Overview
Above the Clouds
As the name suggests you will feel on top of the world while staying here. The lodge has sweeping views of the Virunga Volcanoes of Rwanda and into the Congo, where the glow of Nyiragongo Volcano can be seen on a clear night.
All eight of the spacious cottages are built from volcanic stone. Every cottage is warm and welcoming with cosy fireplaces and comfortable armchairs to sink into at the end of the day. The main lodge is just inviting with its endless views of treetops, volcanoes, and mountains. It feels like a ski chalet. But with the gentle and warm welcome that can only be in Uganda.
The lodge is situated within easy walking distance of the trail where you can begin your gorilla trekking adventure. Guided forest walks and birdwatching expeditions explore the surroundings, while local community visits can give you a glimpse of traditional life.
Facts
At a glance
-
Eight cottages
-
Spa
-
Library
-
Bar
Experiences
-
![Gorilla]()
Gorilla Trekking
Enjoy magical encounters with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi’s impenetrable forest where about half the world’s Gorilla population currently lives. You will hike through the spectacular rainforest and bamboo-covered slopes of the park, accompanied by expert guides and trackers.
-
![The Batwa Tribe]()
Cultural visit with the Batwa tribe
Known as the “Keepers of the Forest” this hunter-gather tribe have lived side by side with the wildlife for thousands of years. Take a hike to the Batwa settlement where you will see how they live their lives. At the end, you will enjoy a lively music performance. This fascinating excursion gives great insight into how this ancient tribe exist.
-
![Cloud Gorrila Lodge]()
Waterfall and Birding Hike
Head out through the unique habitats of this UNESCO World Heritage Site in search of birds and waterfalls. The forest is one of the most biologically diverse area so you'll have plenty of chance to spot wonderful wildlife. The beauty of the rainforest is captivating, providing lots of photo opportunities.
Conservation
Conservation is at the heart of everything they do and here, gorillas are the agenda. Clouds presents a rare success story in community conservation. The project is the brainchild of the Africa Wildlife Foundation (AWF) and the International Gorilla Conservation Project (IGCP) It marries the community to the private sector with the ultimate goal of protecting the habitat of the Mountain Gorilla.
Culture & Community
Originally the brainchild of the Africa Wildlife Foundation and the International Gorilla Conservation Project, the lodge is operated in partnership with the local community with the intention of alleviating rural poverty, increasing conservation awareness and ensuring greater protection for the gorillas and their environment. Almost all the staff at the lodge come from the local villages and as much of the consumable produce is sourced locally. You will encounter various other small scale projects that bolster this overall approach.
Example Trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
-
Example Trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
-
Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
-
Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
-
Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
