Papaya Lake Lodge – Fort Portal

The stunning Papaya Lake Lodge overlooks a crater lake with breathtaking views of the majestic Rwenzori Mountain Range. This is the ideal location for visitors who want to unwind and take in the scenery of Uganda.

It is surrounded by the lush, evergreen landscapes of Uganda’s Great Crater Lakes region, nestled against the turquoise waters of the Lyantonde and Kifuruka lakes and set between two extinct volcanoes.

The lodge is a tranquil haven with nine luxurious cottages, a restaurant, and a lovely swimming pool with a scenic terrace. The main lodging area is very impressive, with a structure made of wood, rocks, and grass thatch that overlooks the two crater lakes, while the cottages are spacious and bright, with complete privacy, hidden from view by a natural screen of green treetops.

Eight cottages have two beds (one king-size and one single), local stone-decorated bathrooms with shower units, and deckchairs on the verandas. The ninth cottage is a family cottage with three bedrooms, a fireplace-filled living room, a large bathroom, and a large terrace. All of the rooms are decorated with calming colors, subtle accents, unique interior design, and simple yet comfortable furniture.

The restaurant and bar open onto a picturesque sun terrace with a panoramic view of the lake. The restaurant’s airy and bright common area is skillfully planned with subtly arranged corners and decorated with fine pieces of local art and crafts; small details that you immediately fall in love with. The cuisine here combines culinary traditions from all over the world, satisfying even the most discriminating palate.

A swimming pool is also available for visitors to unwind while taking in the 360-degree panoramic view of the surroundings. The restaurant and bar open onto a picturesque sun terrace with a panoramic view of the lake.

While staying at this incredible lodge, you can go on a number of excursions. These include encounters with chimp troops, bird watching, and a swamp walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.

The dramatic landscape of crater lakes cupped beneath steep hillsides provides visitors with a scenic retreat ideal for long walks and road cycling. A shorter walk is also available and includes visits to the crater lakes, a community visit, and several viewpoints.