WildPlaces Africa, a leading family-owned safari operator with over 30 years of experience, is renowned for its exceptional collection of camps and some of the most immersive and unique wildlife experiences in Uganda. Adding to the momentum, Uganda is now more accessible than ever with the launch of direct flights from London Gatwick to Entebbe by the country’s flagship airline earlier this spring.
With a portfolio of iconic lodges and tailor-made itineraries through Uganda’s most extraordinary landscapes—including the gorilla-rich forests of Bwindi, the remote savannas of Kidepo Valley, and other pristine reserves—WildPlaces Africa blends sustainability, community engagement, and luxury in equal measure. What one guest called “African Safari Tourism 1965,” the brand’s commitment to protecting Africa’s natural heritage while delivering deeply personal safari experiences continues to set a high standard in the world of meaningful travel.
The Beginning
The Wright family’s connection to Uganda spans four generations, dating back to the 1950s. Drawn by the country’s extraordinary wilderness, the family has spent decades building intimate lodges in some of Uganda’s most spectacular locations.
What began as a single lodge in 1997 grew into The Uganda Safari Company, founded by Jonathan Wright to help travellers explore the country’s diverse wilderness areas. As the collection of properties expanded, WildPlaces Africa was established to encompass both the lodges and the safari operations—creating a seamless experience for guests seeking authentic encounters with Uganda’s remarkable wildlife and landscapes.
Conservation Efforts
Conservation is at the heart of everything WildPlaces Africa does—not a side effort, but a defining part of its identity. For four generations, the Wright family has been deeply committed to protecting Uganda’s wilderness, wildlife, and communities. This enduring passion has evolved into a structured, integrated conservation approach supported by a dedicated trust, strategic partnerships, and community-led initiatives. A portion of every guest’s stay directly supports these efforts, allowing travellers to play an active role in safeguarding Uganda’s natural heritage for generations to come.
Pamela Wright, Co-Founder of WildPlaces Africa, commented:
“Our lodges were built from a deep love for this land and its people, and every journey we create is rooted in authenticity, conservation, and a genuine connection to place. We look forward to inspiring more travellers to discover the raw, untamed magic of Uganda with us.”
Discover some of the collection’s recent openings below:
Papa’s Camp, Murchison Falls National Park
Tucked beneath a canopy of fig trees on the south bank of the Nile, Papa’s Camp opened in late 2023 and lies deep within Murchison Falls National Park. Named in honour of Ernest “Papa” Hemingway, who famously survived two plane crashes in the region, the camp evokes the romance and grit of a bygone safari era, blending classic charm with intimate wilderness access.
With just five spacious en-suite tents set along the riverbank, each offering sweeping views of the Nile and safari-style outdoor showers, Papa’s Camp is a haven for those seeking riverside seclusion and natural beauty. The open-air lounge and dining area celebrate the golden age of safari, while evenings bring candlelit dinners under the stars, crafted with fresh, locally inspired ingredients.
This part of the park is renowned for its exceptional predator sightings – lions are prolific here, including the rare tree-climbing variety, and a nearby habituated hyena den offers unique and unforgettable encounters. Daily game drives reveal a rich cast of wildlife, from buffalo and giraffes to Jackson’s hartebeest and Ugandan kob, while birdlife and river activities offer further immersion. Fishing, walking safaris, and boat trips to the thunderous base of Murchison Falls round out an adventurous stay.
Honey Bear Bush Camp, Kyambura Wildlife Reserve
Set on the southern bank of the Kazinga Channel within the Kyambura Game Reserve, Honey Bear Bush Camp opened in late 2023 and offers an intimate and effortlessly stylish take on the classic safari experience. With just five beautifully designed tents, each positioned to capture uninterrupted views of the channel, guests can wake to the sounds of hippos splashing or the sight of elephants wading through the water at sunrise.
Chic, elegant, and full of character, Honey Bear blends a sense of adventure with thoughtful comfort. A spacious mess tent houses a relaxed dining area and sitting room and as one of only two accommodations within the entire reserve – alongside its sister lodge, The River Station – Honey Bear promises unparalleled privacy and a truly exclusive experience in the heart of Uganda’s wilderness.
The River Station, Kyambura Wildlife Reserve
Perched on a bluff overlooking the Kazinga Channel, The River Station which opened in 2024 comprises ten beautifully appointed rooms with ensuite bathrooms and private plunge pools, a beautiful main lodge decorated in muted watery hues reflecting the surroundings and a dedicated massage room and spa overlooking a waterhole. Wildlife is never far – elephants are known to wander past the breakfast table – but the real magic lies beyond the lodge, in the heart of the reserve’s untamed landscapes.
With expert resident guides, guests can venture into the dramatic Kyambura Gorge in search of chimpanzees, watch elephants wade across the channel, or cast a line for mighty Nile Perch. Balancing comfort with discovery, The River Station offers a unique combination of tranquillity and thrill in one of Uganda’s most breathtaking wilderness areas.
