Around 700 mountain gorillas exist in the wild. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda is home to more than half of them.
Gorilla Forest Lodge, tucked away near the westernmost edge of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, is unrivalled as a base from which to set off in search of these magnificent creatures. It enjoys a prime location for this ultimate bucket list wildlife activity. Sometimes you don’t even have to go anywhere; one of the local gorilla families visits the lodge grounds around four to six times a month.
The camp boasts ten private luxury tents allowing guests to unwind in the heart of the forest itself.
Eco-friendly, contemporary yet classic at the same time, this unique camp blends effortlessly with the dramatic African mountain landscape. Perfectly situated in a national park, you are just a few minutes away from an epic gorilla trekking adventure. The only accommodation located within the park itself, the camp boasts an unrivalled location with exceptional wildlife and birdlife viewing opportunities.
For an idea of what type of incredible encounters might await you in the forest, have a look at this amazing video:
What was previously Gorilla Forest Camp is now being reinvented as Gorilla Forest Lodge, with canvas tents giving way to more permanent, upgraded rooms. Each of its 10 suites is being significantly enlarged and reimagined.
Floor-to-ceiling windows will complement expansive veranda-like decks. Design elements include clay-look, textured-plaster walls, woven banana leaf ceilings and elongated framed vistas. All you will hear is the sound of trees dancing, birds singing and nature taking its course. The camp retains an intimate, exclusive feel, enabling you to experience Africa’s magic with the lightest of footprints yet with practically every mod con.
The communal areas of Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Lodge boast a cosy lounge featuring a well-stocked bar and a luxurious dining area.
From here you can enjoy magnificent views over the verdant rainforest. As the day settles and the stars come out, you will hear chatter coupled with the sounds of nature around a warm campfire. Exchange stories of the day’s adventures while enjoying a drink or two. Uganda is known for providing rich flavours and locally sourced ingredients enhance every meal. Expertly prepared dishes promise simple flavours and showcase fresh delights — try traditional smoked beef in peanut sauce served with Kalo (millet bread). Candlelit alfresco dining is also available on your suite’s private deck.
Though a gorilla trek is likely to be the centrepiece of your GFL experience (and you may wish to devote more than a single day to trekking, as coming face to face with the great apes can be a truly life-altering experience), don’t miss the opportunity to discover the flora and fauna of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest on a guided walk, or to engage with the indigenous Batwa people during a Community and Philanthropy Tour.
An overnight visit to game-rich Queen Elizabeth National Park and the possibility to see the famous tree-climbing lions is easily arranged.
Or simply relax in camp, amid the splendour of the forest. Take a treatment at the spa. Swap stories by the campfire before dinner. Savour the rare privilege of being in this extraordinary place.
Gorilla trekking should be on everyone’s bucket list, and this newly reimagined lodge, should be one of the first to be looked at as an option. And with so much more to Uganda than only gorillas, the possibilities for a truly adventurous safari are endless.
Get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com for more information…