Trip Report: Ultimate Uganda & Rwanda (Part Two)

Kyaninga Lodge and the crater lake.

I ( Jessie) recently joined Adventure Consults for an “Ultimate Uganda & Rwanda” safari in East Africa. This is the second installment of my trip report — on the places I stayed in and around Kibale National Park, renowned for its chimp tracking and chances to see more than a dozen other primates in the wild.

Crater Safari Lodge

A beautiful property that overlooks Lake Nyinbulitwa. Rooms and common areas are very spacious. We were only there for a short while, but the property seemed nice.

Notes: Mid-range; all rooms have two queens.

Ndali Lodge

One of our favorites from the trip! Aubrey, the owner, was one of the most welcoming and accommodating people that we came across during our entire trip through Uganda and Rwanda. Not to mention he invited us for lunch, which owners normally don’t do.

Cottage interior at Ndali Lodge.

This property is definitely for dog lovers. You’re greeted by three of the resident canines as soon as you pull up. Basal, the puppy, runs the show. The property is set on top of a crater rim, which makes for incredible views. And the extensive gardens make Ndali a haven of relaxation.

They are currently building outdoor showers and have just finished the sauna and massage area. Ping pong is a popular activity at the lodge — which Aubrey says has the best view of any ping pong table in the world. Guests also have access to a gym and yoga studio.

The atmosphere here just makes you feel at home in the middle of Uganda. And you can feel good about booking with Ndali, as 2% of the rate goes to sponsoring students at a local school. Lake walks and a school visit are additional activities. Nothing but good things to say about Ndali.

Notes: Opened in 1996; eight cottages including a honeymoon unit.

Kyaninga Lodge

So many stairs! Although this was one of the most luxurious properties we saw, it’s definitely not for the “unfit.” The lodge is perfect for young, active clients, as there are tons of things to do onsite. Crater lake and forest walks, kayaks and paddle-boards are just a few activities to choose from. And the lake is parasite free, so guests can swim without worrying about getting some nasty bug.

There’s a goat farm nearby that produces cheese for Kyaninga. Also nearby is a ballroom where Kyaninga hosts three large charity events per year, with all proceeds going to local children with disabilities. Weddings can also be held there. Truly a lovely, high-end property.

Notes: Nine regular rooms and two with a mezzanine level for families. Laundry included. WiFi only in the main area. Opened in 2011. Spa currently under construction.

Primate Lodge

We had a lovely two-night stay here. You definitely can’t beat the location, as the lodge is only a five-minute drive to the starting point of the chimp trek. Our luxury rooms were spacious and comfortable. It was hard to imagine the camp’s main area (dining room, lounge, gift shop, fire pit, etc.) because it was all under construction. But it looks like it will turn out beautifully!

The Treehouse at Primate Lodge

A unique feature of Primate Lodge is The Treehouse. There was a couple staying there during our stay and they had a chimp run in front of them while they were walking to breakfast! The food is delicious at Primate Lodge and the service is great. We really enjoyed our stay.

Notes: Luxury and standard cottages. Honeymoon and family cottages also available. There is also a tree-house for the adventurous at heart; it’s quite a walk from the main lodge though.