Mahogany Springs Lodge

The communal area is a welcoming place to gather and share adventures. It's a huge, double-volume space under thatch, with wraparound terraces overlooking the forested hills and the river. Take breakfast on the terrace and other meals inside the restaurant or on the terrace (the food is among the best in Uganda). There's a well-stocked bar, a sitting area with a fireplace and plenty of books, DVDs and board games to while away quiet times, and a shop. WiFi available.

Each of the eight spacious stone cottages has wide double doors, large windows that allow you feel at one with the forest, and a balcony overlooking the valley. Suites have hardwood floors, simple beds with good linens and mosquito nets, a writing desk and an en-suite bathroom with mosaic-tiled showers. The cottages are simple but super clean and very comfortable. In August 2024, they will be opening two new family villas.

Spend an hour with the gorillas, take a birdwatching tour (guaranteed to be successful) or hike the trails to see waterfalls and examine the small creatures and rainforest vegetation. Plant a tree in the garden to offset the carbon generated by your visit (arrange when booking), let head chef Subedi show you the gardens and meet the local Batwa people. On your return, the lodge's cat William will happily purr and curl on your lap, if you allow him to.