GORILLA SAFARI LODGE

Gorilla Safari Lodge is located on the southern edge of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda. It sits very close to one of the main gorilla-trekking starting points—only a short walk or drive from the daily briefing area.
Reaching the lodge typically involves either:

A scenic but long road journey from Kampala/Entebbe (often 8–9 hours), or

A domestic flight into Kisoro Airstrip followed by a shorter drive to the lodge.

The setting is lush, quiet, and surrounded by thick rainforest—ideal for wildlife lovers.

Accommodation

The lodge has 18 cottages, spaced out for privacy and built with natural materials that blend into the forest environment.

Cottage Features

Private wooden balconies/verandas facing the forest

En-suite bathrooms with hot and cold water

Cozy beds with mosquito nets

Some cottages include fireplaces to warm up the cool forest evenings

A few units offer inter-connecting rooms suitable for families

Rooms are individually named, often after local gorilla families or forest themes, adding character to the stay.

Facilities & Amenities

Main Lodge Area

A comfortable restaurant and dining area

Bar and lounge with a warm, rustic atmosphere

Spa/massage room, popular after strenuous treks

Curio shop for crafts and small essentials

Wi-Fi available in shared areas

Laundry services on request

The lodge operates largely on solar power, emphasizing eco-friendly tourism and minimizing environmental strain on the national park.

Dining

Meals are served in the main dining area and typically combine:

Fresh local Ugandan ingredients

International cuisine

Warm, hearty meals after trekking days

Outdoor seating allows for forest views, and the bar is a common gathering point for guests to share stories from their gorilla encounters.

Activities

1. Gorilla Trekking

This is the lodge’s primary attraction. Its proximity to the trekking starting point makes early-morning departures easy and convenient.
Guests can also participate in Gorilla Habituation Experiences, which offer more time with gorilla families.

2. Cultural Experiences

Cultural tours, including visits with the Batwa (a forest-dwelling Indigenous community), are available for guests wanting to learn about local traditions.

3. Nature Walks & Bird Watching

Guided forest walks, birding excursions, and general wildlife viewing are common, as Bwindi is home to hundreds of bird species and rich vegetation.

4. Relaxation

Many guests enjoy massages or simply unwind on their private verandas with views of the forest canopy.

Strengths / Pros

Extremely convenient for gorilla trekking

Eco-friendly, mostly solar-powered

Peaceful atmosphere surrounded by rainforest

Comfortable, spacious cottages with great views

Spa service for post-trek relaxation

Suitable for families (inter-connecting rooms and babysitting available)

Strong sense of connection to local culture and environment

Considerations

The lodge’s remote location means travel can be long unless flying part of the way

Gorilla trek permits must be booked separately and well in advance

Electricity can be limited due to solar reliance (common in eco-lodges)

Children can stay but are not permitted to participate in gorilla treks; babysitting is available

Ideal For

Travelers prioritizing gorilla trekking in Bwindi

Couples, families, or small groups seeking comfortable eco-lodging

Nature enthusiasts and photographers

Visitors who want a balance of adventure, quiet relaxation, and cultural experience