Buhoma Lodge

Visitors gather in the elevated central area to eat, relax, share adventures and admire the views. The lounge has comfortable seating, invitingly squashy cushions and a stone-walled fireplace; great quality meals (usually a three-course combo of international and locally flavoured cuisine) are served in the dining area; the bar is well stocked and the veranda area has views that go on forever. Cameras can be charged in the main area.

Raised wooden walkways link the main area to eight comfortable cottages showcasing local materials and enchanting decor. Each suite has a private veranda and enormous windows that seem to bring the forest indoors. Inside, all is spacious, with wooden floors, large comfortable beds, colourful accents, a charming en-suite bathroom with flushing toilet and hot shower (some rooms have tubs).

Some 340 gorillas live in the Bwindi forest, 116 of which are habituated and have been given names by the rangers. Among them are silverbacks, which can reach two metres in height! Birding is a treat, with some 350 recorded species, 14 of which occur nowhere else in Uganda. Look out for African green broadbill, Shelley’s crimsonwing, handsome francolin, black and cinnamon-chested bee-eaters, among other favourites. Visit the local village, hike the surroundings and enjoy a massage at the lodge.