Where the soul of the forest whispers in the mist
Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge is a charming mid-range safari lodge strategically located in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, southwestern Uganda. The lodge is widely appreciated for its close proximity to the Rushaga gorilla trekking starting point, making it one of the most convenient accommodation options for travelers coming specifically for mountain gorilla trekking. Surrounded by rolling hills, dense rainforest vegetation, and misty valleys, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge provides a calm and authentic jungle atmosphere that perfectly complements the Bwindi gorilla experience.
Designed to blend naturally with its environment, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge combines traditional African architectural elements with modern comfort. The lodge offers warm hospitality, scenic forest views, and a peaceful setting ideal for relaxing before or after gorilla trekking. Guests often enjoy waking up to birdsong, cool mountain air, and uninterrupted views of Bwindi’s forest canopy. Its location also allows easy access to several gorilla families in the Rushaga sector, making it an excellent base for both standard gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation experiences.
So lace up your boots, grab your camera, and prepare to meet the wild — this is where your gorilla trekking dreams and unforgettable safari adventures truly begin.
Truly Iconic Highlights in Uganda
Trek through Bwindi’s mystical rainforest and meet the endangered mountain gorillas in their breathtaking natural home.
Encounter mountain gorillas and golden monkeys on Mgahinga’s misty volcanic trails, where culture and alpine wildlife thrive together.
Unwind after your trek with a peaceful canoe ride across Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda’s most tranquil and scenic highland lake.
Enhance your gorilla trekking safari with an optional chimpanzee encounter in Uganda’s lush forests, adding depth and diversity to your primate adventure
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Comfortable Mid-Range Lodge Near Rushaga Gorilla Trekking Gate
Location and Accessibility
Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge is located just a short walk or drive from the Rushaga Gorilla Trekking Gate of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The lodge can be accessed by road from Kampala or Entebbe via Mbarara and Kabale, a scenic journey of approximately 8–10 hours. Travelers may also choose to fly to Kisoro or Kihihi Airstrip, followed by a road transfer to the lodge. For visitors combining Rwanda and Uganda safaris, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge is also conveniently accessible from Kigali, Rwanda.
Accommodation
The lodge features spacious and well-designed cottages that offer comfort, privacy, and scenic views of the surrounding forest and hills. Each cottage is constructed using local materials and includes modern amenities suitable for safari travelers.
Accommodation features include:
Comfortable beds with mosquito nets
En-suite bathrooms with hot showers
Private verandas overlooking the forest
Wooden interiors with local décor
24-hour standby power and solar lighting
The cottages are ideal for couples, solo travelers, and small groups seeking comfort without excessive luxury.
Dining and Lodge Facilities
Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge has a central restaurant serving both local Ugandan dishes and international cuisine, prepared using fresh ingredients sourced from nearby communities. Meals are served in a relaxed setting with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The lodge also offers a lounge and bar area where guests can unwind with drinks while sharing gorilla trekking stories.
Additional facilities include:
Campfire area
Free Wi-Fi in common areas
Secure parking
Laundry services
Friendly and knowledgeable staff
Activities and Experiences
The lodge is best known for its easy access to mountain gorilla trekking in the Rushaga sector, home to several habituated gorilla families. Guests staying at Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge can also participate in a variety of other activities, including:
Gorilla habituation experience
Guided nature walks
Bird watching
Batwa cultural encounters
Community village walks
These activities allow visitors to experience both wildlife and local culture around Bwindi.
Sustainability and Community Involvement
Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge supports responsible tourism by employing staff from nearby communities and sourcing supplies locally. The lodge promotes conservation awareness and encourages guests to respect the fragile ecosystem of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Through tourism, the lodge contributes to local livelihoods and conservation initiatives that help protect mountain gorillas and their habitat.
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Why Uganda for Gorilla Trekking?
Uganda is not just a destination — it's the very soul of gorilla trekking. With over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas calling its misty forests home, Uganda offers the rarest encounters in their most authentic setting. Here, your journey is not rushed or crowded. Instead, you’re guided by experienced rangers through pristine jungles where gorillas live as they always have — wild, free, and magnificent
From insider travel insights to unforgettable trekking guides, our blog is your trusted path into Uganda’s wild heart — connecting you with mountain gorillas, breathtaking landscapes, and the soul-stirring adventures that make this land unlike any other.


























