Paraa Safari Lodge

It might look more hotel than bush lodge, but that also means excellent facilities and Paraa boasts a brilliant bar and ‘Captain’s Table’ restaurant, both with river views, beautifully manicured gardens and (rumour has it) the biggest swimming pool in Uganda. Meals are buffet-style with a good blend of African and International eats and the service is exceptional. And there’s even a swim-up pool bar that serves snacks during the day, should you need something extra to nibble on between game drives.

The bedrooms are spread out over two levels and all have magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows for view gazing over the Nile. Tiled floors keep things cool and brass and teak fixtures are a nod to a bygone safari era. A step up from the Standard rooms, the Suites all have a separate seating area and if you’re with family, the Queen’s Cottage (where the Queen herself actually stayed in 1959) is ideal, with two bedrooms and a living and dining room.

There are plenty of activities to choose from at Paraa and a three-day trip could be as action packed or relaxed as you like. Game drives in the park depart daily at 7am and 4pm. Combine a boat trip to the Falls with a spot of fishing and a walk to the top if you’re feeling adventurous, or even trek Chimpanzee in nearby Kaniyo Pabidi forest.