For over 20 years, Asilia Africa has been at the forefront of protecting and restoring vital natural landscapes while improving the livelihoods of the communities that depend on them. This approach continues in the development of Erebero Hills.
Today, we are both proud and excited to be embarking on a new initiative in East Africa aimed at preserving one of the world’s most critical and biodiverse ecosystems— the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda. We are pioneers in nature-positive travel, and this latest project marks a significant expansion of our East African footprint, adding an incredible guest experience while benefitting local communities.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to over half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, and our new Erebero Hills combines sustainable luxury with the thrill of observing one of the world’s most endangered species in their natural habitat. Erebero Hills, meaning “a place where you can see far”, is planned to open officially for travel in 2026.
The vision for Erebero Hills is to restore large tracts of indigenous vegetation, allowing the forest to reclaim the hills and to create lasting and sustainable economic opportunities for local Bakiga communities in the surrounding area. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest also holds deep cultural significance as the ancestral land of the Batwa people, a connection which was negatively impacted when the forest was elevated to the status of national park in 1991. Our commitment to establishing a new reforested buffer zone around the existing park will not only further support wildlife but will also create a future accessible extension of the forest for the Batwa, helping to preserve their cultural heritage and historical connection to the land. The reforestation project is underway, and 25,000 indigenous trees are already being planted.
Erebero Hills will be nestled in 45 acres of reforested land and set on the northern fringes of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The lodge is being constructed primarily from bamboo, a renewable resource that is locally sourced, supporting sustainable bamboo plantations in the region. Designed in collaboration with Pablo Luna Studios in Bali, the lodge’s architecture will harmonize with the natural landscape, drawing inspiration from the organic shapes of leaves and the contours of the surrounding hills.
The pliability of bamboo allows for inspired and creative design as few other building materials can provide, whilst also speaking to the connection with the forest and its inhabitants. Erebero Hills aims to elevate the guest experience to a new standard befitting the best of Asilia Africa’s offerings in Kenya and Tanzania, whilst providing the ideal haven for venturing into the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, surrounded by sweeping views and the relaxing sounds of nature.
Gorilla trekking through the thick and lush vegetation of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest will undoubtably be the primary activity most of our guests will come to enjoy. There are four gorilla trekking sites available in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and Erebero Hills is just a 30-minute drive from the nearest, making for convenient access. A variety of walks will be available directly from the lodge, including visiting nearby waterfalls, tours of the garden and tea plantations, and an informative tour of the reforestation project. Through our positive impact partners, guests will be able to participate in weaving and beading workshops, as well as soap and candle making. Excursions to the nearby Batwa community will provide insight into their ancient culture and an improved understanding of their deep connection to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Over the coming months, we’ll unpack the design process, the reforestation project, and the various ways in which Erebero Hills will work alongside, and benefit, the local community. While Erebero Hills officially opens in early 2026, booking charts will become accessible in December 2024, allowing advance booking for future travel.
Register your interest to stay up to date with more information and developments.
