Bwindi Lodge

Bwindi Lodge, run by Volcanoes Safaris, stands at Buhoma in the northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and is the closest lodge to the starting point for gorilla tracking in this sector. The lodge grounds act as a buffer between the village of Nkwenda and the forest, and the views from its veranda look straight into ancient hardwood trees and giant ferns. There are eight bandas, each named after a well known Bwindi gorilla and each with a balcony facing the forest. Two deluxe bandas have their own sitting room and fireplace, which makes them a good choice for honeymooners and families. Trails wind through the grounds past a stream, a small waterhole and tea gardens. Three habituated gorilla families can be tracked from Buhoma. Away from the gorillas, the forest holds around 350 bird species and the lodge can arrange a local bird guide, while the Waterfall Walk and the Buhoma Village Walk are rewarding half day outings. The lodge supports the Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust, which runs community and conservation projects, including local tea processing and hospitality training.