Munyonyo, Uganda: Just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Speke Resort Munyonyo, billionaire Sudhir Ruparelia’s newly completed Paradise Island Resort is redefining Uganda’s luxury tourism market.
Built on a secluded 19-acre island in Lake Victoria, the high-end eco-retreat merges opulence with environmental sustainability, adding a new jewel to the Ruparelia Group’s fast-growing hospitality empire.
Completed in 2024, the island resort has quickly become a national tourism landmark and a symbol of Uganda’s potential in eco-tourism. It is already attracting praise from tourism experts, corporate clients, and high-end holidaymakers.
A Green Haven of Luxury
Paradise Island Resort features a premium collection of accommodation options—10 Standard Cottages, 11 Cliff-Hanger Cottages with sweeping views of Lake Victoria, 14 Deluxe Two-Bedroom Cottages, and 3 Executive Villas, all designed to blend naturally with the rocky, bird-rich island environment.
Unlike rustic lodges common on many African islands, Paradise Island offers full luxury, with modern finishing, Wi-Fi, outdoor lounging spaces, hot water, and private decks—all while ensuring low environmental impact.
According to the Ruparelia Group, the resort was developed under the guidance of Sudhir’s children, Sheena and the late Rajiv Ruparelia, whose vision focused on promoting sustainable, family-friendly tourism.
Rajiv, before his passing, had said: “We want guests to not only enjoy the beauty of nature but also understand the importance of preserving it for future generations.”
The Construction Journey
Construction began in May 2021, and by August 2023, the first 22 units were nearly complete. A second phase in 2024 added 16 more cottages, a conference facility, and comprehensive landscaping.
Under the supervision of engineer Denis Wamani, the resort was built with the Ruparelia Group’s signature motto in mind: “Serving to Grow and Growing to Serve.” The strategic location, just 12 kilometers from the mainland at Munyonyo, ensures accessibility while preserving seclusion.
Elevating Uganda’s Tourism Brand
Sudhir Ruparelia, whose properties like Speke Resort Munyonyo and Kabira Country Club have hosted global events and dignitaries, said the resort reflects the rising demand for world-class leisure and conference destinations in Uganda.
With tourism contributing 7.75% to Uganda’s GDP and employing 1.6 million people in 2018, the launch of Paradise Island Resort is expected to attract more high-value international and domestic travelers, boosting Uganda’s competitiveness in East Africa’s hospitality market.
What Visitors, Experts Say
The resort has generated strong interest across the region. On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), users praised the resort’s “Instagrammable views” and “next-level serenity.” Matooke Republic quoted a Kampala-based travel agent describing the resort as “a masterpiece combining nature and luxury.”
Travel influencers, environmentalists, and tour operators are lining up to feature the resort in end-of-year holiday packages. The resort is also recommended for honeymoons, executive retreats, and small-group wellness escapes.
Tourism sector stakeholders agree that Paradise Island is not just a commercial investment; it is a statement of intent by Sudhir Ruparelia to drive Uganda’s tourism industry into the future. His focus on eco-conscious tourism has put Uganda on the radar for global travelers seeking premium, responsible destinations.
As Uganda implements its Vision 2040 economic strategy, the resort represents a model for private-sector-led transformation in tourism infrastructure.
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