Mel du Toit is one of our top safari experts. She is well-traveled (with 32 countries ticked off her bucket list!) and is behind the design of many of our most beloved SAFARI.COM packages. Her love for adventure and Africa is catching, in the best way possible!
Mel recently returned from an educational trip to “The Pearl of Africa” – the country of Uganda in East Africa, where incredible wildlife experiences, genuine connections, and extensive natural beauty captured her heart. Mel’s three-day trip was short, yet truly life-changing, as expressed in her own words:
“There are countries that creep into your soul and become a part of you. Nepal was my first such trip. Uganda is another.”
Uganda is low-key one of the most underestimated safari destinations in Africa – all it takes is experiencing it firsthand to realize it is unlike anywhere else on the planet. Think dense rainforests, vast and open savannas, snow-capped mountains, and intriguing swamps and lakes. Insanely diverse landscapes open doors to memories that will last a lifetime.
Touring with Exclusive Uganda Safaris meant every safari moment felt elevated! Three days go quickly, but this experience felt longer and more impactful than the short time would suggest.
Let SAFARI.COM create the best safari in Africa for you, tailored to your taste and most sought-after experiences! We have extended our FREE travel insurance to all bookings made before 25 February 2026!
Mel and the porter in Uganda
Boma Guest House - Entebbe
The city of Entebbe is located along Lake Victoria’s peninsula, close to attractions like the Entebbe Botanical Gardens and boat trips to Ngama Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Mel rates the location 10/10, stating:
“It was less than 10 minutes from the airport, in a safe and quiet location. Walkable to town during the day”
Within the heart of Entebbe, Boma Guest House offers guests charming accommodation and outstanding hospitality. Spacious rooms are adorned with local artwork and hand-carved furniture, in support of neighboring communities. The atmosphere is inviting and cozy, and lovely gardens add to the relaxation of guests during their stay.
What stood out to Mel the most was the accommodating and friendly staff – arriving from the airport after 10 pm, the team were incredibly welcoming, and had even arranged for a pizza to be ready! After the quick meal (which was delicious!), Mel enjoyed the air conditioning and a large, comfortable bed on her first night.
The late-night pizza was just the beginning; turns out the food here was incredible! Mel went on to say that:
“Their avocados and pineapples taste completely different, in a good way!! They had a full spread of breakfast ready for me at 5 am due to an early flight”
Although Boma Guest House is not super luxurious, the thoughtful finishes and wonderful energy make it anything but basic! It is the perfect setting for families or couples to experience Entebbe’s vibrant culture, embark on eco-adventures at Mabamba Swamp, or enjoy a boat ride on Lake Victoria!
Boma Guest House in Entebbe
Mel at the Visitors Information Centre
Mahogany Springs Lodge – Bwindi
Mahogany Springs Lodge is beautifully positioned above the Munyanga River, with breathtaking views of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since Gorilla Trekking is practically a rite of passage for tourists on safari in Uganda, enjoy a short drive to the park entrance, so close it feels practically at your doorstep.
Mel chose the perfect setting for her biggest safari adventure in Uganda.
“The location is why I chose to stay here - the views are truly some of the most beautiful I have seen in over 30 countries traveled. It is a short drive from the gorilla trekking starting point as well as the Ride 4 a Woman project. The road from the airstrip to the lodge is so interesting!”
The lodge’s stunning Premium Deluxe Suite features two private bedrooms with large king-size beds. The forest stretches endlessly before you, its sights and sounds flowing straight into your suite. If you are seeking luxury in the wild of Africa, this is the place to be.
Mel described the room, reception area, and eating area as flawless – the only facility she missed was a swimming pool.
“We had the LUX room; it was absolutely incredible. HUGE, balcony, hot tub, deck chairs, lounge with fireplace. Fantastic!”
Of course, the foundation of any authentically African accommodation lies in genuine, heartfelt hospitality. Mel was blown away by the staff, again rating them a 10/10. They brought all meals to the room on request, came by to light the fireplace at night, and they were all fantastic!
Mahogany Springs Premium Deluxe Suite - Bedroom
Terrace at Mahogany Springs Lodge
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
The ancient Bwindi Forest commands awe and wonder. Become immersed in an African jungle exploration, journeying to its depths to trek gorillas in their natural habitat. Bwindi is home to about 400 mountain gorillas–more than anywhere else in the world! Unique trails awaken the rare magic of nature without interruption.
Before you can embark on gorilla trekking in Bwindi, you need to obtain a permit. Our SAFARI.COM team can secure these permits on your behalf when assisting you in planning your safari in Uganda. This alluring national park spans 33,000 hectares and is more than 25,000 years old.
This rainforest is also home to over 10 primate species and is a hotspot for birdwatchers worldwide. There is so much to discover, from ancient trees and medicinal plants to hidden waterfalls and fairytale-perfect forest viewpoints. Of course, gorilla trekking is the main attraction for visitors.
SAFARI.COM loves that this experience is rooted in responsible tourism, with permits directly supporting conservation and local communities.
“Going Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi was one of the most incredible things that I have ever done. I am very careful when it comes to animal tourism. I was so impressed to see that the gorillas were not compromised by the visitors in any way. I felt we were invisible.”
- Mel
Mel took this beautiful photo during her gorilla trekking experience
Gorilla Trekking
Exclusive Uganda Safaris
What is truly remarkable is how much love and adventure fit into a short 3-day trip to Uganda, for which Exclusive Uganda Safaris is to thank! The right guide goes a long way in turning a journey into something deeply personal and truly unforgettable.
Mel said:
“Adrian was everything you could want from a guide. He explained local nuances that "explained" a lot, he was friendly, knowledgeable, passionate about his country and sharing it with others. He also arranged special requests, such as my stepmother and me doing different difficulties in terms of our gorilla paths. Adrian came from a difficult start and managed to put himself through university and is now showing his beautiful country to the world.”
Apart from Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi, a highlight of Mel’s Uganda safari was visiting the Ride4aWoman community project, which was both uplifting and empowering. Mel described it as the best community project she has ever seen.
Another great reason to book with SAFARI.COM is our connections with suppliers like Exclusive Uganda Safaris. This makes your entire experience hassle-free, with all the logistics planned before you even get on your flight.
Mel appreciated it, too!
“This was so slick. I got off the plane, and there was a representative waiting for me. She took me through immigration and helped me into the car of my airport transfer. All logistics are carefully explained to you, and once you fly into Bwindi, you meet your private guide and vehicle for the rest of the trip.”
As for authentic experiences, Mel remarked:
“I don't see how it could have been more authentic. All the guides/staff/trekking staff are locals.”
She also mentioned that a small cash tip can make a big difference for the locals here, something to keep in mind when planning your safari adventure to Uganda with SAFARI.COM.
Swept up by the energy of the locals and captivated by the enchanting beauty of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Entebbe, Mel’s stay was undeniably extraordinary. Uganda works its way into your heart easily and quickly.
Mel said it best:
“This trip was everything I could have hoped for and more! I truly believe that Exclusive Uganda Safaris is the best of the best! There were some life lessons learned on this trip, and even though it was only 3 nights, it felt like 2 weeks. This trip truly has a place in my heart!”
Charles from Exclusive Uganda Safaris with Mel from Safari.com
Mel, guest and Adrian
Start Planning Your Safari with Confidence
Ready to make timeless family memories? At SAFARI.COM, we’re here to help you find the best safari deal for you and your loved ones. Let our expert team craft something extraordinary. We will guide you with heart, insight, and insider knowledge every step of the way, before, during, and long after your journey. It’s time to explore!
Remember, book your safari with one of our award-winning consultants before 25th February 2026 and enjoy FREE travel insurance.
Email us at [email protected], hit the WhatsApp button above, or call us toll-free on 1-888-SAFARIS (US & Canada).
