Ihamba Residence is a beautiful ‘homestay’ accommodation facility near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, in southwestern Uganda. It is comfortably set on a hill with jaw-dropping views over the verdant forest, that is also home to the endangered mountain gorillas.
This extraordinary guesthouse is managed by a community-based organization known as Change a Life Bwindi. The organization connects the value of conserving the biologically rich Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to the surrounding local community by providing direct conservation projects, enterprise development skills, and creating employment opportunities.
Ihamba Residence is one of the few environmentally-friendly accommodation facilities in and around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This is so because it runs on solar power as well as harvested rainwater for running lodge activities, farming, and irrigating the gardens. Several plant and flower species have been planted around the residence thus attracting a plethora of bird species. As a result, this has made it a paradise for bird lovers.
Ihamba Residence rooms and amenities.
Ihamba Residence is comprised of five spacious, comfy, and luxurious cottages constructed in an African traditional style. These are all overlooking the impenetrable forest. The two double bedrooms are on the ground floor, and the other two are on the upper floor. So, one thing you will be guaranteed is the breathtaking views of the forest.
Each of the rooms is individually and spectacularly decorated, raised, and furnished with high standards thus providing unforgettable stays for individual, couple, and family travelers.
Guests enjoy private terraces, spacious sitting areas, and wooden private balconies with rich views of the rift valley, far-flung Virunga mountains, the beautiful gardens and the impenetrable forest, You will get a complimentary bottled water, en-suite flushing toilets, private bathrooms with cold/hot showers, and complimentary toiletries.
There is also a fireplace in the living area with comfy chairs for unwinding and sharing beautiful memories of the jungle, especially during cold evenings. The rooms are in single, twin, double, and family room configurations.
Facilities and services provided at Ihamba Residence.
The main building is comprised of a number of facilities that include the restaurant, where guests are served delicious local and intercontinental dishes that are prepared by some of the most experienced chefs. This restaurant overlooks the forest hence incredible views while having meals.
There is also a fully-stocked bar where soft and alcoholic drinks are served. This bar is also spacious and has a balcony where guests can relax while sipping drinks of their choice.
Complimentary internet, laundry services, parking space, massage and spa treatments, and room services are also offered at Ihamba Residence. The house manager and full-time chef at Ihamba Residence take care of visitors’ needs and aspirations.
Activities undertaken around the residence.
While staying at Ihamba Residence, guests have an opportunity of enjoying a number of activities in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. These include gorilla trekking and the gorilla habituation tours, bird watching, community visits/walks to the nearby Bakiga community, forest walks, and the Batwa cultural trails, among others.
Guests can also volunteer with Change a Life projects that are aimed at supporting the Batwa community.