Luxury lodges in Uganda

Nestled in the enchanting Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Buhoma Lodge is a small congregation of ten small forests chalets is an ideal base for gorilla trekking.

Although the lodge welcomes families and even includes a family chalet, there is an age restriction on tracking gorillas – trackers must be at least 15 years old. However, forest walks, bird watching and more are on offer for all the family.

The two-storey timber and stone chalets hide behind clusters of trees, fitting in seamlessly with the surrounding forest. 

Reminiscent of scenes from the Swedish alps, this set of seven eco-lodges, including two for families, is found within the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and stands out amongst the emerald trees and thatched-roof cottages.

Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge is an excellent option for gorilla trekkers. From here, you can head into the forest along some of the more physically demanding trails. 

For those in search of less demanding routes, the departure point in Rushaga is only a short drive away from the camp. Beneath tall ceilings with Tudor-style exposed wooden beams, numerous communal lounges can be found, with comfy sofas and coffee tables leading to a sophisticated dining room. 

Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp is situated within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Of all the properties in the region, this one is closest to the gorillas, with the primates often roaming onto the camp grounds. 

All the open-sided, communal buildings are constructed from locally sourced timber and volcanic rock, offering views of the surrounding landscapes. As well as a range of bars and lounges, the lodges are equipped with a mini-spa, offering a range of traditional treatments.

The accommodation at Gorilla Forest Camp consists of eight tents, spaced around the grounds and connected to the communal buildings along neat stone paths. All are made out of timber, stone, and thatch, with a veranda at the front boasting forest views. 

Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge is a luxury accommodation option for gorilla trekkers wanting to venture across the Buhoma trail.

Found in the quaint village of Buhoma, the site is over an hour drive away from the park entrance, but offers some of the most amenable routes in the region.

What sets Volcanoes apart is the quality of its modern design; with its glass walls, every room offers stunning 360 degree views of the surrounding forests and valleys. The communal areas around the main building are encircled by a long viewing deck that's perfect for viewing the coral sun sink below the horizon.  

Located on the vast shores of Lake Mutanda, the lodge sits equidistant from the national parks Bwindi and Mgahinga. 

A collective of ten small chalets, all encircled by private gardens, the lodges offers a range of treks and walks across both parks.

Sitting high upon the slopes of a valley, the accommodation comprises rows of piercingly bright chalets that stand out amongst the verdant forests sprawling either side of the lodge.

Inside, the lodge is just as colourful with communal areas featuring a range of cosy lounges, equipped with bars and fire pits. The dining area also flows out on to a deck, from which the superb scenery surrounds you.  Of the 10 rooms, five are double rooms. 

Named after Samuel and Florence Baker, husband-and-wife explorers who arrived in Murchison Falls National Park in 1863, this private, safari styled lodge is set upon the shores of the Nile, hidden behind large shady trees and wetland areas hosting abundant bird-life along the water’s edge. 

The views onto the river are magnificent with islands hosting an array of wildlife from nesting egret birds, to hippos which can be heard munching throughout the night. The aptly named Nile Veranda always showcases these beautiful beasts in all their glory. 

Found on a private island on the Victoria Nile, the island is a short boat ride away Jinja. A collection of ten idyllic suits, Wildwaters is one of the best options in the Jinja area for enjoying some wet-and-wild water sports.

The communal lodge is positioned on a sturdy rock face, encircled by turbulent rapids all around. In keeping with the local climate, the lodge is constructed out of timber, stone, and thatch, fitting in perfectly with the island’s flourishing forests. 

A range of water sports and boat excursions are on offer at the lodge, and from the observation deck telescopes allow guests to have a closer look at the animals that call the Nile home. 

Found in the Rubirizi District in Western Uganda, unlike many of the resorts on this list, the Kyangabi Crater Resort caters mainly to families, curating excursions that are inclusive of all ages.

Of the 32 different styled rooms, all are designed to meet our guest’s personal preferences, depending on group size and requirements.

With activities like fruit picking tours featuring alongside traditional wildlife trekking, Kyangabi is the destination for those wanting a more idle experience, less focused on rigorous hikes.

Bordering the Queen Elizabeth National Park, it is situated approximately 180 miles (290km) west of the capital, Kampala and approximately 56 miles (90km) north-west of Mbarara.

Surrounded by 9 crater lakes and abundant tea and coffee plantations, Crater Safari Lodge is one of the few luxury lodges in the Kibale National Forest. Located near gangs of chimpanzees, as well as the neighbouring Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, in which the famous  "Top of the World" viewpoint is found.

The national park protects the lush and dense evergreen rain forest, the natural habitat to the chimpanzee.

On a hill overlooking the second largest crater lake in Uganda, all 21 rooms (deluxe chalets or standard cabanas) either have a full or partial view of the crater lake below, so the breathtaking view is never far away. A series of small traditional cliff-side cottages, all with thatched roofs, this quaint collection is an ideal place to base excursions into the bush. 

Located on the South Bank of the Nile, the timber frame, stoned filled facade blends perfectly with the natural surroundings.

Featuring an open-plan restaurant and bar that flows out onto a terrace, immerses guests in the power of the Nile. 

Unlike many of the lodges in the area, children of all ages are welcome with one of the two swimming pools on-site specifically for babies and toddlers.