Kiho Gorilla Safari Lodge: Where Comfort Meets Conservation in Bwindi’s Ruhija Sector
Kiho Gorilla Safari Lodge. The Kiho Gorilla Safari Lodge sits in the forested hills of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It ranks among the top luxury lodges in the Ruhija sector, a key area for gorilla trekking in southwestern Uganda. The lodge combines modern comfort, traditional charm, and strong sustainability efforts to give travelers a rich, immersive experience in one of Africa’s iconic rainforests.
Prime Location in Ruhija
Kiho Gorilla Safari Lodge enjoys a strategic position on Bugarama Hill, offering guests stunning views of the surrounding jungle and distant Virunga Volcanoes. Ruhija is known for its serenity, fewer tourists, and multiple gorilla families available for trekking. Guests staying at Kiho are within easy reach of trailheads for groups like Oruzogo, Bitukura, and Kyaguriro, making it one of the best places to base yourself for gorilla trekking in Uganda.
The lodge is accessible by road—approximately 8–10 hours from Kampala via the Kabale route—or by air with domestic flights to Kisoro or Kihihi airstrips, followed by a scenic drive through the Kigezi Highlands.
Elegant Accommodation in the Heart of the Forest
Kiho offers over ten spacious, standalone cottages, each designed to blend harmoniously with the natural environment. The rooms are constructed using eco-friendly materials such as timber and thatch, with traditional Rwandan and Ugandan decor elements. Each cottage features an en-suite bathroom with hot and cold showers, mosquito nets, comfortable bedding, and private balconies with panoramic forest views.
Guests frequently mention the warmth and coziness of the cottages, enhanced by details like indoor fireplaces and heated water bottles provided during colder nights.
Dining and Hospitality
Kiho Gorilla Safari Lodge serves freshly made meals using locally sourced ingredients. The menu offers both local and international dishes to suit different tastes. Guests can dine in the open-air restaurant or on the terrace, with views of misty canopies and the sound of birdsong.
The lodge features a well-stocked bar, daily laundry service, and attentive staff who make sure guests stay comfortable in the wild.
Activities at and Around the Lodge
The lodge is primarily known for providing easy access to gorilla trekking, which is the highlight of any stay. Treks begin early in the morning and last between 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla family’s location. The Ruhija sector typically offers a less-crowded trekking experience compared to the more visited Buhoma or Rushaga areas.
Beyond gorilla trekking, guests can enjoy:
- Guided forest walks, which provide opportunities to spot rare birds, butterflies, and primates like L’Hoest monkeys.
- Cultural experiences with nearby communities including visits to Batwa heritage sites, banana brewing demonstrations, or basket weaving sessions with local artisans.
- Spa treatments and relaxation therapies at the lodge, perfect for unwinding after a trek through the forest.
Sustainability and Community Impact
Kiho Gorilla Safari Lodge is designed with sustainability at its core. The lodge operates plastic-free, uses solar power, and incorporates water conservation systems throughout the property. Around 95% of the lodge’s staff are hired locally, promoting job creation and economic empowerment in nearby villages.
Through partnerships with local organizations, the lodge supports conservation education, tree planting, and community tourism projects. These efforts not only enhance the visitor experience but also protect the long-term future of Bwindi’s unique ecosystem.
Why Stay at Kiho Gorilla Safari Lodge
This lodge suits travelers who want a quiet, luxurious stay near the forest while supporting conservation and community projects. It offers personalized service, eco-friendly values, and direct access to Bwindi’s top trekking routes. Kiho Gorilla Safari Lodge attracts nature lovers, photographers, and responsible travelers seeking a premier experience.
