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.
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.
Engagi Lodge
Engagi Lodge in Bwindi is a contemporary and luxurious establishment located near the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. With breathtaking vistas of the forest canopy and a serene atmosphere, your stay will be truly unforgettable.
Engagi 's stunning architectural design, use of locally-sourced materials, and attention to detail create a unique and authentic experience. Immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the tranquillity of the surrounding landscape.
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.
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.
Paraa Safari Lodge
Discover the majestic beauty of Murchison Falls National Park at Paraa Safari Lodge. Nestled in the captivating northwest of Uganda, Paraa offers breathtaking views of the River Nile as it journeys from Lake Victoria to Lake Albert.
With elegant rooms, tranquil surroundings, and thrilling adventures, Paraa Safari Lodge provides an extraordinary experience like no other. Unwind, immerse yourself in nature, and create memories to treasure forever.
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.
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.