Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
As its name suggests, the award-winning Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge is the highest lodge in Uganda at 2 000 metres above sea level. It is set on a forested ridge near the entrance of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
The lodge consists of 7 spacious cottages built from volcanic stone. Warm and welcoming, each cottage features a bedroom, en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower and a separate lounge. Comfortable chairs on the outdoor verandas provide the perfect vantage point to admire the unforgettable vistas of the forest below. Blazing fireplaces create a cosy glow as evening falls. Two of the cottages are suitable for families and have two double rooms, each with its own private bathroom.
On display in each cottage is the work of one of Uganda’s most respected artists. These beautiful artworks have been so highly regarded by guests, that specially commissioned pieces now grace the walls of homes and offices in New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Los Angeles and London.
Why we like it here
With its elevated position, enjoy spectacular views all the way to the Virunga Volcanoes of Rwanda, as well as across the border into the Congo, where the glow of Nyiragongo Volcano can be seen on a clear night.
Most of the food is grown in the lodge’s organic garden and meals are made-to-order using the freshest ingredients. Even the bread served at breakfast is freshly baked.
The lodge is situated within easy walking distance of the Nkuringo trailhead in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest where gorilla tracking takes place. Bwindi is believed to host half of the world’s mountain gorillas and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge packs really nice lunches for your gorilla tracking adventure, as well as supplying guests with insect repellent, water, walking sticks and gaiters.
Sit back and enjoy a relaxing foot massage right after your gorilla tracking expedition.
Indulge in delicious homemade cakes which are served on your private veranda by your personal butler each afternoon.
Service is first-class and they will even clean your muddy boots after you’ve been out tracking gorillas.
The lodge hires 90% of its staff from the local villages and shares its profits with the community.
Things to be aware of
Due to its remote location, amenities are limited. Wi-Fi is only available in the main lodge.
The terrain can be steep and slippery during the rainy seasons.
You should not drink the tap water, but rest assured you will be given plenty of bottled water.
Should you choose to tip, it is advisable to bring cash in small bills, as there are no ATMs available.