Bahundu Safari Lodge

Set above a crater lake on the edge of Kibale Forest, Bahundu Safari Lodge lies about 20 km outside Fort Portal in western Uganda. The rainforest closes in behind the property; the lake sits below it, catching the light through the day. Cottages are built with thatched roofs and glass walls, so the lake and forest stay visible from the bed. There are three cottage types. The single cottage sleeps two in 20 ft of space, with a veranda over the water or the trees. The double cottage, at 23 ft, adds a private balcony for watching the sun go down over the crater. The family cottage runs to 30 ft and four guests, with its own lounge and a wide veranda for groups. Meals are taken in an open-air restaurant that looks straight onto the lake, with menus mixing Ugandan dishes and standard international fare. Guided nature walks cross the rainforest trails around the property, past birds and butterflies typical of the Kibale margin; a boat cruise on the lake was in development at time of writing. Evenings tend to end at the campfire, under a sky with little competing light. A campsite with showers and restrooms sits beside the lake for guests who would rather sleep under canvas. Reception runs around the clock.