Trekking rare and endangered mountain gorillas is a bucket-list activity for many nature lovers, and Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge in Uganda has easy access to at least six gorilla families who live in nearby Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Built as a conservation project between the Nkuringo community, the African Wildlife Foundation and the Uganda Safari Company, Clouds’ goal is to support long-term protection of the gorillas. Clad in natural stone and featuring tranquil forest and Virunga volcanoes views from its large windows, the lodge has a cosy, comfortable feel with spacious en suite bathrooms, fireplaces, a bar and friendly staff, which includes personal butlers.

In addition to seeing our closest living relatives, there is plenty else to see and do at Clouds. Go birding with guides deep into Bwindi; take a walk through Buniga Forest and meet members of the Batwa community of Sanuriro; experience a local church service or visit a school; play football against a community team on a pitch named ‘On Top of the World’ or just relax with a massage in the Okuruhuuka Spa and private dinner in an awe-inspiring location.

All guests must be 15 or older to participate in gorilla trekking but there are numerous age-appropriate activities – like dancing, drumming, art, treasures hunts and interactive games with village children – to keep your little ones entertained during the day.