Kyaninga Lodge
Fort Portal, near Kibale Forest, Uganda
Kyaninga Lodge stands on the rim of a crater lake near Fort Portal, with the Rwenzori “Mountains of the Moon” as its backdrop. Built from timber to blend into the wooded hillside, it looks a little like an alpine chalet transplanted into the African forest, and the views down to the lake are superb.
It is one of the most polished places to stay in western Uganda, and a natural base for chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park, which is less than an hour away. Between outings there is a pool, a grass tennis court, a croquet lawn and gardens to enjoy.
On the edge of a crater lake near Fort Portal, with the Rwenzori Mountains in the distance.
Thatched timber cottages on raised platforms, linked by wooden walkways, including family cottages.
Lounge with a double-sided fireplace, bar, restaurant, pool, grass tennis court, croquet lawn and gardens.
Chimpanzee tracking, crater-rim and forest walks, village visits, lake swimming and cycling.
Activities
There is plenty to do at the lodge itself, and Kibale, the Rwenzoris and Queen Elizabeth National Park are all within reach for day trips.
Chimpanzee tracking
Kibale Forest holds one of the largest populations of chimpanzees in Africa, and tracking them on foot is the main reason many guests stay here. Minimum age for tracking is 12, and permits are limited, so we book yours early.
Crater and forest walks
A walk around the rim of the crater lake is an easy outing close to the lodge. Forest walks inside the crater are a little tougher underfoot but reward you with birds, monkeys and other wildlife.
Village and cultural visits
Local community walks and visits introduce you to farming life around Fort Portal and the nearby tea country.
Lake and cycling
Swim in the lake, hire a bike or follow quiet trails through the surrounding countryside.
Day trips
Semuliki and Queen Elizabeth National Parks, caves, botanical gardens and the Rwenzori Founders Art Centre can all be arranged as excursions.
Access & location
Kyaninga is reached by road from Kampala to Fort Portal, a long day on the road, with the lodge a short drive beyond town. We arrange your transfers and can combine Kyaninga with Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls on the same trip.
Plan your trip: Kibale Forest Complete park guide Uganda safaris 10 Days Uganda Primate Safari
Ask us how to get thereFacilities
Elegant public spaces, set high on the hill with long views.
- Lounge with open fireplace
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Swimming pool
- Grass tennis court
- Croquet lawn
- Gardens
- Wi-Fi
The main lodge is raised on stilts at the top of the hill, with a lounge built around a double-sided fireplace and decks that look out over the lake. Meals lean on a kitchen garden and orchard in the grounds, and there is a good wine list. Terraced gardens lead down past the pool to the lake itself.
Rooms & amenities
Cottages with private decks and some of the best views in the area.
- Private deck
- Claw-foot bath
- King or twin beds
- Lake and mountain views
- Family cottages
Each cottage stands on a raised platform, reached along the wooden walkways that link the buildings to the main lodge. Inside, hand-carved furniture, comfortable beds and a freestanding bath set the tone, and sliding doors open on to a private deck for the view. A couple of family cottages have extra sleeping space. We confirm the exact room mix for your dates when we quote.
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Stay at Kyaninga Lodge with people who know the ground
Tell us when you hope to travel and what you most want to see. We will check availability, suggest the best way to combine this lodge with the rest of your trip, and quote it for your dates.
