Asilia Africa, a leader in nature-positive travel in East Africa for over 20 years, has announced its latest initiative in Uganda with Erebero Hills Lodge.
The company is expanding its conservation efforts to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a critical ecosystem and home to over half of the world’s mountain gorilla population. This move aligns with Asilia’s mission to protect natural landscapes and support local communities.
Located in the Greater Virunga Landscape, the Bwindi Forest is not only rich in biodiversity but also holds deep cultural significance for the Batwa people, who have a long-standing connection to the land. Asilia Africa is working to preserve the Batwa heritage while fostering sustainable livelihoods for both the Batwa and the Bakiga communities.
Part of this effort involves creating a new forest buffer zone adjacent to the national park. This zone will provide a space for wildlife to expand, offer the Batwa access to their ancestral lands, and create new income opportunities for local communities.
Introducing Erebero Hills Lodge
In line with their conservation goals, Asilia Africa is building Erebero Hills, a new eco-lodge located on the northern edge of the Bwindi Forest. The lodge will be surrounded by 45 acres of reforested land, with 25,000 native trees already planted in collaboration with the Batwa people. The lodge’s design, inspired by the natural surroundings, features bamboo construction sourced from local farms, providing support for sustainable plantations.
Erebero Hills, meaning “a place where you can see far,” will offer guests luxury accommodations with sweeping views of the forest. With just eight spacious suites, the lodge will provide a secluded experience with features such as indoor/outdoor showers, private balconies, and in-room spa treatments. Guests will also have access to a hillside pool and a cosy lounge with a roaring fire.
The lodge’s prime location, a 90-minute drive from Kihihi airstrip, makes it an ideal base for exploring Bwindi Forest. Activities include gorilla trekking, visits to the Batwa community, nature walks, tea tastings, and cultural experiences such as bead working and weaving.
Destination Management Services
In conjunction with the launch of Erebero Hills, Asilia Africa is expanding its Destination Management Services (DMC) into Uganda and Rwanda. This new offering will allow travel agents and tour operators to provide a seamless guest experience across East Africa, including the option to combine Uganda and Rwanda with safaris in Kenya and Tanzania.
With its commitment to conservation, cultural preservation, and sustainable tourism, Asilia Africa’s latest venture in Uganda is set to elevate guest experiences while making a positive impact on local communities and the environment.
