Elite Traveler Spring 2020

Kyambura Gorge Lodge DELUXE BANDA, UGANDA Uganda is one of the few places in Africa where you can see endangered gorillas and chimpanzees; at Kyambura Gorge Lodge, you have the chance to help protect these magnificent creatures. The lodge is situated at the edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park and has just eight bandas, or suites, overlooking either the savanna or the Kyambura Gorge. The four traditional-style Deluxe Bandas were renovated in 2019 and now have brand-new, rustic-chic interiors and private balconies. The thatched-roof bandas are built in the local style and feature local art. After a day spent exploring, relax in the saltwater swimming pool with panoramic vistas. Each banda has a personal butler who can set up a variety of local excursions, like a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, home to hippos, water birds, buffalo, zebra and more; hot-air ballooning over the park; or tracking chimpanzees through the gorge. Giving back Volcanoes Safaris established the Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust, and both have been key stakeholders in the Kyambura Gorge Eco-Tourism Project since 2009. The project helps protect the local ecosystem, specifically endangered gorillas and chimpanzees. To give back, you can plant indigenous trees during the Kyambura Gorge Buffer Walk to help restore natural growth in the area, or join a lion research safari. You can also engage with the local community by visiting the Kyambura Women’s Coffee Cooperative, a beekeeping training co-op, the Kyambura Community Café, partaking in classes with the local Kyambura Dance Group or helping re-roof local families’ homes. Rate from $760 per night Contact Eloisa Barberis Canonico, director of sales and marketing, enquiries@volcanoessafaris.com, +256 414 346 464, volcanoessafaris.com