Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

“It is remote. It is beautiful. It is intimate. And at over 2,000 metres above sea level, it is Uganda’s highest lodge.”

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Review

This lodge is flagship of the Wild Places portfolio of Uganda. Sitting at a height of 2,000 metres above sea level, it is the highest and arguably, one of the most luxurious lodges, in all of Uganda. It sits in the south-western part of Bwindi National Park and has access to 6 habituated gorilla groups in its area, so it offers a remote and luxurious experience with fantastic gorilla sightings.

Location

Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge sits in the south-western part of Bwindi National Park, in an area called Nkuringo. There is a habituated gorilla group (called Nkuringo) and their home range is around the lodge (approx. a 1.5-hour hike around the lodge). Aside from the Nkuringo group, there are 5 other habituated gorilla groups that are also accessible from the lodge (so a total of 6 gorilla groups).

Layout

Interestingly, the main lodge and cottages of Clouds is built from local volcanic stone. The main lodge has been described as a luxury ‘ski chalet’, with exposed wooden beams, panoramic views to the forest and cosy, intimate cottages with fireplaces and comfortable sofas and armchairs. On a clear sky, a view of the Virunga volcanoes can be seen.

Rooms

Clouds Lodge homes 5 double cottages and 2 family cottages (each with 2 private bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms). The cottages are spacious yet intimate. They each have a large sitting room with a double-sided fireplace, which is very inviting to enjoy in the evening before or after dinner. They also have private verandas and well-appointed en-suite bathrooms. All in all, a very luxurious stay.

Activities

There are 6 habituated gorilla groups that you can go and trek from Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (Nkuringo and 5 other groups). Aside from a gorilla trek, you can do forest walks and birding in Bwindi Forest. From a cultural experience, you can do community tours and a Batwa experience trip (the Batwa people are a group of local indigenous people from the mountain slopes). The lodge also has a spa so you can enjoy a relaxing massage after your gorilla hike.

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