Property
Clouds is the first upscale retreat for visitors to this national park, an ecosystem older and more diverse than the Virunga Mountains, home to Rwanda and Congo’s gorilla populations.
Ten stone cottages feature loft-like interiors with high-beamed ceilings and African-themed art. A private butler and housekeeper provide hot-water bottles and keep the fireplace lit on cool mountain evenings. All guest rooms and the expansive main lodge offer stunning views of crop-terraced slopes leading to the silhouette of seven volcanoes.
Clouds is located at the trailhead for tracking the Nkuringo gorilla family, the largest and most sociable of Bwindi’s five human-habituated groups. These endangered gorillas include twins born in November 2008. Guests can also enjoy forest walks with Batwa pygmy guides and visit lodge-managed community projects that support local subsistence farmers. The remarkable blend of luxury, nature, and community involvement makes Clouds worth the journey and cost. Plan for a private charter flight or a two-day drive from Entebbe and at least $500 per gorilla-trek permit.
Experiences
Bird & Nature Walks / Boat Safaris / Bush Breakfasts / Cultural Visits / Sundowners