Clouds
Above the mist, among the gorillas
Uganda’s Gorilla Highlands
Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge sits on a mountain ridge with sweeping views of the magnificent Virunga Volcanoes and the Great Rift Valley. Remote, beautiful and intimate, it feels like a country house hotel transported to one of Africa’s most spectacular settings.
A maximum of eight permits per group are issued each day, ensuring that the tracking experience is exclusive and intimate. There are three groups of gorillas that can be tracked at Nkuringo—Posho, Christmas and Nkuringo—and the trailhead for all three is at our doorstep, a short walk from Clouds. A further seven gorilla groups are located at Rushaga, including the Habituation Group, which allows more time for a more immersive and involved experience. With only four permits per day—and at a premium cost—it’s an experience many feel is worth every penny. Rushaga is a 30–40 minute drive from Clouds, weather permitting.
All gorilla tracking in Uganda is as inclusive as possible, and park rangers will always try to allocate guests to the group that best suits their ability level.
Experience Bwindi
- Gorillas: Trek into the misty forest to sit arms-length from gorilla families as they play, groom, and go about their daily lives
- Hiking: Forest walks and community trails with spectacular views
- Birding: Numerous Albertine Rift endemics in surrounding forest
- Massage Spa: Traditional wattle hut overlooking the forest
- Indoor Fireplaces: Cozy warmth at 2,000 meters elevation
- Organic Garden: Pick your own greens for dinner
- Community: Visit projects supported by your stay
Lodge Details
Stone Cottages with fireplaces
8 private cottages (6 one-bedroom, 2 family) with wood-burning fireplaces for cozy warmth at 2,000 meters elevation
Comfortable living spaces
Spacious living rooms with deep, plump sofas and a main lodge featuring 5 fireplaces, bar and dining areas
Personal attention
Dedicated butler service ensures attentive, personalized care throughout your stay
Culinary experience
Creative cuisine using fresh ingredients from our organic garden, with tea and coffee served in bed
Local artistry
Beautifully appointed rooms featuring work from local artists, connecting you to Bwindi's cultural heritage
Gorilla Habituation
Spend up to 4 hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family—an immersive and exclusive tracking experience
Location
Getting There:
Flights to Kisoro (1 hour) then road transfer (1.5 hours), or scenic drive from Entebbe (8-9 hours)
Best Time:
Year-round, with dry seasons (Dec–Mar & Jun–Sep) offering optimal trekking conditions.
Combine With
Apoka for the ultimate gorilla and savanna safari experience, or Honey Bear and The River Station for gorillas and chimpanzees in one journey.
Spectacular Setting
Above the clouds on Nteko Ridge with views across the Virunga Volcanoes
Gorilla Access
Walking distance to the Nkuringo trail, access to 8 habituated families
Community Owned
Your visit directly supports local schools, healthcare, and conservation
Mountain Comfort
Cozy fireplaces, deep sofas, and attentive service after your adventure
Michael & Lisa, Canada
Conservation & Community Impact
Protecting Bwindi's Gorillas
Built nearly 20 years ago in partnership with the Africa Wildlife Foundation, the Gorilla Conservation Programme and the local Nkuringo community (NCDF), Clouds is a true leader in eco-tourism and community conservation. The lodge has generated nearly $2 million for local education and health initiatives, creating a direct link between gorilla protection and community prosperity.
Our Lodges & Camps
From forests where gorillas roam to savannas where lions hunt, our lodges invite you into Uganda’s most remarkable wild places.
Our Lodges & Camps
From forests where gorillas roam to savannas where lions hunt, our lodges invite you into Uganda’s most remarkable wild places.