Mahogany Spring lies in a fairytale setting. Set in lovely gardens on the slopes above the tumbling waters of the Munyanga River and facing the aptly named Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to half the world’s endangered mountain gorillas, it's one of the nicest places to stay for gorilla treks. There's a real warmth here, and the staff and manager make sure that you have everything you require. Expect privacy, serene surroundings, clean comfort, good food and treks to remember forever.
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.
The views are stellar but it's the little details that really make Mahogany Springs special, including gorilla-themed poems and heating pads at bed time.
Bwindi isn't just about gorillas - it's also a trove of incredible birdlife. Look out for short-tailed warblers, Gruel’s rush warblers, Wilcock’s honeyguides, the Kivu ground thrush, dusky crimsonwings - and more!
Pack very carefully for your visit as the gorilla trek is no walk in the park - and never turn down the complimentary boot-cleaning service.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
13 nights from $8.5K per person
15 nights from $10.6K per person
12 nights from $8.7K per person
9 nights from $8.4K per person
10 nights from $10.7K per person
9 nights from $11.4K per person
A tangle of lush green vines, this magical forest is the country’s top gorilla trekking destination.
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