Arcadia Cottages Mburo

Linked to the cottages by sandy tracks, the main lodge building is a double-storeyed A-frame wooden structure. At its hub is a small bar, with the day's menu written up on a chalkboard nearby (the meals, served in the lower dining area, are fresh and good). Everything is simple, but neat and comfortable. Upstairs, a large open lounge and deck offer stunning views of the bushveld below and the lake – the ultimate sundowner spot if ever there was one.

Eight quirky cottages, built from concrete artfully decorated to resemble wooden logs, are spread out along the property. Each is self-contained and spacious, and simply furnished with large (non-sagging!) beds and fresh linen, mosquito nets, a clean en-suite bathroom with shower, a flashlight and a lantern. There is a little private balcony with seating from which you can spot any passing wildlife. Wait for the generator to be switched on for electricity for the hot showers!

This is the ideal base from which to explore the park, and getting an early start is easy as the camp lies close to the park office. You can opt for either a walking tour (unique in Uganda) or a 4x4 safari, and expect to see the famous Burchell's zebra, eland, hippo, impala, crocodile, leopard and lion, which have recently returned to this sanctuary. The area is also fantastic for birdwatching and boat trips on the lake.