A world of rustic elegance awaits at Uganda's Wildwaters Lodge. The lodge is, in fact, perched on an island in the middle of the mighty River Nile, and as soon as you've hopped in your canoe to paddle across, you'll enter a magical world of racing water, emerald-green forests and twittering birds. Walk among the trees, and look out for an otter or giant monitor lizard, or take a dip in the natural pool and listen to the cries of the African fish eagle overhead. And when you can drag yourself away, some of the best watersports and white water rafting in the world await...
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After an exhilarating day on the rapids, head back to the lodge and float in the natural swimming pool, carved from pink granite, and watch the river go by. Or, if you've had enough water for one day, head into the main lodge with its spacious thatched lounge and comfortable library, and sink into one of the squashy armchairs. Once ready, step out onto the dining area to enjoy a delicious five-course dinner under the romantic light of the twinkling lanterns.
Each of the nine wood, canvas and stone rooms are set among the trees, with beautiful views across the forest and Kalagala Falls. In each, you'll find a large bed draped in white linen and a queen-size day bed for ultimate river-gazing. The en-suite bathrooms have powerful rain showers and plenty of hot water, and outside, there's a private balcony overlooking the Nile. Enjoy evenings sitting in the armchairs with your favourite book, or soak in the outdoor tub and count the stars.
There's a whole menu of tempting and thrilling activities on offer - and some calmer ones too. Enjoy rafting or white water kayaking down the legendary rapids, or float down the smaller rapids with the family in tow. There's also a kayak cruise amongst the jungle, and a SUP tour through the islands enjoying the birdlife if you're looking for something more gentle. On the opposite end of the spectrum, bungee options range from tandem jumps, water touches, and full-moon jumps. Wow!
The lodge truly is a water-lover's dream and everything from whitewater rafting and kayaking, SUP tours, family floats, and bungee jumping into the water are on the menu.
At the end of a long day in (or on!) the water, watch the sunset from the bubbles of the claw-foot bath tub outside your room. And relax...
The lodge is only accessible by boat and guests typically travel to a designated point on the mainland, then take a boat transfer to the island. It's essential to arrive before 5:30 PM for safe crossing, as transfers are subject to river conditions and daylight.
Wildwaters Lodge is owned by Lemala which support community, environmental protection, and sustainability. They engage in various philanthropic endeavours, including empowering women's groups, providing leadership academies for youth, and supporting shelters and orphanages. Their commitment to local sourcing extends to food and supplies, benefiting nearby communities. Lemala leads in renewable energy usage, recycling initiatives, and eliminating single-use plastics, demonstrating their dedication to environmental conservation.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
Lemala Wildwaters Lodge can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Uganda trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Uganda trips featuring Lemala Wildwaters Lodge or get advice and suggestions from one of our Uganda specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Lemala Wildwaters Lodge start from around $350, or US$350, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
The ‘Source of the Nile’ is most famous for its activities, adrenalin-pumping, sedate and other!
