Erebero Hills

Opened in August 2026, Erebero Hills marks Asilia Africa’s first Uganda property, bringing three decades of East African safari expertise to the edge of one of the planet’s most biodiverse ecosystems.

Perched on a hillside above the Bwindi canopy, the lodge’s distinctive wave-like roofline echoes the undulating forest below. Glass-fronted suites, a hillside infinity pool with panoramic gorilla habitat views, a sunken fireplace lounge, and exceptional farm-to-fork cuisine combine to create a stay that is both deeply luxurious and genuinely meaningful. Every aspect of the lodge — from its revolutionary CoolBrick construction and on-site regenerative farm to its Batwa community partnerships and 25,000-tree reforestation programme — reflects a commitment to tourism that gives back more than it takes.

For travellers seeking the ultimate gorilla trekking experience in Uganda, this is where to stay.

Gorilla Trekking at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to approximately 460 mountain gorillas — more than 50% of the world’s total population. The forest itself is a 25,000-year-old ecosystem that survived the last ice age, creating one of the most biodiverse places on Earth: 120 mammal species, 350 bird species (including 23 endemic to the Albertine Rift), 220 butterfly species, and over 1,000 flowering plant species.

A gorilla trek in Bwindi is widely considered one of the greatest wildlife encounters available anywhere on the planet. With a maximum of only eight visitors permitted per gorilla family per day, and a full hour spent in close proximity to these gentle giants in their natural rainforest habitat, it is an experience that changes perspective in ways that few encounters with the natural world can. Expert park rangers track each gorilla family from dawn before guests depart, maximising the time spent with the animals.

Gorilla trekking is available year-round from Bwindi, though the dry seasons — June to August and December to February — offer easier conditions underfoot. Treks typically take between two and six hours to reach the gorilla family, depending on their location on a given day. Terrain is steep and occasionally muddy, and a moderate level of fitness is recommended.

Uganda gorilla permits cost US$800 per person — significantly less than the US$1,500 charged in neighbouring Rwanda — making Uganda the best-value destination for a luxury mountain gorilla trekking experience in Africa.

Erebero Hills provides access to all four of Bwindi’s gorilla trekking sectors:

Minimum age for gorilla trekking: 15 years.

Activities at Erebero Hills

Gorilla Trekking: The centrepiece of any stay at Erebero Hills. Permits are secured and logistics handled seamlessly, with lunch packs provided for trekking days. A genuinely life-changing encounter with mountain gorillas in their ancient rainforest habitat. (Minimum age 15 years. Additional cost applies.)

Reforestation Walk & Talk: Walk slopes where more than 25,000 indigenous trees are transforming former tea plantations back into thriving forest across 50+ hectares, with 35,000 additional seedlings growing in community nurseries for future planting. Meet Batwa elders who guide species selection based on generations of traditional ecological knowledge, and participate in planting trees yourself — contributing directly to the forest’s return.

Batwa Community Visit & Beekeeping: Join local Batwa guides to discover traditional log hive beekeeping — an ancient practice being revitalised into sustainable livelihoods for more than 50 families. Using fire-starting techniques passed down through generations, guests observe the hives being tended and taste honey that carries the essence of Bwindi’s extraordinary flora. Honey can be purchased directly, creating meaningful income for the community.

Nature Walks: Guided walks through the forest fringe and surrounding landscape offer excellent birding, butterfly watching, and visits to waterfalls in one of Africa’s most biologically rich environments.

Garden Tours & Tea Tasting: The organic tea gardens surrounding Erebero Hills provide a fragrant and fascinating guest experience, while generating income for local farming families.

Syntropic Farm Experience: Tour the lodge’s regenerative on-site farm, where depleted tea plantation soils are being transformed through layered plantings that mirror natural forest structure. Guests discover where each day’s meals come from, guided by local farmers trained in these techniques.

Cultural Activities: A rich programme of traditional crafts — including basket weaving, beadwork, candle making, and soap making — connects guests to the living culture of the communities surrounding Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Accommodation at Erebero Hills

Erebero Hills offers 8 spacious, glass-fronted suites with uninterrupted views over the Bwindi canopy. Six are configured as double or twin rooms, and two as triples, making the lodge well suited to families and small groups. Children are welcome from the age of five, and a child-friendly menu is available.

Each suite features a private balcony — perfect for morning coffee as mist rises from the ancient forest below — alongside sustainable materials throughout the design, a convenient boot room entrance for returning from treks, an in-room safety deposit box, fan, hairdryer, and Wi-Fi.

Bathrooms: En-suite bathrooms in each suite include both an indoor shower and an outdoor shower, alongside a freestanding bathtub positioned to frame the forest view — one of the most remarkable spots for a soak anywhere in East Africa.

Communal Spaces: The sunken fireplace lounge is the heart of the lodge in the evenings — a gathering place to share the day’s gorilla encounters over local honey-infused cocktails, with flames casting warm light as darkness settles over the ancient forest. The panoramic dining area overlooks the valley, serving exceptional farm-to-fork cuisine with all meals included and most drinks included (premium spirits and champagne are excluded). Communal dining is the norm, though individual tables are available on request.

The hillside infinity pool offers sweeping views across Bwindi gorilla habitat — arguably one of the most dramatic swimming pools in Africa. An on-site spa offers rejuvenating post-trek treatments, with in-room spa services available for guests who prefer to relax in their suite with the sounds of the forest drifting through open windows. A library and information centre provides deeper context about Bwindi’s ecology and conservation efforts.

Location & Getting to Erebero Hills

Erebero Hills sits on the northern fringe of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in south-western Uganda. The closest airstrip is Kihihi, approximately a 90-minute drive from the lodge — a spectacular journey through Uganda’s highland landscapes that provides a memorable introduction to the region.

Erebero Hills pairs naturally with other Uganda wildlife destinations for a comprehensive East African safari. Queen Elizabeth National Park — famous for its tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, Kazinga Channel boat safaris, and chimpanzee trekking — combines particularly well for an ideal 7–10 day Uganda itinerary. Kibale Forest National Park, the Primate Capital of the World, and Murchison Falls National Park are also within reach.

Conservation & Positive Impact

Erebero Hills is built on a foundation of genuine environmental and community commitment. The lodge’s back-of-house structures use revolutionary CoolBricks — made from compressed earth and natural materials rather than fired clay — producing 90% fewer carbon emissions than traditional bricks. Extensive locally harvested bamboo supports regional industry while reducing the lodge’s footprint.

The on-site syntropic farm and indigenous food forest supply the lodge’s kitchen with fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs, while training community members in regenerative agriculture. More than 25,000 indigenous trees have already been planted across 50+ hectares of former tea plantation, with 35,000 seedlings growing in community nurseries for future planting. More than 50 Batwa families now generate sustainable livelihoods through traditional beekeeping, and every gorilla permit purchased directly funds mountain gorilla protection, anti-poaching efforts, and habitat restoration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should I stay for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Erebero Hills is one of Uganda’s finest luxury lodges for gorilla trekking, positioned on the northern edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest with access to all four trekking sectors — Ruhija, Buhoma, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Its combination of exceptional luxury, sustainable design, and meaningful community experiences makes it the definitive choice for discerning travellers.

How much does a gorilla permit cost in Uganda?

A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs US$800 per person — compared to US$1,500 in Rwanda. Uganda offers significantly better value and a larger number of habituated gorilla families, making it the preferred destination for many experienced gorilla trekkers.

What is the best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Mountain gorillas can be tracked year-round in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The dry seasons — June to August and December to February — offer easier trekking conditions with less mud on the trails. However, the forest is beautiful in all seasons, and gorilla sightings are virtually guaranteed at any time of year.

How long does a gorilla trek take?

Treks typically take between two and six hours to reach the gorilla family, depending on the family’s location that day. Once found, guests spend one full hour in the gorillas’ presence. Total time in the forest can range from half a day to a full day.

What is the minimum age for gorilla trekking?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years. Children aged five and above are welcome to stay at Erebero Hills, and a full range of activities — including nature walks, cultural experiences, and the reforestation programme — is available for younger guests.

Is Uganda or Rwanda better for gorilla trekking?

Both destinations offer life-changing gorilla encounters. Uganda’s key advantages are significantly lower permit costs (US$800 vs US$1,500), a larger number of habituated gorilla families, and a more authentically wild rainforest trekking experience. Rwanda offers slightly shorter transfers from its international airport. Many travellers choose to combine both countries for the ultimate primate safari.