Rushaga SectorMid-range

Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge

$100-$220 per night

Overview

Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge sits on the shores of Lake Mulehe in southwestern Uganda, approximately 25 km from the Rushaga gorilla trekking gate in the southern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The lodge is also 10 km from Kisoro town and 13 km from Kisoro Airstrip, making it accessible by both road and light aircraft. All rooms — available as Singles, Doubles, Twins, Triples, and Family cottages — are en-suite and come with a private couch and views over the lake.

The lakeside setting provides a refreshing contrast to the forest-edge lodges closer to the park gate. Lake Mulehe is a calm, scenic body of water surrounded by green hills, and the lodge uses the waterfront position for both relaxation and activities. The property received a TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice award in 2025, reflecting consistent positive guest feedback.

For gorilla trekking, the 25 km drive to the Rushaga gate takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour depending on road conditions. This is further than lodges directly at the gate, but the trade-off is the lakeside environment and proximity to Kisoro town for supplies, dining alternatives, and the airstrip. The lodge can arrange gorilla tracking permits, golden monkey trekking, and community tours.

Location & Access

Distance to trekking gate: 25 km to Rushaga gate

Altitude: 1,780 m

Driving time: 45-60 min to Rushaga registration point

Map

Room Types

Standard Room

En-suite room with double or twin beds, lake views and a private seating area.

Up to 2 guests

Triple Room

Larger room with three beds, en-suite bathroom and lake views.

Up to 3 guests

Family Cottage

Spacious cottage with separate sleeping areas, en-suite bathroom and a terrace overlooking the lake.

Up to 4 guests

Dining

The lakeside restaurant serves fresh meals using local ingredients. Breakfast includes eggs, fresh fruit and Ugandan coffee. Packed lunches for trekking days, and dinner features a mix of Ugandan and international cuisine. The bar stocks local and imported drinks. Vegetarian options available on request.

Planning Your Trek

Staying at Lake Mulehe Safari 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.

Gorilla Permit Guide All Bwindi Experiences

Activities

Gorilla trekking
Golden monkey trekking
Lake activities
Bird watching
Community tours
Fishing
Nature walks

Who Should Stay Here

CouplesFamiliesNature loversRelaxation seekers

Why We Recommend It

Beautiful lakeside setting unlike any other Bwindi lodge
TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice 2025 winner
Close to Kisoro town and airstrip for easy logistics
Golden monkey trekking available nearby
Peaceful, scenic alternative to forest-edge lodges
Good range of room types for different group sizes

Things to Know

Further from the Rushaga trekking gate than forest-edge lodges (45-60 min drive)
Early starts required on gorilla trekking mornings due to distance
WiFi may not be available
Road conditions can be challenging in wet season

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is the lodge from gorilla trekking?

The Rushaga gorilla trekking gate is approximately 25 km away, about 45-60 minutes by car. The lodge arranges early transfers for trekking mornings.

Is the lakeside location worth the extra distance?

Many guests enjoy the lakeside setting as a relaxing contrast to the forest. Lake Mulehe is scenic and peaceful, surrounded by green hills and volcanic peaks.

Can I do golden monkey trekking from here?

Yes, the lodge is well positioned for golden monkey trekking in the nearby Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, as well as gorilla trekking in the Rushaga sector.