Kyaninga Lodge

As you crest the hill approaching the lodge, the main building, with its unusual design, is immediately apparent. Inside, inviting seating areas are arranged around a double-sided fireplace, and the restaurant has stunning views. Kyaninga's kitchen staff have been trained by an international chef, and the food is a truly delicious combination of European and local cuisine. Two raised galleries offer private views and, outside, the pool is reached via steps from two decks. Wi-Fi is available.

Linked to the main building via a raised wooden walkway are eight cottages, built on platforms and set apart to offer privacy. Each cottage is spacious, furnished with deeply comfortable beds and good linens and an en-suite bathroom with luxurious fittings, including a freestanding bath, shower and plenty of solar-heated hot water. An indoor sitting area leads out to a private deck overlooking the lake and the Mountains of the Moon. There's an electrical socket to charge your electronic appliances.

Swim in the lake or visit Kibale National Park, less than an hour away and one of Africa’s premier destinations for chimpanzee-tracking tours. (Look out for rare red colobus and L’Hoest monkeys too.) Some 300 species of birds live in the park's rainforest, and you may be lucky enough to see rare forest elephant, giant forest hog, and even leopard. The lodge is closely involved with the local communities, from whom the staff is employed and wooden furniture is commissioned.