in the forest, Visiting lake bunyonyi and lake mutanda, golden monkey tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and many other activities
Accessing Four Gorilla Safari Lodge
Drive from Entebbe or Kampala, via Masaka, Mbarara to Kabale. Then you proceed on the Kisoro highway up to Muko town, make a right turn off shortly after the Muko police outpost. The turn-off has many signposts of different lodges and Four Gorillas Lodge has a signpost too. The last drive after the turn-off is a straight drive and roughly takes an hour to the last bridge. From the bridge proceed for 300 meters to a signpost for Four Gorillas Lodge where you will make your last turn. From this signpost, it takes roughly 1 km to 4 Gorillas lodge. The entire road trip takes approximately 8 to 9 hours with minimum stopovers.
BY AIR
It’s as well possible to fly on either scheduled or chartered plan from Entebbe to Kihihi airstrip in Kisoro. The scheduled flights are daily in the early morning. The chartered flights to Kisoro airstrip that offer flexibility in time are also available on request to and from Entebbe international airport. The flight from Entebbe to Kisoro is about an hour.
Gahiza Island Retreat
Gahiza Island Retreat is a remarkable place worth considering for your relaxation and overnight stay on vacation in Lake Mutanda, South Western Uganda. It is a perfect place for nature retreats during your safari in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. It also offers the breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes that form the Mgahinga National Park.
Description
Gahiza Island Retreat is set on Lake Mutanda nearby Kisoro town and gateway to the spectacular Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. With its strategic location, overnight stay here makes it easier to connect the gorilla parks for different activities that include gorilla tracking and golden monkey tracking.
Gahiza Retreat facility boasts of its commanding views of the surrounding Virunga volcanoes and diverse bird species exist on the island. Think of a place to retire for a night around Lake Mutanda or Kisoro, and think not beyond Gahiza Island Retreat.
Gahiza Island Retreat is a budget accommodation property in Kisoro and has varied room types including basic tent and deluxe double/twin room, romantic cabin and comfortable double room.
The facilities or amenities;
The available amenities at this property include accessible parking and concierge services, housekeeping, 24-hour front desk, dry cleaning, laundry facilities, and luggage storage.
Room types and their amenities –Double Room amenities include towels, sitting area, slippers, private bathroom, private entrance, shower, toilet, socket close to the bed, mosquito net, marble floor, cleaning products and others.
The romantic cabin has amenities such as 2 king size beds, capacity of 2pax, Wi-Fi, shower, marble floor, toilet, private bathroom, private entrance, socket near the bed and more.
Basic tent – this features 2 twin beds and is ideal for family/friends on a vacation; mosquito net, private entrance, outside bathroom, towels, safes, slippers and others.
Deluxe double/twin room –this is composed of 2 twin beds/one double bed in the room with capacity of 2pax. There is a balcony and useful amenities/facilities such as slippers, private entrance, Wi-Fi, sitting area, marble floor, and toilet, etc.
Services offered;
The different services provided at Gahiza include 24-hour security, 24-hour front desk, fire extinguisher, shared TV or lounge, security alarm, luggage storage and more.
Amazing features located adjacent to Gahiza Island Retreat facility
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park accessible within an hour drive from Gahiza Island Retreat. A visit to Bwindi from Gahiza involves engaging in the varied experiences such as gorilla trekking, birding, forest/nature walks and Batwa/Bakiga cultural experience.
- Queen Elizabeth National Park for savanna wildlife encounters and from Gahiza, this park is accessible within 5 hours’ drive. Queen Elizabeth NP shelters variety of mammals including large herds of buffaloes, elephants, antelopes, and a total of 620 species of birds.
- Kisoro, visit Mgahinga National Park to see the golden monkeys and mountain gorillas in the wild. This is also ideal for birding tours, Batwa trail experience and Volcano hiking adventure.
- Lake Mutanda –a spectacular freshwater lake located in Kisoro occupies a small area and is ideal for relaxation, canoe riding, birding (birds to find here include kites, hawks, sacred ibis, African spoonbill, and more), biking along the vicinity of the lake as you explore the scenic countryside like a local.
Getting to and around Gahiza Island Retreat
The Gahiza Retreat facility is 6.5km off from Kisoro town and from Kampala/Entebbe, 8-9 hours’ drive. By air, a scheduled/charter flight can also be arranged and you set off from Entebbe to Kihihi/Kisoro airstrip then drive to Gahiza.
Gift Of Nature Lodge
Gift of Nature Lodge is one of the best budget lodges in the Ruhija Sector of Bwindi National Park. This little gem is located within just a 20 minutes drive from the Ruhija Outpost in Northern Bwindi.
Description
Gift of Nature Lodge is positioned in Ruhija Sub county in the district of Kabale. It offers budget accommodation to the travelers on gorilla trips looking to gorilla tracking in the Ruhija Sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The lodge is located close to the briefing point and it is a convenient place to stay if you are looking to tracking the gorilla groups of Ruhija namely Oruzogo, the Bitukura and Kyaguriro etc.
SERVICES offered by the Gift of Nature Lodge
- Contains two separate blocks
- Eight bedrooms
- Comfortable self contained rooms (Single double and twin)
- Exclusive beds and net
- Warm and cold water available
- An extra bed can be added on request on additional fee
- The lodge has a very good and conducive atmosphere.
- There is a beautiful garden, great restaurant that prepares for you great local and exotic dishes. Chiefs are so ready to serve you with mouth watering and very palatable dishes.
- Rooms are set in beautiful yet elegant local traditional boutique to give you a feeling of Ugandan culture. They are in singles, doubles, and twin rooms having good beds for your comfortable stay. The rooms are self contained with really clean bathrooms.
There is a large lounge restaurant, dining and kitchen.
Activities at the lodge
- Gorilla trekking
- Nyabiha community walk/Ride
- Kitaba community riding
- The lodge not only provides stunning views of Bwindi impenetrable forest but also beautiful views of tea plantations far off this is an amazing thing to see and ideal for photographic shots..
- Bird watching is done close to the gift of nature Lodge
- After a tiresome gorilla trekking day you can enjoy a refreshment drink from the camp fire in the evening with the cool breeze of Bwindi forest and chattering birds. This is Ekoome cultural and educational camp fire
Gorilla Hills Eco Lodge
Gorilla Hills Ecolodge is one of the most beautiful lodges worth spending a night on a gorilla safari in Southern Bwindi. It is the ultimate gateway to the Ruhija Sector and Nkuringo Sector in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park as well as Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Description
Gorilla Hills Eco-Lodge is strategically situated along the Southern region of Bwindi National Park and from Mgahinga, it is accessible about 44 km. It is suitably set to key entry points to Bwindi, making it the best place to retire for a night, especially if you are interested in trekking with Uganda mountain gorillas.
Gorilla Hills Eco-Lodge comes with a distinct design featuring a blend of nature which creates that feel of naturalness. This facility features a number of amenities/facilities including a beautiful garden, terrace, free Wi-Fi, free private parking, free shuttle services, 24-hour front desk, a good restaurant providing dinner, brunch, cocktails and American cuisines.
The room types at Gorilla Hills Eco Lodge include Single Luxury, Double Luxury and Luxury Twin Rooms. At the facility, there is also an outdoor fireplace, a picnic area and other amenities.
Most Popular Amenities & Services at Gorilla Hills Eco-Lodge
The major amenities that make up Gorilla Hills Eco-Lodge include coffee/tea in a common area, snack bar, front desk safe, daily housekeeping, restaurant and lounge, luggage storage, pool loungers, bike hire, hair salon, 24-hour front desk and others.
Getting to the lodge
Accessing Gorilla Hills Eco Lodge is easier starting Mgahinga which is 44 km away and 8-9 hours’ drive from Kampala or Entebbe city. By air, expect to spend at least 2 hours on a flight and your set off point is Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi to Kihihi/Kisoro airstrip.
What surrounds Gorilla Hill Eco Lodge?
Lake Bunyonyi –located between Kisoro and Kabale, Southwestern Uganda, Lake Bunyonyi is the deepest of all the lakes in Uganda and is known for its spectacular 29 islands. This is one of the few lakes in the world that is safe for swimming because it has no hippos, crocodiles and even any risk of bilharzia. The lake holds up to 200 bird species including the grey-crowned cranes and the best way to explore it is by embarking on a traditional canoe ride.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park –This is a special destination where visitors enjoy up close and personal with a family of endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Bwindi was created in 1991 to provide refuge to mountain gorillas and its boundaries stretch up to 331sq.km, featuring a dense tropical forest. At Bwindi, there are over 120 mammals, 350 bird species, several reptiles, and floral species.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park –located in Kisoro, Mgahinga is the right place to find both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. This is also Uganda’s smallest park, occupying the land area of 33.7sq.km and also supports variety of other fauna. These include the giant forest hogs, bushbucks, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, 180 bird species especially the Kivu ground thrush plus many Albertine rift endemic species.
The volcano national park is just a 108 minutes’ drive. From Rwanda, you can cross over to Uganda to explore the country’s diverse attraction while having a night at Gorilla Hills Eco-Lodge.
Possible activities to do
Cycling –this lodge is suitably located in breathtaking landscape area perfect for cycling experiences.
Gorilla trekking –enjoy a thrilling trek through the dense rainforest with a guide while on a search for the family of Bwindi or Mgahinga gorillas. A gorilla trek through Bwindi or Mgahinga involves exploring more about the endangered mountain gorillas. The up close and personal moment with these apes is entirely enjoyed while in their natural habitat.
Gorilla habituation –this is a distinct experience and only carried out in Rushaga area of Bwindi. A single permit for gorilla habituation costs USD 1500 per person and your tour operator on ground can assist you secure one.
Birding –birds to identify on birding trails in Bwindi & Mgahinga include among others Kivu ground thrush, black bee-eaters, African green broadbills, Doherty’s bush shrikes, Dusky twin spot, red-throated alethe, Mountain yellow warblers, grey cuckoo shrikes, brown capped weavers, and more.
Golden monkey tracking –you can enjoy golden monkey trek in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and cross to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park to trek with golden monkey troop.
Cultural experiences –visit the Batwa or Bakiga community, be rest assured of unforgettable African cultural experience. Explore the distinct cultures, traditions, lifestyles of locals with an expert and sum it up with thrilling traditional dances/cultural music performances.
Gorilla Mist Camp
Gorilla Mist Camp is one of the finest deluxe lodges in Ruhija of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It offers accommodation in a typical African safari lodge with landscaped gardens, breathtaking views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Virunga Mountains.
Description
Gorilla Mist Camp is one of the finest deluxe lodges in Ruhija of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It offers accommodation in a typical African safari lodge with landscaped gardens, breathtaking views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Virunga Mountains.
Access is either by air charter from Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip or by road. Driving; Gorilla Mist Camp is 405km from Kampala. It’s an interesting journey of about 10 hours drive.
By air; 45minutes flight from Entebbe International Airport in Entebbe or Kajjansi airstrip in Kajjansi (15km from Kampala city) to Kisoro airstrip or Kihihi airstrip. Gorilla Mist Camp is 3hrs drive from the airstrip.
The camp is most suitable for travelers in groups and families with exclusively comfortable rooms eight in number
Gorilla families such as Oruzogo and Bitukura are most found in this remote area of Bwindi.
The camp provides delicious meals and nature walks arranged on request mostly for birders as they will encounter different bird species on the way with the superb scenery.
The bar also provides a good number of both hot and soft drinks the camp is approximately 7kilometers from the national park.
Travelers with their own camping equipment’s can use the terraces on the camping grounds.
ROOMS
Well furnished single, twin and double rooms
Solar electricity in all rooms
The rooms contain bathtubs, showers cold and warm water
Highlight
Unique accommodation
– Fast and Reliable Wifi
– Restaurant
– Ample & Secure Parking Space
– Fully Stocked Bar
– Clear View of Rwanda hills
TOURIST ACTIVITIES
- Gorilla trekking-This is the major activity around the lodge.
- Birding -A walk into the forest which ranks the best in Uganda with 23 highly localized forests Albertine Rift endemics will expose you to your dream forest bird species. Ruhija being the highest peak of the forest offers the best view of rear species such as white starred robin, grey cuckoo shrike, strange weaver, banded Prinia, brown chested Ale the, slender billed Greenbul, yellow streaked Greenbul, white browned Crombec, mountain Illadopsis, Ludher’s bush shrike, grey bush shrike, grey green bush shrike; all these and many others are among the 345 species recorded in this park.
- Visit the Mubwindi swamp a rewarding steep mountain as you drop from 2400m to 2050m. Birding in the bamboo zone is good for handsome francolin, archers robin chat, stripe breasted tit, purple breasted sunbird, mountain Greenbul, duikers, warblers, dusky Crimsonwing, mountain Illadopsis, mountain yellow warbler to mention a few. Birders who come with camping equipment can camp at Ruhija campground.
Forest and Nature walk
This walk will expose you to Bwindi’s broad biodiversity with varied mammal species which include; primates like Chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkey, blue monkey baboon, while the black and white Columbus with its lovely flowing white tail is prominent.
The shoddy trail will expose you to an array of butter fly species, species of moths, species of reptiles, tree species, the bamboo forest, flowers and many other attractions.
- Panoramic views
The Ruhija ridge top route offers visitors the insight of a deep valley containing the undisturbed rainforest as they watch the duikers, primates and both forest and grassland bird species. Visitors can also climb through the bamboo zone to find afromontane vegetation and panoramic views towards Lake Bunyonyi and Mafuga forest.
Village Walk
Options include visiting a local school, a traditional local healer, a banana brewery or combine the community tour with a nature tour towards the forest.
Whatever tour you take will equip you with knowledge on how the people in and around Ruhija live.
If required, the lodge can arrange a private performance for the guests at the lodge by children from the local orphanage – A beautiful sing and dance performance which will take you away into the Ugandan culture.
Do not forget a visit to the Batwa community. For thousands of years, the forest was also home to an indigenous people—the Batwa pygmies.
Step back in time to see how the Batwa lived for millennia in the Bwindi, one of the most beautiful jungles on earth. Enjoy an incredible day hike in the rainforest with Batwa guides, see how the Batwa lived and hunted, learn about medicinal plants, and watch for animals and birds.
You will hear ancient legends and traditional songs, watch energetic dances, and join in on a mock hunting party. You can even test your skill with a Batwa bow and arrow.
Gorilla Valley Lodge
Gorilla Valley Lodges offers the best accommodation to travelers looking to gorilla trekking in the Rushaga Sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Begin your journey to explore the wonders of Bwindi when certain of where to retire for the night. For ultimate comfort on gorilla safari to Bwindi, consider Gorilla Valley Lodge a must-book for your overnight stay.
Description
Gorilla Valley Lodge is located near Rushaga ranger station. Signposts lead the way coming from Kabale Road. In Rushaga take the road on the right leading straight to the lodge. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one meter away from your veranda. It feels like you are invited into to home of the majestic mountain gorillas. But these gentle giants are not your host, just your neighbors, occasionally coming out of the forest to spend some time in our garden. This is what makes Gorilla Valley Lodge so special.
Located on the border of the impenetrable forest and set on a steep slope the lodge has a truly unique setting. Imagine waking up with the sounds of the forest, having your cup of coffee or tea on you private terrace, experiencing the forest coming alive and the mist mysteriously giving way for a lush jungle.
Gorilla Valley Lodge consists of 12 en-suite rooms, built on a steep slope, ensuring the best views on Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
All rooms have a private terrace from where to experience the splendor of the forest. Tastefully decorated and equipped with solar water heaters and comfortable beds our rooms ensure a peaceful sleep.
Location
Gorilla Valley Lodge is located at the border area of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park –a significant habitat to the rare mountain gorillas and diverse Albertine rift endemic species of birds. The lodge is set on a steep slopes thus guaranteeing spectacular views of the area’s breathtaking landscapes.
From Kampala/Entebbe city to Gorilla Valley Lodge, it takes guests about 8-9 hours’ drive in a classic 4×4 drive vehicle. By air, you can as well reach the lodge on a flight starting from Entebbe airport or Kajjansi airfield to Kihihi airstrip. From Kihihi airstrip, drive for about 13 miles up to the lodge. Considering its position in the Southwestern Uganda, you can also connect to the lodge from Kigali via Katuna or Cyanika border.
Amenities in Gorilla Valley Lodge
Gorilla Valley Lodge is a mid-range accommodation property comprising of 12 rooms, a self-contained facility in a grass thatch structure. The lodge features spacious private bathrooms, dining area, toilets, fully furnished rooms fitted with twin beds. At the lodge facility, guests can enjoy the clear view of surrounding Virunga Volcanoes and lush rainforest of Bwindi. Other key amenities include hot showers, fully stocked bar and a classic restaurant.
Gorilla Valley Lodge is one location where guests can experience true African wilderness. Enjoy a comfortable stay with refreshing naturalness in the surrounding with possibility of spotting gorillas which sometimes get out of the forest.
The available room types in Gorilla Valley Lodge include single and double. Guests can enjoy bed and breakfast, half board or full board. The lodge welcomes different categories of visitors; families, couples, business travelers, solo travelers and friends, etc.
Tourist activities at Gorilla valley lodge
- Gorilla tracking
- Gorilla habituation experience
- Bird watching
- Visiting the Batwa people
- Sightseeing views
- Nature and forest walks
Things to Do
Gorilla Valley Lodge lies nearby Bwindi NP, one of the premier Uganda safari destinations. While at this lodge, you can easily connect to Bwindi and be part of the numerous experiences including gorilla trekking in Rushaga sector, birding, nature walks and community visits in the nearby local community.
Gorilla trekking in Rushaga
From Gorilla Valley Lodge, it takes primate enthusiasts very short time to get to Rushaga sector where you will have briefing about gorilla trekking guidelines and allocation of gorilla families. Starting your gorilla journey at Rushaga presents you abundant opportunities to engage in a gorilla trek thanks to its numerous gorilla groups.
The largest number of habituated gorilla groups exist in Rushaga area and include Kutu, Rwigi, Bweza, Busingye, Kahungye, Nshongi, Mishaya, Bikingi, Mucunguzi family, and others. On actual gorilla trek, each group of mountain gorilla family is allocated to a group of 8 visitors.
Gorilla Habituation Experience
Gorilla habituation experience is a unique primate adventure perfectly done only in Rushaga sector. Gorilla habituation entirely involves following the semi-habituated gorilla group or completely non habituated family in order to make it get used to human presence. The process of initiating gorillas to human presence can take about 2 years or less depending on how fast these apes can adapt.
Birding
If you are enthusiastic birder, Rushaga is one region in Bwindi that you shouldn’t miss visiting to enjoy birding excursion. Birding excursion in Rushaga allows you look out for diverse birds including the dwarf honey guide, giant kingfishers, African harrier hawks, yellow eyed black flycatcher, handsome francolins, and many others.
Nature walks
Nature walking through Rushaga is complete immersion into the dense Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Get a chance to unearth the wonders of Bwindi on a rewarding nature walk along the Rushaga nature walk trails including Kajembehajambe trail and Kapata trail.
Ihamba Residence
Ihamba Residence is a mid-range facility in Northern Bwindi. It is a preferred homestay for tourists intending to explore gorilla families in Ruhija sector, the north Eastern gorilla trekking region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Description
Ihamba Residence is a mid-range facility built suitably on top of a hill and offers breathtakingly spectacular views of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This accommodation property is run by the Change a Life Bwindi, a community based organization, an organization that connects the value of preserving Bwindi National Park to the community through numerous enterprises and creation of employment opportunities or engaging in direct conservation initiatives.
From Kabale market, this guesthouse is accessible within 34km.
What awaits at Ihamba Residence
At Ihamba, there are more than 5 (five) luxurious and comfortable cottages available for visitors to book. The cottages are suitably set overviewing the lush rainforest and they come with distinct African traditional style. The facility features individual, double rooms on ground and upper floor accommodating family and group guests on a vacation in Bwindi National Park.
Ihamba offers bed and breakfast, half-board and full board. Each of the rooms is uniquely decorated and fitted with treated mosquito nets, hot and cold running showers, complementary bottled water, en-suite flushing toilets, satellites, solar power, towels, free toiletries, and pillows.
The rooms at Ihamba feature terraces, wooden balconies and sitting space where guests enjoy uninterrupted views of the surrounding lush rainforest of Bwindi, the rift valley, Virunga Volcanoes and gardens. In the rooms, there are comfortable wooden beds and fire place in the living area, chairs for your relaxation in the evening while sharing stories or day experiences.
Facilities/services at Ihamba Residence
Ihamba is a complete accommodation facility with a range of facilities, services or amenities. The key properties that make this accommodation stand out include the restaurant at the main building where guests can enjoy local and continental dishes prepared by experts.
A fully stocked bar providing a range of soft and hard drinks which you can enjoy at leisure on the balcony while overviewing the spectacular canopy forest. There is strong Wi-Fi for visitor connectivity with their dear ones back home. The available services at Ihamba include beauty spa and sauna, parking, pick & drop off services, massage services and more.
The room types at Ihamba consist of single, twin, double and family each available for booking at the most affordable rate. Book a room at Ihamba, be rest assured of ultimate stay with breathtaking views of the lush Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and above all, get value for your money.
Top activities to enjoy in and around
Ihamba Residence is strategically situated allowing you to take part in a number of memorable experiences in Bwindi and surrounding areas. The top experiences include gorilla trekking and the key area of focus is the Ruhija sector gorilla families (Kyaguriro, Mukiza, Bitukura and Oruzogo).
Birding –embark on birding excursion to unearth the diverse bird species in Ruhija area, Eastern Bwindi. The birds you may come across include the red-throated alethe, Shelley’s greenbul, black bee-eaters, grey throated barbets, stripe-breasted tit, handsome francolins, mountain greenbul, archer’s robin chat, dusky crimson wings, African flycatchers, cinnamon chested bee-eaters and more.
Batwa cultural experience –embark on a journey to interact with the original forest keepers –the Batwa pygmies on Batwa trail. This is usually best done in addition to a thrilling gorilla trekking experience.
Getting there
Ihamba Residence in Ruhija, Eastern sector of Bwindi National Park is accessible by road and air. From Kampala, you need up to 8-9 hours to drive to this accommodation on Masaka-Mbarara-Kabale route and about 1-2 hours’ flight from Entebbe airport to Kihihi airstrip where you will get to the guesthouse by road.
Lake Kitandara Bwindi Camp
Lake Kitandara Bwindi Camp is located on the border of Bwindi National Park and is greatly suitable for Bwindi gorilla trekkers. The camp offers guests magnificent views of the areas surrounding the park.
Description
Lake Kitandara Bwindi Camp is located on the border of Bwindi National Park and is greatly suitable for Bwindi gorilla trekkers. The camp offers guests magnificent views of the areas surrounding the park.
The camp opened in 1994 and is the best Camp for Luxury or upper market visitors to Bwindi National Park. It has been modernised in an African style. It has unique tents which retain some original features but also have modern styles with over 20 lavishness tents with standard facilities.
The tents are named after the Ugandan bird species in the area and this is greatly liked by very tourists who visit the camp. These uniquely named tents have well furnished beds that give the best sound sleep once you are in the park. The facilities include bathrooms and toilets with warm and cold water for the visitors.
The camp has a Restaurant with both international and local cuisines, A well designed bar that gives a perfect view of the Forest, An amazing reception with a camera charging point.
There is also a veranda on which guests can sit and enjoy the distant view. The camp is powered by solar energy 24 hours.
Tourist activities while at Lake Kitandara Bwindi Camp
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest nature walks
- Cultural interaction with the Bakiga people
- Bird watching activity
- Site seeing
Reaching Lake Kitandara Bwindi Camp
From Entebbe or Kampala it takes you like 9hours on the road through western Uganda
1 hour and 40 minute flight by light aircraft, followed by a journey of about 40 kilometres on road.
