Uganda

Overview

Described as the “Pearl of Africa” by Winston Churchill in 1907, Uganda combines natural beauty and diverse wildlife with a ruggedness not found in other safari destinations. The country is home to roughly half of the world’s mountain gorillas, with over 400 of them living within the mist-shrouded forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. In addition to its lush rainforests, Uganda’s range of lands includes the vast savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park, the snow-capped peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains, as well as waterways of the iconic Nile River.

A trip to Uganda always invokes a sense of discovery. Even today, the country remains refreshingly off the beaten path when compared to more established safari destinations like South Africa and Kenya. This gives those who do visit a more intimate experience, with far fewer crowds. Beyond its natural wonders, the country is rich in cultural experiences, with opportunities to interact with local communities and learn about traditional Ugandan customs. Uganda’s warm and welcoming people, combined with its varied accommodation types – from safari lodges to eco-resorts – ensure that visitors experience a high level of hospitality and authenticity.

Seasonal weather

A warm, tropical climate year-round

Fly to

Entebbe International Airport (EBB)

Languages

English and Swahili

Currency

Ugandan Shilling

Rwanda’s Regions and National Parks

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi is defined by its misty hillsides and a diverse rainforest that is 25,000 years old. This challenging landscape is where over 400 mountain gorillas call home, and tracking them is the ultimate adventure.

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Queen Elizabeth National Park

Named after Queen Elizabeth II, the park features savannahs, lakes, forests, and wetlands. Home to tree-climbing lions and chimpanzees, it’s a paradise for safari lovers.

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Kibale

Kibale’s lush rainforest is home to an astonishing 13 different primate species, most notably chimpanzees. With guided walks, treks, and cultural experiences, it’s a safari destination unlike any other.

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Entebbe

The gateway to a Ugandan safari, Entebbe is an authentic African experience. The bustling town is on the banks of the famous Lake Victoria and is home to cultural attractions like the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, as well as a gorgeous botanical garden.

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Kidepo Valley National Park

Remote and tranquil, Kidepo offers an authentic safari experience amidst savannahs, mountains, and rivers. The park is also home to 475+ bird species as well as the local Karamojong people.

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Murchison Falls National Park

The park is Uganda’s largest and oldest; a breathtaking destination where the Nile River bursts through a narrow gorge to create the dramatic waterfall that gives the park its name.

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Are you ready?

Uganda offers a wide range of travel experiences, where extraordinary wildlife encounters meet breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is, of course, a major highlight, while Kibale Forest National Park provides unforgettable chimpanzee trekking and nature walks through its lush rainforests. For a classic safari experience, both Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks provide guided game drives where visitors can encounter the Big Five while enjoying the stunning backdrops of crater lakes and the Nile River. Lake Victoria, as well as the crater lakes region, is perfect for relaxation, boat trips, and fishing excursions. Finally, visits to traditional villages, coffee plantations, and local markets add a layer of culture to a Uganadan vacation, allowing guests to connect with the country’s vibrant heritage.

Experiences

Big Cats

Uganda is home to 3 of the continent’s largest and most famous felines: lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

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Gorilla Trekking

Exclusive, guided treks through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to observe endangered mountain gorillas in the habitat.

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Chimpanzee Trekking

Embark on intimate, guided excursions to track chimpanzees through lush, dense rainforests.

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Night Drives

Explore the savannah after dark with a guide and spot nocturnal wildlife, such as leopards, hyenas, and bush babies.

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Hot Air Balloon Rides

Experience an early morning or sunset balloon ride, and observe Uganda’s diverse landscapes from above.

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Boat Trips

Explore Kibale’s fresh waters and observe the animals from a whole new perspective.

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Birdwatching

The park is home to over 375 species, including the African pitta, Shoebill and fish eagle.

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Night Time Walks

Guided walks after dark offer a chance to spot nocturnal animals, such as bush babies and nightjars.

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Helicopter Tours

Experience Kibale from on high, as you glide over its gorgeous landscapes inside a helicopter.

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Tea Tours

Tea tours in the surrounding plantations allow guests to learn about tea production processes and enjoy tastings.

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Hiking

Hiking trails lead visitors through captivating landscapes, from dense rainforests to scenic swamp areas.

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Spa & Wellness

Visitors can unwind with massages and rejuvenating treatments after a day of exploration.

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Cultural Tours

Cultural tours offer immersive experiences with local communities, providing insight into traditional practices.

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Guided Walks

Enjoy guided walks through some of the more remote regions of Uganda’s national parks, both during the day and after dark.

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