Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, an intimate and remote retreat nestled in Uganda’s southwestern highlands, is the perfect sanctuary for your gorilla trekking adventures. Perched high above the clouds in Nkuringo, the lodge offers stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes and provides a luxurious base for exploration. With personal butler service, organic meals, and a focus on conservation, Clouds offers an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Lodge Features:
- Stunning Location: Immediate access to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for gorilla tracking, with panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes.
- Luxury Cottages: Spacious cottages crafted from volcanic stone, featuring cozy fireplaces, plush armchairs, private verandas, and large bathrooms.
- Personalized Service: Each guest has a personal butler, and meals are prepared from fresh, local produce.
- Wellness Options: Guests can unwind with massages or simply relax by the lodge’s fireplaces in the serene atmosphere.
- Conservation-Focused: Clouds is a collaboration between Wildplaces, the Africa Wildlife Foundation, and the Nkuringo community, supporting local conservation efforts and gorilla habitat protection.
Gorilla Trekking and Permits
What Is a Gorilla Permit?
A gorilla permit is an authorization that allows visitors to spend one hour observing a family of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Gorilla permits are essential for both Uganda and Rwanda and are a key component of conservation, as they limit the number of visitors and contribute to gorilla protection efforts.
Permit Costs:
- Uganda: $800 per person for a one-hour trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
- Rwanda: $1,500 per person for a one-hour trek in Volcanoes National Park.
- Congo: $400 per person for a one-hour trek in Virunga National Park.
Gorilla Habituation Experience
In Uganda, a unique gorilla habituation permit is available for those interested in an extended experience. Priced at $1,500, this permit allows visitors four hours with gorillas, observing the gradual habituation process that familiarizes wild gorillas with human presence—a key part of sustainable tourism.
Booking a Gorilla Permit
To ensure availability, especially in high-demand seasons, it’s recommended to book a permit at least 6-10 months in advance. Permits can be acquired directly from:
- Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) in Uganda
- Rwanda Development Board (RDB) in Rwanda
Most travelers find it convenient to arrange permits through a reputable tour operator, often included in the package cost of the safari.
Permit Refund Policy:
Refunds are available based on the following cancellation timelines:
- 3 Months Before Trek: 75% refund
- 1.5 Months Before Trek: 50% refund
- 1 Month Before Trek: 25% refund
- 1 Week or Less Before Trek: No refund
Budget Tips and Safari Options
For travelers looking for more affordable options, Uganda offers some of the best value. With gorilla permits priced at $800, Uganda has become a popular destination compared to Rwanda’s $1,500 permits.
Clouds Lodge provides an all-inclusive experience, but for travelers on a budget, there are various mid-range lodges in Bwindi and Mgahinga with budget-friendly accommodation and tour options.
Getting to Clouds Lodge
From Entebbe:
- Scheduled/Charter Flight: A scenic 1.5-hour flight to Kisoro, followed by a short drive to the lodge.
- Drive: A picturesque but longer 11-hour drive.
Why Choose Clouds Lodge
- Luxurious & Remote: Ideal for travelers looking for a secluded, luxurious lodge with direct access to gorilla trekking.
- Sustainable Tourism: By staying at Clouds, guests support local conservation efforts, contributing to gorilla habitat preservation.
- Exclusive Experience: With personal butlers, organic meals, and unmatched views, Clouds provides a high level of service and a unique connection to the natural beauty of Uganda’s highlands.
Embark on an extraordinary journey at Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, where your stay contributes to conservation and offers the rare opportunity to experience the world of mountain gorillas.
