Best Safari Lodges in Uganda for 2025

Uganda is quickly emerging as one of Africa’s most captivating safari destinations. With mist-covered forests home to endangered mountain gorillas, vast savannahs teeming with lions and elephants, and sparkling lakes framed by volcanic peaks, the country offers a diverse and intimate wilderness experience. As travel in 2025 continues to emphasize authenticity, sustainability, and comfort, Uganda’s safari lodges are setting new standards — blending luxury with the untamed beauty of the wild.

This guide explores the best safari lodges in Uganda for 2025, carefully selected for their exceptional service, breathtaking settings, and unique safari experiences. Whether you seek a luxury escape in the forest, a riverside retreat, or a classic savannah lodge, Uganda has something extraordinary waiting for you.

What Makes a Great Safari Lodge in Uganda

Before diving into the list, it’s worth understanding what makes a safari lodge stand out in Uganda today:

Location: The best lodges are strategically situated near the most iconic experiences — whether that’s gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, or game drives in Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls National Park.

Sustainability: Modern travelers want lodges that operate responsibly, respect the environment, and support local communities.

Comfort and Style: From private plunge pools to forest-view terraces, Uganda’s lodges offer a wide range of comfort levels, blending traditional design with modern amenities.

Personalized Service: The difference between a good lodge and a great one often comes down to the warmth, knowledge, and attentiveness of its staff and guides.

1. Buhoma Lodge – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Tucked inside the boundaries of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Buhoma Lodge remains one of Uganda’s finest choices for gorilla trekking safaris. Its hillside position offers breathtaking views of the forest canopy, and its proximity to the gorilla trekking trailhead makes it incredibly convenient.

The lodge’s chalets are built on raised wooden platforms, each with a private balcony overlooking the jungle. Guests often wake to the sounds of birds and the distant chatter of monkeys, with mist rolling through the trees at sunrise.

Why it’s among the best: Its location within Bwindi allows travelers to enjoy one of Africa’s most sought-after wildlife experiences — meeting the mountain gorillas — in a setting that feels both wild and luxurious.

2. Mount Gahinga Lodge – Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Situated at the base of the Virunga Volcanoes, Mount Gahinga Lodge is a haven of tranquility and cultural connection. It provides an incredible base for tracking golden monkeys or gorillas, and for engaging with the indigenous Batwa community.

The lodge’s design combines rustic stone cottages with warm, elegant interiors, all surrounded by manicured gardens and volcano views. The sense of peace here is unmatched, with each evening ending in quiet reflection by the fireplace.

Why it’s special: Its cultural engagement programs and dramatic setting make it perfect for travelers seeking a deeper, more soulful safari experience.

3. Mweya Safari Lodge – Queen Elizabeth National Park

Perched on a peninsula overlooking the Kazinga Channel, Mweya Safari Lodge offers sweeping views and some of the best game viewing in western Uganda. From the lodge terrace, guests can watch elephants, hippos, and buffalo gathering along the water’s edge — often without even leaving the property.

The lodge blends colonial-style charm with comfort and convenience. Its central location in Queen Elizabeth National Park makes it ideal for game drives, boat cruises, and birding.

Why travelers love it: The spectacular setting, consistent service, and abundant wildlife make Mweya a timeless choice for safari enthusiasts.

4. Katara Lodge – Queen Elizabeth NP Escarpment

If you’re seeking breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley, Katara Lodge is hard to beat. Located just outside Queen Elizabeth National Park, this intimate, eco-friendly lodge is built along an escarpment with panoramic views of the savannah and Rwenzori Mountains.

Each cottage is open-fronted, allowing you to watch the sunrise over the plains from the comfort of your bed. The lodge also emphasizes sustainability, with solar power and locally sourced materials.

Why it stands out: The combination of luxury, privacy, and stunning vistas makes Katara Lodge ideal for couples and honeymooners looking for a romantic safari retreat.

5. Paraa Safari Lodge – Murchison Falls National Park

Paraa Safari Lodge sits on the banks of the mighty River Nile, near the roaring Murchison Falls — one of Africa’s most dramatic natural spectacles. This historic lodge captures the essence of a classic safari stay, with large verandas, a pool overlooking the river, and spacious rooms that combine comfort with a nostalgic colonial atmosphere.

Guests can enjoy game drives, boat cruises to the base of the falls, or hikes to the top for unforgettable views.

Why it’s a must-visit: Paraa’s location offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a perfect base for exploring Uganda’s largest and most diverse national park.

6. Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

For travelers seeking ultra-luxury in a forest setting, Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge delivers an exceptional experience. Set on a ridge overlooking the misty canopy, the lodge offers unmatched comfort, elegant design, and an intimate connection with nature.

Its glass-fronted rooms, modern amenities, and personalized service make it a favorite among high-end travelers and filmmakers visiting Bwindi. After a day of gorilla trekking, there’s nothing quite like returning to the comfort of a warm shower, fine dining, and a view straight into the forest.

Why it’s among the best: Its sophisticated design, service quality, and unbeatable forest setting make it a top choice for 2025 luxury safaris.

7. Kyaninga Lodge – Fort Portal / Crater Lakes Region

Perched high above a stunning volcanic crater lake, Kyaninga Lodge combines elegance, serenity, and breathtaking scenery. Built entirely from hand-carved logs, the lodge’s design reflects an incredible craftsmanship and harmony with nature.

It’s located near Kibale National Park, famous for chimpanzee tracking, but it also serves as a retreat for those seeking peace and panoramic beauty. Guests can swim in the lake, hike through nearby forests, or simply relax with a view of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Why it’s unique: Kyaninga offers a blend of adventure and tranquility, making it a perfect addition to any Uganda itinerary.

8. Primate Lodge – Kibale National Park

For those drawn to the magic of Uganda’s primates, Primate Lodge is an exceptional base within Kibale National Park. It sits right inside the forest, giving guests a true jungle-lodge experience. Chimpanzee trekking starts nearby, and the lodge’s design — with elevated walkways and eco-conscious cottages — makes it a naturalist’s paradise.

At night, the forest comes alive with the sounds of insects and distant primate calls. Days here are spent tracking chimpanzees, spotting rare birds, and exploring hidden trails.

Why it’s worth staying: Its location inside the park offers unmatched access to primate encounters and a genuine immersion in the rainforest.

Travel Tips for 2025

1. Book early: Gorilla and chimpanzee permits are limited and in high demand, especially in peak season (June–September and December–February).

2. Mix ecosystems: Combine a stay in the rainforest (Bwindi or Kibale) with time on the savannah (Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls) for a full Ugandan experience.

3. Travel sustainably: Choose lodges that prioritize eco-friendly operations and support local communities.

4. Consider comfort levels: Uganda’s lodges range from luxury to mid-range and rustic — pick what best fits your style.

5. Prepare for varied weather: Uganda’s terrain and climate differ by region; pack both lightweight clothing and warmer layers for high-altitude lodges.

Travel with Moreen Tours & Travel

Your choice of lodge is just one part of the story — the company you travel with shapes the entire journey. For travelers seeking a seamless, authentic, and personalized safari in Uganda, Moreen Tours & Travel stands out as a trusted expert.

Why choose Moreen Tours & Travel:

• Tailored itineraries: Whether you want to trek gorillas, film wildlife, or explore Uganda’s hidden gems, Moreen Tours crafts journeys that match your pace and interests.

• Trusted local expertise: Their experienced guides and planners know the country intimately — from the best lodges to the perfect sunrise viewpoints.

• Ethical and responsible travel: Moreen Tours supports community-based tourism and sustainable practices, ensuring your visit benefits both people and nature.

• Comfort and reliability: From transfers to permits, every detail is handled professionally, leaving you free to enjoy the adventure.

With Moreen Tours & Travel, you don’t just visit Uganda — you experience it deeply, through the eyes of those who know it best.