Gorilla Safari Lodge

The spacious main area has a traditional thatched roof, wooden floors and loads of tall windows which overlook the forest. There is a comfortable seating area with wicker furniture and earth-toned cushions, and a bar with rustic wooden furnishings where you can order a G'nT or a local brew. The restaurant serves up some hearty home-cooked fare. There's perhaps not as much outdoor seating as one would like but the main area is well protected from the elements - it is a rain-forest, after all.

The lodge is comprised of eight cottages, two of which are family units with two double rooms. All cottages have spacious bedrooms with a double bed - draped with mosquito net - a small sitting area and a lovely veranda with views across the treetops. They are appointed with ensuite bathrooms with showers and flush toilets and hot water (though this is the jungle and don't be surprised if everything is not in perfect running order).

The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the most biologically diverse areas on the planet, recognised by by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It boasts half the world's population of endangered mountain gorillas, the primary draw of tourism in the region. It is important to be conscious of the tumultuous social and political backdrop of this country, and to recognise that your tourism dollars are promoting the preservation of wilderness areas in this beautiful but once war-torn country, as well as upholding communities that have been personally affected by this trauma. That said, trekking fees are extremely high, with permits costing 500 USD per person, per day. From the lodge other activities can be arranged: guided community visits, forest and bird-focused walks. Trekking isn't easy so be sure you're physically fit and prepared with rain gear, good hiking boots and insect spray. Children under 15 are not permitted to track the gorillas.