5 Top Lodges / Hotels in Kisoro District
Kisoro District in southwestern Uganda is a perfect destination for nature lovers. Known for its natural beauty, this area is famous for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, Golden Monkey tracking, hiking Mount Muhavura, and learning about the Batwa Pygmies and Bafumbira culture. After a day of exploring, you’ll want to relax in a comfortable lodge or hotel. Here’s a guide to five top lodges in Kisoro District, offering a mix of luxury and affordability.
1. Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge
Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge is located in Mucha, about 10 kilometers from Kisoro Town on the Rubuguri Road. It’s a great choice if you plan to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, as it’s only 25 kilometers away from the park’s southern gate at Rushaga. Mgahinga National Park is 20 kilometers away, and Kisoro Airstrip is just 13 kilometers from the lodge.
The lodge offers a variety of room types, including single, double, twin, triple, and family cottages. Each room is en-suite and has a private couch for relaxing, giving you plenty of privacy. The highlight of staying here is the breathtaking view of Lake Mulehe, which is visible from all the cottages.
Room Rates
Low Season:
- Single Cottage: USD $190
- Double/Twin Cottage: USD $230
- Triple Cottage: USD $320
- Family Cottage: USD $470
High Season:
- Single Cottage: USD $220
- Double/Twin Cottage: USD $270
- Triple Cottage: USD $370
- Family Cottage: USD $520
2. Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge is just 5 minutes from the Rushaga Gate of Bwindi National Park, making it perfect for those planning to go gorilla trekking. The lodge features luxury cottages, each with en-suite facilities and a private balcony where you can enjoy a beautiful view of Bwindi Forest. The lodge also offers free Wi-Fi, free private parking, and a garden where you can relax.
Every room at Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge has a private bathroom with free toiletries, and guests can choose from a variety of breakfast options, including vegetarian, continental, and full English/Irish. The lodge also has a business center, a shared lounge area, and a sun terrace. The staff are available 24/7 at the front desk to help you with advice on nearby attractions and activities.
3. Lake Mutanda Resort
Lake Mutanda Resort is located on a peninsula on Lake Mutanda, about 45 minutes’ drive from Kisoro town. The resort is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It’s a great base for gorilla trekkers, volcano hikers, and bird watchers. The resort offers stunning views of the Virunga Mountains and provides a peaceful, quiet environment for those looking to relax.
One of the resort’s highlights is its beautiful location, surrounded by nature. You can swim in the lake, enjoy the scenery, or visit the cozy restaurant, where you can warm up with a nice drink after a day of outdoor activities.
4. Virunga Hotel and Campsite
Virunga Hotel and Campsite is a budget-friendly option located in Kisoro town on Mutanda Road, just behind the National Parks office. It’s a popular spot for backpackers and independent travelers looking to explore Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park for gorilla trekking. The campsite offers a variety of rooms, all of which come with free Wi-Fi.
The hotel provides several useful services, including dry cleaning, laundry, and concierge services. Guests can also arrange return transfers in the “Virunga Shuttle” to Mgahinga, the Democratic Republic of Congo, or Rwanda. Some of the activities offered at Virunga Hotel and Campsite include hill hiking tours, community village tours, the Batwa cultural experience, bird watching, and camping.
5. Travellers Rest Hotel
Travellers Rest Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Uganda, originally built in 1955. It has a rich history in gorilla conservation, as it was a favorite retreat of famous primatologist Dian Fossey, who referred to it as her “second home.” The hotel is located just outside Kisoro, offering spectacular views of the Virunga volcanoes.
The hotel has 12 en-suite rooms, each tastefully decorated with Congolese art. The rooms overlook a well-kept courtyard, and the Virunga volcanoes provide a stunning backdrop. Staying at Travellers Rest is like stepping back in time, with its colonial-style architecture and charm, while also enjoying modern amenities.
