Where to sleep in Uganda: the best Camps & Lodges in the Pearl of Africa
Embarking on a luxury safari in Uganda is a dream for many travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of the Pearl of Africa. To make your safari experience truly unforgettable, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 luxury camps and lodges in Uganda, each offering unparalleled comfort, breathtaking views, and exceptional service.
Ndali Lodge, Fort Portal
Nestled in the heart of the Rwenzori Mountains near Fort Portal, Ndali Lodge is a luxurious retreat offering panoramic views of the stunning crater lakes below. Set amidst lush gardens and tea plantations, the lodge features eight spacious cottages adorned with traditional Ugandan decor and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals made from fresh local ingredients, relax by the infinity pool overlooking the crater lakes, or embark on guided nature walks and birding excursions in the surrounding area.
"Ndali Lodge has a very special place in my heart"
— Roos
Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Bwindi
Perched high on a ridge in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to trek through the dense jungle in search of endangered mountain gorillas. The lodge features luxurious cottages with private verandas offering breathtaking views of the forest canopy and distant volcanoes. Guests can unwind by the fireplace in the cozy lounge, indulge in gourmet cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients, and embark on guided gorilla trekking adventures led by experienced trackers.
"The crater lakes around Fort Portal are like something from a fairy tale."
Kyaninga Lodge, Fort Portal
Situated on the edge of an extinct volcanic crater lake, Kyaninga Lodge offers a secluded and tranquil retreat in the heart of Uganda’s Crater Lakes region. The lodge features nine beautifully appointed cottages with private balconies overlooking the shimmering waters of Lake Kyaninga. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals prepared by the lodge’s skilled chefs, relax in the infinity pool overlooking the lake, or embark on guided nature walks and birding excursions in the surrounding area.
Kipling Lodge, Jinja
Located on the banks of the majestic River Nile near Jinja, Kipling Lodge offers a luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The lodge features spacious safari tents and cottages nestled among lush gardens, each elegantly furnished with modern amenities and private verandas overlooking the river. Guests can unwind in the lodge’s infinity pool, savor delicious meals prepared with fresh local ingredients, and participate in a variety of activities including white-water rafting, kayaking, and boat cruises on the Nile. Although Kipling has more of a boutique feel, there is no doubt that it deserves a place among the Best Uganda Luxury Safari Camps & Lodges.
Mihingo Lodge, Lake Mburo National Park
Set on a rocky outcrop overlooking Lake Mburo National Park, Mihingo Lodge offers a unique blend of luxury and adventure in one of Uganda’s most scenic wildlife reserves. The lodge features ten spacious tented rooms built on wooden platforms, each offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Guests can relax in the lodge’s infinity pool, enjoy gourmet meals prepared with organic ingredients from the lodge’s garden, and embark on guided game drives, horseback safaris, and nature walks in the park.
Emburara Farm Lodge, Mbarara
At Emburara Farm Lodge you are invited to experience the life, culture and norms around the beautiful, gentle Ankole cows, so you too can learn why they are so treasured. Besides amenities like swimming, a gym, a fully stocked bar and a fantastic restaurant, Emburara Farm Lodge offers various farm tours.
If you’re heading to the South West of Uganda, don’t miss out on an amazing opportunity to get pampered while discovering how much the Ankole cows are loved by their keepers. Whether you’re coming back from gorilla trekking or a wild and bumpy safari, Emburara Farm Lodge will leave you and the family energized and replenished for the journey back home.
Apoka Safari Lodge, Kidepo Valley National Park
Tucked away in the remote wilderness of Kidepo Valley National Park, Apoka Safari Lodge offers a truly immersive safari experience in one of Uganda’s most untouched and pristine wilderness areas. The lodge features spacious canvas tents and cottages with private verandas overlooking the vast savannah plains and distant mountains. Guests can relax in the lodge’s swimming pool, enjoy gourmet cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients, and embark on guided game drives and nature walks in search of lions, elephants, and other iconic African wildlife.
Ishasha Wilderness Camp, Queen Elizabeth National Park
Located in the remote southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Ishasha Wilderness Camp offers an exclusive and intimate safari experience amidst the park’s famous tree-climbing lions and abundant wildlife. The camp features luxurious tented rooms with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas overlooking the tranquil Ishasha River. Guests can unwind in the camp’s cozy lounge, enjoy delicious meals prepared with fresh local ingredients, and embark on guided game drives and boat safaris in search of tree-climbing lions, hippos, and crocodiles.
Paraa Safari Lodge, Murchison Falls National Park
Situated on the banks of the mighty River Nile in Murchison Falls National Park, Paraa Safari Lodge offers a luxurious retreat in one of Uganda’s most iconic safari destinations. The lodge features spacious rooms and suites with private balconies overlooking the river and distant plains. Guests can relax in the lodge’s swimming pool, enjoy gourmet cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients, and embark on guided game drives, boat safaris, and nature walks in search of elephants, giraffes, and the famous Murchison Falls.
Chameleon Hill Lodge, Lake Mutanda
Perched on a hill overlooking the scenic Lake Mutanda and the Virunga Mountains, Chameleon Hill Lodge offers a unique and colorful safari experience in southwestern Uganda. The lodge features beautifully designed cottages with vibrant decor and private balconies offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding countryside. Guests can relax in the lodge’s cozy lounge, enjoy delicious meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, and embark on guided gorilla trekking adventures in nearby Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
In my travels through Uganda i’ve seen some fantastic and some terrible accommodation. All the camps and lodges in this blog offers an unforgettable hospitality experience in the pearl of Africa, each with their own distinct flavour, charm and vibe. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or the chance to encounter rare and endangered wildlife up close, these top-rated accommodations are sure leave you with memories to last a lifetime.