Extraordinary Africa>Uganda>Bwindi>Mahogany Springs
Mahogany Springs is a lovely option for visiting the gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and our only real gripe with it is that it’s often very tricky to find space here- for this reason, if we manage to find a room for you, book quickly!
What’s Mahogany Springs really like?
The location is certainly excellent, with glorious views down over the valley and only a short walk or drive to park headquarters. It’s small and charming, with only eight large individual cottages, and a pleasingly minimalist style- this certainly isn’t a lodge for those who come expecting air conditioning and TV in the rooms. Instead you will find the rooms to be comfortable and spacious with excellent views over the surrounding area from the outside terraces.
One of the rooms, the rather grandly-named Presidential Suite comes with two bedrooms and two bathrooms and a lounge, so can work well for two couples travelling together. Just as an aside here, it’s worth noting that power supplies in this part of Uganda aren’t always 100% reliable. Mahogany Springs has a back-up generator, however this is switched off overnight (the sounds of the forest make for a more peaceful night’s sleep than the rumble of the generator). In case you travel during a period when the lodge is relying on a generator we’d recommend brining a small torch with you for your trip.
The main lodge houses the lounge, dining room, and a bar that lays claim to being the largest in Bwindi. While we can’t personally confirm if this is true, it’s certainly well-stocked and sizeable, and there are plenty of places to curl up with a drink and a good book after your gorilla trek. In all, we think this is a comfortable, good value lodge, and a great bet for those who don’t want to splash out for the occasionally eyewatering prices of the more luxurious lodges elsewhere.
What can I do at Mahogany Springs?
Aside from gorilla trekking, we can arrange trips to visit the Batwa community, walks and trails through the surrounding area if you (still) want to stretch your legs, and bird watching. The wonderful Ride4aWoman project is very close by and we’d really recommend a visit.
Giving Back at Mahogany Springs:
Should you wish to give back to the local community guests are invited to plant a tree in the lodge grounds- please just let us know in advance so we can make sure the tree is available for planting! The lodge also sponsors an orphanage in Kampala, helped support a local hydro project, and has provided a tap bringing clean drinking water to the community.
Want to know more? We’ve stayed here, so just
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