Dense, mountainous, lush, breathtakingly beautiful – and poetically named. But Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is not, fortunately, entirely impenetrable. Gorilla Forest Lodge provides the perfect point of entry into one of Africa's – and the world’s – most extraordinary landscapes. Only 700 mountain gorillas are thought to exist in the wild. Bwindi is home to more than half of them. As a base from which to set off in search of these magnificent creatures, Gorilla Forest Lodge is unrivalled. Note, too, that trekking through dense, steep forest is demanding and requires a fairly high degree of physical fitness. However, Gorilla Forest Lodge also has specially customised sedan chairs, allowing less able guests to join gorilla treks.

Though a gorilla trek is likely to be the centrepiece of your Sanctuary experience (and you may wish to devote more than a single day to trekking), don’t miss the opportunity to discover the flora and fauna of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest on a guided walk, or to engage with the indigenous Batwa people during a Community and Philanthropy Tour. An overnight visit to game-rich Queen Elizabeth National Park is easily arranged. Or simply relax in camp, amid the splendour of the forest. Take a treatment at the spa. Swap stories by the campfire before dinner. Savour the rare privilege of being in this extraordinary place.

Although you’ll have more than enough to keep you occupied during your stay, there are certain optional extras, such as scenic flights by helicopter, that you might like to consider making time for as well.