Clouds Mountain Gorilla lodge is situated high on a forested ridge near the entrance to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Spectacular views stretch all the way to the Virunga Volcanoes of Rwanda, and one can often see the volcanoes glowing red in the night sky. The lodge has a strong sense of community and is a perfect balance between casual luxury and exceptional service.
It is remote. It is beautiful. It is intimate. Clouds is unique in Uganda: a pioneer eco tourism hotel that was built in partnership with USAID, AWF and the Nkuringo community (NCCDF). The lodge hosts 9 of Ugandan’s top artists displaying their works. It embraces community and indulgent service in perfect combination. The main lodge feels like a ski chalet in the alps. Or a stone palace in the Rocky Mountains. Soaring ceilings, massive exposed wooden beams, big picture windows with endless views of treetops, volcanoes and mountains. But with the gentle and warm welcome, the quiet dedication of the personal butlers and the smiles on the faces of virtually all the staff, this can only be in Uganda. (wildplaces/&B)
Guests at Clouds stay in large cottages built of local volcanic stone. Each one has a large sitting room with double-sided fireplace, vast overstuffed armchairs, hand-woven carpets, private verandah and comfortable bedrooms with en suite bathrooms. There are 5 double cottages and 2 family cottages, each with 2 private bedrooms and en suite bathrooms.
Gorilla tracking
Forest walks
Birding
Community tours and Batwa experience trips
Private dinners
Massage
Total Capacity:
18 guests in 7 rooms.
Location:
Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge is situated in Nkuringo, bordering the south western corner of the Bwindi National Park. It is at 2100m with a sweeping panoramic view of the magnificent Virunga Volcanoes and the Great Rift Valley.
Weather:
Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge is open throughout the year.
Jan – May : Intermittent short showers throughout the day. Can get quite cold at times.
Jun – Aug : Dry season. Quite hot and generally dry. A little windy, but mostly warm.
Sep – Dec : Typical rainy season filled with storms. Tends to be a little cold in the evening.
Water:
All water comes from fresh rain water collection points. Bottled water is provided in cottages, on activities and is available at the bar.
Children:
Need to be aged 15 years and above in order to track the Gorillas, but children of all ages are welcome at the Lodge. Children’s activities can be arranged whilst adults are tracking.
Activities| Other Facilities:
Gorilla tracking (access to 6 gorilla families). Forest walks. Birding. Community tours and Batwa experience trips. Private dinners. Massage.
Inclusions:
All meals, teas & coffees and bar (except premium brands).
Laundry.
Exclusions:
Premium brand drinks. Park fees (where applicable).
All transfers (including to/from Kisoro airstrip and the Rushaga gorilla groups).
Gorilla permits.
Guided birding trips.
Community walks & tours.
Massage.
Park Fees:
Entry fees paid to the Uganda Wildlife Authority are required when entering any of Uganda’s national parks or wildlife reserves and are not part of the lodge fees.
By Road:
Clouds is approximately 11 hours from Kampala.
By Air:
Daily scheduled flights take 1 hour 15 mins and fly into Kisoro (34 kms | 2 hours from the lodge). Charters can easily be arranged as well.
Closest Major Airport:
Kigali, Rwanda (6 hours)
Entebbe(12.5 hours)