Trip Report: Ultimate Uganda & Rwanda (Part One)

Boma Guest House, Entebbe

I (Jessie) recently joined Adventure Consults for an “Ultimate Uganda & Rwanda” safari in East Africa. This is the first installment of my trip report — on the places I stayed in urban Uganda.

This was one of the most educational, amazing trips I have ever been on. I’ve snorkeled the Great Barrier Reef, hiked in the Peruvian rainforest and watched lions mate in the Kruger. But meeting the eyes of a gorilla is simply unexplainable. Chasing chimps through the forest was an absolutely invigorating adventure.

Might I add that that is in large part because of our guide, Eric. Being guided by someone who is passionate about his job and enthusiastic about making sure his guests are 100% satisfied is so refreshing. He was truly incredible and we all cried a bit when we had to part ways at the end of the trip. This was truly the journey of a lifetime!

Boma Guest House, Entebbe

Only 15 minutes from EBB International airport, Boma Guest House is a hidden oasis. This cozy, 1940’s style property is the perfect place to start your journey with Adventure Consults. The food is delicious and the service outstanding. The grounds are filled with flowers and plants, which makes it feel like a tropical paradise. You can follow paths around the property for an early morning birding adventure. I had a wonderful two-night stay.

Notes: 17 rooms, some interconnecting. Currently building four new rooms with air conditioning. Owned by an Irish couple.

Protea Hotel, Entebbe

Quite a difference from the Boma Guest House. This Protea is a nice hotel on the shore of Lake Victoria, which makes for incredible views. Although very comfortable and inviting for anyone, I’d really recommend this hotel specifically for corporate and luxury travelers because the extensive amenities will please high-end clients.

Kampala Serena Hotel

Notes: 73 rooms including 13 new ones. Pool, gym, spa, restaurant. ​Protea Hotels is now owned by Marriott.

Serena Hotel, Kampala

Serena Kampala is definitely five plus stars — a beautiful, modern, 152-room hotel in the heart of Kampala. But you sure wouldn’t know it because the hustle and bustle of the city seems far away. Again, a lovely hotel, but mostly for business/extended travel.

Notes: Five room categories (standard, executive, executive suite, business and presidential) and seven restaurants. Member of Leading Hotels of the World.

Emin Pasha Hotel, Kampala

Another hidden gem in a busy city. The minute you enter the property, you feel as if you’re in a tropical garden, making for a very peaceful ambiance. Emin Pasha makes you feel right at home. Small, cozy and perfect for your stay in Kampala. And a very nice spa, I might add.

Emin Pasha Hotel, Entebbe

Notes: Mid-range hotel. Garden or other views available at no extra price.