Pumba Safari Cottages
Pumba Safari Cottages offers a peaceful retreat with front-row views of Uganda’s wild beauty. Located just outside Queen Elizabeth National Park, this cozy eco-lodge is perfect for travelers seeking both adventure and serenity.
How to Get There
Pumba Safari Cottages lie in Kyambura, about 5 km from the Katunguru Gate of Queen Elizabeth National Park. If you’re coming from Kampala, the drive takes approximately 6–7 hours along the Mbarara-Kasese highway. You can also access the lodge via Kasese Airport, which receives domestic flights from Entebbe International Airport. From Kasese, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive to the cottages. For ease, many guests hire private safari vehicles or use lodge-arranged transfers.
Breathtaking Views and Location
Perched above the Kyambura escarpment, the cottages offer panoramic views of the savannah, Lake George, and the far-off Rwenzori Mountains. It’s a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Expect quiet mornings filled with birdsong and clear skies at sunset.
Accommodation and Hospitality
The cottages are made from local stone and thatch, blending into the natural environment. Each unit features an en-suite bathroom, solar lighting, a comfortable bed with mosquito nets, and a private veranda overlooking the park. The staff provide attentive, personalized service, always ready with a smile or a hot cup of Ugandan tea.
Activities and What to See
Staying at Pumba puts you near some of Uganda’s most exciting wildlife experiences:
- Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park offer sightings of elephants, lions (including the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha), buffaloes, antelopes, and more.
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge, just a short drive from the cottages, lets you encounter these playful primates in a forested valley.
- Boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel provide up-close views of hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species like African fish eagles and kingfishers.
- Crater Lake Exploration around the lodge gives you the chance to hike to scenic volcanic lakes, formed by ancient eruptions and surrounded by lush greenery.
- Birdwatching is excellent throughout the property and the nearby wetlands. Expect to spot hornbills, weavers, and sunbirds.
- Cultural Visits to nearby communities offer a glimpse into the lives of the Bakonzo and Banyaruguru people. You can tour farms, schools, and local markets with a guide.
Dining Experience
Meals are served in an open-air dining area with sweeping views. The kitchen prepares fresh, organic meals using local produce. You can enjoy traditional Ugandan dishes or continental fare. Vegetarian and vegan options are always available.
Community and Conservation Impact
Pumba works closely with the local community. They employ local staff, support education projects, and promote conservation through responsible tourism. Solar energy powers the property, and eco-waste practices are in place to protect the environment.
Plan Your Stay at Pumba Safari Cottages
If you are looking for an intimate safari base that respects nature and community, choose Pumba Safari Cottages. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and conservation. With wildlife, landscapes, and cultural experiences right at your doorstep, each day brings something new to discover.
