The Rainforest Lodge is a new lodge set on a small hill amongst the trees of Mabira Forest Reserve. Although just over an hour's drive from Kampala, this is haven of peace and tranquility. The forest teems with life, with over 100 species each of birds, butterflies and insects. In addition, there are many resident mammals including monkeys. As well as the forest, the terrain includes grassland valleys and papyrus swamps.
With just 12 rooms, Rainforest Lodge offers privacy and a relaxing atmosphere. All guest rooms have ensuite bathrooms, seating areas, large screened windows with 180 degree views of the forest and private deck. They are spaced well apart from each other and are set on the hill just below the main lodge. The temperature in the rooms is controlled by the natural climate of the forest.
The main lodge houses The Elements Lounge, where guests can chat over the day's events. The lounge is multi-level and open-sided with 360 degree views. Legacies Restaurant serves international cuisine and The Canopy Bar offers a comprehenesive range of drinks including cocktails. On warm evenings guests gather around the campfire and enjoy the sounds of the nocturnal forest creatures.
The main attraction here is undoubtedly the rainforest and the lodge offers guided forest walks from one hour to three hours in duration, where the in-house naturalist will point out different birds, animals, plants and trees. Amongst the many bird species are the great blue turaco, African grey parrot, 3 kinds of forest hornbill and the forest wood-hoopoe. The forest is also home to several species of mammal. There are almost 40 miles of forest trails to be explored. Back at the lodge, guests can relax by the swimming pool, in the sun of in the shade of the trees, or enjoy a sauna or massage.
The lodge has excellent eco credentials. It has been built of local materials and blends into the environment. It uses hydroelectric power, energy-saving lightbulbs, gas for cooking and solar power to heat the water.
