In this article, we’ve compiled a list of more than 100 tourist places in Uganda that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re interested in hiking mountains, going on a safari, or experiencing the local cuisine and culture, Uganda has it all. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by the many amazing destinations that Uganda has to offer.

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Located in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to half of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas, making it one of the best places to go gorilla trekking in Africa.
2. Kibale National Park – Located in western Uganda, Kibale National Park is home to a large population of chimpanzees, as well as a variety of other primates and wildlife. The park is also known for its birdwatching opportunities.
3. Queen Elizabeth National Park – Located in western Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, and chimpanzees. The park is also known for its boat safaris along the Kazinga Channel.
4. Murchison Falls National Park – Located in northwestern Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park is home to the impressive Murchison Falls, as well as a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and lions.
5. Lake Bunyonyi – a stunningly beautiful lake surrounded by rolling hills and terraced farms.
6. Rwenzori Mountains – a mountain range that includes Africa’s third-highest peak and is known for its glaciers, alpine vegetation, and unique wildlife.
7. Rwenzori Mountains National Park – Located in western Uganda, Rwenzori Mountains National Park is home to the Rwenzori Mountains, which are the highest mountain range in Africa. The park is known for its beautiful alpine scenery and diverse wildlife.
8. Ssese Islands – a group of 84 islands on Lake Victoria with pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, and excellent fishing and birdwatching.
9. Kasubi Tombs – a UNESCO World Heritage site and the burial place of the kings of Buganda.
10. Mabira Forest – a tropical rainforest that is home to over 300 species of birds and a variety of primates.
11. Kampala City – Uganda’s vibrant and bustling capital city, with a rich history and a thriving arts and culture scene.
12. Source of the Nile – the spot where the Nile River begins its long journey through Africa and into the Mediterranean Sea.
13. Kidepo Valley National Park – Located in northeastern Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park is one of the most remote national parks in Uganda, but it is also one of the most beautiful. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, zebras, and ostriches.
14. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Located in southwestern Uganda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to one of the few remaining populations of mountain gorillas, as well as a variety of other primates and wildlife.
15. Jinja Town – a town on the shores of Lake Victoria and the source of the Nile, known for its adventure sports and cultural heritage.
16. Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary – a community-run eco-tourism project that offers guided walks through a wetland area and the chance to see a variety of primates and birds.
17. Mount Elgon – a dormant volcano on the border with Kenya that features stunning waterfalls, hot springs, and hiking trails.
18. Kazinga Channel – a narrow waterway that connects two lakes in Queen Elizabeth National Park and is teeming with hippos, crocodiles, and birds.
19. Fort Portal – a picturesque town nestled in the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains, known for its tea plantations and stunning scenery.
20. Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary – a sanctuary for orphaned chimpanzees that offers visitors the chance to observe these amazing animals up close.
21. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – a sanctuary for endangered rhinoceros’ species in Uganda.
22. Lake Mburo National Park – a beautiful park with savannah, grassland and woodlands, and is home to various wildlife species.
23. Kalinzu Forest Reserve – a stunning forest reserve home to various primate species and beautiful scenery.
24. Semuliki National Park – Located in western Uganda, Semuliki National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, chimpanzees, and forest buffalo. The park is also known for its hot springs.
25. Kabalega Falls – a beautiful waterfall in western Uganda that is a perfect spot for picnicking and relaxing
26. Kisoro – a town in southwestern Uganda known for its stunning views of the Virunga Mountains and access to gorilla trekking.
27. Lake Victoria – the largest lake in Africa and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world, shared by Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya.
28. Budongo Forest Reserve – a tropical rainforest that is home to chimpanzees, monkeys, and over 360 bird species.
29. Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve – a vast wilderness area that is home to some of Uganda’s most elusive and rare wildlife, including cheetahs and African wild dogs.
30. Kibiro Salt Gardens – a unique site on the shores of Lake Albert where locals harvest salt in traditional ways, offering visitors a glimpse into a centuries-old industry.
31. Nyero Rock Paintings – ancient rock paintings that date back thousands of years and offer a glimpse into Uganda’s rich cultural history.
32. Amabeere ga Nyinamwiru Caves – a series of limestone caves with stunning rock formations and a fascinating cultural history.
33. Kabaka’s Palace – the former residence of the king of Buganda, now a museum and cultural center.
34. Sipi Falls – a series of three stunning waterfalls in eastern Uganda that offer beautiful views and great hiking opportunities.
35. Mabamba Swamp – a wetland area near Lake Victoria that is home to the elusive shoebill stork.
36. Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve – a remote wilderness area that is home to a variety of rare and endangered wildlife species.
37. Kisiizi Falls – a beautiful waterfall in western Uganda that is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
38. Lake Katwe – a unique salt lake in western Uganda where locals harvest salt using traditional methods.
39. Mount Moroto – a stunning mountain in northeastern Uganda that offers incredible views and great hiking opportunities.
40. Echuya Forest Reserve – a pristine forest reserve that is home to a variety of primates and birds.
41. Rwenzori Art Centre – a cultural center and art gallery that showcases the work of local artists.
42. Kibiro Hot Springs – a natural hot springs area on the shores of Lake Albert that offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
43. Bujagali Falls – a series of rapids on the Nile River that offer great whitewater rafting opportunities.
44. Mweya Peninsula – a beautiful peninsula in Queen Elizabeth National Park that is home to a variety of wildlife species.
45. Kasenyi Plains – a vast grassland area in Queen Elizabeth National Park that is known for its lion and buffalo populations.
46. Katonga Wildlife Reserve – a lesser-known wildlife reserve that is home to a variety of rare and endangered species.
47. Buhoma Village – a small village near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park that is known for its traditional cultural performances.
48. Lake Mutanda – a stunningly beautiful lake in southwestern Uganda that offers great hiking, boating, and fishing opportunities.
49. Bujagali Falls – a series of rapids on the Nile River located near Jinja, popular for white-water rafting and kayaking.
50. Karuma Falls – located in northern Uganda, these falls are being developed for hydroelectric power and have a beautiful natural setting.
51. Itanda Falls – located on the Nile River near Jinja, these rapids are popular for white-water rafting and kayaking.
52. Ssezibwa Falls – a beautiful waterfall located on the Ssezibwa River, believed to be a spiritual site by the local Baganda people.
53. Aruu Falls – located in Kidepo Valley National Park, these falls are a hidden gem in the remote northeast of Uganda.
54. Kalagala Falls – located on the Nile River near Jinja, these falls are a popular spot for kayaking and bungee jumping.
55. Sempaya Hot Springs – Located in Semuliki National Park, the Sempaya Hot Springs are one of the most popular hot springs in Uganda. The hot springs consist of two pools, one of which is hot enough to boil eggs.
56. Kitagata Hot Springs – Located in southwestern Uganda, the Kitagata Hot Springs are known for their healing properties. The hot springs are believed to cure a number of ailments, including skin diseases, rheumatism, and arthritis.
57. Buranga Hot Springs – Located in Kasese district, the Buranga Hot Springs are a popular tourist destination. The hot springs are known for their therapeutic properties and are believed to cure a number of ailments.
58. Rwagimba Hot Springs – Located in Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Rwagimba Hot Springs are a popular stop for tourists. The hot springs are surrounded by a lush forest and are known for their stunning views.
59. Nyero Hot Springs – Located in eastern Uganda, the Nyero Hot Springs are a series of natural hot springs that are popular among locals. The hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are often used for spiritual purposes.
60. Amoropii Hot Springs – Located in Kidepo Valley National Park, the Amoropii Hot Springs are a hidden gem. The hot springs are surrounded by stunning scenery and are a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
61. Ihimba Hot Spring – Is one of the breathtaking ones in the list of hot springs in Uganda that offers amazing views. Located in Kibale in western Uganda the spring got its name from the Bahima people residing in the area. Like the other hot springs, the hot spring is too believed to be one of magical hot spring having curing power.
62. Uganda Museum – a great place to learn about Uganda’s history, culture, and traditional way of life.
63. Gaddafi National Mosque – one of the largest mosques in Africa, with a capacity to hold over 15,000 worshipers at once. It offers great views of the city from the minaret.
64. Namirembe Cathedral – the oldest cathedral in Uganda, it is located on a hill overlooking Kampala and offers great views of the city.
65. Bahai Temple – one of only eight Bahai temples in the world, it offers a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to meditate and reflect.
66. Ndere Cultural Center – a great place to experience traditional music, dance, and storytelling from different ethnic groups in Uganda.
67. Owino Market – one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Kampala, offering a variety of goods including clothing, electronics, and fresh produce.
68. Craft Markets – Kampala has several craft markets where visitors can purchase locally made crafts, such as woven baskets, jewelry, and wood carvings.
69. Kabaka’s Lake – it is a man-made lake located in Kampala, Uganda. It was constructed in the 19th century by Kabaka Mwanga II, who was the King of Buganda at the time.
70. Namugongo Martyrs Shrine – This is one of the most visited religious sites in Uganda and is a significant place for Christians. It is located in Namugongo, Kampala and is the site where over 20 Ugandan Christian martyrs were executed for their faith in the late 1800s.
71. Rubaga Cathedral – Also known as St. Mary’s Cathedral Rubaga, this is the oldest Roman Catholic cathedral in Uganda. It was built in 1886 and is located in Rubaga, Kampala.
72. All Saints Cathedral – This is another notable Anglican cathedral in Kampala, located in Nakasero. It was built in the early 1900s and is known for its stained glass windows and impressive bell tower.
73. Watoto Church – This is a vibrant and growing church located in the heart of Kampala. It is known for its lively worship services, community outreach programs, and youth activities.
74. Kampala Pentecostal Church – This is one of the largest Pentecostal churches in Uganda, located in Makerere, Kampala. It is known for its dynamic preaching and worship services.
75. Christ the King Church – This is a Roman Catholic church located in Kampala and is known for its impressive architecture, including its stained glass windows and marble altar.
76. Naggalabi Buddo Coronation Site – located in Buddo, this is the traditional coronation site of the Kings of Buganda. It is a sacred site for the Baganda people and offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the kingdom.
77. Kibuli Mosque – located in Kampala, Kibuli Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Uganda. It is known for its unique architecture and is a popular spot for visitors to learn about the Islamic faith.
78. Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine – located in Munyonyo, a suburb of Kampala. It is dedicated to the 22 Catholic martyrs who were killed for their faith in the late 19th century.
79. Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary – located in Bigodi, this is a community-based conservation project that offers visitors a chance to learn about the culture and traditions of the local communities while exploring the wetlands and wildlife.
80. Igongo Cultural Center – located in Mbarara, the Igongo Cultural Center offers visitors a chance to learn about the culture and traditions of the Ankole people through exhibits, demonstrations, and cultural performances.
81. Karamojong Cultural Experience – located in northeastern Uganda, the Karamojong Cultural Experience offers visitors a chance to learn about the culture and traditions of the Karamojong people, including their unique dress, dance, and music.
82. Batwa Cultural Experience – located in southwestern Uganda, the Batwa Cultural Experience offers visitors a chance to learn about the culture and traditions of the Batwa people, who were once hunter-gatherers in the forest.
83. Tororo Rock – located in eastern Uganda, Tororo Rock is a popular cultural site that is steeped in legend and tradition. Visitors can climb the rock and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
84. Karamoja Cultural Museum – located in Moroto, this museum showcases the culture and traditions of the Karamojong people, including their traditional dress, music, and dance.
85. Kigulu Hill – located in eastern Uganda, Kigulu Hill is a popular cultural site that is associated with the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom. Visitors can learn about the history and traditions of the local communities.
86. Busowoko Waterfalls – located in Jinja district, Uganda. The waterfall is situated in the eastern part of the country, about 45 kilometers from Jinja town, and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
87. Tooro Palace – Located in Fort Portal, Tooro Palace is the home of the King of the Tooro Kingdom. Visitors can learn about the kingdom’s history and culture, and also see traditional dances and rituals.
88. Ankole Palace – Located in Ntungamo, this is the palace of the King of Ankole Kingdom. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Ankole people, and also see traditional dances and rituals.
89. Bunyoro Palace – Located in Hoima, this is the palace of the King of Bunyoro Kingdom. Visitors can learn about the kingdom’s history and culture, and also see traditional dances and rituals.
90. Rwenzururu Palace – Located in Kasese, this is the palace of the King of Rwenzururu Kingdom. Visitors can learn about the kingdom’s history and culture, and also see traditional dances and rituals.
91. Lake Bunyonyi – This is a beautiful and scenic lake located in southwestern Uganda. It is known for its 29 islands, clear water, and surrounding hills.
92. Lake Mburo – This is a small but beautiful lake located in western Uganda. It is known for its hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
93. River Nile – This is the longest river in the world and flows through Uganda, Sudan, and Egypt. Tourists can take boat cruises and rafting trips on the Nile.
94. Murchison Falls – This is a waterfall located on the River Nile in northern Uganda. It is a popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful scenery and wildlife.
95. Lake Kyoga – This is a large and shallow lake located in central Uganda. It is known for its fishing and birdwatching opportunities.
96. Lake Albert – This is a large lake located in western Uganda. It is known for its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife.
97. Nakasero Market – This is a large market located in the center of Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. It is known for its fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts.
98. Owino Market – This is another large market located in Kampala. It is known for its wide variety of goods, including clothing, electronics, and household items.
99. Bugolobi Market – This is a smaller market located in Kampala that is known for its fresh produce and local crafts.
100. Kabale Market – This is a market located in the southwestern part of Uganda, near the border with Rwanda. It is known for its fresh produce, including fruits and vegetables.
101. Jinja Market – This is a market located in the town of Jinja, which is known as the adventure capital of Uganda. The market sells a variety of goods, including fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
102. Arua Market – This is a market located in the town of Arua, in the northern part of Uganda. It is known for its fresh produce, including fruits and vegetables, as well as handmade crafts.
103. Gulu Market – This is a market located in the town of Gulu, in northern Uganda. It is known for its fresh produce, clothing, and local crafts.
104. Lugard House – Is a historical building located in Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. The building was named after Frederick Lugard, a British colonial administrator who was instrumental in the establishment of British East Africa and the colonization of Uganda.
105. Rwenzori Mountains – The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon, are located on the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They are home to Africa’s third highest peak, Mount Stanley, which rises to a height of 5,109 meters (16,762 feet). The mountains are known for their unique flora and fauna, including giant lobelias and hyraxes.
106. Mount Gahinga – Mount Gahinga is a dormant volcano located in southwestern Uganda, on the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is part of the Virunga Mountains, a chain of volcanoes that includes Mount Nyiragongo and Mount Nyamuragira. The mountain is known for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as its unique flora and fauna, including golden monkeys and mountain gorillas.
107. Mount Sabinyo – Mount Sabinyo is a volcanic mountain located on the border between Uganda and Rwanda. It is part of the Virunga Mountains and rises to a height of 3,669 meters (12,037 feet). The mountain is known for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as its unique flora and fauna, including golden monkeys and mountain gorillas.

In conclusion, Uganda is a country that has much to offer travelers looking for adventure, culture, and relaxation. From its stunning national parks and wildlife reserves to its historic sites and vibrant cities, Uganda is a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. We hope that our list of more than 100 tourist places in Uganda has inspired you to plan your next trip to this beautiful country. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a new adventure, Uganda is sure to exceed your expectations. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the Pearl of Africa.

Looking to explore the breathtaking beauty of Uganda and its many incredible tourist destinations? Look no further than EDX Travel, your go-to travel company for discovering the top 100+ must-see tourist places in Uganda. Our experienced team of travel experts has curated the ultimate guide to exploring the Pearl of Africa, complete with insider tips, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.

With EDX Travel, you’ll have access to a wide range of customized tour packages that can be tailored to your unique needs and interests. Whether you’re looking to go gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, take a boat safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or hike the stunning Rwenzori Mountains, we’ve got you covered.

Our team of knowledgeable guides and travel experts will be with you every step of the way, ensuring that you have an unforgettable adventure that exceeds your expectations. So why wait? Book your trip with EDX Travel today and discover the magic of Uganda’s top tourist places with the best in the business!

To arrange customised staycations and or an adventure/holiday to any part of Uganda or East Africa, reach out to Executive Destinations and Experiences Limited (EDXTravel) today.

Contacts us on +256 751 395 326 | +256 775 716 808 or theexectraveler@gmail.com | info@edx.travel

#EDXTravel #TheExecTraveler #AuthenticAfricanTravelExperiences #TakeYourPlaceInTheAfricanSun #1000Reasons2ExploreUganda #ChoicestDestinations #TrustedTravelAdvisors #UnforgettableExperiences #UgandaThePearlOfAfrica

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Here are our top 10 Gorilla Lodges in Uganda!

1: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge is a tranquil lodge located on the Nteko Ridge overlooking Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, a mountain gorilla habitat. The place also overlooks the Kashasha River Valley, Virunga Volcanoes, and the Great Albertine Rift Valley. The Lodge, which is the ideal place to stay as you await trek the gorillas was named Uganda’s leading Safari Lodge at the World Travel Awards in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019. 

Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge has 9 residences divided into three two-bedroom family villas and six garden cottages. Each cottage features a bedroom, an ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower and a living area with a fireplace and comfortable chairs to enjoy the golden fire glow. Lounge chairs on the outdoor verandas give the perfect vantage point to take in the constantly changing Bwindi views.

The Gorilla Lodge is a true African bush wonderland that lets the landscape do the showing off. All villa rooms have breathtaking views over the imposing Bwindi Forest, and the garden chalets soar above the Virunga Mountains range. Rounding out the experience are rickety walkways, dramatic black volcano rock finishing, and the constant natural freshness.

2: Mount Gahinga Lodge

Mount Gahinga Lodge is the perfect base to go gorilla tracking on the Ugandan side of the Virungas. The property is inspired by traditional design and building techniques and has that timeless African charm. The luxurious bandas reflect the aesthetic magic of the Bufimbira, with their distinct colours. Each Banda has an ensuite luxury shower room, fireplace and private porch.

The place has premium wine, whisky, and cocktail menus and personal butler service for all guests. It also has a direct private footpath with access to gorilla tracking in the National Park, Wi-Fi is available in the main lodge building and charging facilities available in each banda.

3: Gorilla Safari Lodge.

Gorilla Safari Lodge is found at the edge of the thick, lush Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Southwest Uganda. This national park is home to wild gorillas, forest elephants and 23 species of bird endemic to the area. It is a 5-minute walk from the briefing point for trekking and makes it a much sought-after lodge for gorilla tracking safaris. There are plenty of activities on offer, including a visit to the Batwa pygmies, mountain biking and guided forest walks to the Bayenda Falls.

The rooms have solar-powered lighting, an en-suite bathroom with hot and cold water and flush toilets. Each unit is designed to look like a stand-alone log cabin and blends in with the rainforest, ensuring that the lodge does not look out of place in its wild surroundings. Cobbled paths with wooden bannisters join the rooms, each named after gorillas or gorilla tribes. This remote lodge comprises 18 individual units (sleeping 45 in total) each with private wooden balconies overlooking the wilderness. 3 of these units are inter-leading rooms, making them ideal for families. 

4: Gorilla Heights Lodge.

Gorilla Heights Lodge, which is located in Nkuringo, Kisoro district in Southwestern Uganda is a blend of nature, modern architecture and pure luxury. The lodge offers the most breathtaking views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest on one side and the Virunga ranges on the other and guarantees you proximity to the Nkuringo and Rushaga gorilla families for a thrilling gorilla tracking experience.  Gorilla Heights sits on a 12-acre piece of land with 15 luxurious cottages, a heated swimming pool and a spa with a sauna. The rooms are warmed up from the gas burners and electric heaters and are all ensuite, with in-door showers and freestanding bathtubs for a rejuvenating body soak after a long day of adventure. The bathtubs for the Deluxe cottages are fitted on the private balconies, giving guests opportunities to enjoy the bathtub in the open sky moments.

The Family and Deluxe cottages have modern in-built kitchens and dining spaces for guests to prepare their own meals. All living spaces are furnished with sofas, heaters, mini refrigerators and a 50-inch flat-screen television.  All guests are assigned a personal attendant to cater to their every need. This allows for more intimate and bonding sessions with family and loved ones, surrounded by the luxury that only nature can give.

Children under the age of 6 years stay for free while Children between the ages of 6-18 years qualify for a 50% to 75% discount off the adult rate.

5: Four Gorillas Lodge, Bwindi

The Four Gorillas Lodge in Bwindi Forestoffers contemporary luxury while satisfying the human craving to become one with nature and fellow apes. The cottages are surrounded by dense forest and feature upscale elegance within a cosy homesteading. In this oasis of privacy, serenity and rejuvenation, there are no crowds, just Mountain Gorillas as well as the soothing sound of birds, and breathtaking views. Four Gorillas Lodge is close to the headquarters of the National Park, only 10 minutes away from the Gorilla tracking and briefing centre.

6: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

Set on a forested ridge near the entrance to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge boasts of eight spacious cottages built from volcanic stone. Spectacular views stretch all the way to the Virunga Volcanoes of Rwanda, as well as across the border into the Congo, where the glow of Nyiragongo Volcano can be seen on a clear night.

Warm and welcoming, each cottage features a bedroom, ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower and separate lounge. Comfortable chairs on the outdoor verandas provide the perfect vantage point to the unforgettable vistas of the forest below. The lodge is situated within easy walking distance of the trail where guests can begin their gorilla trekking adventure. 

7: Chameleon Hill Lodge

Ah, the Chameleon Hill Lodge, this list would be incomplete without some mention of the colourful and eclectic lodge which is tucked away in the lush hills surrounding Lake Mutanda in Uganda. Lake Mutanda is located between Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in the Virunga Mountains and is a region of forested mountain slopes and wetland ecosystems.

The Chameleon Hill Lodge comprises ten chalets, all with sweeping views of the lake, each with the lodge’s signature unique color scheme and furnished with handmade Euro-African style items. Common areas include a wooden deck, modern lounge with fireplace, and a library.

During your stay, you can track mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, take to the water for boating excursions or get to know local families and communities with immersive cultural activities. Plenty of hiking is available outside of gorilla treks, too, for the active traveller. 

8: Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge

This lodge is one of the finest gorilla lodges at Bwindi with views of the forest canopy across a serene stream. Overlooking the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Volcanoes Bwindi Adventure Lodge offers a truly unique Uganda gorilla safari experience. Separated by nothing more than an idyllic stream, the gorillas themselves are frequent visitors to the lodge.

The lodge has 9 bandas and a personal butler service for all guests.  Wi-Fi is available in the main lodge building and charging facilities available in each banda. The lodge’s award-winning Bwindi Bar is stylish, colourful and features an assortment of premium wine, whisky, and cocktail menus.

9: Mahogany Springs Lodge

Mahogany Springs is located in the northern part of Bwindi National Park in the southwest of Uganda. The park is famed for its 11 habituated gorilla groups that you can trek to. Like other properties in the vicinity of Bwindi, Mahogany Springs is just up the road from both the park headquarters (where you go before your gorilla trek) and the small town of Bwindi.

The main area of Mahogany Springs is cosy yet spacious. It is all built of wood and the main area combines a dining area, a large veranda, a bar and a curio shop. The décor is warm and colourful. The rooms are located off a stoned pathway, through beautiful gardens and the forest in the background. The property is quiet and spacious, offering a very relaxing stay.

There are a couple of different room categories at Mahogany Springs. The superior suites can be twin, double or triple and offer ensuite bathrooms with a private terrace with panoramic views of the surrounding forest. There is also a presidential suite which is good for families. The two bedrooms interconnect and a lounge area are provided. The final room type is the honeymoon suite which is similar to the superior suite but has a few extras, such as a larger bed and a bathtub.

10: Buhoma Lodge

Buhoma Lodge is one of only two lodges situated within the Bwindi National Park itself and is a short walking distance from the meeting point for gorilla tracking and other activities in the area. 

Eight comfortable cottages have been carefully built from local materials and each suite has a private verandah and enormous windows, allowing guests spectacular views of the forest canopy and the Park. The lounge area, complete with bar and dining facilities, offers a cosy place to discuss the day’s activities. 

Inside the spacious cottages, you will find comfortable beds, a well-appointed en suite bathroom with a flushing toilet and a hot shower. Meals are freshly prepared from local produce, offering a balance of international and local cuisine. Hot beverages are available throughout the day on a self-service basis, but morning tea or coffee is brought to your cottage, allowing you to savour the early morning sounds of the forest as it awakens.

To arrange customised staycations and or an adventure/holiday to any part of Uganda or East Africa, reach out to Executive Destinations and Experiences Limited (EDXTravel) today.

Contacts:

Phone: +256 751 395 326/ +256 775 716 808

Email: theexectraveler@gmail.com     

#EDXTravel #TheExecTraveler #AuthenticAfricanTravelExperiences #TakeYourPlaceInTheAfricanSun #1000Reasons2ExploreUganda #ChoicestDestinations #TrustedTravelAdvisors #UnforgettableExperiences #UgandaThePearlOfAfrica

The post 10 Lodges That Will Make Your Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Unforgettable appeared first on Executive Destinations & Experiences.

And as usual, the question on everyone’s mind is where to go, what kind of amenities they have and how different are they from every other place. 

If there is one place, our editors will recommend wholeheartedly- it is the 2-in-1 Speke Resort Munyonyo and Commonwealth Resort Munyonyo, on the northern shores of Lake Victoria, on the outskirts of Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, the Pearl of Africa. 

Lake Victoria is Africa’s largest freshwater lake.

As such, the two resorts offer unparalleled natural beauty coupled with the freshest of breezes. The incredibly natural setting aside, the resorts have been tastefully built and finished.

But first of all, a little bit of history about the resorts. 

Speke Resort, the place it is today was started as a weekend holiday home for the Speke Group of Hotels and Ruparelia Group Chairman and owner, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia. He set up Uganda’s first-ever Equestrian Centre, a small bar under a mango tree and a weekend cottage in 1998. It quickly picked up as a popular picnic spot and kept growing.  

Overwhelmed with market demand, Dr. Ruparelia then expanded his dream and decided to build a lakeside resort. By the end of 2000, only the Olympic size swimming pool was ready and functional – the only one in Kampala, then and now. This was followed by the construction of 9 more thatched roof Cottages, 24 Two bedroom suites, 11 one-bedroom suites and 20 Studio rooms. 

Speke Resort was officially opened by H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of Uganda, on 17th August 2001 during the Smart Partnership conference, hosted by the resort. Since then the resort has become a popular destination for international and domestic travellers, Heads of State and other government dignitaries as well as a popular destination for big national and international conferences and functions. 

In November 2007, The Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort was specifically constructed to host the  Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) held from 23 November until 25 November 2007, in Kampala Uganda. The Commonwealth Resort consists of 65 Presidential suites, several conferences and meeting rooms as well as restaurants and bars.

Set on 90 acres in the Speke Resort complex with majestic views of Lake Victoria, Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort is Uganda’s leading 5-star resort. The completion of this one-of-a-kind purpose-built hospitality facility- officially set apart the 2-in-1 luxury resorts as the largest in Uganda. 

Speke Resort and Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort have earned worldwide recognition as the ‘Presidents’ resort for hosting numerous high-profile guests, from Heads of State and foreign dignitaries to international celebrities, who consider it a home away from home.

The facility boasts a combined 472 Rooms, 20 conference rooms, 3 ballrooms and 10 outdoor venues. Altogether, Speke Resort Munyonyo and Commonwealth Resort Munyonyo have a combined hosting capacity of up to 5000 guests.

The rooms are configured into single Deluxe Rooms, Bedroom Suites, Superior Rooms, Executive Rooms, Executive Suites, Presidential Suites and cottages.- so there is enough variety for all family/group and pocket sizes.  

The two resorts have been several awarded for luxury and quality facilities at such renowned awards as the  Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards. 

The two resorts are member hotels of the Speke Group of Hotels, itself a member of the Ruparelia Group.  

Speke Group offers more than 900 modern rooms, 45 State of Art Conference and meeting rooms, award-winning restaurants and bars, health clubs and spas, and recreation and leisure facilities to make your stay with us a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Now you know why our editors think that you should make Speke Resort Munyonyo and Commonwealth Resort Munyonyo a part of your end-of-year plans, at the individual, family and or business levels. 

To arrange customised staycations and or an adventure/holiday to any part of Uganda or East Africa, reach out to Executive Destinations and Experiences Limited (EDXTravel) today.

Contacts:

Phone: +256 751 395 326/ +256 775 716 808

Email: theexectraveler@gmail.com    

#EDXTravel #TheExecTraveler #AuthenticAfricanTravelExperiences #TakeYourPlaceInTheAfricanSun #1000Reasons2ExploreUganda #ChoicestDestinations #TrustedTravelAdvisors #UnforgettableExperiences #UgandaThePearlOfAfrica

The post Speke Resort and Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort: A destination for unparalleled luxurious experiences in Uganda appeared first on Executive Destinations & Experiences.

The forest itself is on the edges of the mighty Queen Elizabeth National Park- a medley of wonders, straddling the Equator and teeming with several animal and bird species—95 mammal species and over 600 bird species to be exact. The park is home to at least 20 carnivores- including the lions, leopards, the side-stripped jackal and spotted hyena among others. Set against the backdrop of the famous Rwenzori Mountains, besides the animals and birds, the park is sequinned with a couple of explosion crater lakes, in and around it.

Back to Jacana Safari Lodge. The lodge is an unassuming yet firmly established vintage fortress at the foothills of the forest. It is actually in the forest itself, right on the shores of Lake Nyamusingiri.

Although built in 1999, the lodge’s architecture and finish are a delicate blend of the old and the new. It is a fantastic rustic work of wood whose vintage appeal has grown darker to regular polishing. The cottages calmly sit under canopies of gigantic trees that have lost count of the number of times they have seen the rising of the sun. The crisscrossing canopies form an overarching quiet avenue with distant whispers of crickets ushering you to a haven known by a few.

Every structure makes you feel it is the end of the lodge until you turn to the walkway and find the bespoke ornaments, hidden in plain sight for you to discover.

The sundowner bar is a stupendous detail of both wood and stone with an open foyer to give you a 180 degrees view of Lake Nyamusingiri as you ‘water’ yourself from the bar. 

Enjoy your lunch in the open deck dining area in comfy seats and take in the sights sipping on a glass of wine on the colourful hammocks. On the lower edge is an exquisite swimming pool that gives you a levelled glance at the usually calm Nyamusingiri waters. Mornings and evenings will grant you an extra sight of local fishermen going about their hustle on the lake.

You can catch an afternoon boat cruise on the Captain’s Table, a six-seater artistically built floating dining square boat complete with a tent shield on top that takes you to the middle of the lake to savour more views.

While sitting on the balcony of your spacious cottage, it is easy to lose yourself in the majestic views of the forest as you are serenaded by the raucous cacophony of birds and monkeys- that after a while feels as rhythmic.

The nearby Mount Kaitampungu backdrops Imaramagambo Forest, all the way to the nearby Kalinzu Forest is also a display to behold.

A night in the executive cottages calls on you not to miss out on serenity as it combs through the woods. 

Jacana Lodge is located astride the famous home of chimpanzee trekking, Kyambura Gorge which is peripheral to Uganda’s medley of the wild, Queen Elizabeth National Park as the Kicwamba escarpment watches over it. The lodge is located five kilometres off the Rubirizi – Kasese highway just before descending into the Kyambura Gorge.

Lake Nyamusingiri on whose shores the lodge sits is part of the belt of crater lakes of Bunyaruguru. Next to it is Lake Kyasanduka, and a few kilometres north of the forest is Lake Rwizongo. Atop the Kicwamba escarpment is two twin lakes: Katinda and Murambi. Each of these lakes has its own allure of unique sights and scenes, trust me, you can never get tired of soaking in.

It’s never a dull moment when visiting this area of Rubirizi District.

To access Jacana, you have to go through Imaramagambo Forest which is guarded by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. 

While at Jacana, you can also visit the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha and the gorillas of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or do a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. 

The proprietors of Jacana Safari Lodge, also own and run another exquisite luxury— the Equator Snow Lodge, located just 2.3Km from the centre of Rwenzori Mountains National Park in Kasese, making it an ideal alternative location in this adventure-rich part of Uganda.

To arrange customised staycations and or an adventure/holiday to any part of Uganda or East Africa, reach out to Executive Destinations and Experiences Limited (EDXTravel) today.

Contacts:

Phone: +256 751 395 326/ +256 775 716 808

Email: theexectraveler@gmail.com    

#EDXTravel #TheExecTraveler #AuthenticAfricanTravelExperiences #TakeYourPlaceInTheAfricanSun #1000Reasons2ExploreUganda #ChoicestDestinations #TrustedTravelAdvisors #UnforgettableExperiences #UgandaThePearlOfAfrica

The post Relax, rewind and refuel your body at Jacana Lodge—a hidden jewel in this western Uganda’s axis of adventure appeared first on Executive Destinations & Experiences.

In a recent media interview, soon after ascending 8 out of 10 of Mount Rwenzori peaks in 7 days, Julian said Uganda has so much to offer both in quantity and quality and similarly, everyone seeking to visit Uganda ought to prepare accordingly.

“My message to other guides and visitors coming to the Rwenzoris is to plan your trips, so you have lots of time so that you can really get a sense of the mountains. You can acclimatize well, which then allows you to enjoy the mountain a lot more,” he told journalists at the Mt. base camp.

“ And then plan it so that you have a bit of time after your trip so that you can see some of the other national parks lower down and enjoy some of the wildlife. There’s just so much to do here, I think you need to allow for enough time to be able to see some of it,” smitten Julian confessed.

And Julian no ordinary mountaineer. He is one of a few human beings to multiple severally summit all the three highest points on Mt. Kenya, East Africa’s second-highest mountain as well as repeatedly summit Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain. He has also been an expedition leader to Mt. Everest and the Himalayas in 2017 and 2019. The proprietor of African Ascents Ltd, Julian has severally summitted Mt. Kilimanjaro as well as been to several other mountains in South Africa, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, Canada, the Alps, Southeast Asia and most recently the Rwenzoris.

But Julian is not alone- several visitors to Uganda have all described Uganda as a destination that keeps giving. It is, therefore, not surprising that a 2019 Uganda Tourist Expenditure And Motivation Survey (TEMS)  2019 found that 51% of the visitors to Uganda repeat visitors and more than 6 in 10 visitors to Uganda were most likely to return shortly, while more than 8 in 10 visitors reported a high likelihood of recommending Uganda to their friends and family as a place to visit.

Visitors were also satisfied with the Historical and Cultural Sites, with Nyero Rock Paintings receiving the highest satisfaction score of 5 out of 5.

The Big Five + 2;  Africa’s botanical big game and so much more 

Visitors to Uganda, according to the study, were amongst other factors, blown away by the sheer vastness of Uganda’s attractions especially the wildlife and birds, gorilla tracking and the  breathtaking sceneries and landscapes such as the Source of the Nile and the various lakes and rivers accentuated by the numerous thunderous waterfalls. Visitors were also swept off their feet by our food, hospitality, as well as the nightlife and freedom of movement. 

Specifically, for our national parks, visitors were impressed by the richness and diversity in both plant and animal attractions as well as the natural attractions such as the mountains as well as lakes and rivers— that are equally packed with marine life.

Uganda is home to more than half the world’s population of endangered mountain gorillas (53.9% to be exact)- that reside in two of Uganda’s most beautiful locations — Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park!  Safari opportunities abound in the savanna, forest, and wetland settings throughout the parks where visitors can come face to face with “The Big Five + 2 ” – lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, buffalo, chimpanzee and mountain gorilla– as well as giraffe, zebra, hippopotamus, crocodile, and more than half of all bird species found in Africa.  

It is no wonder that our national parks were rated on average 4.8 out of 5.

Uganda has 10 national parks; 12 wildlife reserves; 5 community wildlife management areas; and 13 wildlife sanctuaries, each of which has their own allure- right from wild savanna game rides, boat rides, forest hikes, mountain climbing, wildlife research and more. Uganda is an unrivalled bird-watching destination with over 1,000 species of birds – several of which are found nowhere else on the planet as well as home to the rate in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. For the adrenaline junkies and mountain climbers, you can hike up the  Virunga Volcanoes (3 of the 5 ranges are in Uganda i.e.  Mt. Sabinyo (3,669m) Mt. Gahinga (3,474m) and Mt. Muhavura) as well as  snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains.   

Christened the “Mountains of the Moon” by the Alexandrine geographer Ptolemy in AD 150, the fabled Mountains of the Moon is part of a larger 120km-long and 65km-wide Rwenzori Mountain range, on the western Uganda border with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The range consists of six massifs separated by deep gorges, namely: Mount Stanley (5,109 metres (16,762 ft)); Mount Speke (4,890 metres (16,040 ft)); Mount Baker (4,843 metres (15,889 ft)); Mount Emin (4,798 metres (15,741 ft)); Mount Gessi (4,715 metres (15,469 ft)) and Mount Luigi di Savoia (4,627 metres (15,180 ft)). Mount Stanley has several subsidiary summits, with Margherita Peak being the highest point.

With its five overlapping vegetation zones― the evergreen forest zone (up to 2,800 metres (9,200 ft)); the bamboo zone (2,800 to 3,300 metres (9,200 to 10,800 ft)); the heather zone (3,000 to 3,800 metres (9,800 to 12,500 ft)); the alpine zone (3,500 to 4,500 metres (11,500 to 14,800 ft)); and, the nival zone (4,400 to 5,000 metres (14,400 to 16,400 ft)), the Rwenzoris, offer tourists a better nature experience, consisting of  99,600 ha of alpine vegetation, most of it rare and or unique to the Rwenzoris.

At higher elevations, some plants reach an enormous size, such as the giant lobelia and groundsels, thus the term “Africa’s botanical big game.” The spectacular snow-capped peaks and glaciers, melt into fast-flowing rivers, that squeeze into V-shaped valleys and narrow gorges, emerging as magnificent waterfalls that feed the clear blue lakes that dot the surreal, boggy Afro-alpine moorlands downstream.

The montane forests that form the lower part of the mountains are also home to threatened species such as the African forest elephant, eastern chimpanzee, l’Hoest’s monkey and the very rare and endangered Rwenzori black-fronted duiker. The entire Rwenzori Mountains National Park- an expanse of nearly 100,000 ha is home to 70 mammals and 217 birds; 19 of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift.  

Describing the Rwenzoris- Julian Wright, said the mountain was an “incredible resource” whose “sheer diversity” is “mind-blowing” and “breathtaking.” 

“The glaciers on the Rwenzoris are very unique. They are a lot bigger than any other glaciers in East Africa.”

“The sheer ecological diversity is mind-blowing,” he said, adding: “Everything here seems to be three times as big. The leaves are bigger, the plants are bigger, everything is so lush, there’s so much life, and it is truly unique.”

“I’ve been guiding and hiking, and I’ve been in the outdoors business for a very long time, but the vastness of the Rwenzoris is just breathtaking,” Julian reiterated.

To arrange customised staycations and or an adventure/holiday to any part of Uganda or East Africa, reach out to Executive Destinations and Experiences Limited (EDXTravel) today.

Contacts:

Phone: +256 751 395 326/ +256 775 716 808

Email: theexectraveler@gmail.com    

#EDXTravel #TheExecTraveler #AuthenticAfricanTravelExperiences #TakeYourPlaceInTheAfricanSun #1000Reasons2ExploreUganda #ChoicestDestinations #TrustedTravelAdvisors #UnforgettableExperiences #UgandaThePearlOfAfrica  

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“Dense, lush and otherworldly, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the last redoubts of the mountain gorilla,” he wrote, adding: “Over 400 call this UNESCO-protected national park home with the chance for visitors to trek to and meet habituated groups.”

Well, that was in 2019. Today Uganda’s Gorilla population has grown, thanks to a recent baby boom, but most importantly, what Joe Minihane perhaps forgot to add is that Uganda harbours about 53% of the entire Gorilla population in the world and the majority of these reside in Bwindi.

Of the 18 gorilla groups, in Uganda, 17 are resident in Bwindi, making it the best place in the world where you can see the gorillas in the wild.  The 17 families can be seen on four treks, namely, Ruhija, Buhoma, Nkuringo and Rushaga. In Mgahinga Park, you can track the transboundary Nyakagezi group.   

Mountain gorillas for starters live in the wild and hence can’t be found in any zoo as they naturally feast on large quantities of flowers, leaves, roots, fruits and bamboo or shoots- up to 75 pounds of food daily. These giants don’t usually stay in one place thus they keep moving around the thick forests from dusk to dawn.   

As such, trekking the gorillas, depending on their ‘last-seen point, could take you anywhere between 2-8 hours of adrenaline-charged hard work. But it is a rewarding task punctuated by misty cloudy rainforests as you trudge up to 14,763 feet of rough terrain and rocky pathways through thick intertwining vines, thorns and roots. You will therefore need good hiking boots or gumboots and a raincoat, given that it rains most of the time. Walking sticks are usually provided for extra support, a long holding stick to help you stay firm during the excursion and possibly a snack and bottle of water to keep you refreshed in the jungle.

The best time to see Mountain Gorillas in Uganda

Gorilla trekking is an all-year activity but the best time to go trekking is during June, July, August, September and December. This is because there are fewer rains and therefore the terrain is easier to conquer. In Bwindi for example, during this period, ranging from 11°C/52°F in the morning and 23°C/73°F in the afternoon.

The period between June, July & August is usually the peak season and therefore, it is important to buy your permits early since they run out.  

If you are also looking for a less crowded experience, January and February, are usually the low season in Uganda and present very little or no rain.  March-May is usually so rainy, slippery and most challenging to hike. 

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Trekking Gorillas is not only a must-do because of its distinctiveness, but the trekking itself takes place in two of Uganda’s most pristine, scenic and beautiful national parks, i.e. the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Other than Gorillas, these two parks are teaming with much more to see and experience. For example, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park gazetted as a National Park in 1991 is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, since 1994.

Strewn over a series of steep ridges and valleys, in southwestern Uganda on the edge of the Western Rift Valley, Bwindi’s mist-covered hillsides, blanketed by some of Uganda’s oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests, dating over 25,000 years and with nearly 400 species of plants are a sight to marvel. Besides being host to the biggest gorilla collection- it is also home to a further 120 mammals, including several primate species such as baboons and chimpanzees, as well as elephants and antelopes. There are around 350 species of birds hosted in this forest alone, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics.

When the sun sets, and all the action in the forests comes to an end, the neighbouring towns of Buhoma and Nkuringo both have an impressive array of luxury lodges, rustic bandas and budget campsites, as well as restaurants, that will treat your palettes to the unexplored tantalising culinary side of Uganda. Treats range from sumptuous organic local cuisine sourced from neighbouring communities as well as international cuisine.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another wonder of its own. Sitting high in the ‘clouds’, at an altitude of between 2,227m and 4,127m, the Park takes its name from “Gahinga” – the local word for the piles of volcanic stones cleared from farmland at the foot of the volcanoes.

The British administration declared the area a game sanctuary in 1930 and in 1991, it was gazetted as a National Park to protect the rare mountain gorillas that inhabit its dense forests. The Park is also an important habitat for the endangered golden monkey.

The park’s rich flora and fauna aside- Mgahinga is famous for its three conical, extinct volcanoes— Mt. Sabinyo, at 3,669m; Mt. Gahinga (3,474m) and Mt. Muhavura, the highest peak at 4,127m, each of which presents a unique summiting experience. 

Mt. Sabinyo and Mt. Gahinga are the easiest to climb- each taking about 6-8 hours while Mt. Muhavura is slightly more challenging but more rewarding. Once atop, hikers are rewarded on a clear day with views of the entire Virunga Volcanoes, which also includes Mt. Bisoke (3,711m) and Mt. Karisimbi (4,507m) on the Rwanda/DRC border as well as Mt. Mt. Mikeno (4,437m) in the DRC. Hiking to the top of Mt. Muhabura also gives climbers, commanding views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest as well as Lakes Edward and George and the snow-capped peaks of the Rwenzori’s a million dollar-view if you ask me.

Resource and diversity-rich Rift Valley

While, if you are in hurry, we would recommend flying to the gorillas (there is plenty of private charter from Entebbe International Airport), if you have enough time on your hands, we recommend, possibly a much longer safari- possibly 14-days, so you get to slowly soak in and savour this particular trip.

We recommend you take a road trip, via Kampala-Masaka-Mbarara-Kabale if you are going to Mgahinga or Kampala-Masaka-Mbarara-Ntungamo-Rukungiri-Kihihi road if going to Bwindi. There are however interconnecting roads between Mgahinga and Bwindi so whichever route you choose doesn’t matter.

This road trip will allow you to spend perhaps a night at Lake Mburo National Park- home to 350 bird species as well as zebra, impala, eland, buffalo, oribi, Defassa waterbuck, leopard, hippo, hyena, topi and reedbuck among other animal species. You will also get to soak in the vast green hills of western Uganda and the farming communities as well as the insanely beautiful Lake Bunyonyi – a popular tourist destination in Southwestern Uganda.

After visiting the Gorillas, on your way back, it is highly recommended that you drive through the Queen Elizabeth National Park – Kasese – Fort Portal – Mubende Kampala route. Here, you will reward yourself with breathtaking sights, including, but not limited to the famous and rare tree-climbing lions of Ishasha in the Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Known as a medley of wonders, because of its endless experiences, the park is home to over 95 mammal species and over 600 bird species. The Park and the surrounding protected areas are dotted with several crater lakes and scenic gorges on the eastern cliff of the Western Rift Valley. The park’s diverse ecosystems, which include sprawling savanna, shady, humid forests, sparkling lakes and fertile wetlands, make it the ideal habitat for the classic big game, ten primate species including chimpanzees and over 600 species of birds.

A must-do activity in this park is the boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel that connects Lakes George and Edward, where you get to see several animals graze and quench their thirst on this oasis-like stretch.

Driving from Queen Elizabeth, through Kasese to Fort Portal town, in Kabarole District, also presents visitors with a lot to take in, among them the Rwenzoris, towering over the western border of Uganda.

Once in Fort Portal, make it a point to check out the Tooro Kingdom Palace located on Karuzika hill overlooking Fort Portal Tourism City. A visit to the mind-blowing Amabeere Ga Nyina Mwiru as well as over 40 crater lakes in the area all present unforgettable experiences.

If you have extra days at hand- a day spent in the nearby Semuliki National Park on the floor of the Semliki Valley on the remote, western side of the Rwenzori is equally rewarding. The Park is dominated by the easternmost extension of the great Ituri Forest of the Congo Basin.  Hot springs bubble up from the depths as a living reminder of the potent subterranean forces that continue to shape this rift valley area since 14 million years ago.

The last and final stretch from Fort Portal to Kampala should take you through Kibale National Park whose over 351 tree species, some of which tower above 55 metres and are over 200 years old host a total of 70 mammal species, most famously 13 species of primate including the chimpanzee.

Kibale is also home to over 375 species of birds.    

By the time you get back to Kampala- you will have appreciated why they say Uganda is truly the Pearl of Africa— a destination that keeps giving.

And yet this is just a small portion of what the country has to offer- if you dare go all the way to the northwest where the famous Murchison Falls National Park or to the undiscovered West Nile region.

And we haven’t said anything about Kidepo Valley National Park in the Northeast or Mt. Elgon National Park to the East of the country.

To arrange customised staycations and or an adventure/holiday to any part of Uganda or East Africa, reach out to Executive Destinations and Experiences Limited (EDXTravel) today.

Contacts:

Phone: +256 751 395 326/ +256 775 716 808

Email: theexectraveler@gmail.com    

#EDXTravel #TheExecTraveler #AuthenticAfricanTravelExperiences #TakeYourPlaceInTheAfricanSun #1000Reasons2ExploreUganda #ChoicestDestinations #TrustedTravelAdvisors #UnforgettableExperiences #UgandaThePearlOfAfrica

The post Uganda’s Mountain Gorilla Trekking: an Unforgettable Adventure of a Lifetime. appeared first on Executive Destinations & Experiences.

Located at the heart of one of Uganda’s tropical rain forests called Kibale National Park, the lodge sits quietly, but in a loud way, sits amongst some of this region’s oldest trees, some as old as 200 years and standing over 55 metres tall.

Chimpundu is a compound term derived from two words: chimp and mpundu (a Runyankore word for chimpanzee). The lodge neatly unfolds in the middle of Kibale National Park staged by the Fort Portal—Kamwenge highway to usher you into a state-of-the-art sanctuary deserving of guests who love tranquillity, nature and luxury in one. 

The lodge is built with such finesse and modelled with a careful finishing that venerates your stay with honour.

The 14 lavish cottages are well spaced, yet so near each other to give off a beautiful feeling of being alone, yet not lonely—a perfect recipe for what a getaway should be. 

The guests get to appreciate the esoteric architectural design of the cottages and the wooden suspended walkways in the forest, which are complemented by the large wooden and other local raw materials furnishings and finishings— a rustic aesthetic and reminder that you are amidst Kibale Forest National Park.

The Park is biologically diverse with over 120 mammals, which include several primate species such as baboons and chimpanzees, as well as elephants and antelopes. The forest and its surroundings also harbour up to 370 species of birds, including 23 that are endemic to this part of the Albertine Rift. 

It is estimated that there are over 1,500 chimpanzees, divided into at least a dozen different communities, four of which are habituated to humans. The Kanyantale community has been subject to daily tourist tracking since 1993.

A combination of a raucous cacophony of singing and chirping birds and the stridulating crickets forms an omnipresent soundtrack to this nature’s movie that is occasionally interrupted by the resident primates, especially chimpanzees and monkeys, each craving for attention.

As the sun sets over the giant trees and night draws, loud silence takes over, punctuated by mood lights that illuminate the suspended wooden walkways, creating an ethereal ambience for just about anything- be it a casual chat by the balcony or a glass of wine or simply cuddling, for romantics.

The rooms are a whole vibe and a whole topic for another day- but words like spacious, warm, cosy and well-appointed, give you an idea of what we are talking about.

At sunrise, a cup of coffee on the balcony immerses you, in this natural and unforgettable feeling of being one with nature. You get to watch sunrays tear through the thick canopies to shine a new light on you. A standalone swimming pool at the corner of the lodge waits to grant you that stretch the body longs for as you sip on a glass of wine from the wide assorted collection at the hotel.

For bird lovers- there is a variety in the natural forest, but you can also get to visit the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. The word bigodi is derived from Rutooro (language) kugodya which means to walk sluggishly—which is what you need to do, to be able to take in the over 138 bird species, which include hornbills, the African pitta and the kingfisher.

A trek in the Kibale National Park will lead you to chimpanzee families as they go about life in the wild- there is over a 90% chance of seeing chimpanzees. On a good day during your nature walk in the park, you will chance upon a forest elephant. Kibale has a few of them and only the lucky ones get to see them.

Chimpundu Lodge is appropriately located- because away from the Kibale Forest National Park, the nearby Kasenda and Kasunganyanja crater lake belts offer up to 50 explosion crater lakes, each of which is beautiful in its way. Other nearby attractions include the Semliki National Park which is famous for the male and female hot springs as well as a lowland tropical forest that hosts 441 recorded bird species and 53 mammals.

For adventure freaks, the Rwenzori Mountains National Park, which is less than a two-hour drive away, is another attraction. The Park is home to the famous Rwenzori Mountains as well as 70 mammals and 217 bird species.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is also a 2-3 hours’ drive away from the Lodge. The park that straddles the equator is home to over 95 mammal species and over 600 bird species.

The Katwe explosion craters as well as Lakes Edward and Lake George, which are connected by the Kazinga Channel are another major attraction in this park. Queen Elizabeth National Park is also popular with big cats and other carnivores- up to 20 species that include lions, leopards, side-stripped jackals, spotted hyenas and lions, including the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha as well.   

To arrange customised staycations and or an adventure/holiday to any part of Uganda or East Africa, reach out to Executive Destinations and Experiences Limited (EDXTravel) today.

Contacts:

Phone: +256 751 395 326/ +256 775 716 808

Email: theexectraveler@gmail.com    

#EDXTravel #TheExecTraveler #AuthenticAfricanTravelExperiences #TakeYourPlaceInTheAfricanSun #1000Reasons2ExploreUganda #ChoicestDestinations #TrustedTravelAdvisors #UnforgettableExperiences #UgandaThePearlOfAfrica

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