How to End Your Wildlife Adventures in Uganda

After an unforgettable journey through Uganda’s wild landscapes, where you’ve likely ticked off extraordinary encounters with mountain gorillas, chimps, and the Big 4, like most safaris, it’s likely you’ll feel the need for a night or two to relax before heading back to “the real world”.

Whether you’re looking to unwind, keep the adrenaline going, or simply soak up some last rays, here are three possible options to round off your holiday.

Karibu Entebbe
If you’re flying in or out of Uganda, chances are you’ll pass through Entebbe, and Karibu is the perfect place to hit pause. Tucked away in a quiet part of town, yet conveniently close to the airport, this boutique guesthouse feels like a home away from home.

Leslie, Kevin and all of the team at Karibu are simply wonderful (Stella & Tina are rays of sunshine) —warm, attentive, and always ready with a smile. They’ve perfected that fine balance of offering great service without being intrusive, which I truly appreciated after time exploring the countryside. There are not many places where you feel like you are genuinely being welcomed home.

The lush gardens are a haven for birdwatchers, and the swimming pool is just the ticket for lounging in the sun. The veranda is so lovely, where you can enjoy freshly brewed local coffee or a refreshing gin and tonic as the sun dips below the horizon. If you’re a beer drinker, do try the Nile Special. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the food. Leslie’s dedication and keen eye for detail has truly paid off. You can expect juicy steaks, tasty wraps such as the iconic ‘Rolex’, homemade ice cream and other hearty home-cooked produce.

You can also treat yourselves to a massage or two, taking away any aches from your treks. There’s also a great selection of local souvenirs from honey and coffee, to Converse trainers, which have been given the Ugandan touch! I am very proud to say I now have a pair of these myself and will be wearing them at every opportunity.

If you’ve still got some energy left, there are several places  to explore nearby. You can visit the botanical gardens, or pop into the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre for a behind the scenes tour, or take a sundowner on Lake Victoria. But honestly, Karibu’s charm lies in its ability to make you feel like doing absolutely nothing is the most luxurious choice of all.

White Waters Lemala
For those who want to end their trip with a shot of adventure, look no further than Lemala Wildwaters Lodge, located on its very own private island in the middle of the mighty River Nile. It’s about a three-hour drive from Entebbe, but the journey is all part of the experience as you leave the urban buzz behind, whilst winding through local villages and finding yourself deep in the lush green countryside of Jinja. Upon arrival you take a short (minute or two) wooden boat across to the lodge -so exciting!

The lodge’s location is nothing short of breathtaking, perched right above the roaring rapids. I can’t recall ever seeing anything like it. The sound of the river rushes past all areas including your room -it’s both exhilarating and strangely calming.

Wildwaters offers activities to suit all levels of adventure. You can dive straight into white-water rafting, which is world-class here, or for daredevils do a bungee jump. If you’re after something a little more relaxed (like I was), there are guided nature walks, birdwatching, and even a selection of massage treatments, where you can unwind while listening to the sound of the Nile.

The food at Lemala is of a good standard. From fresh fish caught locally to indulgent desserts, you could really see the effort made in every meal.

Being on an island, it’s important to note that you’re surrounded by the “wild” with geckos being a frequent visitor in your room. During my stay, monkeys sat in the trees surrounding my deck which I loved and I even spotted otters playing in the rapids! The rooms are very spacious and many have been impressively worked around the natural boulders of the island, some giving an almost Flintstone vibe. All rooms have an indoor shower and outdoor bath where you can soak in the bubbles with the roar of the river surrounding you. A couple of rooms also have a plunge pool on the deck but if you don’t fancy upgrading, there is an infinity pool just off of the main area.

The overall feel is laidback, and things can occasionally move on island time, but it’s truly a unique spot to end your time in this magical country.

Zanzibar
If your idea of the perfect ending involves soft sands, turquoise waters, and a slower pace, then you can hop on an indirect (or direct a couple of times a week) flight to Zanzibar.

There are a great selection of options, from luxury resorts, to charming boutique hotels. Whether you want to lounge by the pool with a cocktail, take a traditional dhow at sunset, or explore Stone Town’s maze of cobbled streets, there’s something for everyone.

Visit Uganda page for more information about this destination and all it has to offer.