Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

Nestled on a mountain ridge in one of Uganda’s most remote and beautiful locations, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge is an intimate escape that offers unrivaled views of the magnificent Virunga Volcanoes and the Great Rift Valley. The lodge’s location provides a serene atmosphere, blending the charm of a country house hotel with the grandeur of one of the world’s most unique and breathtaking landscapes.

A Gateway to the Nkuringo Gorilla Family

One of the most extraordinary features of Clouds is its proximity to the Nkuringo Gorilla family trailhead, which is directly outside the lodge. The trailhead gives guests the opportunity to track one of the most renowned and habituated gorilla families in Uganda. The Nkuringo Gorilla family’s home range typically stays within a 2-hour trek, making it an easily accessible experience, though this can vary depending on the group’s movements.

In addition, Clouds is just a short transfer away from the Rushaga area, which is home to seven other habituated gorilla families. This offers guests ample opportunities to track and observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, making Clouds an exceptional base for any gorilla trekking adventure.

A Commitment to Conservation and Community

Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge was established nearly two decades ago in a partnership between the Africa Wildlife Foundation, the Gorilla Conservation Programme, and the local Nkuringo community (NCCDF). The mission of this collaboration is to protect the habitat of the Mountain Gorilla, ensuring that both the environment and the communities living around it benefit from sustainable tourism. This dedication to eco-tourism and community conservation has made Clouds a leader in responsible travel.

Accommodations – Comfort in the Heart of the Wilderness

The lodge offers nine beautifully designed cottages that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Each one is a perfect retreat after a day of gorilla trekking, offering a high level of comfort and luxury.

• 6 One-Bedroom Stone Cottages: Featuring either king or twin beds, each cottage provides the perfect balance of privacy and luxury. The rooms include spacious sitting areas, cozy wood-burning fireplaces, and large windows to take in the magnificent views.
• 2 Two-Bedroom Stone ‘Family’ Cottages: These larger cottages, also with king or twin beds, are ideal for families or groups. Each features a large living room with a fireplace, creating an inviting space to relax together after a day of adventure.

All cottages at Clouds are built using local stone, with an emphasis on comfort and rustic elegance. The high ceilings, wooden beams, and warm, earthy tones ensure that guests feel completely at home in this peaceful mountain retreat.

Dining – A Culinary Experience

At Clouds, excellent food is paramount. The lodge’s organic kitchen garden is an integral part of its culinary offering, and guests are encouraged to pick their own greens for use in meals. The creative and delicious cuisine is rooted in fresh, local ingredients, and the chefs at Clouds are dedicated to delivering a dining experience that is as memorable as the scenery.

The main lodge features a cozy dining area, where guests can enjoy their meals while overlooking the stunning landscape. Guests can enjoy everything from traditional Ugandan dishes to international favorites, all prepared with care and flair. In the morning, guests are treated to tea and coffee in the comfort of their bed, a small touch that adds to the lodge’s charm.

The Lodge – An Elegant and Comfortable Retreat

The main lodge at Clouds is equally impressive, offering a warm and welcoming environment where guests can relax and socialize. With five fireplaces, a cozy bar area, and comfortable seating spaces, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of gorilla trekking or exploring the local surroundings. The lodge also offers a lounge area where guests can enjoy quiet moments of reflection, savoring the peace and beauty of the environment.

Activities Beyond Gorilla Trekking

While gorilla tracking is the main attraction, Clouds offers plenty of additional activities to enrich your stay:

• Community Engagement: Visit the nearby Nkuringo community and learn about the efforts being made to conserve the gorillas and support the local population. The lodge’s partnership with the local community offers opportunities for meaningful cultural exchanges.
• Nature Walks and Bird Watching: The surrounding area is rich with wildlife, and guided nature walks offer the chance to see the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Bird watchers will find the area a paradise, as it is home to a wide variety of species.
• Cultural Tours: Experience the local Ugandan culture through community visits, where you can learn about the customs, music, and traditions of the Nkuringo people.

A Unique and Unforgettable Experience

At Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, the comfort and luxury of your stay are paired with the raw beauty of the landscape and the thrilling adventure of gorilla trekking. Whether you are tracking gorillas in the wild, relaxing by the fire, or enjoying the delicious food, your stay promises to be unforgettable. The combination of stunning views, intimate accommodations, and a deep commitment to conservation ensures that every guest leaves with more than just memories—Clouds offers a true connection to Uganda’s wildlife and its people.

Come Stay in the Clouds

Embrace the warmth and hospitality of Uganda and experience the beauty of the Virunga Volcanoes at Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or an opportunity to support conservation, your time here will be an experience like no other.

Please find below link to our WETU catalogue for the team to look at rates, facts as well as a Gallery to download pictures.