If there was ever a time for a weekend away at some spectacular western Uganda tourism city digs, it’s now.
Aramaga Rift Valley Lodge is in a league of it’s own.
What's Covered in This Article
The Place
If there was ever a hotel best positioned to rebadge Western Uganda’s tourism sector post-Covid, it is the magnificent Aramaga Rift Valley Lodge, which opened it’s doors on June 26th 2020.
It is, after all, the labor of love of Hashim, a Ugandan architect with a deep passion for sustainability, together with his American business partner. Aramaga Rift Valley Lodge is the brand’s first lodge in Uganda.
The lodge is constructed using timber and runs on 100% renewable solar energy making it a perfect setting for the eco-conscious guest.
The Location
Aramaga Rift Valley Lodge, as befitting a landmark from where to explore the tourism city of Fort Portal in Uganda, is located on an escarpment overlooking the Great Rift Valley and the popular Semuliki Wildlife Reserve.
The Space
The six galaxy themed pods come complete with a sitting area and green roofs with rooftop cold and hot tub Jacuzzi are a special treat.
The roof top experience gives you a full 360 degree view of the entire sky above, the valley below, and the mountains across.
But the spectacular shared observatory also commands full attention. This is the place to either relax and unwind solo or socialize with fellow guests as you enjoy your favorite drinks and delicious African cuisine.
And while you’re at it, try spotting the Milky Way using the telescope at the observatory.
The Rooms
There’s the choice of staying at either the more spacious Moonshot pod with French double beds, or any one of the other five regular-sized pods (Starship, Galactic, Orbit, Supernova and Gravity).
Each of the spacious soberly-decorated pods stunning views from all locations including the bed, seat or private roof top tub.
Aramaga Rift Valley Lodge can accommodate up to 14 guests per night.
However during the covid lockdown season, the lodge is only accommodating a maximum of 10 guests per day.
The Food
Aramaga Rift Valley Lodge‘s owners have not only brought a welcome taste of Africa in the menus of its dining outlet, it’s also providing in it’s room rates full board accommodation and all drinks (except premium such as special order wines, champagne or liqueurs).
The room rates also include selected daily activities taking place in the lodge area (community walks, picnics, star gazing), complimentary laundry service, and road transfers to and from Fort Portal as well as from Saaka airstrip (for private chartered flights).
Aramaga Rift Valley Lodge Rates (2020 – 2021)
The Aramaga Rift Valley Lodge rates range from US$300 – $665 per person, per night.
Limited day visitors who get a reservation pay $30 / UGX 100,000 (Lunch Inclusive).
Stepping Out
Fort Portal awaits you just 10 km (6.2 miles) straight providing easier access to attractions around and Kabalore districts including Kibale Forest National Park, Toro Semliki Valley National Park, Sempaya hot springs, Bigodi wetland, and Rwenzori Mountains,among others.
To the north of the lodge, guests have views of the Congo’s Blue Mountains as well as the outline of Lake Albert.
The Verdict
If there was ever a time for a weekend away at some big city western Ugandan digs it is now, with The Aramaga Rift Valley Lodge a welcome and distinguished newcomer to the region’s hotel scene.
Although yours truly has not been able to visit the lodge due to border closures, not only does the establishment seemingly provide a thoroughly reimagined form of luxury, it also delivers an exclusive, highly-personal and relaxed approach to luxury.
The lodge is currently running an introductory accommodation rate offer of $200 throughout July 2020. So If you’re based out of Uganda, please head out to Aramaga Rift Valley Lodge and bring us your experience report.
