The best safari lodges and campsites in Uganda
Based on our own experience, along with other roadtrippers’ recommendations, here’s an overview of our favorite & Best accommodation in Uganda trip, for campsites & lodges of all price ranges.
The lodges are categorised according to pricing on the basis of a double room with bed & breakfast.
Rate indication of best accommodation in uganda trip:
$ = Up to 100 USD for 2 persons, per night
$$ = Between 100 and 175 USD for 2 persons, per night.
$$$ = More than 175 USD for 2 persons per night, per night
Campsites do not require any advance arrangements – most of them can’t even be booked in advance.
Uganda itinerary with pre-booked best accommodation in uganda trip
The safari industry is not dominated by large chain hotels. One can find many exciting best accommodation in uganda trip lodges, also in the mid-range price segment. Do you want to be sure that you follow a well-paced and varied itinerary and sleep in the best lodges? Then book a car rental tour with accommodation included. The Roadtrip Africa team that deals with Uganda have all lived in Uganda for several years – we know the country inside out.
The following is the best accommodation in Uganda trips:
5 Best accommodation in uganda trip – Entebbe
Via Via Guesthouse – $
Via Via Guesthouse is a guesthouse managed by an enthusiastic, young Belgian couple. Its is a serene spot, surrounded by nature and has a cosy bar and restaurant.
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Muti – $
Muti is a garden café, restaurant and guesthouse in the gateway town of Entebbe, Uganda, less than ten minutes drive from Entebbe Airport. The idea behind Muti is to create a contemporary African café in a tranquil, family friendly, garden environment.
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Entebbe Airport Guesthouse – $$
Only 5 minutes from the airport, this guesthouse is set in a quiet neighbourhood in a spacious garden. They offer free pick up service from the airport.
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African Roots Guesthouse – $$
Right at the beach front with a string of nice, little restaurants and the best pizzeria in Entebbe, the African Roots Guesthouse is a good place to start or end your Roadtrip adventure in Uganda.
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The Boma hotel – $$$
The Boma Hotel is a boutique hotel in an old Victorian country cottage, with swimming pool, good restaurant and a high level of customer service.
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4 accommodations in KampalaHide
Bushpig Backpackers – $
Bushpig Backpackers Kampala opened its door earlier in 2016 and offers a great quality hostel and hang out for travelers and locals.
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Red Chilli Hideaway – $
Red Chilli Hideaway is Kampala’s oldest and most popular budget hostel. In 2013, they moved from Mbuya suburb to Butabika, a quiet area about 40 minutes’ drive from Kampala City Centre.
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Orchidea Guesthouse – $$
Orchidea Guesthouse, attached to the Italian restaurant Cafe Roma, offers comfortable spacious cottages set in a lovely garden. Great place to start your self drive safari in Uganda.
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Yellow Haven Guesthouse – $$
They have a number of absolutely lovely self-contained apartments, varying in size and price to suit all budgets.
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4 accommodations in Lake Mburo National ParkHide
Eagle’s Nest – $
Eagle’s Nest is located on a hill bordering Lake Mburo National Park commanding great views of the park. Accommodation is in comfortable and self contained, safari tents.
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Lake Mburo UWA Campsite – $
Nothing fancy, but a good budget option right at the shore of Lake Mburo. Guaranteed warthogs and hippos in the vicinity.
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Rwakobo Rock – $$ + $$$
A long term favourite for many Roadtrippers on a self drive safari is a stay at the friendly Rwakobo Rock. It is a mid-range eco-lodge, nestled high on a scenic rock outcrop at the edge of Lake Mburo National Park.
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Mihingo Lodge -$$$
Mihingo is an exclusive, family owned retreat in a magical setting within Lake Mburo National Park. Perched high on a rocky kopje, you can enjoy spectacular views over a vast savannah landscape from your infinity pool.
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6 accommodations in Bwindi & Lake BunyonyiHide
Mutanda Lake Resort – $$
We could not say it better than the Bradt Travel Guide: ”Mutanda Lake Resort enjoys a stupendous southerly outlook. You could cross continents without finding a panorama to compare with the view across these peaceful, island-studded waters towards the Virunga Mountains”. The lodge is conveniently located for tracking the Nkuringo and Rushaga gorilla families and it is the only mid-range accommodation option in the region.
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Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp – Mgahinga – $
Prepare for chilly nights if you are camping in this place, but also beautiful views over the valley and mountain peaks.
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Nshongi Camp – $
Great location and a charming local place, Nshongi is a lovely, low-key, budget accommodation & campsite to stay when you go for trekking in Rushaga.
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Budget options at Bunyonyi – $
Kalebas Campsite, Bunyonyi Overland Resort and Byoona Amagara are nice budget options at Lake Bunyonyi.The latter is on an island in the lake. Kalebas and the Overland Resort are next to each other, of which Kalebas is the quiet alternative.
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Gorilla Valley Lodge – $$
Gorilla Valley Lodge is a mid range lodge located at the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. It’s a ten minute drive from the Rushaga gorilla trekking gate. Food is good, and the staff are very friendly. If you order a packed lunch to take away, consider that it is quite huge.
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Bird’s Nest Bunyonyi Resort – $$
This old grandeur hotel is set in a quiet bay, 1 km before Rutindo village. The place has a long and interesting history dating back to before the Amin era. The lodge has a swimming pool.
10 accommodations in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Kasenyi Safari Camp
Kasenyi Safari Camp is strategically located on the rim of Lake Bunyampaka in the Kasenyi Savannah of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The tents are on platforms with a thatched canopy roof. There are four tents all with en-suite bathrooms, spacious living areas and private decks.
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UWA Mweya Campsite and Lower cottages – $
This campsite is located in the heart of Queen Elizabeth National Park on the South end of the peninsula. There are only basic facilities but it rattles with potentially dangerous wildlife after dark. If you are up for an adventure, this is the place to be! If you don’t feel like pitching your own tent, you can also choose for the Mweya Lower Cottages right opposite the Tembo canteen. These cottages are another budget option, but the beds are comfortable and they are completely self-contained.
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The Bush Lodge – $$
The Bush Lodge is an intimate tented camp situated just outside the park boundaries, overlooking the Kazinga Channel. You can either stay in a lazy tent (budget) or a spacious tented room with ensuite bush shower and veranda (mid-range).
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Enjojo lodge – $$ – Ishasha Sector
Enjojo lodge is a quiet and intimate retreat, situated amidst acacia forest and palm trees at the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The lodge is only a 5 minute drive from the park gate entrance. Accommodation is in grass thatched cottages that are interlinked with an elevated walkway, each with a veranda, en suite bathroom and outdoor shower. Or you can pitch your own tent, or go lazy camping. There is a camp ground with kitchen area and fire pit.
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Marafiki Safari Lodge – $$
Marafiki Lodge is beautifully situated, overlooking Lake George in the Queen Elizabeth National Park in western Uganda.
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Kikonko Lodge – $$
On top of the escarpment of the Albertine Rift overlooking Lake Albert thrones Kikonko Lodge. Breath taking views of Lake Albert and the Blue Mountains of the Democratic Republic of Congo are guaranteed.
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Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp – $$
Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp is a community based safari lodge located along the channel track gate 11 off Katunguru community within Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy the serenity of the plain Savannah of this beautiful park with a chance of animals moving all around the lodge premises day and night. They also have options for camping with your own gear!
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Little Elephant Camp – $$
Little Elephant Camp is a one of a kind tented ‘Glamping’ experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The camp is nestled in the golden savannah grasslands directly on the boundary of Queen Elizabeth National Park in the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains. From your own private camp, you can enjoy views into the national park along with the various species of animals and birds that live in and around the camp. Little Elephant Camp gives its guests all the comforts and conveniences necessary to make your visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park a memorable one.
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Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge – $$$
Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge is a lovely, intimate luxury lodge located within Queen Elizabeth National Park, at the shores of Lake George, near Kahendero fishing village. They have a small but refreshing pool.
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Mweya Safari Lodge – $$$
Mweya Safari Lodge is an all time favourite, due to its stunning location in the heart of Queen Elizabeth National Park, its beautiful infinity pool overlooking the Kazinga Channel, and neo-colonial, architectural grandeur.
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11 Best accommodation in uganda trip – Kibale Forest & Fort Portal
Ruboni Community Campsite – $ – Rwenzori Mountains NP
Great stay if you want to visit Rwenzori National Park and mountains, and you’ll be contributing to the Ruboni local community.
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Hornbill Cave Campsite – $
A Roadtrippers’ recommendation if you are travelling with a rooftop tent, as you will not be able to pitch it at the nearby Kibale Forest Camp. Very friendly owner, campfire and a beautiful setting in nature. Nothing fancy, but there is a clean (cold water) shower and pit latrine.
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Ruwenzori View Guesthouse – $
Our recommended place to stay in Fort Portal town is Ruwenzori View Guesthouse. A friendly and well managed guest house that has been around since 1997. This affordable place is famous for their tasty homemade meals served at one big table – a great chance to connect with other travellers.
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Dutchess – $
Dutchess is a budget hotel in Fort Portal town, run by, as in the name, a Dutch family. It is particularly known for its tasty pizzas and homemade cheese, served in the garden. It’s a good choice for a stopover, when you’re looking for a good meal, homemade breakfast and a proper shower.
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Kasiisi Guesthouse – $
Simple, cosy and friendly budget guesthouse between Fort Portal and Kibale Forest.
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Kluges Guest Farm – $ / $$
A holiday at Kluge’s Guest Farm near Fort Portal is more than just a break. It is a whole new and exciting experience of first class hotel and restaurant, family-stile hospitality in the middle of pure nature. Over the years Mariam and Stefan Kluge have developed a 72 acre piece of farmland into a piece of paradise, planting a big number of trees and uncountable flowers of various varieties. Today, the farm is home to different species of birds and monkeys and the ideal hideaway from the hassle and bustle of urban life. Visitors find a calm place to relax as well as the perfect point for one or half day trips to numerous tourism destinations nearby.
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Turaco Treetops – $$
Turaco Treetops is Kibale Forest’ newest semi-luxe lodge. We believe in creating an uncomplicated, and warm-hearted atmosphere and offer our guests a unique experience in the forest with stunning views over the snowcapped Rwenzori Mountains. Turaco Treetops is the place to go on a chimpanzee trekking, share tasty meals, laugh, read a book near our fire place, learn about nature, play a game, or take dip in our refreshing pool. And not to forget: enjoy that well-deserved hot shower and comfortable beds that help you get ready for a new day of exploration in the Kibale Forest region.
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Kibale Forest Camp – $$
Kibale Forest Camp is a small eco-lodge set in the middle of the rainforest. Accommodation is in safari tented rooms with en suite bathroom and veranda. They also have a good camp ground for lazy camping or pitching your own. Managed by Nature Lodges. Roadtrippers’ Tip: If you are travelling with a rooftop tent, you will not be able to pitch it here. Try the nearby Hornbill Cave Campsite instead.
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Isunga lodge – $$
Located at the edge of Kibale Forest, Isunga Lodge offers seven comfortable cottages. Each of the cottages is self-contained and they are spread out over the hilltop, ensuring privacy. Beautiful views guaranteed, both from the cottage itself as from the central dining area on top of the hill. Make sure to catch the sunset over the forest below from the small but well-maintained swimming pool for the best experience.
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Ndali Lodge – $$$
Located in the crater lake region close to Kibale Forest and Fort Portal town, Ndali Lodge is an upmarket, family-run boutique hotel known for its old English grandeur.
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Papaya Lake Lodge – $$$
High-end, owner managed lodge with lots of local artisanal details.
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9 Best accommodation in uganda trip – Murchison Falls National Park
Boomu Women’s Group – $
Boomu Women’s Group is a cute budget place to camp. Located just outside Murchison Falls National Park, at the southern entrance gate near Budongo Forest. You can also sleep in a traditional grass-thatched banda, set in their beautiful garden. Simple meals can be provided. It is a community-run lodge, managed by local women.
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Red Chilli Hideaway – $
The popular Red Chilli Hideaway in Kampala also has a branch in Murchison Falls National Park. It’s a basic, old time favourite. Red Chilli is conveniently located near the Paraa ferry crossing, has decent food and a lively bar at times. They offer cheap bandas, safari tents and have a campground. Facilities are a bit run down.
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Ziwa Guesthouse – $ – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Set in the beautiful Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
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Bush camping at the delta – $
Bush camping on the delta is an unforgettable experience. Hearing hippos grazing next to your tent in the night, and seeing the sun rise and set over the delta is such a sensation. You will need a permit to be allowed to set up your camp, and you will be accompanied by a ranger.
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KonTiki Hotel – $ – Hoima
KonTiki Hotel is a pleasant budget hotel in Hoima town, the staging point between Fort Portal and Masindi. Rooms are clean and the flowery garden well maintained.
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Fort Murchison – $$
The setup of this mid-range lodge evokes the ambience of an isolated outpost from times when Arab traders explored the African hinterlands. They offer en suite rooms and a number of safari tents for ‘lazy’ camping. Fort Murchison is located just outside Tangi gate, the northern section of the park.
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Amuka Lodge – $$ – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Set in the beautiful Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
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Hoima Cultural Lodge – $$ – Hoima
Hoima Cultural Lodge is a very authentically Ugandan place, which is heartwarming as a stopover on your way to Murchison Falls National Park.
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Murchison River Lodge – $$ + $$$
Murchison River Lodge is located on a beautiful spacious plot at the southern bank of the River Nile. They offer a variety of accommodation possibilities, including (family) cottages, ‘lazy’ camping’ or pitch your own tent. There’s an inviting swimming pool, nice lounge and restaurant area, and campsite with great facilities.
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3 Best accommodation in uganda trip – Kidepo Valley National Park / Karamoja
UWA banda’s & campsite -$
This public campsite is inside the park. Facilities are basic, but that just adds to the wilderness feel. You will probably be the only camper, but don’t feel too alone – the campsite is notorious for lions that roam here at night.
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Karamoja Safari Camp & Backpackers – $ / $$
Karamoja Safari Camp & Backpackers is a simple, friendly guesthouse in Moroto town, the principal town of the Karamoja area. They serve nice food and several cultural activities can be arranged through them. They offer all different kinds of accommodations: You can either spend the night in a private or dorm room in their guesthouse, share a family cottage, opt for one of their beautiful en-suite safari tents or even pitch your own tent in their gardens. If you’re up for a bit more of an adventure, contact them for their possibilities on Bush camping!
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Kidepo Savannah Lodge – $$
Kidepo Savannah Lodge is the latest and most remote property of Nature Lodges. Located just 500 meter from Kalokudo gate. From the lodge you can enjoy endless vistas of the park and surrounding mountain ranges. You can stay in self contained safari tents or opt for lazy camping tents.
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6 Best accommodation in uganda trip – Sipi Falls & Jinja
The Crows Nest- $ – Sipi Falls
A community run accommodation with simple rooms and a basic camping spot in Sipi Falls. It’s signposted from Kapwirwok village. Don’t expect anything fancy, but the location is excellent. There is a nature walk going up the hill leading to stunning views.
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Home of Friends -$ – Sipi Falls
Located closely to Mount Elgon in Eastern Uganda, Home of Friends is a nice & welcoming place to stay and enjoy their multiple leisure options.
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Nile River Camp – $ – Jinja
There are three old time favourites and good value-for-money campsites adjacent to one another, close to Bujagali Falls. Nile River Camp, home of Nalubale rafting company, offers camping, lazy camping, and dorm rooms set around a pleasant garden with swimming pool. Next door is the more upmarket Nile Porch, with semi-tented bandas, swimming pool and The Black Lantern, a good á-la-carte restaurant. Next is Nile River Explorers, which has the liveliest bar – even wild at times – and very popular with backpackers.
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Lacam Lodge – $$
For those looking for more comfort, Lacam Lodge is the best option in Sipi Falls. Lacam lodge is a charming eco-lodge from which you have a spectacular view of the Sipi falls. Accommodation is in wooden chalets with private bathroom. The on-site Endiro cafe is a great add-on.
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Nile it! – $
A newly opened camp site along the shores of the river Nile with the option of pitching your own (rooftop) tent or lazy camping in their tents. They offer a variety of activities and their restaurant serves simple but great meals, with even vegetarian and vegan options (options you won’t find everywhere in Uganda!)
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The Haven – $$ + $$$ – Jinja
The Haven is a romantic, eco-friendly getaway with a stunning location on the banks of the River Nile. They offer mid-range and luxury bandas and cottages, and they have a beautiful camp ground for pitching your own tent. There’s also an inviting swimming pool.
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3 Best accommodation in uganda trip – Rwanda
Inzu lodge – $
Inzu lodge offers a unique ecological accommodation, while respecting Rwanda’s traditions and benefiting the local community. Beautiful views over Lake Kivu are guaranteed!
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Iris Guesthouse – $$
Lovely guesthouse located in the capital city of Rwanda: Kigali. The guesthouse is close to several cultural activities in the city and promises a good night sleep with good facilities during your road trip.
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Paradise Malahide – $$
Paradise Malahide is a true paradise located right on the shores of Lake Kivu. Roadtrippers are enthusiastic about the beautiful views, the friendly staff and the good food. With huts offering direct access to the beach, this is the perfect place to dip your toes in the lake and relax!
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