Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
Bwindi Lodge
Thatched cottages in Buhoma on the Impenetrable Forest's edge
Located on the misty green slopes of a valley close to the Buhoma gate of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Bwindi Lodge is perfectly located to track the forest’s famous inhabitants and experience the local community.
There are eight stone and timber, glass-fronted guest bandas with thatched roofs strewn down the slope. Each has been hand crafted and enjoys wonderful views out to the forests on the other side of the valley from their private verandahs.
Locals till the volcanic soil in the hills up to the primeval forest’s edge, where wildlife including chimpanzees, mountain gorillas and monkeys jumping from tree to tree can sometimes been seen from the lodge.
The main activity here is gorilla trekking into the national park. There are also numerous hikes and trails to sights such as waterfalls and tea plantations, and the chance to meet the locals on community tours. After a day in the forest, return to the lodge for complimentary massage, a drink by the bar’s fire and a dinner out on the terrace.
Highlights
Gorilla trekking
Hiking
Community visits
Eight thatched banda cottages
Bar and lounge area
Massage room
Wi-Fi and internet access available in the main lodge
Trip Inspiration
Plan your trip to Uganda
Whatever you want from your adventure in Uganda, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.
Places to combine Bwindi Lodge with
Etosha National Park
Encounter by Ongava is an intimate safari camp set within Ongava Game Reserve, on the southern edge of Etosha National Park. You’ll be surrounded by Mopane woodland and wildlife moving freely through the landscape.
There are eight spacious walk-in tents: seven standard tents and one paired tent that works well for families or small groups. Each tent has an en-suite bathroom with an outdoor shower and a private deck.
You can head out on game drives across the 30,000-hectare Ongava Game Reserve. The area is known for its rhino population, as well as lion, zebra and antelope, including the endemic black-faced impala. We especially recommend private guided nature walks, where you can slow down, appreciate the small details and explore with minimal impact. There may be the chance to approach white rhino on foot, as well as spend time bird watching.
For a wider safari experience, take a guided excursion into nearby Etosha National Park, Namibia’s prime savannah wilderness area. At the Ongava Visitor Centre, learn about the region’s geology, wildlife, plants and ecology.
Back at camp, slow down by the pool, settle into the library or gather at the bar as evening falls. The day softens into drinks, quiet conversation and the sounds of the reserve.
