Lemala Wildwaters Lodge

The river island setting made for a really peaceful stay, with plenty of privacy. The food was incredible, and the staff were warm and helpful. Mr. Amstrong especially made the experience even better. I’d happily recommend Lemala Wildwaters Lodge for a relaxing getaway.

The meal and the staff on the island were lovely once we finally got there, but the mainland reception and management handled the whole visit badly. We’d booked a day visit for four, including the return boat trip, a three-course meal, and wine. The details were confirmed over WhatsApp with the property contact, and we were told we could arrive from 10:30am to 5:00pm. At 3:40pm, while signing the entry form, we were told two minutes later that management had instructed staff not to let us onto the island. We were sent to another reception point and left waiting around 50 minutes without a clear answer. We asked for our money back to avoid more delays. They suggested food at the restaurant by reception or coming back the next day, neither of which seemed fair without an explanation for turning us away. It also would have meant missing the Lemala experience despite the costs we’d already incurred. The worst part was hearing staff we’d asked for help laughing in the back office while we waited in the lobby. After we knocked again to ask what would happen with the refund, they said we could go to the island but couldn’t get our money back because it was supposedly so late that it counted as a cancellation. That felt unfair. The revised offer was only a main course and wine, less than what we’d booked. We accepted, then waited about 15 minutes for the boat. The island staff and the main course and dessert were wonderful. Still, the poor communication and lack of empathy at reception mean I wouldn’t recommend it after this visit. I believe they only let us through because they would otherwise have had to issue a full refund, since the mistake was theirs.

The pool area was spotless, and lunch was presented beautifully. There were more choices than I expected, and the staff were kind and accommodating. I always enjoy coming here. This time I visited for a day of lunch and swimming, and everything was superb.

The food is the best I’ve tasted in Uganda by far. It’s traditional cooking with a little international influence, and chef Vincent clearly puts his heart into it. The restaurant has a lovely view, as does the pool, which looks like an infinity pool overlooking the rapids. This was my second visit, but it still gave me that same welcome and home-like feeling. We took the boat over and were greeted by a wonderful team. Armstrong gave us personal attention and kept checking on us right through checkout. The rooms are spacious and tidy, with huge bathrooms, an extra bed, and balconies with great views and a tub. There’s warm and hot running water. You can see the wild waters from every room, and their sound is so soothing, honestly. We also walked around the grounds in the evening. The team on site knew we’d gone out and were ready to welcome us back and arrange transport without us having to explain. I was impressed overall and plan to come again with a bigger group. It’s a lovely place for peace and a touch of luxury. Well done, Lemala. You’re doing this place good.