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Join us as we unveil the best Maasai Mara lodges and safari camps that promise an unforgettable safari and taste of opulence amid nature’s grandeur. Whether you seek close encounters with the Big 5 or a tranquil retreat, these establishments offer exceptional experiences in one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations.

Mara’s National Reserve vs. Private Conservancies

But first, let’s unravel the wild beauty that defines the Mara ecosystem. While the Maasai Mara National Reserve stands as Kenya‘s foremost wildlife haven, it’s crucial to acknowledge the adjoining private Mara conservancies.

The Maasai Mara National Reserve 

Situated at the very core of the Mara ecosystem, the Maasai Mara National Reserve essentially facilitates the primary routes of the annual Great Wildebeest Migration in Kenya. Its marvellous landscapes, including the Mara, Talek, and Sand Rivers, play a pivotal role in this process.

Staying at Maasai Mara lodges and safari camps within the reserve bestows a substantial advantage upon visitors, especially those seeking to fully immerse themselves in the epicentre of the Great Migration’s thrilling spectacle.

The Mara’s Private Conservancies

However, the private conservancies boast their own unique set of advantages. They strictly limit guest numbers based on tent-to-acre ratios and don’t permit day visitors, creating a very exclusive atmosphere.

Furthermore, the lodges and camps offer a more flexible approach to safari activities – this often allows for closer wildlife encounters and a greater variety of experiences. Staying in a conservancy also allows you the flexibility of making daily visits to the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

1. Bateleur Camp – Maasai Mara National Reserve

Looking for Maasai Mara lodges and safari camps that harken back to the explorers of the 1920s and 1930s? Well, look no further than &Beyond Bateleur Camp. With hardwood floors, leather-buttoned Chesterfield sofas, and polished silver and copper bathtubs, this extraordinary camp offers the perfect blend of luxury and nostalgia.

Why we love it

As drivers of Sustainable Tourism, the camp is deeply committed to its neighbouring communities, actively employing locals and supporting the Africa Foundation in education and healthcare initiatives. They also source the freshest vegetables from their garden and honey from a Maasai women’s group.

Activities

Game drives, bush dining, walking safaris and activities for children. A hot air balloon safari in the Maasai Mara and community excursions can be arranged in advance at an additional cost.

Perfect for

A romantic getaway or families with children (all ages welcome with their WILDchild Programme).

2. Rekero Camp – Maasai Mara National Reserve

If you want to see the world-famous Great Migration in action, we can only rave about the prime position of Rekero Camp! Situated along the Talek River within the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Rekero offers an exclusive vantage point at a key river-crossing point used by wildebeest during their annual migration.

With only a few luxury tents spaced along the river, Rekero Camp ensures an intimate safari experience. The camp’s décor is reminiscent of traditional bush camps, while luxury additions, like a personal butler, elevate your stay.

Why we love it

Rekero Camp is doing good by investing in vulnerable areas, transforming them into sustainable conservation economies that benefit local communities and the environment. They partner with many non-profit organisations such as The Maa Trust and Kenya Wildlife Trust.

Activities

Game drives, Maasai Mara photo safari (with specially modified photographic vehicles). A hot air balloon safari in the Maasai Mara as well as conservation and community excursions can be pre-arranged at an additional cost.

Perfect for

Couples, photographers, enthusiasts of multifaceted-safaris, families with children (five years and older).

3. Naboisho – Mara Naboisho Conservancy

Based in the private Mara Naboisho Conservancy adjacent to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Naboisho Camp is a dream for wildlife enthusiasts yearning for a safari experience that goes beyond game drives. Explore the Mara on foot, test your camera skills on a specialised photographic safari, or even opt for a “fly camping” experience.

With an open-plan design, Naboisho Camp seamlessly integrates with the pristine Mara landscape. Whether you’re in the communal area or relaxing by the pool, you’ll spot abundant wildlife all around.

Why we love it

Naboisho Camp is an Asilia-owned property and a founding member of the non-profit Mara Naboisho Conservancy. As such, Asilia funds the conservancy’s management and Maasai landowners’ leases, supporting the surrounding ecosystems and communities.

Activities

Game drives, guided walks and activities for children. Maasai Mara photo safari (with modified vehicles), hot air balloon safaris, community excursions, and fly camping can be pre-arranged at an additional cost.

Perfect for

Couples, photographers, enthusiasts of multifaceted-safaris, families with children (five years and older).

4. Elephant Pepper Camp – Mara North Conservancy

Set in a forest of elephant pepper trees in the Mara North Conservancy, Elephant Pepper Camp boasts stunning views over the Mara plains where large herds of plains game, big cats, and elephants roam. It’s perfectly located for those wanting to witness the Great Migration river crossings, as the camp’s guides know all the best viewing spots.

As one of the original safari lodges in the protected Mara North Conservancy, Elephant Pepper Camp retains a classic safari feel. Did we mention that it’s far away from other lodges? So, you can enjoy the ultimate setting of solitude.

Why we love it

Elephant Pepper Camp holds a prestigious “Gold Level” Eco Rating from Eco Tourism Kenya. It combines traditional safari expertise with cutting-edge tech for minimal environmental impact. Moreover, its removable tents run solely on solar power and LED lighting. Certainly an inspiration for other Maasai Mara lodges!

Activities

Game drives, guided walks, bush dining. Community excursions can be pre-arranged and at an additional cost. 

Perfect for

Honeymooners, couples, and families with children (all ages welcome).

5. Sala’s Camp – Maasai Mara National Reserve

Sala’s Camp boasts one of the Maasai Mara National Reserve’s prime locations, nestled along the tree-lined banks of the Sand River at the southern tip of the reserve. Less than two kilometres from the border of Tanzania, it offers splendid wilderness vistas and distant views of the Serengeti National Park.

The camp harmoniously merges the timeless allure of a classic “under canvas” safari with contemporary luxuries, offering private plunge pools and elegantly designed glass-fronted tents. 

Why we love it

Sala’s Camp, under The Safari Collection’s stewardship, actively champions many initiatives in Kenya, spanning conservation, healthcare, and education. These endeavours directly protect animals in the Maasai Mara, preserve the wilderness, and empower local communities.

Activities

Game drives, guided walks, bush dining, activities for children, and riverbed games (dry season only). A hot air balloon safari in the Maasai Mara can be pre-arranged at an additional cost.

Perfect for

Honeymooners, couples, groups of friends, and families with children (all ages welcome).

6. Mahali Mzuri – Olare Motorogi Conservancy

Are you interested in Maasai Mara lodges with a view? Well, Mahali Mzuri, Swahili for “beautiful place”, perfectly encapsulates what Sir Richard Branson has crafted in his luxurious tented safari camp. Elegantly arched canvas canopies adorn the border of a lush valley cascading onto rolling plains, blending with the Olare Motorogi Conservancy.

The region is famous for its rich wildlife and diverse bird species. Moreover, the annual Great Migration ushers in up to two million wildebeest, along with gazelles and zebras, into the conservancy anywhere between July and October. 

Why we love it

Mahali Mzuri proudly partners with Pack for a Purpose to support the Enkenju – Enkoirien Primary School, located 4km away, housing 120 students. Donations have provided essentials like solar lights, computers, and printers, while local communities and guests have contributed stationery, books and dictionaries.

Activities

Game drives, bush dining and activities for children. Community excursions can be pre-arranged and at an additional cost. 

Perfect for

Romantic getaways, groups of friends, and families with children (two years and older).

7. Angama Mara – Maasai Mara National Reserve

Angama Mara is built on the same site where many of the iconic “Out of Africa” scenes were filmed. Inspired by the Swahili word for “suspended in mid-air”, it stands high above Africa’s Great Rift Valley floor and offers panoramic views that extend as far as the eye can see over the Maasai Mara, 300 metres below.

Designed to celebrate the golden age of safaris, each of Angama’s spacious tented suites has floor-to-ceiling glass spanning all along the front so you get the full effect of the dramatic views.

Why we love it

Angama Mara is built upon a core principle of running a successful enterprise to create a profound and enduring positive impact on the neighbouring communities, the surrounding wildlife and land. Therefore, when you choose Angama, you actively contribute to the region’s education, healthcare, and conservation efforts.

Activities

Game drives, Maasai guided walks, photographic studio, beading studio, Shamba (vegetable garden) visits, and activities for children. A hot air balloon safari in the Maasai Mara and the “run with a Kenyan experience” can be arranged in advance at an additional cost.

Perfect for

Romantic getaways, photographers, enthusiasts of multifaceted safaris, fitness fanatics, and families with children (six years and older).

8. Mara Plains Camp – Olare Motorogi Conservancy

Mara Plains Camp, one of Kenya’s rare Relais & Châteaux establishments, is ensconced within a verdant forest along the meandering Ntiakitiak River. It flawlessly blends with the natural beauty of the ecosystem, offering expansive views of the plains and a thoughtful placement within the riverine forest.

Every guest suite comes with a complimentary set of professional cameras and lenses, plus a high-quality pair of binoculars. This ensures that you’ll have the perfect tools to witness and capture the region’s remarkable wildlife.

Why we love it

The camp’s conservation education initiatives actively involve local youth, introducing them to the wonders of their natural surroundings. This fosters a deep appreciation for their unique ecosystems, nurturing generations of passionate conservation advocates. 

Activities

Game drives and activities for children. Cultural experiences and hot air balloon safaris can be pre-arranged at an additional cost. 

Perfect for

Romantic getaways, those eager to get into photography, families with children (eight years and older).

Your Maasai Mara Adventure Awaits!

Whether you seek a front-row seat to the Great Migration or a relaxing retreat in the heart of the wilderness, our selection of the best Maasai Mara lodges and safari camps promises exciting wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and warm Maasai hospitality. 

So, start planning today and immerse yourself in the wonders of the Mara.

Featured Image Credit: Elewana Collection

East Africa continues to captivate travellers from around the world with its extraordinary blend of wildlife, vast landscapes, and vibrant cultures. From witnessing the epic Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti to gorilla trekking in Rwanda and lazing on powdery beaches in Zanzibar, get a glimpse into Africa’s untamed wonder in this guide to East Africa in pictures.

1

The primary hunters in the pride, lionesses are all about teamwork! They will hunt for food and rear their cubs together, with the little ones suckling milk from any of the pride’s moms. To catch a glimpse of these majestic cats up close, East Africa offers some of the best safari experiences on the continent.

2

What better way to soak up the scenery than with a hot air balloon safari? For spectacular sunrise views and sightings of rhinos, elephants, hippos, giraffes, and even crocodiles, this unforgettable experience is a must on your itinerary when travelling to Kenya.

3

Being the fastest land animal, it comes as no surprise that cheetahs need a lot of space. Unfortunately, due to human expansion, their shrinking habitat has led to a steep decline in the number of cheetahs left in the wild. Today, various reserves and initiatives in East Africa are working to prevent their extinction.

4

Watch the day fade into night as East Africa’s nocturnal animals come out to hunt and play in the moonlight. This is your chance to spot animals hardly ever seen in daytime, like aardvarks and bush babies, while you catch a glimpse of lions and leopards hunting silently in the shadows.

5

Kenya’s largest city and capital, Nairobi, is home to the Nairobi National Park, boasting not only an elephant sanctuary but also the largest number of black rhinos anywhere in the world. Nowhere else will you embark on an authentic wildlife safari set against a backdrop of city skyscrapers.

6

Called the “Home of the African Elephant”, Amboseli National Park is also where you’ll find the highest peak in Africa, namely the magnificent snow-capped Kilimanjaro. Offering a diverse range of wildlife and birds while arguably the best place to spot elephants in all of East Africa, what’s to stop you from paying a visit to this iconic wildlife paradise?

7

As millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores traverse the vast plains of the Maasai Mara in Kenya, desperate herds plunge into the raging waters of the Mara River, braving not only the powerful currents but the crocodiles lurking beneath the surface in a thrilling display of survival and determination.

8

After witnessing the awe-inspiring sights of the Great Migration, venture into the lush rainforests of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park to come face to face with some of the last remaining mountain gorillas on our planet. The deep love and bond between gorilla family members will make your heart leap.

9

After only a short flight or ferry ride from Tanzania’s mainland, you can reach the island of Unguja (Zanzibar). Picture pristine beaches, clear ocean waters, and vibrant cultures. Plus, you can savour tantalising seafood and unwind in paradise-like resorts for a touch of tropical bliss to your East African adventure.

10

Lake Nakuru is a mesmerising haven for flamingos, as thousands of these elegant-looking birds flock to its shores during the dry season in search of food. The sight of the vibrant pink hues against the shimmering lake creates a spectacle that enchants nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

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As the golden light of the African sunset bathes the savannah, the wildlife awakens, creating a symphony of sights and sounds, where lions prowl, and giraffes’ silhouettes are seen against the horizon, with herds of elephants traversing the grasslands, offering a truly magical safari adventure.

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From scenic hiking trails to lush parks and gardens, Kigali provides a perfect balance of urban charm and serene natural settings. Visitors are thrilled to be able to connect with Rwanda’s breathtaking environment, all while enjoying the vibrant capital.

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Amidst the vast stretches of Kenya and Tanzania, you can find the Maasai people showcasing their vibrant customs, colourful attire, and unique way of life. Be sure to visit a Maasai village to gain a deeper understanding of their captivating traditions that have endured for generations.

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Witness the epic journey of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles as they cross the savannah in search of greener pastures. This mesmerising spectacle offers a thrilling safari experience, leaving you in awe of the Serengeti’s remarkable biodiversity.

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Amidst the rolling hills, tea plantations flourish in Rwanda’s volcanic soil conditions. Discover the intricate process of tea cultivation, indulge in the aromatic flavours of locally grown tea leaves, and lose yourself in the serenity that Rwanda’s nature offers.

It’s Your Turn to Experience East Africa

Does the thought of being enveloped in the vast stretches of the African savannah or rainforests excite you? Contact our East African Travel Experts, and let’s start planning your tailor-made itinerary!

Featured Image: Governors’ Camp

Are you dreaming of jungle and ocean safaris? Ready to channel your inner Tarzan or Jane and go gorilla trekking through the wild rainforests? Or do you want to dive into warm waves to explore the kaleidoscopic, mysterious underwater world? Well, why choose when in Africa, you can have both! We share our personal favourite jungle and ocean safaris hand-picked by our Travel Experts.

An Unusual But Winning Match

Some of life’s greatest matches are unlikely pairs, like peanut butter and jelly, bacon and banana, and jungle and ocean safaris. And in East Africa, you can easily combine the two. 

From gorilla trekking in Rwanda, followed by swimming in predator-free Lake Kivu found in the same country, to Uganda and the Republic of Congo primate trekking before jumping over to Tanzania‘s shores to visit Zanzibar, a chain of islands in the warm Indian Ocean, your jungle and ocean safari awaits! 

It’s a Jungle out There – The Best Kind

Imagine trekking up steep emerald forested hills, smelling the wet soil, hearing a symphony of bird songs, watching butterfly wings flapping overhead, and anticipation building in you of what will await when you break through the bushes. This is Africa, where any wild thing could greet you…Here are the best places for trekking through rainforests that will easily combine with beachside relaxation.

Gorilla Trekking in East Africa

Gorilla trekking in East Africa is one of our favourite things to do on our continent – no, scrap that – in the world! It’s a truly exclusive experience few are ever privy to enjoy. There are only a handful of places to still see the mountain gorilla in its natural habitat, all of which are found in East Africa. 

With only around 900 of these animals left on Earth, it’s also very important that we protect the species. And you get to contribute to that when you go gorilla trekking as you’ll have to buy a permit, with those proceeds directly going to safeguarding these remarkable primates.

Remarkable Rwanda

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is one of our top destinations to recommend to our guests if they want a gorilla trekking adventure. It offers the most accessible trekking opportunities, plus you can combine it with a lakeside stay…more on that later. 

It’s also famous for being where Dian Fossey studied the endangered mountain gorilla and their human-like behaviour for 20 years. Later, this is also where “Gorillas in the Mist” was filmed. And still today, many celebrities flock to this unique slice of Africa to admire the primates, including Ellen DeGeneres, whose wife, Portia de Rossi, opened the Ellen DeGeneres Campus in Rwanda as a birthday gift for Ellen, which works to further protect the primates. 

There are so many luxury lodges to choose from, and many of them offer incredible wellness experiences as a cherry on top of an already unbelievable holiday.

Highlights 

• Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
• Visit Nyungwe Forest National Park, where you can also see the chimpanzee and other primate species
• Coffee and tea tastings and tours in the plantations 
• Wellness experiences at luxury lodges
• The capital Kigali is one of the safest and cleanest African cities, with lots to see and do 

Utopian Uganda 

Nicknamed the “Pearl of Africa”, Uganda is not as popular as Rwanda yet, but one of our favourite best-kept secrets. The country shelters half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, allowing you to meet them and chimpanzees face to face.

Plus, you can see other remarkable creatures here, like elephants, unique tree-climbing lions, over 350 bird species, bushbuck, African golden cats, giant forest hogs, and more.

There’s also a lot of sightseeing and activities you can enjoy, from game drives to white water rafting.

Highlights

• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
• Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park
• Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, including seeing the famous tree-climbing lions
• Visit the beautiful Murchison Falls
• The Mountains of the Moon and visiting the source of the Nile River in Jinja, where you can enjoy water activities like white water rafting

Captivating Republic of Congo

The Republic of Congo is lesser known among international tourists when compared to Rwanda and Uganda However, it’s got so much to offer! Firstly, you can see the critically endangered western lowland gorilla here. It’s also home to the second-largest rainforest in the world after the Amazon! 

You can go gorilla trekking in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park, a recognised UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve. Here, you can see Central Africa’s biggest elephant population, over 400 bird species, forest buffalo, chimpanzees, and mangabey. In fact, there are more than 16 primate species living here! The plant life is also remarkable, with an impressive 4,400 plant species growing in the park.

For your dose of culture, visit the capital city, Brazzaville. Set on the banks of the Congo River, it has a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere with plenty of architecture, markets, and more to peruse.

Highlights 

• Here you’ll find the second-largest rainforest in the whole world 
• Explore the culturally-rich Brazzaville, the capital city, set on the banks of the Congo River
• Odzala-Kokoua National Park offers plenty of wildlife-viewing activities like gorilla trekking, day and night game drives, boat safaris and forest walks
• Unique opportunity to see the critically endangered western lowland gorilla
• The Odzala-Kokoua National Park is a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve

From Trekking to Tanning in East Africa

As much as we love adventure, we also like to relax. It’s your holiday, after all! Well, in many of East Africa’s top destinations, it’s easy for us to tailor-make a tour that combines a gorilla trekking experience in the jungle with a tranquil lake- or beachside breakaway. 

Lake Kivu, Rwanda 

Rwanda‘s biggest lake, and sixth largest globally, Lake Kivu, is unexpectedly located in this jungle destination. With sandy shores and waters that are safe to swim in – free from crocodiles and hippos – it’s the perfect destination for some downtime after your gorilla trekking experience. 

The lakeside town of Rubavu is super close to Volcanoes National Park, only about an hour’s drive, so you don’t need to sacrifice more time to travel. You can expect a vibey atmosphere with many hotels, bars, and more to explore.

You can go kayaking on the river, hiking or mountain biking in the area, or simply lounge in the sun while sipping on a cocktail (or two!). 

Highlights

• Known as one of the most beautiful lakes in Central Africa
• Easy lakeside add-on to your gorilla trekking experience
• Predator-free waters perfect for swimming
• Many water- and land-based activities, or you can simply relax on the beach
• Lots of hotels, restaurants and trendy bars to explore

Zanzibar, Tanzania 

Ah, Zanzibar. A chain of islands famous for its seaside resorts and ancient architecture, we love the combination of culture and slow-living island life it offers. Fun fact, Freddy Mercury was born here in the capital Stone Town. 

It baffles many of our guests when they find out that this paradise exists in East Africa. Plus, personally, we think it offers a better experience than the Mediterranean! Especially, if you love a quieter cultural beach escape. Picture swathes of talcum sand lapped by the warm Indian Ocean, with traditional dhow sailboats floating serenely in the distance. The culture is also a fascinating mix of Arab and Swahili influences. 

It’s the perfect add-on to your gorilla trekking experience. And while you’re at it, why not add a Great Migration safari (seasonal) in Tanzania‘s Serengeti National Park?

Highlights

• Stone Town is a cultural hub featuring Indo-Arabian architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site 
• Forodhani Gardens’ night market and delicious local and fresh seafood 
• Located only 40 km from Tanzania’s mainland, making it very accessible 
• Plenty of spectacular beaches and resorts 
• Jozani Forest trails 

Lamu Island, Kenya

A culturally and historically rich part of Kenya, Lamu Island is also home to incredible beach-front accommodation, offering barefoot luxury in combination with your East Africa gorilla trekking and safari adventure. 

We recommend you add a stop-over in Maasai Mara National Reserve for a Great Migration safari (seasonal) while you’re here as well. 

Whether you’re learning more about the history and culture,  sailing in a traditional dhow boat, snorkelling, or simply lazing on the beach, it’s the perfect laidback ending to your African holiday. 

Highlights

• Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was given this title because it has the best-preserved Swahili settlements in East Africa 
• Shela is a popular tourist beachside destination
• Sailing on a traditional dhow boat 
• Plenty of watersports to enjoy 
• Unique architecture, tombs and mosques to see 

Let’s Plan Your Jungle and Ocean Safaris Today 

Ready to experience the best of both worlds? Our jungle and ocean safaris will tick every box! Whatever combination you prefer, you can take your pick! Because in Africa, anything’s possible. Contact our Travel Experts today, and let’s start planning! 

Uganda is a place where achingly beautiful views and warm-hearted friendliness win the day. We love this often underrated destination, and as the World’s Leading Safari Company, we’ve listed our top 10 lodges in Uganda for you. All feature incredible settings, plenty of activities and the infectious charm of your gracious hosts. Here’s where to go for your next adventure…

Our top 10 list takes you from the gorillas of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha to the big game of Kasenyi Plains to beautiful rivers and exhilarating forests. Hop aboard this virtual tour of the best safari, gorilla trekking and luxury lodges in Uganda. Our bet is you’ll want to board an actual plane immediately after.

1. Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp

Deep inside the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp is enveloped by ancient rainforest, mist-filled valleys and primordial tranquillity. As the name subtly implies, this is one of the best-located luxury lodges in Uganda for your gorilla trekking experience.

But even if you aren’t here for the gorillas (they might come to you anyways), it’s an exciting and romantic stay in the middle of a rainforest. Teeming with life, here you’ll find 11 other primates, including colobus and chimpanzee, as well as forest elephants, giant forest hogs, 200 butterfly species, and 350 bird species. As a result, the forest and village walks alone will be a highlight! 

Highlights

• Enormous tented suites provide just the right blend of luxury and adventure 
• Get your boots on for gorilla trekking, community walks, forest walks, birding walks
• Inside the national park, for convenient access to your trek start, gorillas even come past the lodge
• Wonderful forest spa for post-trekking recovery

Who’s it for?

The gorillas being the show-stealing highlight, this is the perfect lodge for your gorilla trekking experience. It’s also perfect for family holidays if your children are six years and older.

2. Ndali Lodge

On the edge of Kibale Forest National Park, Ndali is your ideal base camp for a primate safari. With its homegrown goodness, intimate and warm service and huge thatched cottages, Ndali has long been one of our favourite lodges in Uganda. 

The lodge has a sublime view with a beautiful crater lake below leading to rolling forest-covered hills dotted with plantations and the Rwenzori Mountain range framing it all. Kibale National Park has 13 primate species and offers full-day chimpanzee trekking opportunities. Safari highlights, in addition to the primates include incredible birdlife, butterflies, forest wildlife, estate walks, lake and river activities and community interactions.

Highlights

• Ugandan charm in a colonial-style country lodge
• A sublime setting above a beautiful crater lake with mountains beyond mountains
• Strong community involvement with the opportunity to participate and learn
• Unique nature experiences in Kibale Forest National Park, Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary and the grounds themselves

Who’s it for?

The lodge itself is pure delight and tranquility in a magical setting. Therefore, it’s perfect for rejuvenation, relaxation, romance, family fun and group celebrations. Children of all ages are welcome, which is quite rare among the remote safari lodges of Uganda.

3. The Gorilla Resort

Minutes from the briefing point of your gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, The Gorilla Resort is a delightfully authentic Ugandan experience. Large en-suite safari tents jut out from the hillside on wooden platforms, and the view of the forested mountains is marvellous. 

The living area features a convivial bar, restaurant and elevated campfire. This rustic tented camp offers all the comfort after a hard day’s trek into the mountains. Accommodating staff, hearty food, comfortable beds and piping hot water – The Gorilla Resort is your home away from home.

Highlights

• Activities other than gorilla trekking include waterfall trail walks, bird watching, game drives in Ishaha, cultural visits, guided bush walks, and sundowners at the lodge
• Convenient location near the gorilla trekking meet-up point
• Sweeping views of the forested mountains from everywhere
• Charming and friendly service

Who’s it for?

Ideal for families, couples and solo travellers on a quest to see the gorillas. The fantastic views and delightful Ugandan hospitality add significant value.

4. Kasenyi Safari Camp

Kasenyi Safari Camp is a charming and comfortable safari experience inside Queen Elizabeth National Park – Uganda’s flagship classic savannah wildlife haven. This intimate safari lodge is renowned for friendly, personal service and is one of our favourite lodges in Uganda. 

With an elevated position above a salt lake, the view from your dance-hall-size suite is a constant reminder of your glorious setting. The game-filled plains, gigantic lakes and rivers, and mountainous backdrop make Queen Elizabeth National Park a wonderful place to explore. And explore you will, with day and night game drives, river safaris, bush walks, birding and cultural tours.

Highlights

• Enormous tented suites under thatch with elevated views of the savannah
• Superb range of activities and incredible diversity of wildlife, including the Big 5
• Charming communal living area with a large verandah with a view of the lake below
• The friendly, warm and hospitable staff, who are especially good with children

Who’s it for?

Safari lodges need not be dramatic extravaganzas. That’s best left to the wildlife. And here, the wildlife is exceptional. Kasenyi Safari Camp provides a comfortable base with an excellent range of activities for families, couples and individual travellers.

5. Primate Lodge

Safaris in Uganda’s forests are active and adventurous affairs. You will be trekking through the jungle and seeking out the many primates, birds and forest animals – an exhilarating workout. Primate Lodge, on the edge of the Kibale Forest National Park, is one of those lodges in Uganda you’ll be grateful for at the end of such a long day’s adventuring.

It’s got the post-trekking essentials well covered, from enormous beds, sofas, loungers, hot baths and showers, fantastic feasts, and a convivial campfire to enjoy with equally satiated forest explorers. This is the quintessential Ugandan primate safari experience, and what better place to base yourself than Primate Lodge?

Highlights

• True to name, this place is excellent for primate safaris in the Kibale Forest National Park
• Huge, elegant rooms and tents with touches of Ugandan charm
• Eco-camp run entirely on solar power and wood-fired boilers
• Fantastic setting in the forest and frequent encounters with its fascinating inhabitants

Who’s it for?

Primate Lodge is a delightfully unpretentious safari lodge ideal for just about everyone visiting Uganda. The primates, birds, butterflies and forest dwellers will enthral anyone with the slightest interest in nature and scenery.

6. Kyambura Gorge Lodge

The suites, called bandas in Uganda, at Kyambura Gorge Lodge are enormous, light and tastefully decorated. And the view from your private verandah is the stuff of legend. The savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park roll out below your vantage point to the blue-grey Rwenzori Mountain range far in the distance. 

The main living area is a converted coffee store with an inviting wrap-around balcony and yet more light and tasteful décor. But it’s the exceptional service that makes Kyambura Gorge Lodge one of the highest-rated lodges in Uganda. Your personal attendants ensure your hot bath is drawn when you return and your boots scrubbed and ready for another adventure. The food is fresh, wholesome and hearty and the campfire is a great place to enjoy an evening with your fellow explorers.

Highlights

• Chimpanzee trekking, birding, game drives, river safaris and sustainable eco-tourism projects
• Sensational views of the gorge, the acacia-dotted savannah plains and the blue-grey Rwenzori Mountains
• Attentive butler service and a great swimming pool and spa
• Enormous, elegant suites with a quirky design

Who’s it for?

Kyambura Gorge Lodge is a beautiful eco lodge where you can enjoy a safari that makes a big difference to the community and the conservation. It’s also great for couples and individuals who want a safari with a spa, a variety of activities, friendly service and a magnificent view.

7. Ishasha Wilderness Camp

The Ishasha Sector of Uganda’s Big 5 Queen Elizabeth National Park is a famous lion territory. And not just any lions but tree-climbing lions, lolling in the branches of a wild fig tree or under it. The area is also famous for its other big game, chimpanzee trekking, birding, river safaris and cultural riches. 

And if there’s one feature most lodges in Uganda share, it’s their sensational settings. Ishasha Wilderness Camp lines the beautiful Ntungwe River, a magnet for elephants, buffalo, a variety of monkeys and plains game that pass through the unfenced safari camp.

Highlights

• Beautiful setting on the Ntungwe River in the predator-rich Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Big game safaris with various activities, including day and night game drives, chimpanzee trekking, river safaris, cultural tours and guided birding walks
• Large, light and airy tented suites with private balconies
• Wildlife roams through the camp with frequent elephant visits to the river

Who’s it for?

Perfect for couples, families and solo travellers who want a classic African safari with a touch of luxury for good measure. Ishasha Wilderness Camp is a wonderful family camp welcoming children of all ages.

8. Buhoma Lodge

One of the few lodges in Uganda inside a national park, Buhoma Lodge combines exclusivity, convenience and a stunningly beautiful setting. And the service is welcoming and obliging, with laundry and boot cleaning, and a massage all included in your rate.

Enormous tree houses peek through the forest canopy to misty valleys and verdant hillsides. Furthermore, the lodge is mere minutes from the gorilla trekking meeting point at the Buhoma entrance to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. But that’s not all. The lodge’s extensive community projects invite you to participate and interact with the Ugandan villagers. Plus, they offer scenic guided forest walks filled with birds, butterflies and just a little bit of magic.

Highlights

• Dramatic and exciting treehouse chalets surrounded by forest and mountain views
• Beautiful forest setting with a spa and a large open-sided living area
• Inside the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, making it an ideal base for gorilla trekking and other activities
• Cosy eco lodge with solar power, gravity-fed water, wood-fired boilers and community-sourced supplies and furnishings

Who’s it for?

The main attraction is the gorillas, but you and your family will enjoy the forest with several additional activities. It’s a great family option welcoming children of all ages. And of course, the sublime setting is just made for romantic sojourns. Solo trekkers will appreciate the personal and friendly service (and the post-trekking spa treatment).

9. Lemala Wildwaters Lodge

The most dramatic of all luxury lodges in Uganda, Wildwaters Lodge sits on an island in the middle of the River Nile. Powerful rapids swirl around and under you creating a heady mood full of romantic seclusion and exciting adventure. Palatial thatched cottages line the island’s forested edges each with glorious private decks and open-air bathtubs. Elevated walkways lead to the main lodge where a swimming pool hovers over the rushing water and smiling waiters attend to your every comfort. Come for the river adventure or come for pure relaxation. Wildwaters Lodge is the a dramatic and exciting base for both.

Highlights

• Beautiful, spacious and well-appointed suites 
• Incredible birdlife and adventurous water activities
• Spa with a difference accompanied by the calming sounds of the rushing river
• Dramatic and exciting setting on an island engulfed by the white water rapids at the source of the Nile

Who’s it for?

An exciting addition to the serene forest and safari lodges elsewhere in Uganda, Wildwaters Lodge offers a great combo of luxury and adventure for couples and solo travellers.

10. Hotel No. 5

Exploring the top lodges in Uganda, we’d be remiss to leave out an exciting day or two in the country’s capital city. Hotel No. 5 is a charming boutique hotel in a quiet suburb of Entebbe on the outskirts of Kampala, Uganda’s capital. 

This hotel features a variety of room options with everything you could need, and there’s an onsite restaurant. The large swimming pool and spa offer just the right tonic after a long flight or a long and active Ugandan safari that inevitably involves a lot of walking and a lot of fun.

Highlights

• Large and inviting swimming pool with pizzeria
• Convenient city hotel near the airport
• Small and intimate with amiable staff
• Facilities include a fine dining restaurant, spa, gym and private villa

Who’s it for?

Minutes from the airport, Hotel No. 5 is a comfortable, convenient and welcoming place to stay for anyone. Ideal for the start or end of your Uganda tour, this hotel will suit couples, individuals, families and groups looking for a luxurious restoration of body and mind.

Ready to Book Your Safari in Uganda?

Tracking and observing Uganda’s gorillas is, beyond a doubt, a life-changing experience. In addition, Uganda has so much more to offer, including big game safaris, chimpanzee and primate tracking, birding, river safaris, hikes in the mountains and plenty of deep cultural immersion. 

Contact Rhino Africa, your Uganda specialists, for a tailor-made itinerary that takes you into the heart and soul of this heart-warming and soulful African country.