Book Your Uganda Safari Adventures

About Uganda Safaris

Planning a safari in Uganda? Since the colonial period, Uganda has been known as the “Pearl of Africa.” This name was first used by Winston Churchill, who was amazed by the country’s beautiful landscapes and rich wildlife. From the big game in Queen Elizabeth National Park to the gentle giants of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda offers unforgettable safari experiences.

Top 20 Things to See in Uganda

Here are 20 must-see things in Uganda that will leave you amazed.

• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to half of the remaining mountain gorillas in the world. You will have a chance to see these gentle giants up close.
• Murchison Falls: The longest river in the world, the Nile, forms these powerful falls as it squeezes through a narrow gorge, creating strong sounds and beautiful views.
• Queen Elizabeth National Park: This park is famous for its many habitats, from forests and swamps to savanna plains. It is home to the Big Five animals and many bird species.
• Kidepo Valley National Park: Located in the far northeast of Uganda, Kidepo is one of the least visited but most special parks. It offers a true wilderness experience, with great landscapes and cultural encounters.
• Rwenzori Mountains: Known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” the Rwenzoris are perfect for trekking. The peaks are covered in snow throughout the year.
• Lake Victoria: The largest freshwater lake in Africa is ideal for relaxing, swimming, fishing, and taking boat rides.
• Jinja and the Source of the Nile: Jinja is one of Uganda’s oldest towns with colonial architecture. It is also the source of the River Nile, which begins its journey here.
• Sipi Falls: Located at the base of Mount Elgon in eastern Uganda, Sipi Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country. You can hike, take photos, and enjoy the cool air.
• Kibale Forest National Park: This park is home to chimpanzees and many other primates, including baboons and monkeys. Chimp trekking here is a great adventure.
• Lake Bunyonyi: Believed to be one of the deepest lakes in the world, Lake Bunyonyi is surrounded by many small islands. It is perfect for canoeing and relaxing.
• Kibale Crater Lakes: These crater lakes near Fort Portal in western Uganda offer beautiful scenery and are worth visiting.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: This is another place to track mountain gorillas. You can also experience the Batwa people’s culture and see the rare golden monkeys.
• Ssese Islands: These islands on Lake Victoria have lovely beaches where you can relax, swim, and enjoy the sunset.
• Mabira Forest Reserve: This forest is great for bird watching, nature walks, and learning about different trees, plants, and butterflies.
• Namugongo Martyrs’ Shrine: This religious site honors the Ugandan martyrs who were killed for their faith during the reign of the Kabaka of Buganda.
• Kasubi Tombs: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the burial ground for the kings of Buganda, one of Africa’s largest kingdoms.
• Baha’i Temple: This is one of only eight Baha’i temples in the world and the only one in Africa. It is a peaceful place for quiet reflection.
• Nabugabo Sand Beach: Located on the shores of Lake Victoria, this beach is a good place to relax and enjoy the fresh air.
• Entebbe Botanical Gardens: A peaceful spot near the airport, perfect for picnics and bird watching within the city area.
• Katwe Salt Lake: Located near Queen Elizabeth National Park, you can see local people mining salt using traditional methods.

You can view all the things to see here.

Best Things to Do on a Uganda Safari

In case you plan to visit Uganda, here are some activities that can make your stay memorable.

• Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: This is one of the few places where you can see rare mountain gorillas. Bwindi is home to over half of the world’s remaining population of these gentle giants.
• Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park: This park is one of the best places to see the Big Five animals, including the famous tree-climbing lions.
• Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest: Enjoy a guided trek through the forest as you search for chimpanzees. You will also see many birds and other primates along the way.
• Murchison Falls Safari: Here, the world’s longest river, the Nile, squeezes through a narrow gorge to create powerful falls. You can also enjoy a boat cruise to see crocodiles, hippos, and water birds.
• Bird Watching in Uganda: Uganda is home to over 1,000 bird species, making it one of Africa’s top birding destinations. Look out for the shoebill stork, Karamoja apalis, fox’s weaver, and the green-breasted pitta.
• Cultural Encounters: Uganda has about 56 tribes, each with unique traditions, food, music, and dances. You can visit communities to learn about their way of life.
• White-Water Rafting on the Nile: Experience adventure by rafting on the Nile River as you navigate its exciting rapids.
• Treehouse Stays in the Jungle: Some lodges offer treehouse accommodation that combines comfort, eco-friendliness, and a real wilderness experience.
• Hiking the Rwenzori Mountains: Also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” the Rwenzoris offer a challenging and rewarding hiking experience with snow at the peaks.
• Relaxation by the Lake: Uganda has many lakes and beaches where you can relax after your safari, such as Lake Mburo and Lake Bunyonyi.
• Visit the Sipi Falls: Located at the base of Mount Elgon in eastern Uganda, Sipi Falls offers a beautiful view and peaceful atmosphere.
• Explore Jinja and the Source of the Nile: Jinja, one of Uganda’s oldest towns, has rich colonial architecture and is the source of the River Nile.
• Mountain Biking Adventures: You can enjoy biking adventures in Lake Mburo, Kidepo Valley National Park, and the Rwenzori Mountains.
• Hot Air Balloon Safaris in Murchison Falls National Park: Take a one-hour balloon ride and watch wildlife from above for a unique view of the park.
• Cruise on the Kazinga Channel: A boat safari on this channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park gives you a chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and other animals near the water.
• Ride a Quad Bike through the Savannah: This fun adventure is available around Mabira Forest and can be arranged in other areas too.
• Volunteer for Conservation Efforts: Join local conservation or community projects and help protect nature or support local people.
• Explore the Nyero Rock Paintings: These ancient rock paintings show the history and way of life of early communities in the region.
• Go Fishing on Lake Victoria: Africa’s largest freshwater lake is home to many fish species, including Nile perch, tilapia, and catfish.
• Attend a Cultural Festival: Ask your guide or tour operator to help you find festivals or events happening during your visit.

You can view all activities to do here.

Wildlife & Animals in Uganda

We are going to look at the major animals that live in Uganda and that you may see while on your safari.

• Mountain Gorillas: Uganda has a large number of rare and endangered mountain gorillas. About half of the world’s total population lives in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
• Chimpanzees: Chimpanzees can be tracked in Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Budongo Forest in Murchison Falls National Park.
• Big Five: The Big Five animals: lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos, can all be seen in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
• Nile Crocodiles and Hippos: When you take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, you have a high chance of seeing crocodiles and hippos up close.
• Tree-Climbing Lions: These unique lions are rare, but you can see them in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
• African Elephants: Murchison Falls National Park is one of the best places to see African elephants. You can also take a Nile cruise to spot more mammals.
• Rothschild’s Giraffes: Murchison Falls is known for its large population of giraffes. Some have also been introduced to Lake Mburo National Park.
• Shoebill Stork: Bird lovers can spot this special bird at Mabamba Swamp and along Lake Albert in Murchison Falls National Park.
• Uganda Kob: The Uganda kob is a national emblem that symbolizes peace. You can see them in many national parks across the country.
• African Grey Crowned Crane: This beautiful bird is another national symbol. Its golden crown represents the pride and unity of Uganda.
• Hippos in Lake Mburo: Although hippos can be seen in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks, Lake Mburo offers the best experience since it is smaller and less crowded.
• Golden Monkeys: These rare primates can only be seen in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Uganda’s strong conservation efforts can be seen through its rich wildlife and natural beauty. Whether it is watching gorillas in the misty forests of Bwindi or enjoying birdlife in different parks, Uganda remains one of the best safari destinations in Africa.

Best Time to Visit Uganda

After seeing the beauty that Uganda has to offer, let’s look at the best time to visit. Although you can travel to Uganda any time of the year, some seasons are better for certain activities.

Peak Dry Season (June to September):

• Weather: This season is mostly dry, which makes it easier to travel even in remote areas with rough roads.
• Wildlife: Animals are easy to spot as they gather around water sources. The trails are dry and less muddy.
• Activities: Hiking is enjoyable during this time, and bird watching is also great as many species are active.

Short Dry Season (December to February):

• Weather: This is another dry period with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it a good time for travel.
• Wildlife: Just like the long dry season, animals gather near water sources, making them easy to see. Trails remain dry and comfortable for walks.
• Activities: Game drives, hiking, and nature walks are ideal during this season.

Long Wet Season (March to May):

• Weather: This is the longest rainy period, and showers can happen any time of the day. Some trails may become muddy, especially in remote areas.
• Wildlife: Because vegetation grows thick, animals can be harder to spot as they spread out across feeding areas.
• Activities: This season is quieter, with fewer tourists. It’s a good time for travelers who prefer less crowded parks and lower prices.

Shoulder Seasons (October to November and March to May):

• Weather: These are transitional months with occasional rain and unpredictable weather. Some days are sunny, while others have showers.
• Wildlife: You may need a bit more patience to see animals, but the landscapes are green and peaceful.
• Activities: Although outdoor plans may be affected by rain, the shoulder seasons offer calm and private safari experiences with fewer visitors.

Uganda Safari Packing List

Packing well for your trip to Uganda is important to make your safari experience enjoyable and comfortable. Here are some helpful tips on what to carry.

• Valid Travel Documents: Make sure you have all your essential travel papers, including your passport, visa, vaccination certificate, travel insurance, and air tickets.
• Clothing: Pack light cotton clothes, long-sleeved shirts, trousers, and hiking boots. Bring gardening gloves and a raincoat because it can rain even during the dry season.
• Medications & Personal Hygiene: Carry mosquito repellent, painkillers, sunscreen, any prescribed medicines, and insect spray.
• Footwear: Bring a strong and comfortable pair of hiking boots since you will walk a lot during your safari.
• Accessories: Pack a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection, sunglasses, and gloves to protect your hands from rough plants during treks.
• Layers: Uganda’s weather can change quickly, so pack clothes you can wear in layers. You can add or remove them depending on the temperature.
• Bags: Carry a waterproof day bag to hold your items during activities. Make sure it is easy to carry and keeps your hands free.
• Binoculars & Cameras: These will help you see animals more clearly and capture memories of your trip.
• Gadgets: Bring a flashlight or headlamp, a power bank, extra batteries, and memory cards for your camera.
• Water Bottles: Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Preparing well for your Uganda safari will help you have a smooth and memorable experience. Remember to leave some space in your bag for souvenirs to take home.

Travel Facts About Uganda

Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa. It borders Kenya to the east, the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west, Rwanda to the southwest, Tanzania to the south, and South Sudan to the north.

The Buganda Kingdom is the largest in the country and plays an important role in shaping Uganda’s culture and traditions. It is located in the central region, which gives it a strong influence.

As of 2023, Uganda’s population is about 49 million people, with around 8 million living in the capital city, Kampala.

Uganda’s climate is influenced by the Nile Basin, giving it a mix of tropical and mild weather.

The country’s landscape is mostly flat, but the southwest and western regions are hilly. The western part also lies along the Great Rift Valley.

One of the most interesting facts about Uganda is its youthful population. Over 50% of Ugandans are below the age of 15, making it one of the youngest countries in the world. Only about 2% of the population is over 65 years old.

This young population is seen as an advantage for the future because Uganda has fertile land and many untapped natural resources, including gold, copper, and other minerals.

The Ugandan flag has three colors: black, yellow, and red. Black represents the people, yellow stands for the sunshine, and red symbolizes brotherhood.

The national symbols are the Uganda Kob and the Grey Crowned Crane.

Uganda’s major attractions include the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is home to half of the world’s remaining gorilla population. Other key attractions are Lake Victoria, the River Nile, and the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains. These natural treasures are protected by the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Safety & Travel Tips

Like in any other destination, safety is an important concern for travelers planning to visit Uganda. Uganda is a welcoming and friendly country, but it is always wise to be careful, especially in towns and cities.

The country has not experienced major security problems, and all tourist attractions are well protected. You will usually have an armed ranger from Uganda Wildlife Authority with you while visiting the national parks to ensure your safety.

Uganda Safari Tips & Why Choose Uganda for Your Next Safari

It is important to prepare well and stay safe when traveling to any destination.

Here are some helpful tips for your Uganda safari.

• Best Time to Visit: You can visit Uganda any time of the year, but the best time is during the dry months—December to February and June to August.
• Health Precautions: Consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations and carry basic first aid supplies.
• Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals and never try to feed them. Always follow your guide’s instructions.
• What to Pack: Pack only what you need and avoid carrying many bags to reduce the risk of losing items.
• Staying Connected: Most lodges offer Wi-Fi, but it is advisable to buy a local SIM card or an eSIM to stay connected.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local traditions and customs. Always allow your guide to take the lead when interacting with local communities.
• Gorilla Trekking Permits: Book your gorilla permits early, as they are in high demand and may sell out quickly.
• Accommodations: Uganda offers a range of lodges: from standard to luxury. Book early, especially during the peak season.
• Supporting the Local Economy: Buy souvenirs as a way to remember your trip and support local people and conservation efforts.
• Be Environmentally Conscious: Do not litter. Keep your waste in your bag or vehicle and dispose of it properly at the lodge or designated areas.
• Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated as a gesture of gratitude.
• Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing people. Do not get too close to animals, as they may feel threatened and react aggressively.

A Uganda safari is not just a trip into the wild but a chance to reconnect with nature and experience life in its purest form, away from the busy city life.