Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge - Chambura Wildlife Reserve

Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge is a hotel near Chambura Wildlife Reserve.

Location
Chambura Wildlife Reserve, Western Rift Valley & Crater Lakes, Uganda, East Africa
Type
safari_lodge
Coordinates
0.060696, 30.053102
Phone
+256 31 2513 675
Website
https://www.ihambasafarilodge.com/
Activities
hotel

PlnrScore: 36/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

365 species observed within 20 km, 35 mammals, 229 birds.

  • Kob (Mammalia, 185 observations)
  • African Savanna Elephant (Mammalia, 161 observations)
  • Common Hippopotamus (Mammalia, 160 observations)
  • Waterbuck (Mammalia, 125 observations)
  • African Buffalo (Mammalia, 121 observations)
  • Lion (Mammalia, 83 observations)
  • Red-necked Spurfowl (Aves, 79 observations)
  • Wattled Lapwing (Aves, 68 observations)
  • Common Warthog (Mammalia, 65 observations)
  • White-browed Coucal (Aves, 53 observations)

Best Time to Visit Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge

The best months to visit Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge are January, February, June, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 25.4°C, rainfall 11.3mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 58.7%
  • February: Great, temperature 26.2°C, rainfall 16.7mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 56.2%
  • March: Great, temperature 25.38°C, rainfall 55.1mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 64.8%
  • April: Great, temperature 24.22°C, rainfall 76.5mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 72.7%
  • May: Great, temperature 24.48°C, rainfall 54.9mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 70.9%
  • June: Great, temperature 25.16°C, rainfall 13.4mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 58.8%
  • July: Great, temperature 25.39°C, rainfall 15.5mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 53.5%
  • August: Great, temperature 24.76°C, rainfall 42.1mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 62.9%
  • September: Great, temperature 24.14°C, rainfall 67.8mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 70.5%
  • October: Great, temperature 24.1°C, rainfall 69.3mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 71.7%
  • November: Good, temperature 23.3°C, rainfall 65.8mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 76.1%
  • December: Great, temperature 24.28°C, rainfall 22.3mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 68.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of wildlife can we realistically expect to see right from Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge?

While Chambura Gorge is the main draw for chimpanzee trekking, Ihamba itself offers delightful sightings. We've often spotted hippos grazing near the lodge in the evenings and a variety of water birds along the lake shore. Keep an eye out for baboons too; they are frequent visitors and quite entertaining.

Beyond chimpanzee trekking, what other activities does Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge offer or recommend nearby?

We love the boat trips on Lake Edward that Ihamba organizes. You get incredibly close to hippos and crocodiles, and the birdlife is phenomenal. For a different perspective, a guided walk through the local fishing villages offers a genuine glimpse into Ugandan life, something we always find enriching.

What's the best time of year to visit Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge for optimal wildlife viewing and comfortable weather?

We find the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February, to be the most rewarding. The vegetation is less dense, making wildlife spotting easier, and the cooler temperatures make trekking more pleasant. The sunsets during these periods are simply sensational.

How does Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge balance its luxurious feel with the wild surroundings, and what should we expect in terms of comfort and amenities?

The lodge feels luxurious and timeless, with beautifully appointed rooms that offer stunning lake views. Expect comfortable beds, en suite bathrooms, and attentive service that makes you feel truly cared for. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring, with a cozy lounge area and delicious meals.

Considering its location near Chambura, what are the practicalities regarding safety and accessibility for guests at Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge?

We've always felt very safe at Ihamba; the staff are vigilant and the lodge is well managed. Access is typically via a flight to Mweya Airstrip followed by a short drive, or a longer road journey. The lodge can assist with arranging transfers, which we highly recommend for a seamless arrival.

Other Safari Lodges in Chambura Wildlife Reserve

Parks in Western Rift Valley & Crater Lakes

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Uganda

Travel advisory for Uganda