A secret staycation where time slows down, by the river, at the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Breathe\Again
Experience mountain gorillas, dramatic hilltop views, and authentic Batwa culture — all from a sustainable, solar + micro-hydro powered lodge.
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RATE PER PERSON PER NIGHT
WELCOME
Hilltop Privacy With River & Forest Vistas; And Wildlife Sightings.
—-——— Riverside Gorilla Lodge is a modern, eco-friendly retreat perched on a hill beside the Munyaga River and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. We offer ten handcrafted bandas, personal service, and a suite of activities modelled on the finest gorilla lodges. We are powered by solar and micro-hydro. The lodge sits beside an indigenous Batwa settlement, and wildlife (including gorillas) is visible from the lodge grounds.
Riverside Gorilla Lodge
Nestled In A Prime Spot, Riverside Gorilla Lodge Offers Easy Access To Nature Trails, Nearby Attractions, And Stunning Panoramic Views Right From Your Doorstep.
Riverside Gorilla Lodge
Eco-Luxury Space
cozy, beautiful, and welcoming
—-——— Guests awaken to the sounds of the forest, share space with the gentle giants of Bwindi, and discover the deep harmony between people, wildlife, and wilderness.
Cultural Experiences
CONSERVATION-LED TOURISM
—-——— The lodge blends modern comfort with sustainable design and cultural authenticity. Built with natural materials and powered by solar energy, it celebrates the surrounding environment while treading lightly upon it.
ACCOMMODATION
Built From Natural Materials & Contemporary Finishes To Give A Cozy But Modern Feel.
Riverside Gorilla Lodge
—-——— From USD 500 pp / night (Full Board) — includes meals, teas/coffees, one guided walk or activity per day, and assistance with gorilla permits & logistics.
Sleep in Serenity
—-——— Indulge in world-class hospitality, refined interiors, personalized service at every turn at Riverside Gorilla Lodge.
Canopy Forest & Wildlife Views
—-——— Treat yourself to style and space in this extraordinary suite, complete with one king bed.
Nature-Crafted Bandas
—-——— Designed and put together by a team of experts, our spaces are a new way of staycation, environmentally friendly.
More Space to Enjoy
—-——— The décor exudes timeless elegance, with tasteful furnishings and soothing color schemes that create a calming ambiance.
Your Escape Is Just A Few Clicks Away
—-——— Wake up surrounded by canopy forests, sip classy wine at sunset, and slow down in a place that feels like home. Choose how you’d like to book and start planning your riverside escape.
experiences
A Collection Of Authentic, Immersive Experiences That Reflect The Soul Of Bwindi.
—-——— The lodge is located on the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to diverse wildlife and vegetation.
Riverside Gorilla Lodge
Gorilla Trekking
—-——— Set out on a life-changing journey into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to meet the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The lodge offers guided support for permits, preparation, and post-trek relaxation.
Batwa Cultural Encounters
—-——— In partnership with the indigenous Batwa community, guests can experience ancient forest traditions, storytelling, dance, and crafts. These visits are community-led, and help preserve the Batwa’s cultural heritage.
Nature & River Walks
—-——— Explore gentle walking trails along the Munyaga River or deep into the Bwindi Impenetrable forest edge. Birdwatchers will be thrilled by the diversity of species, from colorful turacos to rare forest flycatchers.
RESTAURANT & BAR
At Riverside, Dining Is A Celebration Of Local Ingredients And Fresh, Organic Produce.
Riverside Gorilla Lodge
—-——— We've crafted a menu that fuses Ugandan flavors with international inspiration, served in our open-air dining area overlooking the river.
What Our Guests Say.
—-——— Nestled where the Munyaga River kisses Bwindi's ancient canopy, Riverside Gorilla Lodge has touched hearts with its eco-luxury and soul-stirring experiences. Hear from fellow adventurers who've trekked with gorillas, danced with Batwa elders, and planted roots for tomorrow. Their stories echo the magic of sustainable wonder.
—-——— "We started a gorilla trek right from the lodge's private trail. Spotting a family just an hour in, with the Munyaga River echoing below, was unforgettable. I'll be back for more ethical adventures!"
Sarah Thompson, UK
—-——— "Our banda's veranda overlooked the forest with gorillas visible from it? Unreal! The en-suite with solar hot water and eco-fittings kept it modern yet sustainable. Riverside redefined what eco-luxury means for us."
David & Sophie Leclerc, France
—-——— "Spa massages, with the forest birds chirping away, melted away trek fatigue. The locally made furniture and premium linens added such cozy charm. Riverside's attention to wellness elevated our entire stay."
Carlos Mendoza, Mexico
—-——— "Conservation talks with ACP opened our eyes to Bwindi's biodiversity - then planting trees ourselves sealed the impact. Powered by renewables, the lodge walks the talk on sustainability. Memorable and meaningful."
Rachel Kim, South Korea
—-——— "We started a gorilla trek right from the lodge's private trail. Spotting a family just an hour in, with the Munyaga River echoing below, was unforgettable. I'll be back for more ethical adventures!"
Sarah Thompson, UK
—-——— "Our banda's veranda overlooked the forest with gorillas visible from it? Unreal! The en-suite with solar hot water and eco-fittings kept it modern yet sustainable. Riverside redefined what eco-luxury means for us."
David & Sophie Leclerc, France
—-——— "Spa massages, with the forest birds chirping away, melted away trek fatigue. The locally made furniture and premium linens added such cozy charm. Riverside's attention to wellness elevated our entire stay."
Carlos Mendoza, Mexico
—-——— "Conservation talks with ACP opened our eyes to Bwindi's biodiversity - then planting trees ourselves sealed the impact. Powered by renewables, the lodge walks the talk on sustainability. Memorable and meaningful."
Rachel Kim, South Korea
—-——— "We started a gorilla trek right from the lodge's private trail. Spotting a family just an hour in, with the Munyaga River echoing below, was unforgettable. I'll be back for more ethical adventures!"
Sarah Thompson, UK
—-——— "Our banda's veranda overlooked the forest with gorillas visible from it? Unreal! The en-suite with solar hot water and eco-fittings kept it modern yet sustainable. Riverside redefined what eco-luxury means for us."
David & Sophie Leclerc, France
—-——— "Spa massages, with the forest birds chirping away, melted away trek fatigue. The locally made furniture and premium linens added such cozy charm. Riverside's attention to wellness elevated our entire stay."
Carlos Mendoza, Mexico
—-——— "Conservation talks with ACP opened our eyes to Bwindi's biodiversity - then planting trees ourselves sealed the impact. Powered by renewables, the lodge walks the talk on sustainability. Memorable and meaningful."
Rachel Kim, South Korea
—-——— "Full board meals were a feast - organic salads, and grilled fish from the river. The lounge fireside chats fostered family bonding. Exceeded our expectations for a lodge in a forest."
Isabella Rossi, Italy
—-——— "Their rooms with mosquito repellants gave us worry-free rest. The place is alive with bird calls at dawn. Breakfast buffets at the restaurant, laden with garden-fresh fruits and pastries, started our days right."
Rajesh Kumar, Singapore
—-——— "The lodge's location on a hill offered breathtaking Bwindi backdrops from every angle - pure tranquility. Locally made furniture within the premises added authentic warmth, while the bar's sundowner specials with river sunsets were unforgettable. Luxe simplicity done right."
Elena Vasquez, Spain
—-——— "Organic gardens supplied our table: farm-to-fork freshness with Ugandan spice. Private dining under stars was intimate perfection. Culinary highlight of Bwindi. Highly recommend!"
Sophia Bertrand, Belgium
—-——— "Full board meals were a feast - organic salads, and grilled fish from the river. The lounge fireside chats fostered family bonding. Exceeded our expectations for a lodge in a forest."
Isabella Rossi, Italy
—-——— "Their rooms with mosquito repellants gave us worry-free rest. The place is alive with bird calls at dawn. Breakfast buffets at the restaurant, laden with garden-fresh fruits and pastries, started our days right."
Rajesh Kumar, Singapore
—-——— "The lodge's location on a hill offered breathtaking Bwindi backdrops from every angle - pure tranquility. Locally made furniture within the premises added authentic warmth, while the bar's sundowner specials with river sunsets were unforgettable. Luxe simplicity done right."
Elena Vasquez, Spain
—-——— "Organic gardens supplied our table: farm-to-fork freshness with Ugandan spice. Private dining under stars was intimate perfection. Culinary highlight of Bwindi. Highly recommend!"
Sophia Bertrand, Belgium
—-——— "Full board meals were a feast - organic salads, and grilled fish from the river. The lounge fireside chats fostered family bonding. Exceeded our expectations for a lodge in a forest."
Isabella Rossi, Italy
—-——— "Their rooms with mosquito repellants gave us worry-free rest. The place is alive with bird calls at dawn. Breakfast buffets at the restaurant, laden with garden-fresh fruits and pastries, started our days right."
Rajesh Kumar, Singapore
—-——— "The lodge's location on a hill offered breathtaking Bwindi backdrops from every angle - pure tranquility. Locally made furniture within the premises added authentic warmth, while the bar's sundowner specials with river sunsets were unforgettable. Luxe simplicity done right."
Elena Vasquez, Spain
—-——— "Organic gardens supplied our table: farm-to-fork freshness with Ugandan spice. Private dining under stars was intimate perfection. Culinary highlight of Bwindi. Highly recommend!"
Sophia Bertrand, Belgium
—-——— "Our stay was a dream. Munyaga River's misty flow literally cleanses your soul. Riverside Gorilla Lodge feels like a personal forest hideaway. Waking to hilltop sunrise views, we never wanted to leave."
Olivia Grant, USA
—-——— "As Africans, we appreciated the deep community ties. Having one-on-one experiences with the Batwa employed at the lodge felt like connecting with our shared heritage. The kids loved the cultural crafts, and the lodge's plastic-free ethos aligned with our values."
Kwame Osei, Ghana
—-——— "The lodge's riverside hilltop vibe was meditative. A location that soothes the soul. Open-air restaurant dinners, fusion of spices and river breezes, were sensory delights."
Lila Tanaka, Japan
—-——— "Founded by a local, the lodge feels authentically rooted in Bwindi. Experiences with the locals were full of joy and history, and knowing proceeds support education made it even more special. A transformative stay."
Maria Gonzalez, Spain
—-——— "Our stay was a dream. Munyaga River's misty flow literally cleanses your soul. Riverside Gorilla Lodge feels like a personal forest hideaway. Waking to hilltop sunrise views, we never wanted to leave."
Olivia Grant, USA
—-——— "As Africans, we appreciated the deep community ties. Having one-on-one experiences with the Batwa employed at the lodge felt like connecting with our shared heritage. The kids loved the cultural crafts, and the lodge's plastic-free ethos aligned with our values."
Kwame Osei, Ghana
—-——— "The lodge's riverside hilltop vibe was meditative. A location that soothes the soul. Open-air restaurant dinners, fusion of spices and river breezes, were sensory delights."
Lila Tanaka, Japan
—-——— "Founded by a local, the lodge feels authentically rooted in Bwindi. Experiences with the locals were full of joy and history, and knowing proceeds support education made it even more special. A transformative stay."
Maria Gonzalez, Spain
—-——— "Our stay was a dream. Munyaga River's misty flow literally cleanses your soul. Riverside Gorilla Lodge feels like a personal forest hideaway. Waking to hilltop sunrise views, we never wanted to leave."
Olivia Grant, USA
—-——— "As Africans, we appreciated the deep community ties. Having one-on-one experiences with the Batwa employed at the lodge felt like connecting with our shared heritage. The kids loved the cultural crafts, and the lodge's plastic-free ethos aligned with our values."
Kwame Osei, Ghana
—-——— "The lodge's riverside hilltop vibe was meditative. A location that soothes the soul. Open-air restaurant dinners, fusion of spices and river breezes, were sensory delights."
Lila Tanaka, Japan
—-——— "Founded by a local, the lodge feels authentically rooted in Bwindi. Experiences with the locals were full of joy and history, and knowing proceeds support education made it even more special. A transformative stay."
Maria Gonzalez, Spain
FAQs
Have any Questions?
Riverside Gorilla Lodge
What are the check-in and check-out times?
—-——— Check-in starts at 3:00 PM, allowing time for a warm welcome and orientation. Check-out is by 11:00 AM. We'll provide detailed arrival instructions, including transfers from Kihihi Airstrip, and offer flexibility for early arrivals or late departures when possible.
Is Wi-Fi available at the lodge?
—-——— Absolutely! Complimentary Wi-Fi is provided in the main house, restaurant, bar, and lounge areas for sharing your gorilla trek photos or staying connected. Bandas have limited coverage to encourage disconnection in nature, but it's reliable where needed.
What types of travelers is the lodge best suited for?
—-——— Riverside is ideal for couples, solo adventurers, and small families seeking eco-luxury. We're family-friendly with child-appropriate activities, but please note age restrictions for gorilla trekking (typically 15+ per park rules)—let us know your group details for tailored arrangements.
How close is the nearest town or amenities?
—-——— Buhoma sector, just a 10-15 minute drive away, has essentials like a pharmacy, small market, and ATMs. We'll send a curated guide with recommendations for local eateries and shops, plus we stock basics at our boutique craft shop.
Does the lodge have heating or air conditioning?
—-——— Bandas feature ceiling fans for warm tropical days and cozy fireplaces or hot water bottles for cooler evenings. Our solar-powered system ensures comfortable, energy-efficient climate control year-round.
What is the cancellation policy?
—-——— Free cancellation up to 7 days before arrival. For changes closer to your date, we'll work with you based on availability—gorilla permits are non-refundable, so we advise booking early.
How do I book gorilla trekking permits?
—-——— We handle all logistics: Permits cost USD 800 (non-residents) and must be secured 3-6 months in advance. Riverside assists with applications, briefings, and private trail access from the lodge—contact us for seamless coordination.
What health precautions should I take?
—-——— Consult your doctor for malaria prophylaxis, yellow fever vaccination, and routine shots..
What meals are included in the full-board rate?
—-——— All three meals: Hearty breakfasts with garden-fresh fruits, lunches (packed for treks), and candlelit dinners fusing Ugandan and international flavors. Dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free) accommodated with advance notice.
How do I get to Riverside Gorilla Lodge?
—-——— Fly to Kihihi Airstrip (1-hour scenic drive) or drive from Kampala (8-9 hours). We arrange transfers in comfortable 4x4s. Book early email for seamless pickups.
Can I extend my stay or add nights?
—-——— Subject to availability, yes. Extend seamlessly for more treks or relaxation. Rates remain USD 500 pp/night full board; contact us post-booking for adjustments.
What conservation contributions does my stay make?
—-——— As an ACP partner, your visit funds tree-planting, school programs, and Batwa initiatives. Track your impact via our annual reports (travel that protects Bwindi's half of the world's mountain gorillas.)