Where to Stay in Uganda
A regional guide to accommodation across the country
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Regions of Uganda
Each region offers a distinct character and accommodation scene. Find the one that matches your travel plans.
The country's most developed accommodation hub, offering everything from international hotel chains to boutique guesthouses. This region serves as the primary entry point for most visitors and provides urban comforts, business facilities, and easy access to Entebbe International Airport. Accommodation here caters to business travelers, transit guests, and those organizing safari departures.
Home to Uganda's premier gorilla trekking destinations, this region features exclusive lodges and upscale camps positioned near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Accommodation is characterized by eco-conscious design, limited capacity, and premium pricing that reflects the once-in-a-lifetime experiences offered. Most lodges include meals and some activities in their rates.
Encompassing Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest, and surrounding areas, this region offers diverse accommodation from budget bandas to luxury lodges. The area's varied ecosystems support different wildlife experiences, and accommodation ranges accordingly, with options for chimpanzee tracking, traditional game drives, and boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel.
Uganda's largest national park area features accommodation ranging from riverside luxury camps to basic rest houses. The dramatic Murchison Falls and abundant wildlife attract visitors seeking classic African safari experiences with Nile River boat cruises and savanna game drives. Lodges here often offer all-inclusive packages with guided activities.
Centered around Mount Elgon and Jinja, this region combines mountain trekking with adrenaline activities at the source of the Nile. Accommodation includes backpacker hostels popular with adventure sports enthusiasts, comfortable hotels in Jinja town, and mountain lodges near hiking trails. The area attracts a younger, activity-focused demographic.
The Ssese Islands and mainland lake shores offer beach-style relaxation and fishing village experiences unique to Uganda's tourism landscape. Accommodation ranges from basic beach bandas to upscale island resorts, providing a tropical retreat atmosphere. This region attracts travelers seeking downtime between safari activities or a different pace from wildlife-focused itineraries.
Less developed for tourism but emerging with community-based initiatives and cultural experiences, northern Uganda offers authentic encounters away from typical tourist circuits. Accommodation is generally basic but improving, with guesthouses in regional centers and community-run lodges near Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Africa's most remote and pristine wilderness areas.
The legendary Mountains of the Moon attract serious trekkers to this challenging but rewarding destination. Accommodation consists mainly of mountain huts along trekking routes and basic lodges in gateway towns. This region caters to a niche market of mountaineers and high-altitude hiking enthusiasts seeking multi-day trekking experiences.
Positioned between Kampala and southwestern destinations, this region offers convenient stopover accommodation and accessible wildlife viewing in Lake Mburo National Park. Lodges here provide a gentler introduction to Ugandan safari experiences with walking safaris, horseback riding, and boat trips on the lake, making it ideal for families and first-time safari-goers.
Accommodation Landscape
What to expect from accommodation options across Uganda
International hotel chains have a limited but growing presence in Uganda, primarily concentrated in Kampala and Entebbe. Brands like Serena Hotels, Protea Hotels by Marriott, and Sheraton operate flagship properties catering to business travelers and upscale tourists. Regional African chains and independent boutique hotels fill the mid-range market, while safari lodge groups like Volcanoes Safaris and Wildplaces Africa operate multiple high-end properties near national parks. The majority of accommodation remains independently owned and operated.
Locally-owned guesthouses, lodges, and hotels form the backbone of Uganda's accommodation sector, offering authentic hospitality and direct community benefits. These range from family-run guesthouses in towns to entrepreneur-owned safari camps near parks. Many are registered with the Uganda Tourism Board and maintain decent standards, though quality varies significantly. Community-based tourism enterprises have emerged in rural areas, providing homestays and cultural lodges that directly support local development while offering genuine cultural exchanges.
Uganda offers several distinctive accommodation experiences unique to East African culture and ecology. Bandas—traditional thatched-roof cottages—are common in national parks and lakeside areas, providing rustic charm with modern amenities. Tented camps range from basic safari tents to luxury canvas suites with en-suite bathrooms and private decks overlooking wildlife areas. Community homestays in villages near Sipi Falls, Mount Elgon, and other rural areas allow cultural immersion. Tree houses and elevated platforms in forest reserves offer canopy-level wildlife viewing. Houseboats on Lake Victoria and the Nile provide unique floating accommodations for fishing and birding enthusiasts.
Booking Tips for Uganda
Country-specific advice for finding the best accommodation
Lodges near Bwindi and Mgahinga fill up 6-12 months ahead during peak seasons, especially since gorilla permits themselves must be secured well in advance. Many lodges offer package deals including permits, transfers, and meals. Consider booking through reputable tour operators who can coordinate permits and accommodation simultaneously to ensure availability.
While international platforms list major hotels, many excellent lodges and camps—especially in remote areas—aren't well-represented online or offer better rates through direct contact. Email or WhatsApp communication with properties can yield personalized service, flexible payment options, and local insights. Tour operators specializing in Uganda can also access better rates and availability than individual bookings.
Many safari lodges and remote camps operate on full-board or all-inclusive basis, including meals, park fees, and activities in their rates. Always clarify what's covered before booking, as à la carte pricing in remote locations can be expensive. Budget accommodations typically offer room-only rates, while mid-range and luxury properties bundle services for convenience and value.
Lodges located inside national parks offer immersive experiences and early game drive access but command premium prices. Properties just outside park boundaries often cost 30-50% less while still providing excellent wildlife access. For gorilla trekking, proximity to your assigned trekking sector (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, or Nkuringo) matters significantly for reducing morning drive times.
Urban hotels accept credit cards and mobile money, but many remote lodges prefer bank transfers or cash (USD is widely accepted). Confirm payment methods when booking, as some properties charge credit card processing fees of 5-10%. Carry sufficient USD cash for tips, small purchases, and backup payment options in rural areas where card infrastructure is limited.
When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability across Uganda
For travel during June-September and December-February, book gorilla trekking lodges 8-12 months ahead and other safari accommodations 3-6 months in advance. Popular lodges in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls fill quickly during these periods. Urban hotels in Kampala and Entebbe can usually be booked 1-2 months ahead, except during major conferences or holidays.
March-May and October-November offer better availability and rates, with bookings 2-3 months ahead typically sufficient for most destinations. Gorilla trekking lodges still require advance booking even in shoulder seasons due to limited capacity. This period provides excellent value with fewer crowds and often includes promotional rates at mid-range and luxury properties.
During April-May (long rains), many lodges offer significant discounts and last-minute bookings are often possible, though some remote properties close for maintenance. This is the best time for budget-conscious travelers willing to endure muddy roads and occasional afternoon rains. Urban accommodation remains available year-round with minimal price fluctuation.
Book gorilla trekking accommodations and permits as early as possible regardless of season—permits are limited to 8 people per gorilla family per day and sell out months ahead. For other destinations, 2-3 months advance booking provides good selection and rates. Last-minute travelers can find availability in most regions except during peak gorilla trekking season and major holidays.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information for Uganda