Rushaga SectorMid-range

Gorilla Leisure Lodge

$120-$280 per night

Gorilla Leisure Lodge — Mid-range lodge in Bwindi's Rushaga sector, Uganda
Gorilla Leisure Lodge — Mid-range lodge accommodation, Rushaga sector, Bwindi Uganda
Gorilla Leisure Lodge — Mid-range lodge accommodation, Rushaga sector, Bwindi Uganda
Gorilla Leisure Lodge — Mid-range lodge accommodation, Rushaga sector, Bwindi Uganda
Gorilla Leisure Lodge — Mid-range lodge accommodation, Rushaga sector, Bwindi Uganda

Overview

Gorilla Leisure Lodge occupies a hillside in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, approximately five minutes on foot from the gorilla trekking starting point. The lodge was constructed using local volcanic ash, rocks, and eucalyptus timber, with basket reed ceilings that reflect the building traditions of the Bakiga people — the predominant tribe in this part of southwestern Uganda. The result is a property that blends into its environment while offering a comfortable standard of accommodation.

Room options include Luxury Family Cottages, Luxury Double and Single Cottages, and Standard Rooms, all with en-suite facilities. The lodge has a spa and wellness centre offering massage therapy — a practical recovery option after the physical demands of gorilla tracking. The restaurant operates daily from 6 AM to 10 PM, with meals using locally sourced ingredients and vegetarian options available.

From the lodge grounds, views extend across the volcanic hills around Kisoro. The property positions itself within the eco-tourism space, with involvement in reforestation and nature conservation initiatives in the surrounding area. Rushaga sector has multiple habituated gorilla families, and the short walk to the trekking gate makes morning departures straightforward.

Location & Access

Distance to trekking gate: 500 m to Rushaga gate
Altitude: 1,850 m
Driving time: 5 min walk to Rushaga registration point
Map

Room Types

Standard Room

Room with double or twin beds, en-suite bathroom with hot shower and views of the volcanic hills.

Up to 2 guests

Luxury Cottage

Spacious cottage built from volcanic rock with king bed, en-suite bathroom, sitting area and private terrace with forest views.

Up to 2 guests

Luxury Family Cottage

Large cottage with separate sleeping areas for adults and children, two en-suite bathrooms and a shared terrace.

Up to 4 guests

Dining

The restaurant operates daily from 6 AM to 10 PM, serving locally sourced cuisine with meals starting from around $15. Breakfast is hearty, packed lunches are provided for trekking days, and dinner features a set menu of Ugandan and international dishes. Vegetarian options available. The bar stocks local and imported drinks.

Planning Your Trek

Staying at Gorilla Leisure Lodge puts you close to the Rushaga sector trailhead — the briefing starts at 7:30 a.m.

A gorilla trekking permit costs $800 per person and is booked separately through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) — not included in your lodge rate. $10 from each permit goes directly to local communities surrounding Bwindi, linking conservation with the livelihoods of the people who live alongside the gorillas.

Source: Uganda Wildlife Authority (ugandawildlife.org) — permit prices subject to change.

Activities

  • Gorilla trekking
  • Spa & massage treatments
  • Bird watching
  • Nature walks
  • Community visits
  • Reforestation tours

Who Should Stay Here

CouplesWellness seekersValue-conscious travellersCultural travellers

Why We Recommend It

  • Just five minutes on foot from the Rushaga gorilla trekking point
  • Beautifully constructed from local volcanic materials in Bakiga style
  • On-site spa for post-trek massage and recovery
  • Views over the volcanic Kisoro hills
  • Involved in reforestation and conservation
  • Good value mid-range pricing

Things to Know

  • WiFi may not be available
  • Access road requires a 4x4 vehicle
  • Evening temperatures can be cool at altitude
  • Electricity runs on a generator schedule

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the lodge built from volcanic materials?
The lodge uses local volcanic ash, rocks, and eucalyptus timber with basket reed ceilings, reflecting the building traditions of the Bakiga people who are the predominant ethnic group in southwestern Uganda.
Does the lodge have a spa?
Yes, the lodge has a spa and wellness centre offering massage therapy — particularly popular with guests after gorilla trekking.
How close is the trekking point?
The Rushaga gorilla trekking starting point is about five minutes on foot from the lodge.

Further Reading

Plan your trek
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