The Vibe
Walking on the rich deep red colored soil heading to reception reminded me of a scene from the Arizona desert. I looked around, and while it was dry season, the cactus plants and barren trees stood tall alongside the gravel walkway leading to the main room.
We were greeted by Ezra, who welcomed us, including my husband Freddy, our driver Aziz and our guide, Kenny. Ezra gestured us to sit on the balcony overlooking parts of Kidepo Valley National Park in Uganda. The light breeze was soothing. The twelve-hour drive from Mbale on a bumpy sometimes mud road is worth it.
What stands out is how the staff members make guests feel at ease, while bantering with each other, offering a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Staff ensure safety by walking guests to their rooms when it’s dark in case of nearby animals.
The restaurant has a bar, and its thatched roof with open sides offers views of the Savannah. The natural wooden tables with red, white and black tablecloths provide a rustic style and inviting setting. There are water dispensers so guests can refill their bottles throughout the day.
The lodge, surrounded by nature, is suitable for anyone looking for an intimate setting due to the twelve full-service rooms, nine self-service rooms and attentive staff. It’s a nice combination of simplicity, comfort and luxury.
How I Felt
I felt energized and relaxed while I stayed here. I was energetic in the early morning having coffee before heading to the national park, while our guides and staff were telling us what animals we could see at the park.
I also felt relaxed when returning to the lodge after a game drive. Ezra would ask us what we saw and how we felt. It was relaxing sitting on the balcony listening to the light breeze and chirping birds next to the dining area waiting for lunch while soaking in the morning.
The Digs
We were in a tented room which included a medium-firm double bed (allowing me to fall asleep immediately), a brown leather chair, two end tables and an outside balcony with two chairs and a table. The rooms are spread out on the property offering guests privacy.
The outdoor ensuite bathroom made me a little nervous on the first night because late at night when I would hear a noise while showering, I half expected to see a wild animal walking around, but it was only leaves and wind blowing. I was able to relax the second night.
The Agenda
Guests come here to visit Kidepo Valley National Park, the second largest in Uganda. Visitors can find buffaloes, hippos, elephants, wildebeest, Ugandan Kob, warthogs, giraffes and a variety of bird species.
Patience is the name of the game because sometimes it’s a matter of the ranger spotting an animal or waiting to see if the animals are going to come out. We stopped the car to watch eight elephants walk single file away from a tree. They were so graceful.
The Eats
There are good selections to choose from on the set menu, which at dinner includes four courses, while lunch is two. Expect choices such as tofu, meatballs and pumpkin soup. Breakfast includes sweet and savory options. There are non-vegetarian and vegetarian dishes at all meals, which guests pre-order.
On our first morning, we packed our breakfast and enjoyed it in the bush. There’s something about eating boiled eggs, fruit and pancakes outside while watching warthogs run around nearby.
Why I Would Go Back
I would come back because the lodge is peaceful and for the hospitality and care that the staff provides. It has a balance of simple and elegant. There is also a variety of meal options, and I especially enjoyed breakfast while on safari.
Travelers and travel advisors can visit naturelodgesuganda.com/kidepo-savannah-lodge to learn more about Kidepo Savannah Lodge.
Erin Coyle
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