WildPlaces Africa, known for its intimate camps, soulful design, and Uganda’s most immersive wildlife experiences, has officially opened Kulu Ora, the seventh property in its portfolio. With Uganda Airlines now offering direct flights from London Gatwick to Entebbe, reaching the “Pearl of Africa” is more seamless than ever.
A Hidden Sanctuary in Uganda’s Oldest National Park
Staying true to the WildPlaces philosophy, Kulu Ora occupies a remote corner of Murchison Falls National Park, a vast, untouched wilderness that few travellers encounter. The lodge sits within a newly designated 75,000‑hectare low‑impact zone, shared only with Papa’s Camp, WildPlaces’ luxury tented bush camp. This exclusive access ensures guests enjoy rare solitude and wildlife encounters far from typical safari routes.
Co‑Founder Jonathan Wright recalls the extraordinary journey to the site: “We cut through kilometres of raw bush, crossed marshes and rivers, and even passed a pride of lions that had never seen people before. It was one of the most exhilarating moments I’ve ever had on safari.”
He adds that when they saw the Nile split around a jungle‑covered island, they knew they had found something extraordinary, a place defined by raw beauty and the thunderous energy of the river on its journey north.
A New Benchmark for Safari Luxury in Uganda
Blending contemporary comfort with deep cultural roots, Kulu Ora, named for “river” in two local languages, offers 11 spacious canvas‑walled suites, each with an ensuite bathroom and private plunge pool. Guests enjoy uninterrupted views across the Nile and access to a vast stretch of pristine wilderness.
A curated library by Co‑Founder Pamela Wright features African literature, novels, and light reads. The expansive main pool, bar, and sun deck create a relaxed social hub for downtime between game drives.
The spa, perched above the Nile, uses locally crafted oils and butters and offers massages and treatments that reflect Uganda’s natural abundance.
Guest Highlights
- Exceptional wildlife viewing, including Uganda’s “Big Seven,” in a crowd‑free environment
- Some of the country’s best lion sightings
- Birding and fishing along the Nile
- Forest bathing, meditation, and yoga under ancient trees
- Night drives through untouched wilderness.
- Private bush meals beside the river
Design That Breathes With the Landscape
Each suite, along with a two‑bedroom family unit, features timber floors, generous living areas, and deep copper bathtubs positioned to overlook the river. Indigenous trees such as sycamore fig, sausage tree, and borassus palm frame every view.
The interiors reflect WildPlaces’ signature aesthetic: handmade furniture, restored vintage pieces from the UK, natural textiles, and a palette inspired by the surrounding bush. Every detail is intentional, grounding the lodge in a sense of calm, authenticity, and place.
Sustainability at the Heart of the Experience
Kulu Ora was designed to leave the lightest possible footprint. The lodge is fully solar‑powered, uses electric carts for guest transport, and relies on minimal‑impact construction. Canvas structures supported by metal and timber could be removed within a week, leaving the land undisturbed.
A walled kitchen garden supplies fresh herbs, vegetables, chilies, lemons, and pawpaw. The enclosure keeps wildlife out and stops non‑native seeds from escaping into the park. Wherever possible, materials and ingredients are sourced locally, supporting Ugandan artisans and producers.
A Natural Extension of the WildPlaces Circuit
Kulu Ora complements WildPlaces’ other low‑impact properties, including Honey Bear Bush Camp and Clouds, creating a seamless journey through Uganda’s most authentic and remote landscapes.
Travel With Purpose
A $25 USD conservation levy is added to each guest night, with all funds directed to The Foundation, which supports conservation initiatives in Murchison Falls National Park and community‑driven projects. Simply staying at Kulu Ora contributes directly to protecting this extraordinary ecosystem.
Getting There
Kulu Ora is accessible via daily scheduled flights from Entebbe or Kajjansi to Murchison Falls, with private charters available. Travellers can also choose a scenic five‑hour drive from Kampala.
