uganda safari destination

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Uganda Safaris

Insight Safari Holidays takes you to Uganda to visit the mountain gorillas and lots of wildlife in the 10 National Parks.  Our Uganda safaris include  gorilla trekking to a game drive to see the big five or cultural experiences we got  you covered.

Are you a solo traveller seeking fulfilling personal experiences or  a couple on a safari to Uganda? How about a group of friends or a family affair , we tailor every safari to suit your needs and preferences.

28 Popular Uganda Safari Packages

12 Days Uganda Safari, Visit Bwindi, Murchison & Kibale

10 days Uganda Safari Wildlife, Gorillas & Chimps

9 Days Uganda Safari Covering The Best Parks

6 Days Uganda Gorilla Tour & Wildlife

5 Days Bwindi, Lake Bunyonyi and Lake Mburo

5 Days Uganda Safari, Gorillas & Chimpanzees

5 Day chimpanzee Wildlife safari in Uganda

4 Days Uganda Safari, Gorilla and Chimpanzee

4 Days Gorilla Tour, Double Visit

3 Day Trip Lake Bunyonyi Tour Uganda

3 day Queen Elizabeth Uganda Safari

2. Witness the Big Five Animals on Thrilling Game Drives & Boat Cruise (Uganda Wildlife Safaris)

Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts filled with amazing and varied safari wildlife. National parks provide the chance to see the famous Big Five animals close-up, with an array of intriguing animals. On adrenaline-filled game drives across the vast savannah of Queen Elizabeth National Park , guests will encounter magnificent elephants, fierce lions the elusive leopards, majestic rhinoceroses, and elegant buffaloes.

Murchison Falls National Park named for the majestic falls, provides breathtaking cruises on boats which allow you to admire the magnificent Nile Crocodiles basking on the banks of the river, see hippos in groups splashing in the river and glimpses of the swift African water buffalo, and the massive Giraffes on the shoreline.

3. Authentic Local Cultural Experiences Await!

Find out about 60 different cultural traditions in Uganda, the native languages, local crafts as well as African music and dance!  You will  connect with the local people including Buganda which has a vibrant culture and rich history, to traditional pastoralist Karamojong people in northern Uganda, and their distinctive livestock herding culture. Every region in Uganda has a unique display of culture.

Enjoy Uganda’s colorful traditional rituals such as the entertaining Kiganda dance or Banyankore Cow milking ritual, in which rhythmic dance and music accompany the locals.   Taste the delicious cuisine of Uganda, such as matooke (steamed green bananas) and oluwombo (traditional stew) as well as Rolex, a chapati wrap.  Visit the  local markets or craft centres to see Ugandan craftsmen weaving intricately-woven baskets, vibrant textiles and exquisitely carved wooden artefacts.

See Cultural Safaris in Uganda

3. Uganda Safari Holidays: Sightseeing Lakes, Rivers, and Mountain Ranges

    Lake Bunyonyi, the 2nd deepest lake in Africa is located in south-western Uganda between Kisoro and Kabale, near the border with Rwanda. Its name means “place of many little birds” Composed of 24 Islands, it has a historical and cultural heritage making it one of the holiday destinations in Southern Uganda.

   Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and the second largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, after Lake Superior in North America.   It covers an area of about 59,947 square kilometers. Fishing and other water activities can be enjoyed on the lake with over 200 species of fish.

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Where to go in uganda, the best uganda safaris.

Find the best safari destinations in Uganda.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Safari Uganda

Mgahinga gorilla national park is the smallest wildlife park in Uganda. It is found in the south western corner of the country in the Virunga Mountains. It covers the northern slopes of three of three of the Virunga volcanoes namely; Mt Muhavura, Mt Sabinyo and Mt Gahinga. It is famous for the mountain gorillas that […]

Amabeere Ga Nyina Mwiru Caves Tour Safari Uganda

The Amabeere Ga Nyina Mwiru Caves are one of the most interesting sights in western Uganda.

Queen Elizabeth National Park Uganda Safari Adventure

The most loved safari experience is the lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park. -95 mammal species -Best for game drives in Kasenyi tracks, North Kazinga and Ishasha sector. -Lions, Buffalo, antelope, elephants, warthogs, baboons and more. -600 bird species.

Kibale Forest National Park Uganda Safari

-Famous for chimpanzee tracking. Covers 795sq kms, 1590m above sea level. -70 mammal species., elephants, red and blue duikers, giant forest hogs, buffalo, sitatunga and bushbucks. -13 primate varieties; chimps, baboons, white and black colobus. -325 species of birds., Green tinker bird, Africa and green breasted pitas, African grey parrot, Ground Thrush (Turdus Kibalensis) endemic to Kibale Forest National Park. -Over 250 tree species. -Areas of interest include Bigodi Wetlands, Kanyanchu and Sebitoli.

Murchison Falls National Park Uganda

Murchison Falls National park is one of the largest National parks in the country with 76 different animal species count and about 450 bird species that you will see on a wildlife safari in Uganda. -80 km stretch of rapids and falls. Nile squeezes through an 8m wide gorge. – 76 mammals, Four of the “big five animals” found here. Lion, Buffalo, elephants and leopards. Other animals include Uganda kob, waterbucks, warthogs, hippos, giraffe and Jackson’s hartebeest. -Primates include Olive baboons, 800 chimpanze in Budongo and Kaniyo Pabidi forests. The best uganda safaris are done here.

Kidepo Valley National Park Uganda Trips

Kidepo Valley National Parkboasts of 77 different species of mammals and about 463 bird species. The list of Uganda wildlife safari animals that live inside this park is quite exciting and different from other parks in Uganda.

Lake Mburo National Park Uganda

68 various mammal species have been recorded within Lake Mburo National Park, approximately 313 different bird species among which is the crested crane found on the national emblem of Uganda found in this are covered with thick acacia woodland plus savannah 158 sq miles; this park generally has a varied  fauna in comparison to other wildlife reserves.

Bwindi Forest National Park Safari Uganda

Bwindi impenetrable forest national park is famed for estimated 320 endangered mountain gorillas, ( Gorilla Berengei, Berengei) -120 mammals -Primate Species, baboons, chimps, -350 bird species, 23 belonging to Albertine Rift endemics. -Discover the Batwa Pygmy cultures.

10 Days Mount Rwenzori Climbing & Wildlife Adventure

Trekking the Rwenzori Mountains which involves hiking to the highest peak- Margherita which is at an altitude of 5,109m.

Ssese Islands Tour Uganda, Uganda Beach Holidays

Visit Ssese Islands in Kalangala, beach relaxation, boat trips, forest walks and sunbathing.

Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve Safari Uganda

Pian Upe Game Reserve is found in the North-eastern part of Uganda, North of Mountain Elgon and covers a series of districts like Amudat, Moroto, Katakwi, and Nakapiripiriti. It is the second-largest Game Reserve after the Murchison falls National Park covering over 2043 kilometers squared. The Reserve was first gazetted in 1985 at started as […]

Sipi Falls Uganda Tour

Sipi falls is nestled in the Eastern part of Uganda in Kapchorwa district near Mbale district. It is located at least 277 kilometers away from Kampala and they are found at the edge of Mountain Elgon National Park. The word Sipi was derived from the ‘sep’ a wild banana that grows along the River Sipi. […]

Best Things To Do in Uganda

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, Gorilla Safari Packages

Mountain gorilla trekking/ Gorilla tracking; this is the main highlight of Uganda trips. It’s also the main reason why people travel from their home countries to Uganda. Bwindi has the highest population of gorilla in the world. You engage in gorilla tracking for 60 minutes as you take pictures and observing their way of life within the forest, The mountain gorilla silver back taking care of its family. These endangered mountain gorillas share their 95% of their DNA with that of the humans, which makes them a must see attraction on any safari.You can see the gorillas of Africa,in Virunga

Uganda Budget Safaris

Budget Safaris Factors Determining the Budget Of Your Safari to Uganda The Duration Of Your Uganda Safari The duration of your Ugandan safari plays a role, in determining the budget needed. According to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, a short but fulfilling experience in Uganda usually requires around 4 5 days. However with this timeframe you […]

Uganda Luxury Safaris

Luxury Safaris Gorilla Trekking Luxury Lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in the region of Uganda is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for being the sanctuary of more, than half of the worlds remaining mountain gorillas. Spanning across an area of 331 kilometers this ancient rainforest is characterized […]

Tree Climbing Lion Safari Uganda

It is much easier to catch sight of a tree climbing lion in Ishasha than any of the other places where the lions are found. In ishasha they can be seen in sycamore trees and can often be spotted on a game drive.

Uganda Photo Safari Tour

A Photographic safari in Uganda is a very unique experience. Abundant wildlife viewing, long days, different environments, changes of weather and variable Geography all offer special and excellent opportunities for a remarkable photography experience. Today many tourists engage in these safaris since it is one of the best ways to capture and at the same […]

Mount Rwenzori Climbing

The high Mountain Rwenzori comprises of six different mountains. Although it is located only a couple of miles north of the equator crossing, Mount Stanley is the highest of all standing at a height of 5,109 meters, Baker standing at a height of 4843 meters and then Speke towering at 4890 meters and fascinating about these is the fact that each f these peaks is entirely covered by non-seasonal glaciers. These peaks can be reached by hiking the Central Circuit trail or the Kilembe Trail.

Mount Elgon & Sipi Falls Safari To Uganda

Mount Elgon National park is situated close to Mbale in Eastern Uganda. It covers a total land expanse of 1145 sq km. the park was named after the most significant natural feature – Mount Elgon that stands at a height of 4321 meters; Mount Elgon is an extinct Volcanic Mountain found on Uganda’s border with Kenya.

Uganda Cultural Tours

Uganda has a very rich and diverse cultural background with several cultural sites found in different parts of the country. There are very many different tribes in Uganda and almost each tribe has a chiefdom or kingdom and they all have rich cultural practices.

Birding in Uganda

There are over 1000 recorded bird species in the country and these are found in different parts of the country. The country has migratory birds that fly in during the wet season, endemic birds, Albertine rift valley endemic birds and near-endemic birds. Some of the top birding destinations include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Semuliki National Park, Mabamba Bay, Murchison falls National Park and Lake Mburo National Park among others.

Honeymoon Holidays in Uganda

Visit Uganda's romantic destinations such as Murchison Falls, Lake Bunyonyi, Queen Elizabeth and more. See wildlife, trek the gorillas and relax at Ssese Islands.

Golden Monkey Trekking in Uganda

A guide to golden monkeys in Uganda, how and when to visit Mgahinga gorilla park, trekking costs, how to book and general travel tips.

Fly In Safaris Uganda

The different parks and other safari destinations always receive direct flights mostly from Kajjansi air strip and these flights provide the tourists with the perfect view of Uganda from the skies and it also helps avoid the hustle of the daily jam that is constantly seen in the country and You are always escorted by a trained tour guide on the fly in safaris.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda, Primate Safari

These can be trekked in Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park in Kyambura Gorge in Maramagambo Forest and in Budongo Forest inMurchison falls national Park. Chimpanzee habituation can also be done from Ngamba Island Sanctuary on Lake Victoria. Kibale forest national park harbors the most number of Chimpanzees and it has over 13 different primate species including; chimpanzees, monkeys including; La Hoest’s monkeys, vervet monkeys, and red tailed Colobus monkeys. Chimpanzee habituation can also be done and sets out every morning to specifically observe and study the general behavior of chimps with the main aim of making them used

Uganda, Primate Watching in Africa

A guide to watching the primates of East Africa, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda.

Fishing Trips

Lake Victoria is the world’s second largest fresh water lake and the largest in Africa, it is shared by Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. Other lakes that are great sites for fishing safaris in Uganda include; Lake Edward, Lake George, Lake Albert, and the swampy Lake Kyoga among others. The River Nile also offers great opportunities for fishing, it is the second longest river in the world.

African Village Tours Uganda

Most villages in Uganda still hold their traditional way of life and many still follow the way their ancestors lived; it is evidenced by the traditional rituals, music, dance and drama, traditional way of harvesting, food preparation and cooking, among other things. Some of these villages have been mentioned below to guide you on which to visit. The most amazing thing about it, is that all these villages are located in the famous tourist sites such as National Parks, Forests, and Lakes among others.

Sightseeing Tours In Uganda

Uganda has 10 National Parks, a number of game reserves, wildlife sanctuaries among others where a number of wildlife have found habitation. So these places offer the best to sightseers. In Murchison falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Lake Mburo National Parks tourists can enjoy game drives, boat cruises, sport fishing, nature walks, birding, and in some of these parks you can spot the Big 4 if you are lucky. Queen Elizabeth National Park even offers an opportunity to spot the climbing lions in the Ishasha sector.

Uganda Food Tours

Compared to other foods, African cuisine is very unique both in the kinds of foods served and how it is all prepared. In Uganda, meat and fish and almost all the produce grown are organic. Uganda is a small country yet very big in terms of its culture. The country has over 45 tribes and most of these tribes have distinctive and unique foods. In order for you to have the best stay in Uganda, we have prepared information about the main foods grown, prepared, served and sold in Uganda.

Farm Tours Uganda, Agritourism

Agro tourism in Uganda is mainly carried out in the Country and it has started attracting many tourists who go on safaris to see the beautiful gardens that are always on display for both the locals and the tourists who visit to see the different techniques that are used in the farms.

Horse Back Safaris Uganda

The area around the River Nile is an exceptional area ideal for horseback riding, then also riding through the many other breathtaking landscapes all over the country, such as through pristine farmlands, tea and sugarcane plantations, the rain forests, and also through grasslands and plains among others. This gives you an unforgettable experience as you ride the horse accompanied by guided skilled horse guides.

Game Viewing Safaris in Uganda

Uganda is a very attractive and exceptional safari destination filled with lots of wildlife. The country is located on the equator along the shores of Lake Victoria’s Northern Shore. This country has prolific wildlife which attracts many tourists that come to experience this wonderful gift of nature of the country. You can watch many animals in their habitats, a rewarding experience that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Wildlife can be seen in National parks and reserves, and these are perfect places for adventure seekers, eco- tourists and holiday makers. The many Uganda safari wildlife include; the elephants, kobs, zebras,

FAQs About Uganda Safari Tours

Why you should visit uganda.

Uganda is is located 1 00 N, 32 00 E, with a total of 241,038 sq km, land: 197,100 sq km water: Insight Safari Holidays takes you to Uganda to see the mountain gorillas and lots of wildlife . Gorilla treks of 400 mountain gorillas, viewing wild animals like elephants, antelopes, tree climbing lions, buffaloes and more in 10 parks. Boating safari and water sports on Lake Victoria, Kazinga Channel, River Nile and Lake Bunyonyi. Hiking and climbing is done in Rwenzori mountains range, Margherita peak (5109m), Mount Elgon and Gorilla National Park of Mt.Gahinga, Sabinyo and Muhavura. 1061 tupes of birds found in Uganda, 330 mammals and more that you can see on your travel to Uganda.

Uganda boasts of having the mountain gorillas together with other 10 parks and reserves providing wildlife experience makes it a competitive holiday destination in Africa and the world or region. 43,938 sq km with 26.4% protected areas for safari parks, reserves and specie management.

The country offers variety of wildlife types within its many fantastic safari parks. Some of these protected reserves include; Murchison falls National Park famous for its beautiful scenic water falls and boat cruises on Nile, 76 types of mammals and 451 birds, Bwindi impenetrable National Park , common for the mighty mountain gorillas, Queen Elizabeth National Park, the largest national park famous for variety of wildlife species and the fantastic Kazinga channel, Kibale National Park , home to over 13 primates, Rwenzori national park famous for mountain climbing and wildlife, Semliki National Park known mainly for birding, Mt Elgon National Park famous for mountain climbing and nature walks, Lake Mburo National park also famous for harboring Zebras and Impalas. Overall, the 10 parks make your Uganda tour worthwhile.

With 52 tribes in Uganda, the cultural experience in Uganda is very rewarding.

What to see while on Uganda safaris?

Beautiful Terrain; All safari tours offer such experience of beautiful country side as well as green undulating terrains filled with coffee and banana plantations. There are also traditional homesteads and cattle grazing. You will also enjoy many beautiful scenic drives, good to the eyes of any tourist on safaris to Uganda.

Wildlife; These can be viewed in all the parks of Uganda and tourists have a chance to enjoy the big five and the herbivores including the giraffes, zebras, antelopes, hippos, and Nile Crocodiles. Get to see the 400 population of mountain gorillas found in Bwindi Impenetrable National park as well as chimps and other monkey types you find in Kibale National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Besides wildlife , you will also have chance to view the many birds including the rare shoebill stock while on a safari.

Mountain Rwenzori (Mountains of the Moon); this is a snow caped mountain and is the highest in East Africa. This mountain was also known as Ruwenzori Ranges and they are mountain ranges of the eastern equatorial Africa. These ranges are on border between Democratic Republic of Cong and Uganda. The mountain is 5,109km above sea level and is about 120km long and 65km wide. It’s filled with variety of flora including tropical rain forests, the giant groundsel and the giant lobelia. The fauna around this mountain include; primates like the monkeys, forest elephants and endemic birds.

Murchison falls; these falls are in north western Uganda and its among the most magnificent water falls in found in Uganda and its located on source of Nile. Other safari trips include a boat cruise on the Nile were you will enjoy an up close experience with many water animals including; the hippos, giant crocodiles as well birds.

Source of the Nile; this is found in Jinja town and it was discovered by John Speke, you can enjoy many different water activities on source of Nile, these include; white water rafting, swimming, bungee jumping, boat cruises, kayaking and many more.

Stay? Uganda Safari Accommodation - Hotels & Lodges

 Many of destinations offer lodges and tented camps inside and outside the parks. The cost is between $ 150 to $ 900 for a double room per night. For gorilla trips in Bwindi Impenetrable National park, each of the sectors of this park has got variety of different lodges as well as camps which facilities those interested in tracking the endangered mountain gorillas.

There are 41 lodges to choose from in Bwindi alone. These facilities can be booked directly or by Insight safari holidays. The most luxury lodges charge between $ 900 and $ 1200 per night.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Uganda?

This is one of many questions asked regarding any safari in Uganda, the common answer to this question is; you may visit Uganda at any time of the year! However the difference may vary in Price since there two different seasons; i.e. the peak season of June to September and December to February. With this season the price of both gorilla permits and lodges is high since it’s a high season. The low season is from March to May and September to November. The luxury safari lodges usually lower their rates during the low season.

It’s also recommended that visitors should visit the country during the dry season which are from January to February and then June to September, this is because animal watching is best done during the dry season when many animals gather around the water holes. Bird watching can also be done throughout the year, but most preferably from November to April when there are many migrant species in the country.

What is the Cost of a Safari in Uganda?

Uganda Safari costing mainly depends on type of accommodation you chose and travel type. A gorilla permit costs $600 per person. The accommodation also costs between $150 to $900 and this depends in which facility you decide to sleep in. Cheapest gorilla tracking safari is approximately $ 1200 per person. And for the wildlife safaris to Murchison and Queen Elizabeth National Park, it can roughly cost $1000 for the budget travellers. Those willing to travel in groups, the safari price becomes low. A journey from Kampala to Bwindi is 527kilometres. Most destinations in Uganda will cost about $150 per day. A luxury safari to Uganda costs from $ 500 per day or more. A budget safari costs $ less than $ 100 per day.

When to go for a safari in Uganda?

You can visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park for gorilla tours, Murchison Falls National Park for falls viewing and wildlife drives and launch cruise. Other destinations include Kidepo Valley National Park recently ranked among the top parks of Africa, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo, and many others.

Is Uganda good for a safari?

Uganda makes an excellent safari destination, offering diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, unique experiences. Let’s look at some factoids highlighting Uganda’s appeal:

• Biodiversity:

Uganda harbors over 10% avian species globally, over 1,070 recorded bird varieties because country features varied ecosystems – savannas, rainforests, wetlands, highlands – contributing rich biodiversity.

• Uganda Gorilla safaris

Uganda is one of just three countries worldwide enable see mountain gorillas in the wild. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – UNESCO World Heritage area – hosts roughly half remaining mountain gorillas worldwide.

• Chimpanzee Safari Uganda

Kibale National Park contains over 1,500 chimpanzees, making prime spot for tracking, habituating chimps.

• Big Game: Wildlife Safari Uganda

Uganda has “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino) plus other large mammals like giraffes, zebras, various antelopes. Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls National Parks offer traditional game drives spot these creatures.

• Landscapes:

Uganda boasts varied scenery including magnificent Murchison Falls, where Nile squeezes narrow gorge, forming powerful cascade. Rwenzori Mountains, “Mountains of Moon” provide unique trekking opportunities, are UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Birding Safaris in Uganda

With diverse habitats, Uganda is birdwatcher’s paradise. Notable species include shoebill stork, fish eagle, Great Blue Turaco.

• Conservation:

Uganda made major efforts protect wildlife, ecosystems reflected in numerous parks, protected zones.

• Tourism Growth:

Uganda’s unique safari offerings attract more visitors yearly. Tourism revenue aids conservation, communities.

• Travel To Uganda

Uganda has good infrastructure, transportation making relatively accessible.

Beyond wildlife, Uganda offers cultural experiences with local communities – adding depth any safari.

What To Pack on a Safari in Uganda

Comprehensive packing list:

Neutral hues blend surroundings, brights startle wildlife. Lightweight long sleeves shield sun, bugs, plants. Hat shade, cooling. Fleece chilly nights, early mornings high altitude. Rain protection sudden showers. Sturdy shoes walking, hiking. Sandals relax. Swimsuit if pool. Enough socks, skivvies.

Accessories

Sunglasses UV protection. Binoculars see wildlife close. Camera, extra batteries capture sights. Power bank limited electricity. Bug spray deter mosquitoes. Sunscreen, lip balm prevent burns. Medications, first aid health needs. Hand sanitizer, wipes hygiene limited facilities. Toiletries.

Valid passport, necessary visas. Insurance cover medical, evacuation. Document photocopies. Vaccination certificates if required. Local shillings, small dollars emergencies. Credit cards not everywhere. Itinerary, contacts.

Other Essentials

Daypack drives, walks. Adapter, converter Type G sockets. Multitool, Swiss Army. Ziplocs keep dry, organized. Reusable bottle hydration, less waste. Non-perishable snacks – bars, nuts.

Optional Extras

Field guides learn wildlife, plants. Binocular harness easy carry, access. Travel pillow, eye mask restful sleep. Notebook, pen record observations.

Tailor specifics safari type, duration, time year. Confirm needs with tour operator. Thoughtful packing smooth enjoyable Uganda safari!

What Type of Accommodation Do You Expect on a Safari in Uganda?

In Uganda, range of lodgings suit various preferences, budgets – from luxe lodges in national park hearts to budget-friendly options. Overview of accommodation types and prominent safari lodges:

Luxury Lodges and Camps

Luxury lodges provide high-end safari experience with lavish amenities, personalized service, stunning landscape views. Often feature spacious suites or tents, gourmet dining, various activities.

Prominent Examples:

– Chobe Safari Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park

– Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

– Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

– Mweya Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park

– Apoka Safari Lodge in Kidepo Valley National Park

Mid-Range Lodges and Camps

Mid-range lodgings offer comfortable, enjoyable stays with en-suite facilities, range of amenities – good comfort/affordability balance.

– Primate Lodge Kibale near Kibale National Park

– Simba Safari Camp in Queen Elizabeth National Park

– Mihingo Lodge in Lake Mburo National Park

– Kibale Forest Camp near Kibale National Park

– Ishasha Wilderness Camp in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Budget Lodges and Camps

Budget options provide basic facilities, more economical choice for travelers – may have fewer amenities but still convenient, cost-effective way to experience national parks.

– Rweteera Safari Park near Queen Elizabeth National Park

– Buhoma Community Rest Camp near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

– UWA Bandas and Campsites in various national parks

– Red Chilli Hideaway in Murchison Falls National Park

Tented Camps

Tented camps offer unique, immersive safari experience – blend lodge comforts with close-to-nature feel.

– Elephant Plains Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park

– Buhoma Lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

– Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

– Mburo Safari Lodge in Lake Mburo National Park

Community and Eco-Lodges

Some accommodations community-owned or eco-friendly, support local development, conservation.

– Ruboni Community Camp near Rwenzori Mountains National Park

– Nkima Forest Lodge near Kibale National Park

How Long Should a Uganda safari be?

Ideal Uganda safari length varies based interests, specific parks, desired activities. Typical duration ranges from a few days to around 2 weeks.

Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking a major highlight – requires at least 2-3 days including trek itself and park travel. The hiking lasts hours, so account for this singular experience.

National Park Visits

Uganda boasts variety of parks, each offering divergent critters, landscapes. Well-liked include Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, Kibale. Typical individual park visit 2-4 days – explore, game drives, boat safaris.

Birdwatching, Nature Walks

Additional days likely necessitated if keen on birdwatching, nature walks to fully appreciate avian diversity, natural magnificence.

Cultural Experiences

Calculate time for village visits, cultural performances if planning community interactions.

Travel Time

Time required between parks, destinations affects overall duration – road conditions capricious.

Sample Durations

– Gorilla focused: 3-5 days – Multiple parks: 7-10 days – Extended with more activities: 10-14+ days. Facts and Figures

– 2023 average international tourist stay: 10 nights

– Longer stays enable deeper exploration of terrain, critters, culture.

How To Book A Safari in Uganda

Research and Decide – Research different parks, happenings, and activities that you want to experience. – Decide duration, budget, preferred dates.

Choose Tour Operator – Select reputable, licensed operator like Insight Safari Holidays specializing in Uganda safaris. Seek rave reviews, seasoned guides, commitment to responsible tourism.

Customize Itinerary – Work with operator to customize itinerary based on druthers, interests, budget. Discuss desired parks, activities (e.g. gorilla trekking, wildlife drives), accommodations, experiences.

Purchase Gorilla Permits – If including gorilla trekking, operator should help snag limited permits from Uganda Wildlife Authority early.

Confirm Details – Confirm all itinerary details – digs, activities, transportation, special requirements. Verify alignment with expectations.

Payment and Booking – Cough up deposit or full amount to secure booking through bank transfer, card, or methods specified by operator.

Obtain Documents – Have valid passport with at least 6 months validity after travel. Scope and obtain necessary visas.

Health Preparations – Consult travel doc for advice on vaccinations, medications like malaria prevention.

Packing and Prep – Pack suitable garb, footwear, gear for happenings. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, bug spray, camera.

Travel Insurance – Purchase comprehensive insurance covering medical, cancellations, unforeseen events.

Departure – Arrive in Uganda on specified dates, convene with operator/guide at designated meeting point.

What are Some of the Top African Safari Parks?

Kruger National Park, South Africa

This iconic park is a true safari mecca, harboring the “Big Five” and over 140 mammal species including lions, elephants, leopards, and rhinos. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise too, with over 500 feathered species. Accommodations run the gamut from budget-friendly rest camps to lavish lodges and private reserves.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Famed for the Great Migration, the Serengeti brims with diverse wildlife like lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and wildebeest. An estimated 70 large mammals and 500+ birds inhabit the park. Luxury lodges, tented camps, and mobile camps cater to various budgets.

Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

This reserve is renowned for the Great Migration and abundant predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Over 450 bird species have been recorded here. Accommodations include luxury lodges and tented camps.

Chobe National Park, Botswana

Chobe boasts the world’s largest elephant population along with lions, leopards, buffalo, hippos, and 450+ bird species. The park offers luxury lodges, tented camps, and houseboats along the Chobe River.

South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

South Luangwa is celebrated for walking safaris and leopard sightings, plus elephants, buffalos, antelopes, and 400+ birds. Intimate lodges and tented camps provide an immersive wilderness experience.

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Hwange is notable for its substantial elephant herds plus lions, giraffes, diverse mammals, and 400+ birds. Budget and luxury options allow varied safari experiences.

Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia

The Lower Zambezi provides excellent elephant, hippo, crocodile and predator sightings. Over 400 bird species inhabit the park. Luxury lodges and tented camps line the Zambezi River.

How To Fly to Uganda

Getting to Uganda means booking a flight to Entebbe International Airport, the main entry point for visitors. Entebbe is located near the town of the same name, about 25 miles southwest of the capital Kampala. Let’s walk through planning your flight step-by-step.

First, pick which airport you’ll fly out of. Major hubs across different continents have flights to Entebbe.

Next up, search for flights using travel sites or apps. Enter where you’re coming from, your dates, any preferences – compare options across airlines, routes and layover times for the best combo of convenience and cost.

Once you’ve found a good flight, go ahead and book your tickets directly through the airline website or travel site. Follow the instructions to finish booking and enter your info.

Be sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your travel date. Check if you need a visa for Uganda and get one if required. Also organize any other must-have docs like insurance, health certificates, vaccination proof.

Consider when you’ll get to Entebbe – many international flights come in at night. If needed, arrange transportation from the airport to your hotel or lodge ahead of time.

When you arrive at the airport, go through immigration and customs – have your passport, visa, docs ready to show them.

Once you’re through, you’re all set for your Uganda adventure! Dive into the amazing landscapes, wildlife sightings, culture and more that the country offers.

Major airlines flying to Uganda include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Turkish Airlines, KLM, and Brussels Airlines among others.

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10 Best Uganda Safari Parks You Shouldn’t Miss

Nestled in East Africa, Uganda stands tall as a beacon for extraordinary safari experiences, boasting a tapestry of diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity. 

Wondering about the best safari parks in Uganda?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve deep into the top 10 Uganda safari destinations, showcasing the intricacies and wonders that make each of them a must-visit for any avid traveler and wildlife enthusiast.

Table of Contents

The Best Safari Parks in Uganda – Top 10 Destinations to Visit

1. Murchison Falls National Park

Located in the northwestern part of Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park is an epitome of raw natural beauty. The focal point is the breathtaking Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile River forces its way through a narrow gorge. The first park on ours list of Uganda safari destinations is a habitat for the famous Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros . Embark on a game drive along the northern bank to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Don’t miss a boat cruise on the Nile, offering a unique perspective and a chance to spot hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of bird species.

2. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Stretching between the Rwenzori Mountains and Lake Edward, Queen Elizabeth National Park is a mosaic of ecosystems, including savannah, wetlands, and forests. The Ishasha sector in the southern part of the park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare sight in the wild. Take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel to witness the park’s diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and a multitude of bird species. The park’s scenic beauty and varied landscapes make it a photographer’s paradise .

3. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Venture into the southwestern part of Uganda, and you’ll find Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This dense tropical forest is renowned for being one of the most interesting Uganda wildlife parks, hosting nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population . Engage in a life-changing gorilla trekking experience, where you’ll navigate through the thick vegetation to come face to face with these magnificent creatures. The park’s rich biodiversity extends beyond gorillas, with numerous bird species and other primates inhabiting the lush forest.

4. Kidepo Valley National Park

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Kidepo Valley National Park is a hidden gem in northeastern Uganda. The park’s rugged landscapes and expansive savannah are home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, and ostriches. The sense of isolation adds to the allure, making it a perfect destination for those yearning for a more exclusive safari experience . The Narus Valley, dotted with acacia trees, is a prime spot for game viewing.

5. Lake Mburo National Park

Strategically located near the capital, Kampala, Lake Mburo National Park is a compact yet diverse safari destination. The park’s centerpiece, Lake Mburo, provides a picturesque backdrop for game drives and boat safaris. Zebra and impala are abundant, and the park is a birdwatcher’s delight with over 350 bird species. For a unique experience in one of the best safari parks in Uganda, embark on a guided horseback tour to get closer to the wildlife without disturbing their natural behavior .

6. Kibale National Park

Known as the primate capital of the world, Kibale National Park is a haven for chimpanzee enthusiasts. The lush rainforest is home to not only chimpanzees but also other primates like red colobus monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys . Embark on a guided chimpanzee trek to witness these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. The park’s diverse flora and fauna extend beyond primates, with a myriad of bird species adding to the enchantment.

7. Semuliki National Park

In the western reaches of Uganda lies Semuliki National Park , a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The park’s hot springs, fed by the Semuliki River, create a unique landscape. Explore the park’s diverse habitats, from lowland rainforests to savannah, and encounter wildlife such as forest elephants and pygmy hippopotamuses. What makes it one of the most interesting Uganda safari destinations is the isolation, which adds to its charm, offering a tranquil and immersive safari experience .

8. Rwenzori Mountains National Park

For adventurers seeking a different kind of safari experience, Rwenzori Mountains National Park is a dream destination. Home to the fabled Mountains of the Moon, this park boasts snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and challenging hiking trails. While the wildlife is not as abundant as in other parks, the unique flora, including giant lobelias and groundsels, and the stunning landscapes make it a must-visit for avid hikers and nature enthusiasts.

9. Mount Elgon National Park

Bordering Kenya, Mount Elgon National Park is a haven for hikers and trekkers. The park’s centerpiece is Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano with the largest surface area of all extinct volcanoes in the world. The Sipi Falls, a series of three waterfalls on the mountain’s slopes, adds to the park’s natural allure. In this Uganda safari park you can hike to the caldera or explore the extensive cave systems for a more active and immersive safari experience .

10. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Completing our journey is Mgahinga Gorilla National Park , nestled in the Virunga Mountains. The park is a vital habitat for the rare and endangered mountain gorillas . In addition to gorilla trekking, explore the park’s diverse landscapes, including the volcanic peaks of Mount Gahinga and Mount Muhabura. The Batwa Cultural Experience offers a unique opportunity to learn about the indigenous Batwa people and their deep connection with the forest.

Frequently asked questions

What makes uganda safari parks unique compared to other african safari destinations.

Uganda safari parks are unique for their incredible biodiversity and varied landscapes, ranging from dense tropical forests to vast savannahs. What sets them apart is they are one of the best places to see gorillas in Africa : you can have opportunity to witness the iconic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, as well as the chance to explore lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path parks like Kidepo Valley and Semuliki, providing a more exclusive and diverse safari experience.

How does gorilla trekking contribute to the allure of Uganda’s safari parks?

Gorilla trekking is a highlight of Uganda’s safari experience, especially in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. This activity allows visitors to embark on a guided trek through lush forests, immersing themselves in the natural habitat of mountain gorillas. It’s a rare and intimate encounter that fosters conservation awareness, as permit fees contribute to the protection of these endangered species and their habitats.

What role does conservation play in Uganda’s approach to managing its safari parks?

Conservation is a paramount aspect of Uganda’s approach to managing safari parks. The country has implemented various conservation programs and sustainable tourism practices to protect its diverse flora and fauna. Community engagement and education are integral to these efforts, ensuring that local communities benefit from tourism while actively participating in wildlife conservation initiatives.

How do Uganda safari parks cater to both seasoned wildlife enthusiasts and casual travelers?

Uganda safari parks offer a spectrum of experiences catering to diverse interests. For seasoned wildlife enthusiasts, parks like Kidepo Valley and Queen Elizabeth provide opportunities to spot a wide range of species, including the Big Five. Meanwhile, casual travelers can enjoy more accessible parks like Lake Mburo, with its convenient proximity to the capital, providing a taste of safari adventure without extensive travel.

What is the significance of Uganda’s less-explored parks, such as Kidepo Valley and Semuliki?

Less-explored parks like Kidepo Valley and Semuliki offer a unique and authentic safari experience. Kidepo, in the remote northeast, provides an exclusive encounter with wildlife in a pristine setting. Semuliki, known for its hot springs and rich birdlife, offers a tranquil escape. By promoting these lesser-known parks, Uganda aims to distribute tourism benefits more evenly, reduce environmental impact, and showcase the country’s diverse ecosystems.

In conclusion, Uganda’s wildlife parks offer a kaleidoscope of experiences for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts . From the iconic Murchison Falls to the remote beauty of Kidepo Valley, each park tells a unique story of conservation and biodiversity. 

So, as you plan your safari adventure, consider the intricacies and wonders that each of these 10 best Uganda safari parks has to offer . 

Pack your bags, charge your camera, and prepare for an extraordinary journey through the untamed beauty of Uganda’s wilderness—where every moment is a celebration of nature’s wonders.

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Broader region.

Uganda is home to some of the most diverse wildlife in Africa, including mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, lions, elephants, and more. It also offers stunning landscapes, including the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, the lush rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and the vast savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Additionally, Uganda is known for its friendly people and welcoming culture, making it a great destination

The best time to go on safari in Uganda is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. During this time, the weather is generally dry and sunny, making it easier to spot wildlife. Additionally, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to navigate the terrain.

Uganda is a great destination for safari. Popular safari destinations in Uganda include Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Mburo National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park.

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I want everyone to know Nicole at Safari.com did a great job putting my vacation together. Nicole made sure I had the exact dates I wanted to stay at the lodges of my choice. Nicole answered everyone of my emails quickly. Nicole worked on my vacation plan after office hours from her home. She never once was upset with me if i changed any of my plan. Nicole is very patient .I am very thankful for Nicole. I will always use Safari.com

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Uganda Safaris

Discover the Pearl of Africa with our eco-friendly and sustainable Uganda Safaris! Unforgettable wildlife adventures, from gorilla trekking to game dri ves, boat safaris on the Nile. Traversing some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Africa. Explore incredible safari attractions like the rainforests of the southwest where gorillas, chimpanzees, and other 13 unique primate species find heaven. Or the vast savannahs teaming with big cats, elephants, buffalo, and giraffes. Plan your dream Uganda safari with our all-inclusive tour packages and comprehensive travel guides. Plan with an expert who understands the local logistics and get the experience you deserve.

The Ultimate Uganda Safari Planning Guide

Primate trekking & game safaris

Planned tour package

Uganda safaris offer an incredible opportunity to experience breathtaking landscapes, encounter unique and fascinating wildlife, explore uncharted natural wonders, and immerse yourself in the local culture. The country's tropical natural habitats are a haven for flourishing wildlife, making Uganda the ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking adventure vacation safaris.

However, planning a safari can be overwhelming, especially if it's your first time. That's why we have created the ultimate guide to help you plan your dream safari holiday in the "Pearl of Africa". Our guide covers everything from choosing the best time to visit and top Uganda destinations, to selecting the perfect safari package featuring adventure activities, all-inclusive Uganda vacations, and even gorilla safaris .

The Uganda tour packages on our website are just a glimpse of what is possible. Whether you want to go trekking to see mountain gorillas , spot the Big Five , or explore the stunning landscapes and attractions of Uganda, we can help you create a beautiful safari—the best safari in Uganda—tailored for an unforgettable African holiday!

• Top gorilla encounters: Trek into the mountains and c ome face-to-face with the mountain gorillas in the impenetrable tropical jungles and on the slopes of the Virunga mountains.
• Best primates experiences: Awkwardly follow a wild troop of chimpanzees and spend unforgettable moments observing them in their natural habitat on a chimpanzee trekking adventure.
• Excellent water safaris:  Cruise the Kazinga Channel or Victoria Nile and get close to elephants, hippos, buffalo, and big game.
• Uncrowded safari drives:  Morning or evening game drives with an expert local guide to find the Big Five, tree climbing lions, and other exciting animals in the savannah parks.
• Top-notch birding spots:  More than 1000 colorful bird species found within the most accessible birding habitats on the continent.
• Incredible adventures:  Bungee jumping or rafting grade-five rapids on the Nile, hike dead volcanoes, and summit the snow-capped Mountains of The Moon.
• Immersive cultural encounters & ecotourism:  Walk through native remote villages, meet Uganda's hidden cultures and communities, and experience evocative traditions on a cultural trail.

Best time for Safari in Uganda

The best time for safari in Uganda is during the dry season , which runs from December to February and June to September. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, and the wildlife is more visible as they gather around water sources. The dry season also offers the best conditions for gorilla trekking in Uganda , as the trails are drier and easier to navigate. December to February and June to July are ideal for birdwatching , as migratory birds flock to Uganda's national parks. The wet season, which runs from March to May and October to November, may offer fewer crowds and lower prices, but the roads can be challenging to navigate in some areas. However, it is important to note that Uganda's national parks are open year-round, and each season offers a unique experience. Take a look at the month-by-month analysis in the boxes below.

Read the detailed article >>>

January - February

High season.

January through February is a relatively hot season with clear skies, minimal rains, and more sunshine. It is an excellent time to visit Uganda for gorilla trekking and walking with chimpanzees in lush forests.

The country's north can be pretty hot and dusty during this period.

March - May

March marks the beginning of the rainy season, a perfect time to spot the birth of many animals. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting many colorful winged creatures during this time.

April is the wettest month on Ugandasafaris, parks are quieter, and many roads can be impassable. On the other hand, it's low season, perfect timing for discounted hotel and lodge rates.

May ends the first rainy season of the year with lesser downpours and incredible greenery in the countryside.

June - August

Peak season.

June is the start of the peak season because of its gorgeous dry weather, extending into August. It's the best time for a Uganda safari, attracting the biggest number of tourists to the country. Gorilla trekking permits and premium safari lodges can get booked out during this time; book well in advance to avoid unnecessary bother.

July is also excellent for gorilla trekking excursions and wildlife safaris in Uganda. Wild animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.

August is fantastic for game-viewing safaris, and boat safaris and parks don't feel crowded.

September - December

September is usually the end of the dry season, but depending on when the rains arrive, you may experience some downpours on your Uganda safari. September is not ideal for gorilla trekking excursions. However, those who can brave the downpours will undoubtedly save on travel costs.

October is not a busy month for a safari in Uganda. Prices are reasonable, and this is a good time of year for specials on gorilla trekking permits. Most game parks are still accessible at this time, but the rainfall can be a little unpredictable.

The rains continue into November , turning the countryside plains into a vibrant green perfect for wildlife and landscape photography. The November rains hold back many travelers, so the low season extends into December.

December ends the wet season with relatively short rains paving the way for the peak season. It's the best time to travel north to Kidepo and Murchison for excellent game-viewing safaris. It is also a good time for bird-watching, with a wide variety of migratory birds making their way into the area.

Tailor-made Uganda Safari Packages

If you love nature or enjoy wildlife adventure holidays, don't miss the incredible opportunity to have up-close encounters with Africa's iconic animals on a safari in Uganda. To help you plan your trip, browse this list of top eco-friendly and sustainable Uganda wildlife tour packages. Take a look!

Short luxury gorilla safari in bwindi Impenetrable.

5 Days | From US $2,426

Includes Permits, Accommodation, Meals, Transport.

Primates: Gorillas, Chimps, & Wildlife Safari

8 Days | From US $3,865

Explore Uganda's Wilderness, See Primates on this trip

12 Days | From US $5,518  

Gorilla Trekking Safari & Road Trip Across The Country

Gorilla Trekking Safari & Nature Walking Trails

Trekking Gorillas & Golden Monkeys in Southwestern Uganda

Off-the-beaten-track safari in southwestern Uganda

Chimpanzee, Gorilla trekking and Wildlife Safari

Honeymoon safari: the nile, chimps, gorillas & wildlife.

Explore Uganda's Rich birdlife, gorillas and wildlife safari

Expedition Uganda; safari across the country's wildlife national parks

Wildlife & bird watching across Uganda's top birding destinations.

Luxury Gorilla Safari in Uganda

All-inclusive Gorilla & Wildlife Safari

Explore Uganda The Pearl of Africa Adventure

Gorillas and Serengeti Safari, Uganda & Tanzania

Bwindi and Masai Mara Safari Adventure

Kigali-Bwindi Gorilla Safari: Uganda and Rwanda Tour

Best uganda safari attractions & destinations.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi Impenetrable is an ancient rainforest spread over steep ridges and valleys that form a protective habitat for almost half of the last mountain gorillas. It features on most Uganda tours and offers the best treks to see silverback gorillas and immerse in local cultures.

Kibale National Park

Kibale Forest and the nearby crater lakes are nature hikers' dream places to visit in Uganda. The rainforest park has the densest population of primates, with 15 primate species jumping the forest canopy. It is in Kibale that you will visit wild chimpanzees up close.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth is the best park in Uganda for family safari holidays and big game viewing tours. Game drives will bring you close to the elephants, tree-climbing lions, and leopards, but just as well, boat safaris on the Kazinga channel have excellent encounters with thirsty animals.

If you have time, extend your uganda safari to these places:

Lake Mburo National is the smallest and closest wildlife park to the city, 230 kilometers outside Kampala. This small park is usually included on Ugandasafaris as a buffer between Kampala and Bwindi and offers decent wildlife sightings.

Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls National Park is located in the northwestern region, a bit far from the famous western safari circuit, but worth a first-time visit. Here, you'll marvel at the mighty waterfall, cruise the Nile, and take a game drive to get close.

Kampala is a place you must visit while on holiday in Uganda. The vibrant capital offers a diverse range of cultural experiences, including bustling markets, museums, restaurants, nightclubs, and traditional music and dance performances.

Selecting the best safari experience in Uganda.

If you're planning a safari holiday package in Uganda, the Pearl of Africa offers you many options to choose from. Guided group tours or private tours to get a unique experience that combines wildlife, culture, and adventure. You can go on game drives in national parks such as Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo Valley , where you can spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and many other animals. Unique to Uganda is chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest and Budongo Forest, which gives you the opportunity to observe these primates in their natural habitat. The highlight of Uganda safaris is the epic gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park to see endangered mountain gorillas up close. But you must not miss a boat safari along the Nile River or the Kazinga Channel that gives you a front-row seat to wildlife viewing.  Cultural encounters in remote villages are worth extending your holiday trip to learn about the traditional way of life.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking

Trek through the misty impenetrable jungle to encounter gorillas, the world's largest living primates, on their own turf. The silverback's sheer size and beguiling humanlike interactions will leave you spellbound.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Trekking chimpanzees through ancient woods at the base of the Rwenzori Mountains for the most dramatic jungle encounters on the African continent. Uganda offers the most thrilling primate adventures.

Guided Nature Walks

Leave the confines of a safari vehicle and venture into the big game country and backcountry trails on foot for hours or days, spending nights under the starlit skies at remote lodges and camps.

Meet the locals and explore cultures

As a first-time visitor, you can experience Uganda beyond the gorillas and animals. Watch in on a traditional dance, visit hidden communitys, walk through remote communities and explore Uganda's diverse cultures.

Wildlife viewing game drives

Sit in the back of a four-by-four truck with large windows and open roofs custom-made for classic game viewing. Drive deep into the wilderness to watch your favorite animals, like lions and elephants, up close.

Boat safaris to watch wildlife

Be part of the unique experience of watching wildlife behavior from the comforts of a houseboat, one of Uganda's top safari activities. You'll come an arms-length close to animals like hippos, Nile crocodiles.

Bird watching safaris

For birdwatching nerds, Uganda offers some of the most accessible bird habitats registering over 1000 bird species. Explore Uganda's top birding spots, including naturally rich national parks and other protected areas.

Climbing Uganda's mountain peaks

Hike the Rwenzori Mountains' botanical heaven to the glaciated peaks, and summit the Virunga Volcanos through gorilla-infested rainforests to places where vegetation morphs into cloud-covered peaks.

What is the cost of safari in Uganda?

It costs between $350 and $1500 per person per day to go on safari in Uganda, including transport, meals, and guide fees, but not permits. Take a look at the summary cost table below:

Most Uganda safari packages offer an all-inclusive (full-board) per-person rate, including taxes, and assuming double occupancy. A few lodges operate on a half-board rate, and rare ones offer bed & breakfast except city hotels.

To plan a perfect itinerary and budget for your Uganda safari holiday, follow these simple recommendations: -

• Your itinerary should include a night in the city, a day for traveling to the national park, trekking with gorillas, and visiting other national parks for wildlife viewing and chimp rainforests.
• Remember that traveling between destinations can take an entire day and should be included in your budget.
• Your budget should cover flights, accommodation, food, and activities. To maximize your budget, consider traveling during the low season when there are fewer tourists and prices are lower.
• You can also save money by booking a Uganda tour package through a licensed local tour operator, which can provide a more authentic experience and is often more affordable. These operators are now verified by trade associations to protect visitors.

What to expect >>>

Accommodation options for your safari

Uganda offers various holiday accommodation options for safari travelers. Luxury lodges provide private rooms, fine dining, and exceptional service, while budget-friendly campsites offer a more rustic experience with basic amenities and a closer connection to nature. When selecting accommodation, consider its location and proximity to national parks and wildlife reserves, as well as the level of luxury and your budget. Some lodges offer all-inclusive packages, while others charge separately for each service. Take a look at our carefully curated list of lodges and camps that are perfect for wildlife safaris in Uganda.

Papyrus Guesthouse Entebbe

From $85 pp

Papyrus Guesthouse is an eco and cozy lodge in the suburbs of Entebbe, about 15 minutes from Entebbe International Airport. It is an excellent choice for safari travelers who hope to relax in Entebbe after/before their international flight.

Number 5 Boutique Hotel

From $190 pp

The Luxury Hotel Number 5 is a quaint suburban boutique retreat nestled in the quiet colonial part of Entebbe. It’s about 15 minutes drive from Entebbe International Airport, the primary entry point to Uganda. 

Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

From $300 pp

Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge is thoughtfully comfortable and concentrates on cheerful African hospitality, which complements its superb location and function as the best base for gorilla trekking safaris in the south of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Turaco Treetops Lodge

From $95 pp

Turaco Treetops is a lush semi-luxury lodge on the edge of Kibale National Park. It’s got stunning views of the forest canopy, the massive Rwenzori mountains, and the creator lake decorated landscape of the region.

Katara Lodge

From $200 pp

Katara Lodge sits on escarpment farmland overlooking Queen Elizabeth National Park’s northeastern sector in western Uganda, A pleasant intimate, and simple safari lodge with eight cottages overlooking the vast park’s savannah plains.

Nile Safari Lodge

From $680 pp

Elevated on the Victoria Nile southern riverbank between the Albert delta and Paraa jetty, Nile Safari Lodge offers a magical family escape in the most luxurious, tranquil and eco-friendly setting in the heart of Murchison Falls National Park.

Rwakobo Rock Lodge

From $155 pp

Rwakobo Rock Lodge is a wilderness retreat secluded on a rocky outcrop at the edge of Lake Mburo National Park’s northern border. The lodge provides private getaways in the locally-styled cottages dotted around a massive granite outcrop, with stunning views over the wilderness plains.

Apoka Safari Lodge

From $775 pp

The pioneer luxury safari getaway is located on a picturesque rocky kopje overlooking the Narus valley in the southwestern sector of the park. The lodge has a relaxed classic safari feel, quietly providing a peaceful and private wildlife experience from the privacy of your veranda.

Mount Gahinga Lodge

From $880 pp

Nestled in the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes, Mount Gahinga Lodge is an exclusive vacation lodge with a tranquil charm enthralled by the dramatic backdrop of three of the extinct Virunga volcanoes. Its rustic charm creates an absorbing atmosphere of tranquility and the region’s history.

Essential Information

Uganda is a great safari holiday destination with few tourist crowds compared to its neighbors. Group tours are small, and popular wildlife sites are still relatively unconstrained. The country's forested and game reserves are accessible to independent travelers, and off-the-beaten-track gems like the Ssese Islands, Katonga Wildlife Reserve, Sipi Falls, and Kasenda Crater Lakes are relatively affordable. Uganda has a healthy reputation for safety , with low levels of crime against tourists. Independent travelers face minimal day-to-day hassle, and the locals are warm, friendly, and relaxed hosts. Here's some essential holiday travel information to help you understand navigating Uganda.

Phone & Internet Connection

Many phone networks cover Entebbe , Kampala, large towns, and tourist areas, but signals may be inconsistent. Local SIM cards are affordable, and international calling bundles make it easy to call home. It's best to unlock your mobile phone before arriving, which can be done in Kampala but may delay your Uganda wildlife safari . Wi-Fi of varying quality is available for free in nearly all countryside lodges.

Health & Vaccines

When traveling to Uganda, it is important to have proof of yellow fever vaccination upon arrival at the airport. The Ministry of Health recommends Hepatitis A and B vaccinations, and those traveling to rural areas should also consider the typhoid vaccine. Malaria is a risk in Uganda , so consult with your doctor on antimalarial options. At the very least, sleep under a mosquito net at night and wear insect repellent during the day. It is also recommended to drink bottled or filtered water.

Uganda is generally a safe place for tourists, but it's recommended not to wander alone at night, especially in urban areas. Ugandans are welcoming people but hold traditional beliefs, so public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. LGBTQ+ travelers can travel through the country without issues, as Ugandans don't discriminate based on race and sexuality.

When traveling around Uganda, use shillings to pay for items at local shops and restaurants. Larger hotels and tour companies may accept U.S. dollars and credit cards. You can withdraw local currency at ATMs or exchange dollars, euros, and pounds at the airport, forex branches, or local banks. Bills printed before 2006 may not be accepted.

A three-month tourist visa costs US$50 and can only be obtained online at visas.immigration.go.ug . Applicants must submit a completed form, two passport-sized photos and at least three days before travel. You can not get on arrival at Entebbe International Airport. Passports must be valid for six months from the intended travel date and have at least one blank page.

Best Time To Go

Uganda, located on the equator with an average altitude of around 1,000m, is a year-round destination for wildlife safaris. March-May and Oct-Nov have the highest rainfall, but gorillas can still be found, although trekking can be slippery and slower. Accommodations and gorilla permits can be cheaper at this time. The best time to visit Uganda and go on safari is June-Sep, which is the peak season, but Uganda remains unaffected by mass tourism, and you won’t have to worry about crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions.

Is it safe to go on a safari in uganda.

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What are the vaccine requirements, are there flights to uganda, do i need a visa to go on a safari in uganda, how long does a safari in uganda usually last, what kind of wildlife can i expect to see on a safari in uganda, what kind of culture does uganda have.

The best place to experience Uganda's culture is Kampala for a fusion of modern and native. Head inside the country for rural cultures, and you'll find uninfluenced rich traditions and customs. Cultural festivals and events showcase the country's heritage, such as the vibrant Buganda Kingdom ceremonies or the lively dances of the Karamojong people and Batwa pygmy communities in the mountains. It's important to approach local customs respectfully and open-mindedly, as Ugandans cherish their traditional values and sense of community. Engaging with locals, trying delicious Ugandan cuisine, and taking in the stunning scenery will make your visit to Uganda a memorable and rewarding adventure.

What are the characteristics of people in Uganda?

What is the closest safari to kampala uganda, does uganda have good safari.

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• Uganda safaris

Uganda safaris – where & when to go, and what to do and see

Thinking of a Uganda safari? With the big five and some of the world’s best gorilla and chimpanzee trekking on offer Uganda is a safari destination that has it all. Now is a good time to go, as Uganda has yet to take off as a tourist destination in as large a way as many of it’s neighbours. This means safaris in Uganda can prove good value, with less crowds around when you get to the wildlife. It also has something of ‘the road less travelled’ feel about it.

Uganda is small by African standards at ‘just’ 236,000 km sq, around the same size as Great Britain. The country is lush and a verdant green, with one third of its borders made up of three of Africa’s Great Lakes, and the Victoria Nile running through the center. The East African tropical heat is tempered by an average altitude of 1,000 meters, with the east and west borders featuring significant mountains.

Self drive safaris are an option in some national parks in Uganda, though you will need access to a 4WD to get the most out the parks due to the clay tracks. ( Read some tips on driving in Uganda. ) If this sounds a little too much effort for you check out our guide to safari tour companies in Uganda  to research a driver and guide or full-on tour.

The wildlife in Uganda doesn’t compare favourably in terms of density with it’s East African neighbours Kenya and Tanzania, but it is extremely diverse with over 500 mammal species alone. There are pockets with strong wildlife density – such as Murchison Falls National Park, which is relatively small with exceptional wildlife viewing – but the big safari draw in Uganda is the primate life. Uganda is probably the prime destination in the world for trekking opportunities to see habituated chimpanzee and gorilla families in the wild – a truly memorable experience, and one of the best walking safaris to be found anywhere.

Poaching and deforestation continue to be a problem in Uganda – as in much of the rest of Africa – and a recent oil discovery in Lake Albert has led to encroachment into a small area of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Despite this the general standard of national parks in Uganda is excellent, with good facilities, public transport access and range of lodgings, though infrastructure is not particularly developed. Tourist numbers in Uganda are much smaller than neighboring Kenya or Tanzania, meaning national parks are generally less crowded and offer a more enjoyable and intimate visiting experience.

Useful resources

Book a Uganda safari

Uganda Wildlife Authority

Official Uganda Tourism Office

Weather in Uganda

Uganda safari highlights

See gorillas in the wild.

Trek through Uganda’s pristine, dense jungles in either the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga National Park to come face to face with a silverback mountain gorilla and his family. Possibly Africa’s #1 wildlife highlight.

Kick back lakeside

Take time out of your safari in Uganda to relax lakeside and soak up the ambiance on one of the many Great Lakes of Africa situated in Uganda – Lake Kyoga, Lake Victoria, Lake Edward or Lake Albert. Expect beaches, fresh fish and some local wildlfe appearances.

Big five spotting

Head up country to try and spot the big five animals , though you’ll need to mix your safari up and visit more than one national park. Rhinos are found only in Ziwa National Park, which is very close to the jewel of the Ugandan safari industry, Murchison Falls National Park, which is home to lion, leopard, buffalo and elephant.

See the power of the Nile

Murchison Falls is one of Uganda’s top tourist sites, where over 300 cubic meters of water each second passes through a narrow gap in the rocks to keep the Victoria Nile flowing between Lake Kyoga and Lake Albert. The park surrounding the falls and river is one of Uganda’s top wildlife destinations.

Best time to safari in Uganda

As a relatively small country with a consistent altitude, the majority of the country enjoys the same topical climate. In the higher mountainous areas to the east and west of the country it can get surprisingly cold at night times. If you’re planning a game drive.January and February are the hottest months when wildlife viewing is at it’s best.

As with the rest of East Africa there’s a ‘long rain’ and a ‘short rains’ season – March to May and October to November respectively. During the short rains it generally rains only for short periods at a time, meaning your wildlife viewing will not be too disrupted. Travel to most destinations during rainy season is possible, though you should leave yourself more time to get around.

Gorilla trekking is possible year-round, and you’re virtually guaranteed to see gorillas on any planned gorilla trek. However, bear in mind that the trekking terrain is tough going with dense forest and steep hills, so ensure you dress appropriately. See more hints and tips on gorilla trekking .

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National parks in Uganda

Though Uganda doesn’t have as high a safari profile as neighbours Kenya or Tanzania, there’s still plenty to see and do… and often with far smaller crowds. As well as the big five, Uganda is home to more than half the world’s remaining mountain gorilla, and plenty of chimps. It’s also recognized as one of the best places for bird spotting in the world. Most national parks in Uganda have a good range of accommodation, and the parks are easily accessible, making Uganda a great place for a safari.

Top Uganda national park picks

Murchison falls national park.

Uganda’s first national park, and it’s largest, Murchison Falls is home to 80 mammal species and over 450 bird species, and is the jewel in the crown of the country’s safari industry. The park is predominantly open savannah grasslands, which makes for top game viewing.

Kibale National Park

Kibale National Park’s evergreen forest in Western Uganda contains an array of landscapes and is home to 12 species of primates. Aside from the stunning vistas and virgin forest, the big draw here is the chance to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat, with both chimpanzee tacking and habituation experiences on offer year round.

 Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Meaning ‘darkness’, Bwindi’s magnificent forest is certainly dense, and has hundreds of diverse mammal species (and 200 hundred species of butterflies!) alongside the population of around 320 mountain gorillas. There are four different areas with accommodation in the park to track habituated gorillas – Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga and Nkuringo.

Mgahinga National Park

Uganda’s smallest national park – just 34 km sq – in the south west of the country is part of the larger Virunga Conservation area that also spreads across Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo. Gorilla trekking is the main activity here, though spending a few days in the park will also allow you to hike the Virunga Volcanoes for unparalleled views of central Africa, and track the endangered golden monkey.

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Bwindi Impenatrable Forest National Park 331 km sq. Steep mountain rain forest with wide altitude span.

Kibale Forest National Park 795 km sq. Lush tropical rain forest.

Kidepo Valley National Park 1,442 km sq. Rolling savanna ringed by mountains.

Lake Mburo National Park 370 km sq. Savanna and wetlands surrounding Lake Mburo.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park 34 km sq. Tropical rain forest covered extinct volcano.

Mount Elgon National Park Home to vast caves where elephants and buffaloes go by night to lick the natural salt found on the cave walls.

Murchison Falls National Park 3,893 km sq. The Murchison Falls and Nile river running through thick forest and savanna.

Queen Elizabeth National Park 1,978 km sq. Savanna and gorges bordering Lake Edward.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park Established in 1991 Rwenzori was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 due to its outstanding natural beauty.

Other Uganda safari resources

Uganda safari companies.

Uganda is still an up and coming safari destination for main-stream tourists. At the moment visitors tend to be either high end package tourists there to see the gorillas or overland backpackers. As such the types of safari your companies in Uganda reflects this. Read our reviews of safari tour companies in Uganda .

Uganda safari lodges

Budget safari accommodation in Uganda is centered around a few small towns and villages on the fringes of national parks. If you’re willing to splurge then Uganda does offer some truly luxurious safari in and around the parks. Mid-range safari accommodation is a little harder to find. Search and book accommodation in Uganda or use the map below.

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• Uganda Safari

The ultimate guide to your next Uganda Safari

• Uganda Gallery
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Get to Know Uganda

By Susan Veldman

Safari Travel Planner

Date Published: 2 January 2014

Go on an extraordinary safari adventure in Uganda, where luxury meets the wild. Witness the awe-inspiring Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to half of the world’s mountain gorillas. 

Traverse the lush savannas of Queen Elizabeth National Park teeming with wildlife, or marvel at the breathtaking Murchison Falls, where the Nile River bursts through a narrow gorge.

Uganda’s diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity make it a premier safari destination. You can expect a mix of thrilling wildlife encounters or tranquil retreats in nature.  

Join us and create timeless memories in this captivating land.

Uganda Video

How it Works

View our recommended safaris for inspiration and get ready to plan your dream safari

Contact us or fill out an enquiry form and one of our travel experts will help you tailor make your perfect safari

Enjoy an authentic African experience.

Why Visit Uganda?

Uganda is a destination that leaves an indelible mark on the heart and soul of every traveller. Here’s why you should plan an unforgettable journey to this incredible country:

Wildlife Encounters

• Gorilla Trekking: Experience the rare and thrilling opportunity to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
• Diverse Wildlife: Beyond gorillas, Uganda offers rich biodiversity including chimpanzees, lions, elephants, and over 1,000 bird species.

Scenic Beauty

• Stunning Landscapes: From the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains to the rolling savannas and the lush rainforests, Uganda’s landscapes are incredibly diverse and breathtaking.
• World-Class National Parks: Explore renowned parks like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Murchison Falls National Park for prime wildlife viewing.

Cultural Richness

• Vibrant Cities: Discover the dynamic culture, history, and nightlife of cities like Kampala and Entebbe.
• Heritage and History: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and history, from traditional tribal communities to historical sites.

Luxury and Comfort

• Exclusive Lodges and Camps: Stay in world-class luxury safari lodges and camps that offer exceptional comfort and service.
• Gourmet Cuisine: Indulge in Uganda’s renowned culinary scene, with exquisite dishes influenced by local and international flavours.

Adventure and Activities

• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in thrilling activities like white-water rafting on the Nile, hiking, and walking safaris.
• Water Activities: Enjoy boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel, fishing on Lake Victoria, and kayaking on the Nile River.

Accessibility and Infrastructure

• Easy Access: Uganda boasts excellent infrastructure with a range of flight options, making travel convenient and comfortable.
• Tourism Services: Benefit from well-developed tourism services, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

Responsible Tourism

• Conservation Efforts: Your visit has the potential to support vital conservation and community initiatives, contributing to the protection of wildlife and local communities.

Photography Opportunities

• Capture Stunning Moments: With its extraordinary landscapes and abundant wildlife, Uganda offers some of the best photography opportunities in the world.

Choose Uganda for your next safari and discover a destination that promises adventure, beauty, and unforgettable memories.

Where to go in Uganda

Uganda is a land of unique landscapes and extraordinary destinations. From the iconic Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, known for its gorilla trekking, to the scenic beauty of Queen Elizabeth National Park and the vibrant culture of Kampala, there’s something for every traveller. Explore the dramatic Murchison Falls, the serene Lake Bunyonyi, and the enchanting Kibale Forest. Each region offers its own distinct experiences, making Uganda a versatile and captivating destination for all types of adventures.

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Central Uganda
• Eastern Uganda
• Murchison Falls National Park
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Regions of Uganda
• Western Uganda
• Where to Go on Safari in Uganda

In Uganda’s southwestern corner, the lush, mountainous forest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park conserves the country’s most alluring natural asset: around 400 mountain gorillas, or half of the world’s remaining wild population. Most people come to Bwindi – Uganda’s most popular tourist destination – to track these magnificent apes (more than a hundred of which have been habituated), which involves an adventurous hike on hilly tracks through the misty tropical rainforest. Along the way there are 120 other mammals to spot, including forest duikers, rare l’Hoest monkeys, olive baboons, bushbuck and black-and-white colobus monkeys, as well as seldom seen forest elephants – an extremely lucky sighting – and an incredible number of avian creatures: 220 species of butterfly and 350 bird species.

Getting to see a group of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is the main reason that people come to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and it’s one of the top experiences that Uganda has to offer. There are two options for coming-face-to-face with our great ape cousins: most travellers do the standard gorilla trekking experience, which costs US$600 per person and involves hiking to your assigned habituated group. You can then spend an hour observing the gorillas as they play, groom and eat, before you hike back out of the park. The second option, which costs US$1500 per person, is the gorilla habituation experience, where you get to spend a total of four hours with a gorilla group that is in the process of being trained to become used to spending time with people.

There’s more to Bwindi than just gorillas though – the beautiful rainforest is home to incredible biodiversity, with 120 mammal and 350 bird species. To explore the forest and its creatures, you can do guided walks which take anything from half an hour to most of the day. Birdwatchers can book park guide with birding knowledge to lead them on walks through the forest to spot species such as Elliot’s woodpecker, blue turaco, red-tailed bulbul and the black bee-eater.

Practical Information

• To go gorilla tracking in Bwindi, you need to book a permit, which we will secure for you upon booking. The permit should be arranged five or six months in advance of your visit as there are only a few permits issued each day and they all get booked up during the busiest months of the year (June to August, as well as December to February). Discounted permits are offered during the rainy season months of March to May and September to November for US$450 a person.
• You can go gorilla tracking year-round in Bwindi, but most travellers choose to do it in the driest months of the year – June to August and December to February. During the rainier months, the trekking is harder because of the slippery muddy trails.
• Gorilla tracking can be physically demanding – the hike to reach your allocated group can take anything from just an hour to an entire day (the average hiking time is between three and seven hours). The paths in the park are steep and hilly and can be very muddy, and it’s likely that you’ll need to veer off track and walk through the dense undergrowth of the forest. It’s essential that you have a good level of fitness, and that you wear the right gear: a comfortable pair of hiking boots with ankle support, a thick pair of socks (for biting ants), long trousers to protect from stinging nettles and a durable waterproof jacket. Some people also wear garden gloves to protect them from the nettles. If you don’t have your own hiking poles, you can rent a stick from the porters – it will really help with keeping you upright on steep, slippery sections.
• You need to be over the age of 15 to go gorilla tracking if you’re travelling as a family. If you’re feeling sick on the day of your trekking experience, you should volunteer to stay behind. Human illnesses can be transmitted to gorillas and have the potential to kill an entire group. There are lots of rules that you need to follow when you come into contact with the gorillas – it’s important to stick to all of these to respect these wild animals. Your guide will explain all the rules before you go trekking, but remember that it’s important to keep at least seven metres away from the gorillas, and that you should never touch them. Don’t use flash photography, don’t eat or drink in front of them, keep your voice down, and cover your mouth and nose and turn away from the gorillas if you need to sneeze.

Uganda’s central region is where most travellers will begin and end their journeys, flying in and out of the country’s only international airport in the town of Entebbe. The region has less to offer in the way of national parks and blockbuster wildlife than Western Uganda, but it is home to the buzzing capital of Kampala, a large expanse of beautiful Lake Victoria and its forested islands and the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos in the wild.

Lying on the shores of shimmering Lake Victoria, the wonderfully green, laid-back Entebbe is a good place to spend a day or two at the start or end of your journey. There’s a wide range of lodging options and excellent restaurants, as well as a few sights to fill your days: the lush and beautiful Entebbe Botanical Garden is a highlight for its indigenous trees and superb birdlife, while the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre is a sanctuary for rescued animals – rhinos, chimps, lions and shoebill storks are the main attractions – and if you want a more memorable encounter with the wildlife, pay extra to be “keeper for a day”, or for the behind the scenes tour or chimp close up.

Eighty-four thickly forested islands make up the Ssese Archipelago in the northwest of Lake Victoria, 50 kilometres from Entebbe. Buggala Island is the most popular and most developed – and is easily reached by ferry from Entebbe – and has the widest range of lodging options, while Banda and Bukasa Island also have places to stay, and other uninhabited islands can be visited by boat. Activities on the islands include hiking, bird watching (highlights include water species such as pygmy kingfisher, African fish eagles and great cormorants), quad biking, canoeing and sport fishing.

There are only two African island chimpanzee sanctuaries, and Ngamba Island is one of them. Just over 20 kilometres away from Entebbe in Lake Victoria, Ngamba Island protects more than 40 rescued and orphaned chimps, which you can see from a platform during the twice-daily feeding times. You can either do a half-day trip to the island or stay overnight at the eco lodge in a cottage or safari tent. Other activities on the island include sunset cruises, fishing and birdwatching.

Some 160 kilometres north of Kampala, the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the only place to see rhinos in the wild in Uganda. Rhinos were wiped out in the country more than 30 years ago, and so the sanctuary was established to breed southern white rhinos and reintroduce them into Uganda’s national parks. There are now more than 20 rhinos in the sanctuary, and you can track them on foot in a thrilling wildlife encounter. There’s more to the sanctuary though – it’s a good place to see the elusive shoebill stork on foot or in a canoe, and you can also hike the birdwatching trails to spot some of the 300 species found in the sanctuary.

Kampala usually doesn’t make it to the top of travellers’ itineraries, but the busy, vibrant city is worth a visit if you have time (just be prepared for heavy traffic wherever you go). For a slice of history, visit Mengo Palace – the former home of the Bugandan king – to see Idi Amin’s infamous underground prison and the Uganda Museum, browse art galleries, shop for crafts, curios and clothing at boutiques and markets and feast on local and international fare in the country’s best variety of restaurants.

A taxi is the best way of getting from Entebbe International Airport to Kampala, and while the distance is short, the traffic is always thick – it can take a few hours to do the journey. If you’re staying in Kampala and are catching a flight home from Entebbe, then leave plenty of time to travel to the airport in the traffic. Best yet is to stay over in Entebbe ahead of your flight. The town also makes a great base from which to explore the lake’s islands.

Jinja is the top destination in Eastern Uganda, and the regional capital makes a perfect place to base yourself for a few days. There’s lots to do here at the source of the Nile River, whether you’re looking for high-paced adrenaline thrills or more laidback fun. White-water rafting on the Nile’s powerful rapids over a day or on two-day trips is the biggest draw, while other water-based activities will keep you entertained: choose from kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, fishing trips and relaxing boat cruises to islands. On land you can go bungee-jumping off a riverside cliff, quad biking, mountain biking or go on horseback safaris along the banks of the Nile.

Lying on the edge of Mount Elgon National Park, Sipi Falls is made up of a series of three beautiful waterfalls and is the starting point for hiking routes that take you up Mount Elgon. It’s a great place to base yourself for a few days if you want to do some gentle day hikes in the scenic foothills of the volcano.

If you’re going to climb Mount Elgon, pack appropriate warm clothing with you as it can get very cold at night. While you can hike year-round, the best months to go trekking are the dry ones – from June to August and December to February.

The Isimba Dam, a controversial hydroelectric power project on the White Nile, is under construction some 60 kilometres downstream from Jinja. It’s unclear when it will be completed, but once finished, the dam will flood some of the rapids on the one-day rafting trips offered by the activity companies in Jinja. If you’re planning to go rafting on the Nile, it’s a good idea to check the status of the dam and what rafting trips are being offered with the adventure companies in Jinja before you travel.

Uganda’s largest park, the wild and beautiful Murchison Falls National Park offers breath taking scenery of palm-dotted hills, swamps, riverine woodland and forest, East Africa’s most dramatic waterfall, and a remarkable diversity of wildlife on land and in the Victoria Nile, which teems with hippos and crocodiles. The park is home to large herds of buffalo and elephant and a good concentration of lion as well as leopard and several antelope species from grey duiker and Ugandan kob to oribi and Jackson’s hartebeest. It’s one of the few places in Uganda where you can find giraffe, and on the plains you may be able to spot the rare ground-dwelling patas monkey. Birding is excellent, and the top highlight is a sighting of the endangered shoebill stork, a rare creature that sits at the top of many birders’ wish list. You’re most likely to see them between January and March on the Delta cruise boat ride.

Murchison Falls National Park is part of the greater Murchison Falls Conservation Area, which incorporates the Bugungu and Karuma reserves, as well as Kaniyo Pabidi forest, where you can go chimp trekking.

The park’s main feature is the Victoria Nile, which cuts through the wilderness and cascades 45 metres down through a narrow gorge at Murchison Falls, the world’s most powerful waterfall. Boat cruises along the river take you to see the thunderous waterfall, but they’re also a chance to spot pods of grunting hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes and bathing elephants. Not to be missed is the short hike up to the top of the falls where you’ll have several viewpoints to see the take in the majestic waterfalls (and spot some monkeys and baboons along the way).

In addition to the boat cruise to the falls, another highlight is the boat ride down the river to the delta where the Victoria Nile merges into Lake Albert for beautiful scenery and wildlife and excellent bird watching.

The park’s 450 species of birds will have twitchers excited: there are water birds to be seen from the river, as well as savanna birds and endemic species from the Albertine Rift Valley.

You can visit Murchison Falls National Park throughout the year, but the best months for spotting wildlife are the dry ones – from December to February and June to September, when you can find animals congregating around water sources.

Birdwatching is also good year-round, but it’s best between January and March. Migratory species are in the park from November to April. March to May and October to November are the rainiest months when some roads become impassable, but during these months there are few visitors to the park which means discounts on lodging. The falls are also at their most dramatic during the rainy months, when the river is at its fullest.

While you can do self-driving safaris in Murchison Falls National Park, it’s a good idea to hire a UWA guide to help you navigate the roads and find animals that would be hard to spot on your own.

Queen Elizabeth National Park, the second largest and most biodiverse park in Uganda, is the country’s most popular safari destination. Located in western Uganda close to the Rwenzori Mountains, the park encompasses a huge array of different landscapes, including wetlands, swamps and crater lakes, tropical forests, woodland and open savannah, which support a diverse range of wildlife, from 95 mammal species (including 20 carnivores and 10 primates) to more than 600 species of birds. The list of highlights includes easily spotted elephant and buffalo, Ugandan kob, sitatunga, giant forest hog and topi – while at the top of the list are the tree-climbing lions found in the south of the park. In addition to game drives on the open savannah, you can also do boat cruises to see hippos and crocodiles and hike through rainforest to find chimpanzees.

Lions are only found climbing trees in two places in Africa, so it’s a rare and remarkable sight to see them lying in the branches of giant fig and acacia trees in the remote Ishasha Sector at the southern end of the park.

Boat safaris on the 34-kilometre-long Kazinga Channel, which links Lake Edward and Lake George, are a highlight of any visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park. As you cruise past beautiful scenery, your sightings of hundreds of hippos and crocodiles are guaranteed, while there are plenty of chances to spot elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard as well as birds such as kingfishers and fish eagles.

In the far east of the reserve, the Kyambura Gorge, which is also known as the Valley of the Apes, has steep slopes covered in rainforest which is home to black and white Colobus monkeys, olive baboons, red tailed monkeys, giant forest hogs and a host of forest bird species, but the star attraction here are the habituated chimpanzees, which you can track down on a guided hike.

With more than 600 species of birds, Queen Elizabeth is recognised as one of East Africa’s best birding destinations, and for sheer numbers it wins out much larger safari parks in other countries. Standouts include more than 50 different raptors, a huge variety of water birds and diverse forest species, while the elusive, sought-after shoebill stork can be searched for in the swamps of the Ishasha Sector.

• Queen Elizabeth National Park is split into two regions: the north, which has a wide range of lodges and camps, and the southern section (which includes the Ishasha Sector), where there is only a handful of lodging options.
• If seeing the famous tree-climbing lions is high up on your wish list, then it’s important to note that they’re confined to one area of the park: the remote Ishasha Sector, in the south of the park. Visitors who come to the park expecting to see lions climbing trees wherever they are will be disappointed. While game drives are usually done in the early morning or late afternoon for the best chances of seeing animals, the lions are usually up in the trees during the heat of the day.
• The best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park is during the dry months of June to September and January to February, when wildlife spotting is easiest. November to April is the best time to see migratory birds, although these are some of the wettest months, and the rains can mean that some roads become impassable.
• Be sure to book in advance for chimp trekking with Uganda Wildlife Authority. If you’re travelling during the peak months of June to September, then book ahead for the boat cruise with UWA. Other activities can be booked through the UWA or at the Katunguru Park Headquarters.
• Take note that it’s not a guarantee that you will see chimps in the Kyambura Gorge, as there’s only one group to track down. For a more reliable chimp trekking option, you can head to the nearby Kalinzu Forest, where you have a better chance of encountering our closest ape cousins.

If you only visit one region in Uganda, it should definitely be Western Uganda, which is home to the country’s biggest concentration of national parks and wildlife highlights, from the mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and big game safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park to chimpanzee rain forests and the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains.

While it’s low on tourist attractions, Central Uganda is where most travellers will begin their journey, flying into the international airport in the town of Entebbe, which lies on the shores of Lake Victoria, a short distance away from the busy capital city of Kampala. The lake is the main focus for tourism in the region, and the beautiful forested islands of the Ssese Archipelago make for a relaxing beachside holiday.

With an array of exciting adventure activities on the Nile River and in the surrounding area, Jinja is the major destination in Eastern Uganda. The region also boasts Mt Elgon National Park and Sipi Falls, which offer great hiking routes in scenic surroundings in the foothills of an extinct volcano and the chance to trek up to the top of Africa’s eighth highest peak.

Northern Uganda sees few tourists, but adventurous travellers who make it to this remote part of the country are rewarded with the spectacular wildlife and beautiful scenery of Kidepo Valley National Park, as well as cultural visits to the villages of the Karamojong people, a tribe of semi-nomadic warrior pastoralists.

Encompassing the vast majority of the country’s parks and reserves, Western Uganda dazzles with its blockbuster wildlife, excellent birding and astonishing landscapes and natural attractions, making it the most popular region with travellers.

In the southwest corner of the region, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to the majority of Uganda’s mountain gorillas, so it’s usually at the top of any safari itinerary. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, at Uganda’s most south westerly corner on the border with Rwanda and the DRC, is home to just one habituated gorilla group, which sometimes moves outside of Uganda’s borders, which means that finding the group here isn’t 100% reliable.

Further to the north of the region, Queen Elizabeth National Park, with its open savanna and huge variety of animal and bird species, is the most popular safari destination, and while Murchison Falls National Park is less visited, it offers East Africa’s most impressive waterfall and spectacular wildlife in beautiful landscapes. Chimpanzee trekking is another top activity in Western Uganda: Kibale Forest National Park and Budongo Forest Reserve are two of the best places to go in search of our closest living relatives. Close the capital of Kampala, Lake Mburo National Park is the easiest wilderness area to access in Western Uganda, and while it can’t compete with other parks for scenery and wildlife diversity, it’s worth a visit for its special species not seen elsewhere.

Western Uganda isn’t just about wildlife: it’s also home to some of the country’s most astonishing landscapes, from the dramatic snow-dusted Rwenzori Mountains to the shimmering blue crater lakes.

Going gorilla trekking in the mountainous tropical rain forest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is, without a doubt, one of Africa’s best wildlife experiences. It’s a thrilling adventure to hike through the lush, hilly forest to find your assigned gorilla group, but coming face-to-face with these majestic apes is a moment you’ll never forget. There are two options for gorilla trekking: you can either spend an hour with a habituated group, or pay more to spend four hours with a group that is in the process of being habituated. Aside from gorillas, Bwindi’s other animal life (l’Hoest monkeys, forest duikers, olive baboons, bushbuck and black-and-white colobus monkeys) and 350 bird species can be spotted on guided walks through the forest.

Close by to Bwindi, Lake Bunyonyi is a popular spot for people to base themselves in for a few days to go gorilla trekking in the park and then relax at the beautiful lake, which is surrounded by green terraced hills and small villages. There’s plenty to fill a few days here, from birdwatching and hiking to canoeing, swimming and mountain biking.

For primates, Kibale Forest National Park is hard to beat, boasting the largest number of primate species of any reserve in East Africa, from the rare red colobus monkeys and olive baboons to l’Hoest and blue monkeys, which you may be able to spot while going on the search for one of five habituated groups of chimpanzees.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most biodiverse wilderness area, playing host to a magnificent array of wildlife – 95 mammals and 20 predators – as well as habituated chimpanzees. The park’s standout highlight is the tree-climbing lions (there’s only one other place in Africa where they do this) so catching this sighting is particularly special, while the birdwatching is spectacular, with more than 600 species. Wildlife viewing on boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel for magnificent scenery and fantastic wildlife spotting (including Africa’s greatest concentration of hippos) are not to be missed. While you can go chimpanzee trekking in the park’s Kyambura Gorge, you have a better chance of seeing chimps at the nearby Kalinzu Forest.

The largest park in Uganda, the remarkably beautiful Murchison Falls National Park, has a lot to offer: East Africa’s most dramatic waterfall, wildlife and birdwatching from boat cruises along the Victoria Nile, large herds of elephant, giraffe and buffalo, as well as sightings of lion and leopard, and the chance to see one of Africa’s most sought-after birds, the elusive shoebill stork.

The snow-dusted, jagged Rwenzori Mountains – the “Mountains of the Moon” – Africa’s highest mountain range, soar up to 5109 metres high along Uganda’s border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The mountains are protected by Rwenzori National Park, and provide thrilling landscapes for adventurous hikes and mountaineering trips.

Treks can be anything from one day to a multi-day mountaineering expedition to the top of Mount Stanley, Africa’s third highest peak, and along the way you’ll be treated to scenery of cloud forests, tropical rainforest, bamboo glades, dramatic valleys and glacier lakes.

In a remote part of the region on the western side of the Rwenzori Mountains and lying alongside the border with the DRC, Semliki National Park sees few tourists due to its isolated location and undeveloped infrastructure, but those who do make it out to the park are rewarded with one of the best forest birding hotspots in Africa. The park protects one of Africa’s oldest forests, and with it, a remarkable number of bird species – more than 400 – as well as 300 butterfly species. Highlights include Central African birds such as black-wattled hornbill and Congo serpent eagle that aren’t found in any other place in East Africa.

Dozens of crater lakes formed by volcanic activity some 10 000 years ago stud the landscape between Fort Portal and Kibale National Park like blue jewels. These photogenic lakes, which are fringed with tropical forests home to monkeys and an incredible diversity of bird species, offer plenty of hiking and birdwatching opportunities, with trails leading you through small villages and tea plantations, as well as other activities such as canoeing and fishing.

Western Uganda is best visited during the drier months of June to August and December to February, when it’s easiest to go gorilla trekking in hilly Bwindi and the wildlife viewing in the parks is at its prime. Travelling during the rainy low season months of March to May and September to November does have its budget-friendly benefits though – you’ll get cheaper room rates at hotels and lodges and it is possible to get discounted gorilla trekking permits, but be prepared for muddy roads, torrential downpours, challenging hiking and low visibility for wildlife.

If you want to go gorilla trekking, you need to book your permit several months in advance through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or through a tour operator, as there’s a limited number of permits that sold every day and during the most popular months for trekking (June to August) the permits can sell out five months in advance. For chimpanzee habituation experiences it’s best to book around three months in advance.

Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” offers a variety of stunning landscapes and unique safari experiences. From the misty mountains of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to the roaring waters of Murchison Falls, Uganda’s diverse national parks provide exceptional opportunities for wildlife viewing and adventure.

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Overview: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is famous for its population of mountain gorillas. The park’s dense forests provide a dramatic backdrop for one of the most profound wildlife experiences on the planet.

Highlights:

• Gorilla Trekking: Home to half of the world’s mountain gorillas, Bwindi offers the unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
• Biodiversity: In addition to gorillas, the park is home to over 120 mammal species and 350 bird species.
• Cultural Experiences: Visit the local Batwa communities to learn about their traditional way of life.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Bwindi is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February, when trekking conditions are most favorable.

2. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Overview: Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most visited national park, known for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. The park’s varied landscapes include savannas, wetlands, and lakes.

• Kazinga Channel: Enjoy boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species up close.
• Tree-Climbing Lions: The Ishasha sector of the park is famous for its unique tree-climbing lions.
• Wildlife Diversity: The park hosts a wide range of animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, and over 600 bird species.

Best Time to Visit: Wildlife viewing is excellent year-round, but the best time is during the dry seasons from June to August and December to February.

3. Murchison Falls National Park

Overview: Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. The park is named after the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile River plunges through a narrow gorge.

• Murchison Falls: Witness the powerful spectacle of the Nile River crashing through a narrow gorge at Murchison Falls.
• Boat Safaris: Take a boat trip to the base of the falls and see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife.
• Game Drives: The park is home to elephants, lions, giraffes, and buffaloes, offering excellent game drive opportunities.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Murchison Falls is during the dry season from December to February and June to August, when wildlife is more easily spotted.

4. Kibale National Park

Overview: Kibale National Park is renowned for its primate population, particularly chimpanzees. The park’s lush rainforest is a prime location for chimpanzee trekking.

• Chimpanzee Trekking: Kibale is one of the best places in Africa for chimpanzee trekking, with habituated groups allowing close encounters.
• Primate Diversity: The park is home to 13 primate species, including red colobus monkeys and L’Hoest’s monkeys.
• Birdwatching: With over 375 bird species, Kibale is a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Best Time to Visit: The best time for chimpanzee trekking is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February.

5. Lake Mburo National Park

Overview: Lake Mburo National Park is a compact park known for its beautiful scenery and the presence of several lakes within its boundaries. It is a great place to see zebras, impalas, and birdlife.

• Scenic Beauty: The park features rolling hills, open savannas, and five lakes.
• Unique Wildlife: Home to Uganda’s only population of impalas and a significant population of zebras.
• Outdoor Activities: Offers boat rides, horseback safaris, and guided nature walks.

Best Time to Visit: Lake Mburo is a year-round destination, but wildlife viewing is best during the dry season from June to August and December to February.

6. Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Overview: Rwenzori Mountains National Park, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers stunning mountain scenery and challenging treks.

• Glacial Peaks: The Rwenzori Mountains are one of the few places in Africa with permanent snow and glaciers.
• Trekking Paradise: Offers some of the most challenging and rewarding treks in Africa.
• Rich Biodiversity: Home to unique alpine flora and a variety of endemic species.

Best Time to Visit: The best time for trekking is during the dry seasons from June to August and December to February.

Uganda, with its abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, offers an unparalleled safari experience. 

Plan around awe-inspiring gorilla treks in Bwindi and seeing the gushing Nile River at Murchison Falls – each destination promises unique and unforgettable adventures. 

Choose Uganda and let Discover Africa’s travel experts help you create memories that will last a lifetime. Start planning your safari today and experience the magic of Uganda for yourself.

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Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” offers some of the most unique and diverse safari experiences on the continent. From the dense rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you can trek to see mountain gorillas, to the vast savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s safaris provide incredible wildlife encounters and stunning natural beauty.

Migration in the Mara and Gorilla Trekking

East Africa Kenya Maasai Mara Uganda Entebbe Bwindi Impenetrable

From $ 6740 /USD

Luxury Gorilla Trekking in South Bwindi

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Safari, Chimp and Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

East Africa Uganda Kibale Bwindi Impenetrable

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Wildwaters of Uganda

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From $ 2050 /USD

Classic Uganda Private Tour

East Africa Uganda Bwindi Impenetrable Kibale Queen Elizabeth

From $ 7900 /USD

Meet the Gorillas of Uganda and Rwanda

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9 Uganda Safaris to choose from

Stay for 3 - 11 days

Experience our Tailor-made Tours in Uganda

When is the best month to travel to uganda.

Uganda can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to travel depends on what you want to experience. The dry seasons, from December to February and June to August, are ideal for gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing. These months offer more manageable trekking conditions and better visibility for wildlife spotting. The wet seasons, from March to May and September to November, bring lush landscapes and fewer tourists, making it a great time for birdwatching and enjoying the scenery.

• Uganda in January
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• Uganda in March
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• Uganda in June
• Uganda in July
• Uganda in August
• Uganda in September
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• Uganda in December

Our Recommended Tours in Uganda

To ensure you experience the best of Uganda, we have curated a selection of recommended tours that highlight the country’s top attractions. Whether you are interested in an adventurous gorilla trekking expedition, a comprehensive wildlife safari, or a cultural immersion experience, our tailored tours offer something for every traveller, providing an in-depth look at Uganda’s natural wonders and vibrant culture.

Birding Tour Through Uganda

Uganda Entebbe Kampala Kibale Queen Elizabeth Bwindi Impenetrable

From $ 9830 /USD

Looking for Something Unique?

Uganda offers a range of unique experiences that go beyond traditional safaris. From thrilling white-water rafting on the Nile River to exploring the mysterious landscapes of the Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda caters to the adventurous spirit. Additionally, you can engage with local communities, participate in conservation efforts, or enjoy serene boat cruises on Lake Victoria. These unique activities provide a deeper connection to Uganda’s diverse environment and rich cultural heritage.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking

Chimpanzee Safaris

Honeymoons in Africa

Uganda Safari Reviews

Hear from our guests who have experienced the wonders of Uganda. Their stories of exceptional trip planning, life-changing adventures, and memorable experiences reflect the magic of our safaris and the unmatched beauty of Uganda.

Knowledgeable, organized and excellent. Susan's advice was invaluable.

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Left us with lasting memories and a bucketload of amazing pictures..

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Nancy Loos, United States 05 Sep 2022

Susan at discover africa arranged an excellent tour for us.

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Excellent company and staff..

A Safari Review

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Ready to plan your tailor-made safari.

Lana Goodwin, Safari Travel Planner

Free safari planning advice from destination experts

See uganda in your comfort.

Uganda caters to all travel styles, offering a range of accommodation and transport options to suit your preferences. From luxurious lodges and boutique hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and self-catering apartments, you’ll find the perfect place to stay. Travel at your own pace with self-drive options, guided tours, or private transfers, ensuring a comfortable and personalised experience throughout your journey.

• An Affordable Safari in Uganda
• Budget Travel in Uganda
• Luxury Safari in Uganda

Travel during the low season rainy months of April, May, October and November for discounts on travel packages, lodges and gorilla tracking permits.

If you’re planning on going chimpanzee trekking, do some research on the cost of permits in different reserves, as the prices vary as widely as US$40 in Kalinzu Forest up to Kibale Forest’s US$150.

To save on transport costs, it’s a good idea to choose a few places to base yourself in and explore the surrounding area from there, rather than travelling to a new destination every day or two.

Joining a tour is one way to have a value-for-money holiday, as hiring your own 4×4 to self-drive Uganda is expensive. A group tour offers the best value for money, as your transport and lodging are included and then activities are optional extras.

As with many safari destinations, if you want to save money on lodging on your holiday in Uganda, choose to stay at hostels and campsites outside of the national parks.

Transport-wise, the most affordable way to travel is via public transport on buses and minibus taxis, although it’s difficult to reach the more remote national parks on public transport.

If you’re travelling to Uganda on a tight budget then you may not want to spend US$600 on a gorilla tracking permit. Chimpanzee trekking is much cheaper – but note that permits vary hugely in price depending on which reserve you do it in. In Kalinzu Forest it’s US$40, while it’s US$150 at Kibale Forest. There are plenty of other wallet-friendly activities to do in the country’s parks and reserves, from guided birding walks for US$30 to fishing in Lake Mburo National Park for US$15.

Local restaurants are your best bet for good-value meals – a plate of meat stew with sides will cost around US$2. You can also cook for yourself if you’re staying at a campsite or self-catering lodging by buying food at markets and supermarkets.

If you travel during the low season months of April, May, October and November, you’ll be able to pick up discounted rates on lodging and you may be able to get discounted gorilla tracking permits.

Uganda offers excellent luxury lodges and tented camps situated in and around the best national parks and reserves, from Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kidepo National Park and Murchison Falls National Park to a private island in the Nile River, a high-altitude forest outside of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains. For city stays, Kampala and Entebbe also have a handful of luxury five-star hotels. Many of Uganda’s luxury lodges are small and intimate and a few are decidedly quirky in design – making for memorable stays.

Planning a luxury holiday in Uganda is as easy as picking your safari destinations and then choosing from the best lodges in the parks or nearby. Most luxury travellers on a short holiday visit Entebbe for a day or two, Kibale Forest National Park for chimpanzees and other primates, Queen Elizabeth National Park for big game safaris (and tree-climbing lions) and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla tracking. Travellers on longer trips also visit Jinja for exciting Nile River activities such as white-water rafting, Murchison Falls National Park for incredible landscapes and wildlife and, for adventurous travellers who like to really get off the beaten track, there’s a flight to the magnificent rugged Kidepo Valley National Park in Uganda’s remote north.

Many roads in Uganda are rough and travelling by car can take a long time for the distance covered. Self-driving is possible but many travellers prefer to hire a driver for their journey around Uganda. You can also fly between the most popular safari destinations by plane. If you want to travel in the most relaxing and hassle-free way, then do a custom flying safari, where you travel by private charter planes between destinations, and then get transfers from the airstrips to each luxury lodge.

Holiday Styles and Options in Uganda

Uganda offers a variety of holiday styles to choose from: adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion. Enjoy thrilling gorilla treks, serene lake getaways, vibrant city breaks, or tranquil countryside retreats. Customise your trip to include activities like hiking, cultural tours, historical site visits, and wildlife viewing, ensuring a diverse and enriching travel experience tailored to your interests.

• A Relaxed Holiday in Uganda
• Adventure Holiday in Uganda
• An Active Adventure Holiday in Uganda
• Big Five Safari in Uganda
• Photographic Safari in Uganda
• Uganda Birding Tour
• Walking Safaris in Uganda

Travelling by road in Uganda can feel like a hassle – distances are deceiving, as the rough road conditions mean that it takes a long time to travel between destinations. For the most relaxing holiday in Uganda, you could consider doing a flying safari, where you travel between national parks by plane, landing on small airstrips in the bush and getting transfers to your lodges. Another option is to hire a 4×4 and a driver to get around Uganda.

If you’re planning on self-driving then it’s a good idea to spend longer in each destination – at least three or four days – and visit fewer places than trying to fit all of the highlights into one holiday. It also makes sense to base yourself in one place and visit the area’s attractions from there, rather than driving from one attraction to another.

Factor in some downtime too: while Uganda’s big adventures such as mountain gorilla tracking and white-water rafting are thrilling, it’s also a good idea to take time out to relax on a lakeside beach at Lake Bunyonyi or on one of the Ssese Islands with nothing to do but lie in the sun with a good book.

Uganda is big on adventures, from gorilla and chimpanzee tracking in misty rainforests and white-water rafting on the continent’s longest river to trekking in the highest mountain range in Africa.

Western Uganda is the prime region for wildlife adventures as home to the bulk of the country’s national parks and reserves where you can do gorilla and chimpanzee tracking as well as the Rwenzori Mountains – the tallest range on the continent – where the draws are adventurous hiking and climbing to the top of Mount Stanley, Africa’s third highest mountain.

The town of Jinja, in Eastern Uganda, is on every adventure traveller’s itinerary. This is the adrenaline capital of East Africa, offering a smorgasbord of thrilling activities on the Nile River and in the surrounding area. White-water rafting on Grade V rapids tops the activity list, but there’s more adventurous fun to be had, whether it’s bungee-jumping from a riverside cliff or horse riding on the banks of the river. In the same region, mountaineers can tackle the ascent of Mount Elgon, Africa’s eighth tallest peak.

Adventurous travellers looking for a more off-the-beaten-track safari destination should head to Uganda’s far northern Karamoja region for Kidepo Valley National Park, the most remote reserve in the country. This rugged wilderness offers magnificent scenery and excellent wildlife viewing on open savannah.

If you’re looking for an active holiday, then Uganda is an excellent destination. The country is all about active adventures and outdoor experiences, so you really have a huge wealth of options.

In terms of safari and wildlife activities, gorilla trekking is at the top of the list. Going on search of a habituated gorilla group in the misty rainforest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park involves quite strenuous hiking up and down hills, and the trek can take several hours. Chimpanzee trekking is another strenuous – but rewarding – wildlife activity: chimps can move very fast through the treetop canopy, so following a group can mean high-paced hiking, which will definitely get your heartrate up. One other active wildlife experience that doesn’t get as much press as gorillas and chimps – but thrilling nonetheless – is rhino tracking done on foot at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Central Uganda.

There are plenty of opportunities to explore Uganda’s magnificent parks and landscapes on foot: guided hikes are on offer in many reserves, the crater lakes area has endless hiking trails surrounded by dramatic scenery, and then there are the wonderful day hikes from Sipi Falls in Eastern Uganda. For more challenging trekking, you can climb Africa’s third highest peak, Mount Stanley, in the beautiful and dramatic Rwenzori Mountains, or do the fairly easy four-day return route to the top of Mount Elgon, a giant extinct volcano.

Basing yourself in Jinja for a few days is a must if you’re planning an active holiday. The adrenaline capital of East Africa is a mecca for adventurous fun, whether it’s white-water rafting on the rapids of the Nile, bungee-jumping, kayaking, horse riding or stand-up paddle boarding.

Rhino went extinct in Uganda in the 1980s, and while southern white rhino have been reintroduced in the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, there are no reserves in Uganda where you can do Big Five safaris. For Big Four (leopard, lion, buffalo and elephant) safaris, Uganda has two options in its western region: Queen Elizabeth National Park, which is the best reserve in the country for wildlife diversity and its famous tree-climbing lions, and Murchison Falls National Park for large herds of elephant, giraffe and buffalo. The other Big Four reserve lies in a remote area of northern Uganda. Kidepo Valley National Park is the country’s most rugged wilderness, and in addition to the Big Four, it conserves species found nowhere else in Uganda, such as caracal, cheetah and aardwolf – and there are plans to reintroduce white rhino.

Uganda’s spectacular wildlife, birds and dramatic landscapes are a treat for any photographer. The best region to visit for a photographic holiday is Western Uganda, where the biggest highlight will be photographing mountain gorillas from just a few metres away in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. A camera that performs well in low light is ideal, as the forest environment can be quite dark and dense. A zoom lens (70 – 200 mm is best) is great for getting close-up shots of the gorillas. Ideally, it’s best to have two camera bodies with different lenses on each one, as there often isn’t any time to change lenses when the gorillas are on the move. Remember to turn your flash off – flash photography is not permitted on a gorilla trekking expedition.

In the same region, Queen Elizabeth National Park should be on all photographers’ itineraries, for the highlight of capturing photos of the famed tree-climbing lions – a rare sight in Africa – as well as a plethora of other big game against beautiful scenery of quintessential East African savanna. Murchison Falls National Park is regarded as one of the best places in Uganda for photographic safaris, because of the park’s astonishing landscapes of palm-dotted savanna, the animal and bird life seen from the Victoria Nile which bisects the park and the dramatic Murchison Falls.

In terms of landscapes, Western Uganda’s crater lakes near Fort Portal and the jagged, dramatic Rwenzori Mountains will provide endless inspiration for photographers.

Make sure that you have all of the photographic gear that you need for your trip to Uganda, as outside of Kampala and Entebbe, it will be hard to buy something you may have forgotten. Spare memory cards are essential, and packing a spare battery is a good idea, especially if you are going on a multi-day trek. A lightweight tripod is an essential gear item for wildlife and landscape photography, while another great item is a small beanbag that you can use for steadying your camera lens when you’re shooting wildlife out of the car window on game drives.

As with anywhere that you travel to, always ask people for permission before you take their photo.

African Green broadbill

Uganda is one of Africa’s top birding destinations, with more than 1000 species found at this meeting point of the East African savanna and West African rainforest.

There are only four safari destinations in the world that have more than 600 species of birds, and Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of them: it should be at the top of any birder’s itinerary. Other parks and reserves also boast an impressive number of species, such as Murchison Falls National Park with 450 species, and more than 300 in Budongo Forest Reserve, Kibale National Park, Lake Mburo National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The shoebill stork is one of Africa’s top five birds, and is incredibly hard to find in other countries but Uganda offers the best chance of spotting this rare avian creature in the Mabamba Swamp wetlands near Kampala, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, the swamps of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and in the remote Semuliki National Park.

Guided walks and treks are offered in many of Uganda’s parks and reserves, the most popular being gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest and Budongo Forest Reserve. In Bwindi and the forest reserves you can also do guided walks to spot other primates, as well as butterflies, birds and small mammals. On the Big Four reserves of Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park there are demarcated trails only in specific areas, while the best place for a walking safari on open savanna is Kidepo Valley National Park, where you’ll need to be accompanied by a Ugandan Wildlife Authority Ranger.

Who is Travelling to Uganda with you?

Planning your Ugandan adventure? Tailor your journey with experiences designed for every type of traveller. Whether you’re exploring with a loved one, embarking on a family adventure, discovering solo, celebrating a honeymoon, or enjoying a trip with friends, Uganda offers unique and unforgettable experiences for all. Select your travel type to find the perfect itinerary and make the most of your safari holiday.

• Couple Safaris in Uganda
• Family Safari in Uganda
• Honeymoon in Uganda
• Solo Travel in Uganda

Uganda has lots to offer for adventurous, wildlife-loving couples who are looking for memorable experiences, whether it’s tracking primates in the rainforest, seeing rare wildlife and birds on safari in game parks, climbing Africa’s third highest peak or white-water rafting on the continent’s longest river.

If you want to get off the beaten track and away from the crowds, there are plenty of wilderness areas in Uganda that offer a true escape. The country also has excellent high-end lodges and camps tucked away in its most beautiful places – on mountain foothills, in forests and on islands and lakeside beaches – where you can experience romantic luxury in intimate rooms and suites with extras such as private decks and plunge pools.

With the biggest concentration of national parks and wildlife as well as some incredible landscapes, Western Uganda is the top region for couples travelling in the country. Mountain gorilla trekking comes up at the top of most travellers’ lists for Uganda, closely followed by chimpanzee trekking, and both of these activities are on offer in Western Uganda. In the same region, Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park are the two most popular parks for big game safaris by car and boat, while the crater lakes area offers idyllic walking trails. Hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains is a highlight for active couples, and the truly fit can take on the challenge of climbing to the top of Mount Stanley, Uganda’s highest peak.

For adventure-seeking couples, Eastern Uganda is unmissable. Here you’ll find Uganda’s adrenaline centre: the laidback town of Jinja, on the shores of Lake Victoria. Just about every outdoors activity under the sun is on offer here, but the biggest draw is the thrilling white-water rafting on the huge rapids of the Nile River.

Coming face-to-face with wild mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, tracking our closest ape cousins – chimpanzees – in dense rainforest, going in search of tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, exploring the landscapes and wildlife of Murchison Falls National Park on a self-drive safari, trekking in the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, getting the adrenaline going on a white-water rafting adventure on the Nile River, staying in romantic rooms and tented suites in luxury lodges placed in Uganda’s most beautiful corners and indulging in special treats such as bush picnics for two organised by your lodge.

Travel Tips

Travelling by car in Uganda does feel like an adventure but it’s a slow way of getting around, as roads are rough and distances can take much longer than you’d expect. If you’re short on time and want to maximise your days in Uganda, consider flying on small planes between the national parks. In general, it’s best to spend a few days in each place rather than rushing from one destination to the next. Part of the magic of spending time in the wilderness is having time to soak up the serenity of the natural world.

Public displays of affection are not the norm in Uganda. To be respectful, try to be more reserved when in public

In Uganda, same-sex relationships are illegal. LGBTQ couples should be discreet about their sexuality and not show any signs of affection in public.

Uganda is a wonderful choice for a family safari holiday, offering some of the most memorable wildlife experiences on the continent, game drives in national parks without the crowds, island and lakeside beaches to while away relaxing days and more outdoors activities than you can shake a GoPro stick at.

For a family holiday in Uganda, Western Uganda is the top region to visit: home to most of the country’s national parks, reserves and natural attractions, it offers spectacular wildlife, astonishing landscapes to explore and lots of outdoors activities. For families with older children, mountain gorilla and chimpanzee trekking are two top highlights, while children of all ages can enjoy wildlife spotting in the most popular national parks of the region – Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls – and guided nature walks to spot birds and monkeys in the region’s beautiful rainforests, such as in Budongo Forest Reserve.

Central Uganda also has some wonderful attractions for families: children above the age of six can track rhinos on foot and go in search of shoebill storks in canoes at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, and for children who are under the age of 15 and can’t go chimp trekking, a visit to Ngamba Island chimpanzee sanctuary is a great alternative. Scattered in Lake Victoria, the Ssese Islands also make for a relaxing beach destination with some fun activities, such as wind surfing and fishing.

For active families, Eastern Uganda is home to the adrenaline capital of East Africa, Jinja, which lies at the source of the Nile River. For children above the age of eight, white-water rafting is a heart-pumping adventure and there’s plenty more fun to be had on the river, including boat cruises, stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking. Then on land there’s bungee-jumping, horse-back riding, quad biking and mountain biking – more than enough to keep even the most energetic of children entertained for a few days.

Highlights for families travelling in Uganda include wonderful wildlife encounters – tracking mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, rhinos and shoebill storks and seeing rescued chimps on Ngamba Island, exploring the savanna and rivers of Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park to see lions, elephant, giraffe, leopards and hippos, experiencing and learning about the amazing primates, birds and butterflies of Western Uganda’s biodiverse rainforest on guided walks and exciting activities, from windsurfing in the Ssese Island archipelago to white-water rafting on the Nile River.

Tracking mountain gorillas is a big reason why people travel to Uganda and it’s a wonderful activity to do as a family, but note that there is a minimum age limit of 15 for gorilla safaris (the same age limit applies for chimp trekking). Many other safari and wildlife activities also have an age limit – for example, rhino trekking at Ziwa is only for children above six.

Uganda’s roads are mostly unpaved and rough, which means that travelling by car between destinations can take a lot longer than you would expect, given the distance. If you’re self-driving or hiring a driver to travel around Uganda with your family, it makes sense to limit your itinerary to fewer places, spending more time in each destination, rather than trying to see all of the highlights on one trip.

There’s a risk of contracting several mosquito-borne diseases in Uganda. Malaria is the biggest risk, and children are particularly susceptible to catching severe and fatal malaria. It’s essential that you consult your doctor before travelling about taking antimalarial medication for your children, and that while you’re travelling you try to prevent them getting bitten by wearing suitable clothing, insect repellent and sleeping under mosquito nets.

Before you book any lodging, check up on the minimum age policies of lodges, as many of them won’t accept children under a certain age (and some don’t allow any children). Some lodges have a policy of only allowing children on game drives if you book a private vehicle and guide. Some lodges, however, are particularly child-friendly, offering family rooms and things like children’s menus and guided nature walks for kids, so it’s worth doing research on the best lodges for families before your trip.

For wildlife and nature lovers, a romantic holiday in Uganda means thrilling animal encounters, wilderness adventures and exploring beautiful landscapes without the crowds.

Scattered across the most beautiful wilderness areas of the country – in national parks and rainforests, nestled on private islands and on the shores of picturesque lakes –

Uganda’s luxury lodges offer intimate tented cottages and spacious suites serviced by butlers with extras such as private plunge pools and special touches such as romantic meals and picnics in the bush for just for two of you.

While you can do a self-drive holiday in Uganda, the roads can be challenging and short distances can take a long time. Other more relaxing alternatives for a romantic holiday include hiring a driver to transport you between destinations, joining a guided tour or travelling between national parks by plane and then getting transfers organised by the lodges you’re staying at.

The best region for solo travel in Uganda is Western Uganda, where you’ll find most of the national parks and reserves as well as magnificent landscapes and a huge array of different activities.

In Western Uganda, you can go mountain gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in Bwindi and Kibale Forest, wildlife spotting and birdwatching on the rivers and savanna of Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park and hiking in the crater lakes area.

Adventurous travellers can join a guided Gorilla group trek in the dramatic Rwenzori Mountains on their solo travel in Uganda.

A great place to base yourself for your solo travel in Uganda is Western Uganda – Lake Bunyonyi, from where you can easily go gorilla trekking in Bwindi , but also do a number of outdoor activities in the lake and in the surrounding area. In Eastern Uganda, Jinja is an ideal place for solo travellers.

There are endless activities to fill your days, and you’ll be able to meet lots of other travellers in the town’s bars and restaurants during your solo travel in Uganda.

Highlights on a Solo Safari in Uganda

Hiking through the misty rainforest on your solo safari in Uganda, one can expect to find a group of mountain gorillas playing, feeding and grooming one another, chasing a troop of chimpanzees as they swing through the treetops above you.

Imagine spotting tree-climbing lions on a guided game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, going on a boat cruise to see the magnificent Murchison Falls, discovering villages and plantations on hikes around the crater lakes, chilling out at a lakeside resort in Lake Bunyonyi or getting your adrenaline pumping tackling the rapids of the Nile River on your solo African Safari.

Travel tips for your Solo Travel in Uganda 

Solo female travellers should take the same kinds of precautions that they would anywhere else on their solo travel in Uganda. Ask locals for advice on what areas to avoid when you’re in a city, don’t walk by yourself on quiet streets after dark and don’t flaunt your valuables.  Ugandan women tend to dress conservatively (always covering their knees) so if you want to minimise drawing attention to yourself, wear shorts or skirts that cover your knees, and t-shirts that aren’t too tight on your solo safari in Africa. The safest form of transport in a city is a private taxi.

It’s best not to hike alone on your solo travel in Uganda in case anything goes wrong, so if you can, meet up with another traveller or take a guide when going on hikes.  If you do go hiking or driving by yourself in remote areas, make sure you tell someone what your route is before you leave.

What You Need To Know

Planning a trip to Uganda involves considering several important factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. From understanding visa requirements and health precautions to knowing the best times to visit and local customs, having the right information will help you make the most of your journey. Discover Africa provides essential tips and insights to help you prepare for an unforgettable adventure in this diverse and beautiful country.

• Uganda vs Rwanda
• Uganda vs Tanzania
• Wildlife of Uganda
• Holiday Destinations in Uganda
• Things to Do in Uganda
• Visa Requirements for Uganda
• Travelling to Uganda
• Getting Around in Uganda
• Changing Money in Uganda
• Is Uganda Safe?
• At Your Lodge in Uganda
• Food and Tipping in Uganda
• Uganda Culture
• Languages in Uganda
• Health and Emergencies in Uganda
• What to Pack for Uganda
• Vaccinations Required for Uganda
• Travel Insurance for Uganda
• When to Go on Safari in Uganda

There are only three countries in the world where you can see wild Mountain gorillas: Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Due to the latter country’s instability, almost all travellers choose either Rwanda or Uganda for their gorilla experience. The gorilla tracking experience in both countries is pretty similar, although in 2017 Rwanda increased the price of the gorilla trekking permits from US$750 to US$1500, while Uganda’s permit price has remained at US$600, making Uganda a far more affordable option if you’re choosing a destination primarily for gorilla trekking.

In terms of accessibility for gorilla trekking, Rwanda is easier than Uganda. Rwanda is a far smaller country than Uganda, which means it’s a short journey by road from the capital of Kigali to Volcanoes National Park, where you do the gorilla trekking. In Uganda, it’s a 500-kilometre trip from the capital of Kampala to get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park where you go gorilla trekking, but the roads are in bad condition so the journey takes about 10 hours.

If you want to do more than just gorilla trekking on your holiday, Uganda is a better option than Rwanda. Unlike Rwanda, Uganda offers big game safaris on open savanna as well as a much wider array of experiences and a bigger variety of landscapes to explore than its more compact neighbour. Overall, Uganda is also more affordable than Rwanda.

Tanzania is a far larger country than landlocked Uganda, and offers superb game parks teeming with game as well as the incredible spectacle of the annual Great Migration in addition to a beautiful coastline and idyllic islands. If you’d like to combine a wildlife safari with beach time, then Tanzania is a great choice.

While you can do chimpanzee trekking in both East African countries, Tanzania doesn’t have any Mountain gorillas, so if seeing these majestic primates in their wild habitat is on your travel bucket list, then pick Uganda over Tanzania.

Tanzania is home to the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, but Uganda has Africa’s highest mountain range, the Rwenzori. While Mount Stanley in the Rwenzori is only Africa’s third highest mountain, hiking here is much more of a wilderness adventure than scaling Mount Kilimanjaro, and it’s far more affordable.

Overall, Uganda is also a lot more budget-friendly than Tanzania, a country that caters largely for high end tourism.

Western Uganda is home to most of the country’s national parks and reserves, and is the best region to visit for wildlife. The standout highlight of this region is the gorilla tracking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, in Uganda’s southwest corner. While seeing mountain gorillas is the main reason people travel to Bwindi, there’s more wildlife to spot in the misty forests of the park, from nine other primate species, such as black-and-white colobus and l’Hoest monkeys, as well as forest duikers, elusive forest elephants and more than 200 butterfly species.

Kibale Forest Reserve is also a primate haven – with 13 resident species, it boasts the largest concentration of primates in the country and the biggest diversity of primates of any East African reserve. Tracking chimpanzees is the main draw to Kibale, although spotting olive baboons, black-and-white colobus, l’Hoest and blue monkeys are also highlights in themselves.

Still in western Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the country’s best park for wildlife diversity, home to 95 species of mammals and 20 predators, including the Big Four (buffalo, lion, leopard and elephant) as well as chimpanzees and a whopping 611 species of birds. The park’s standout highlight are the tree-climbing lions – there’s only one other place in Africa where they do this – so catching this sighting is particularly special.

Murchison Falls National Park is another Big Four reserve (only rhino si missing) in western Uganda, which is known for its large herds of elephant, giraffe and buffalo, as well as for lucky sightings of the rare ground-dwelling patas monkey. For birders it’s the best place to try and track down the rare shoebill stork.

Just south of Murchison Falls, Budongo Forest Reserve conserves Uganda’s largest population of chimpanzees, as well as other primate species including black-and-white colobus, blue monkey and red-tailed monkey. With around 360 species of birds including many species found in only a few other locations in East Africa, it’s considered the country’s best birding destination.

Close to Kampala and still in Western Uganda, Lake Mburo National Park is where to go to spot animals not easily found elsewhere in the country, from Uganda’s only population of impala to Burchell’s zebra. While elephant are absent in the park, there are plenty of other mammals to see, including sitatunga antelope, topi, oribi, Bohor reedbuck and herds of eland.

In Central Uganda, the main wildlife highlight is tracking southern white rhinos on foot at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. The reserve is also an excellent place to see shoebill storks.

In the Karamoja region of northern Uganda near the Kenyan border, Kidepo Valley National Park is a remote park that that offers rugged wilderness and excellent wildlife, everything from elephant, lion, leopard and buffalo to Burchell’s zebra, Rothschild’s giraffe and black-backed jackal and cheetah – two of the many species that you don’t find anywhere else in the country.

For many travellers to Uganda, seeing mountain gorillas in the lush rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in the southwestern corner of the country is their top priority – an unforgettable wildlife experience. Chimpanzee trekking is another popular wildlife activity, and there are several places where you can go in search of our ape cousins, with Kibale Forest National Park and Budongo Forest Reserve in Western Uganda as two of the best.

For traditional big game safaris on open savannah, Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most bio-diverse park with a few standout highlights – tree-climbing lions and incredible birdlife – while Murchison Falls National Park further to the north draws travellers with its dramatic waterfall, photogenic landscapes and the promise of seeing the rare shoebill stork.

Hikers and mountaineers should add the Rwenzori Mountains in the west and Mount Elgon in the east to their itinerary. The Rwenzori, or “Mountains of the Moon”, offer spectacular mountain scenery and dramatic hiking opportunities including Africa’s third highest peak to scale, while Mount Elgon’s hiking routes take you through photogenic landscapes of waterfalls and forests in the foothills of an extinct volcano.

In eastern Uganda on the banks of the Nile River, Jinja is the adrenaline capital of East Africa and one of the best places in the world to go white-water rafting on Grade V rapids. There are plenty of other outdoors activities on offer on the river and in the surrounding area, from stand-up paddle boarding and horse riding to paragliding and bungee jumping.

In Central Uganda, laid back Entebbe is a great spot spend a few days, and it’s also a perfect base to explore the beautiful islands of the Ssese Archipelago in Lake Victoria. Travellers looking for a beach break in landlocked Uganda should head straight for one of the islands’ palm tree-lined stretches of sand.

Gorilla trekking is one of the most memorable wildlife experiences you can have in Africa, and so there’s a good reason why it tops the list when it comes to Uganda. The excitement of hiking through a lush tropical forest in search of a gorilla group – and then coming face-to-face with them as they play, eat and groom one another just a few metres away from you – is hard to beat. For people who want more time with gorillas than just one hour, you can pay extra to do an all-day gorilla habituation experience where you spend time with a new gorilla group that is getting used to being around humans.

Chimpanzee trekking is another top wildlife experience in Uganda. While it’s more challenging than gorilla trekking (chimps move extremely fast through the treetop canopy), it’s a thrill to search for them, and a very rewarding experience to spend time with one of our closest living relatives. While not nearly as well-known as gorilla and chimp tracking, you can do also track southern white rhinos on foot in the Ziwa Rhino Sancturay in central Uganda: another rewarding animal encounter.

For safari goers in search of more traditional wildlife experiences, Uganda’s national parks in the west and north of the country offer open savanna dotted with big game and predators. You can do self-driving safaris or stay at a lodge and go on guided game drives, but there’s also boat-based wildlife viewing on river cruises in Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park.

If getting out of the car and into the bush is your kind of safari, there are plenty of places where you can do guided walks in Uganda’s forests and reserves to spot hundreds of species of birds and butterflies and 13 different primates, as well as smaller mammals.

Outdoor adventures are a big part of many travellers’ Uganda holidays, whether it’s hiking around the beautiful crater lakes, trekking in the Rwenzori Mountains, climbing Mount Stanley or Mount Elgon, horse-back riding or tackling the thrilling rapids in the Nile River.

Wildlife and adventure activities aside, Uganda also offers many cultural experiences, such as an overnight stay in a village of the Karamojong, a tribe of semi-nomadic pastoralists in the northern Karamoja region of the country, during which you’ll experience a taste of traditional life when you help them to herd cattle and gather wild food.

Most visitors (apart from people from a few visa-exempt countries in Africa) will need to get a visa for travel to Uganda. You used to be able to get a visa on arrival in Uganda, but this no longer the case. You now need to apply for an electronic visa online prior to your trip. Go to https://visas.immigration.go.ug/ to apply. A single-entry visa costs US$50 and a six-month multiple entry visa costs US$100.

If you’re travelling to Rwanda and Kenya on the same trip, then apply for the 90-day multiple-entry East African Tourist Visa, which covers all three countries and costs US$100.

From Europe and North America you can fly to Entebbe in Uganda either via the African cities of Addis Ababa, Kigali or Nairobi or via the Middle East, going through Dubai or Doha.

One way to travel Uganda independently is by hiring your own car. Hiring a 4×4 is highly recommended, because most roads are unpaved and are often extremely bumpy and potholed, and most of the roads in the national parks are only suitable for 4x4s. However, driving on rough Ugandan roads is not for the feint hearted, and if you don’t have much experience driving in Africa it might be best to think about hiring a driver for your trip.

If you don’t hire a car, your options for getting around cities are shared taxi vans (known as matatus) and boda boda motorcycles (but note that both matatus and boda bodas have high accident rates). The safest option is to take private taxis (the taxi-ride app Uber operates in Kampala).

For long distance travel between major towns the most affordable option is coaches, which are slow and can be crowded – and they do have accidents. The most hassle-free way to travel around Uganda is to fly: Aerolink (www.aerolinkuganda.com) flies to Uganda’s top five national parks, Eagle Air (www.eagleair-ug.com) has scheduled flights to six towns across Uganda and also operates private charter flights, while Fly Uganda ( www.flyuganda.com ) offers private charter flights to all of Uganda’s airstrips as well as custom flying safaris.

Uganda’s currency is the Ugandan shilling (US$1 is around USh3800). US dollars are widely accepted for lodging, activities, park entrance fees and safari activities. The dollar bills need to be newer than 2003 and have no tears on them.

Uganda is a cash society: many lodges and restaurants in Uganda don’t accept credit cards, and payment for park fees and permits are in cash, so always have enough cash with you. There are ATMs located in towns across the country, but if you’re travelling to remote areas, it’s a good idea to travel with enough cash to pay for everything you will need.

Uganda is generally a safe and stable country but there are a few things to be aware of.

When in cities and towns use the same precautions that you would anywhere; don’t flaunt your valuables, be aware of your bag when you’re in crowded places and don’t leave valuables in your car. Be careful when you’re walking or driving at night.

Avoid political demonstrations in cities as they can turn confrontational.

Travel cautiously if you’re going near the border with South Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo, as there have been violent clashes in the area. There also has been violence in the Karamoja region of north-eastern Uganda.

Uganda has a high rate of road accidents, so take caution if you’re on a self-driving trip. Most roads are unpaved and many are extremely pot-holed and bumpy. Never drive at night outside of the main towns – roads are not lit; some drivers drive without their lights on and there’s often livestock walking across the roads. In towns and villages, the speed limit is 50 kilometres per hour, while outside of towns it’s 80 km. Breaking the speed limit can get you a fine or imprisonment. Make sure that you’re travelling with a spare tyre and all the necessary tools.

It’s standard to tip your guide and the lodge staff at the end of your stay. Lodges usually provide a communal tip box for leaving money for the cleaning, restaurant and maintenance staff (and they will usually give some guidance on the appropriate amount to tip). People generally tip their safari guide directly at the end of their stay.

Be sure to check the child policy of lodges before you plan your stay, as many don’t accept children at all or will only allow children over a certain age. Some activities (such as gorilla tracking) also have an age limit.

Tipping in Uganda is not obligatory but many travellers do leave tips – and this extra money really helps boost the income of people working in the tourism industry. For restaurants, you can tip 10% for good service, and if you want to tip a taxi driver, then you can round up your fare.

It’s usual to tip drivers, safari and gorilla tracking guides and porters at the end of a safari or hike. For guides, you can tip between USD$10 to $20 per day per guest, and for a porter US$5 to US$10, and for a private driver you can tip US$20 to US$30 per day for the group. Most travellers also leave tips for the lodge staff (US$5 to US$10 per guest), and many lodges have their own tip box where you leave money to be shared out amongst the staff.

In terms of food, you’ll find the usual international fare at tourist restaurants and hotels. For local food served at eateries and restaurants, the most common main dish is a stew of meat, beans or groundnuts served with posho (maize meal) and matooke (mashed green bananas). Cassava, sweet potato, white potato, yam and rice are also common starches. Street side snacks include things like chapati (flat bread) filled with eggs and onions (known as a rolex), mugati naamaggi (a pancake filled with minced meat and egg), and samosas.

Popular drinks are tea (try the chai-spiced tea) and coffee – two of Uganda’s crops – as well as lager beer, banana and millet beer and fermented banana wine.

If you have any dietary requirements (such as vegan or vegetarian food), be sure to notify your travel expert in advance of your stay.

As in many African countries, it’s customary for Ugandans to exchange friendly greetings before launching into the topic of conversation. To be polite, you should stick to this cultural practice, even if you’re simply asking a stranger on the street for directions.

Public displays of affection are considered impolite in Uganda: so restrict your affection towards your partner.

Ugandan women tend to dress conservatively, wearing long dresses and skirts that cover their knees.

Uganda has 43 languages, of which Luganda is the most widely spoke, and Swahili and English are the official languages. Most educated Ugandans speak English, and in tourist destinations most people will speak English.

To stay healthy in Uganda, you should only drink bottled, boiled or treated water and avoid eating any unpeeled fruits or vegetables. If you eat street food make sure that you buy it from a vendor that is busy and has a high turnover of food to ensure that it’s fresh, and watch that the food is cooked in front of you.

Uganda has a high risk of malaria and you should take antimalarial medication and prevent mosquito bites by using repellent on your skin and clothes, wear long trousers and shirts in the early morning and evenings and sleep under a mosquito net.

There’s a risk of contracting dengue fever, chikungunya and the Zika virus in Uganda. All three illnesses are transmitted by mosquitos but there are no preventative medications for them. Again, try to prevent mosquito bites as best you can.

There’s also a risk of contracting bilharzia – a parasitic disease transmitted by freshwater snails. Avoid swimming or wading in any fresh water (a hotel swimming pool is safe).

Health Care System

Uganda has both public and private healthcare facilities. Public healthcare facilities are understaffed and lack medical equipment and drugs. If you have a health problem or medical emergency you should visit a private clinic or hospital, where you’ll need to pay for your treatment and then get reimbursed by your travel insurance.

Medical Emergencies

If your medical emergency is not serious, then get to the closest town and try to find a private clinic or hospital. For more serious emergencies, unless you’re in Kampala and can reach a private clinic, then you need to contact a medical evacuation service (such as MAF on +256 772 777 208) which will transport you by plane to the closest private hospital for treatment.

Make sure that your vaccinations are up to date before you travel, and don’t start your trip without first buying comprehensive travel insurance that covers you for medical evacuations. Bring any medication you might need for the duration of your trip, as well as a well-stocked first aid kit with antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, antidiarrheal medication, antibacterial ointment, antimalarial tablets, rehydration electrolyte sachets, insect spray and repellent, water purification tablets and bandages.

The recommended vaccinations for Uganda include: tetanus, diphtheria, polio, hepatitis A, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis B, meningitis and tuberculosis. The rabies vaccination is recommended if you’re going to have contact with wild or domestic animals or if you’re going to be in a remote location far from medical assistance. Vaccinations for yellow fever are recommended for all travellers (and for children aged nine months and older).

There’s a high risk of malaria in Uganda. Consult your doctor about taking malaria prophylactics during your travels and do your best to prevent mosquito bites by wearing long trousers and shirts, using repellent and always sleeping under a mosquito net.

For your holiday in Uganda, you should get comprehensive travel insurance that covers all medical emergencies and includes activities that you plan to do, such as gorilla tracking and white-water rafting. Make sure that your travel insurance covers medical evacuation.

If you will be renting a car in Uganda, be sure to get comprehensive insurance that covers all damages to the car.

Uganda is a year-round safari destination. Each season offers unique opportunities to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Here’s what you need to consider if you’re planning a visit. 

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Uganda for a safari is during the dry seasons, which run from December to February and June to August. During these periods, the weather is cooler and wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot animals.

Month-by-Month Guide

January – February: Short Dry Season

• Weather: Warm and dry with occasional rainfall.
• Wildlife Viewing: Excellent for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking as trails are dry and wildlife is active.
• Highlights: Perfect time for bird watching with migratory species present.

March – May: Long Wet Season

• Weather: Heavy rains and lush green landscapes.
• Wildlife Viewing: Wildlife can be harder to spot due to dense vegetation, but bird watching is exceptional.
• Highlights: Lower rates and fewer tourists offer a more exclusive experience.

June – August: Long Dry Season

• Weather: Cool and dry, with clear skies.
• Wildlife Viewing: Peak season for gorilla trekking and game viewing as animals gather around water sources.
• Highlights: Ideal for trekking and hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains and other outdoor activities.

September – November: Short Wet Season

• Weather: Intermittent rains with periods of sunshine.
• Wildlife Viewing: Gorilla trekking is still good, but trails can be muddy. Excellent for bird watching.
• Highlights: Beautiful, lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

December: Start of Short Dry Season

• Weather: Dry with occasional showers.
• Wildlife Viewing: Great for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking as the weather is favorable.
• Highlights: Holiday season makes it a popular time for visitors.

By Activity

• Gorilla Trekking: Best from December to February and June to August when trails are dry and wildlife is active.
• Bird Watching: Best from November to April when migratory birds are present.
• Game Viewing: Best during the dry seasons (June to August and December to February) when wildlife congregates around water sources.
• Hiking and Trekking: Best from June to August for clear skies and favorable trekking conditions.

Climate Overview

Uganda’s climate is generally warm and temperate. The country experiences two rainy seasons and two dry seasons.

• Dry Seasons (December to February and June to August): Characterized by cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall. Ideal for gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
• Wet Seasons (March to May and September to November): Hot and wet, with frequent thunderstorms. The landscape is lush and green, offering different wildlife experiences and excellent bird watching opportunities.

No matter when you choose to visit Uganda, you’re guaranteed a memorable safari experience.  

Plan your trip according to your interests and enjoy the best that Uganda has to offer year-round.

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Welcome to Curious Tours Africa, your gateway to extraordinary Uganda safaris and tours that promise unparalleled adventures in the heart of the African wilderness, enchanting landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural tapestry that define Uganda as a top safari destination.

We understand that every traveller is unique. That’s why we personalize our services to cater to your specific needs and preferences. When you choose us, you’re choosing a journey filled with seamless joy and boundless exploration.

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Customer-Centric Approach: We focus on delivering outstanding customer safari experiences, ensuring that client’s needs and preferences are met

Responsible Tourism: We prioritize responsible tourism that respects local communities, wildlife, and ecosystems by promoting and respecting cultural norms and supporting community development initiatives

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Discover the iconic Bwindi Gorilla Forest

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southwestern Uganda. One quick fact about Bwindi is that it is home to roughly half of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas, making it a critically important conservation area for these endangered primates. The park is renowned for its biodiversity, and dense forests, and is a popular destination for gorilla trekking , offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

The best time to visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is during the dry seasons, which are typically from June to August and December to February

Best Uganda Safari and Tours Holiday Packages

Welcome to the heart of Africa, where the wild meets wonder – Uganda ! Our meticulously crafted Uganda Safaris and Tours promise an extraordinary blend of wildlife encounters, cultural immersions, and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the enchanting world of African safaris with us, as we lead you through the wild and captivating beauty of Uganda’s varied ecosystems

With a wealth of 7 years expertise in arranging safaris in Uganda, we introduce to you the finest Uganda safari holidays, highly endorsed and meticulously crafted for your unforgettable adventure

Experience a brief yet captivating trekking safari tailored for travellers with a keen interest in encountering mountain gorillas

Discover an accessible and budget-friendly safari tailored for gorilla enthusiasts seeking a brief yet memorable adventure

Experience the awe-inspiring wonders of Uganda with our Incredible Uganda Tour

Encounter majestic wildlife, and create unforgettable memories in one of Africa’s most diverse destinations

Witness majestic creatures in their natural habitat and discover the beauty of Uganda’s untamed wilderness

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Uganda Safari Parks

Uganda boasts a rich tapestry of safari destinations, each offering a unique experience. From the iconic Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to majestic mountain gorillas, to the vast savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park , where lions roam freely – every corner of Uganda tells a different story.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Kibale forest national park, mount elgon national park, kidepo valley national park, mgahinga gorilla national park, lake mburo national park, bwindi impenetrable forest national park, queen elizabeth national park, murchison falls national park, wildlife safari highlights.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking is a forest hike to see the endangered mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking is carried out in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park . Bwindi is a major tourist destination because it harbours almost half of the endangered mountain gorillas that are left in the world

Chimpanzee Tracking in Uganda

Explore the beauty of Uganda’s vibrant jungles with an exciting chimpanzee tracking adventure. Immerse yourself in the world of these amazing primates in their natural habitat. Our detailed guide helps you get ready and make the most of your chimpanzee tracking experience in Uganda

Uganda Wildlife Safaris

Explore Uganda’s stunning western border, known for its breathtaking scenery featuring lakes, mountains of the Rift Valley, and the majestic snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains. Discover Uganda’s premier wildlife parks, teeming with a diverse array of 600 bird species and 100 mammals, including the iconic “Big Five.”

Rwanda Safaris

Rwanda is renowned for its rare mountain gorillas , and rightly so. Some 400 of our primate cousins roam the rainforests of Volcanoes National Park, with ten groups available for gorilla tracking . But this tiny country has so much more to see. it’s rich with beautiful mountains, valleys and lakes, with a gleaming Kigali capital city, abundant wildlife and resilient and gracious people. Our Rwanda safaris give you great reasons to explore the country further.

Experience the thrill of spotting the “Big Five” in Akagera National Park, where the savannah plains host a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and more. Cruise along the tranquil waters of Lake Kivu, surrounded by lush hills and picturesque villages, for a relaxing and scenic escape.

We have a unique selection of Rwanda tours including gorilla trekking Rwanda tours . Our safaris and tours are tailor-made to suit our clients’ interests, budget, and time frame.

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Uganda Safaris

Rightly known as “the Pearl of Africa”, Uganda is a compact, rich and fertile country with endless unspoiled rainforest, roaring Murchison’s Falls and a rich honeypot of biodiversity. Uganda offers something entirely different to nearby neighbouring countries in East Africa and is a destination ripe with adventure. From the famed gorilla trekking Bwindi Forest National Park; watching Golden monkeys leap from branches in the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park; to viewing stunning cascades at Sipi Falls, Uganda is a real treat when it comes to African travel. Here, ten national parks protect half of the world’s mountain gorillas, along with chimpanzees, a multitude of monkeys and a classic safari checklist including leopards, lions, elephants and hippos. Where else in the world can you experience tracking the endangered mountain gorillas through the forests, and the same day find yourself on the plains in scorching heat searching for the elusive tree climbing lions?

Tourism is relatively new, and as such Uganda does not have the extensive infrastructure of the aforementioned countries, but what this country does offer is authenticity, fewer crowds and a lot more variety than one would expect in its own individual way. Winding roads lead to places of grand beauty and unique cultures for those who dare to explore. There’s a story at every turn, from wildlife to culture and especially from locals, who are renowned for their warmth and charm.

Why NWS for your Uganda Safari?

NWS originally started as World Primate Safaris back in 2005; when it comes to primates we are the experts with a long history of sending clients on transformative gorilla tracking expeditions . Our team of destination specialists have extensive experience tracking gorillas and thanks to our in-depth knowledge of the gorillas and what constitutes a top-class gorilla tracking safari, we are recognised as one of the leading authorities in gorilla tourism, awarded by both Travel+Leisure and Conde Nast for our expertise in this area. Our exclusive safaris dig a little deeper than the norm. We can include scenic helicopter transfers offering a remarkable bird’s-eye view of this endangered habitat. Working closely with conservationists, we can offer the change to join habituation safaris and more. Limited to just two gorilla families in the southern part of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you can enjoy the rare opportunity to spend a full day in the company of conservationists and researchers.

Safaris & Planning

Luxury Uganda Safari

Spend your time in Uganda immersing yourself in a true primate focussed safari, staying in the best accommodations on offer. Begin with your chimpanzee tracking experience before heading to the famous Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Short Uganda Safari

With only a short time to get away, this is the perfect trip which you will always remember. Fly inyo Entebbe and straight onto Bwindi Impenetrable National Park so you can start tracking the gorillas the next day.

Talk to a Uganda Specialist Today

The uganda safari experience.

Staying purely within this landlocked country, a Ugandan safari can now completely cater to your needs without you needing to go further afield. A good week to ten days can afford you gorillas, chimpanzees, and savannah game, negating the need to travel further afield and keeping costs within reason. On your travels you will meet and discover one of the friendliest populations on the African continent, hospitable, generous, and forgiving. As well as exploring the vast wildlife highlights on your Uganda safari, make sure you spend time to stop, listen, and enjoy the hospitality of the Ugandan people themselves.

You may wish to include the following in your Uganda itinerary:

• Mountain Gorillas - Undoubtedly the highlight of the destination, and the reason for most visitors, is to track the endangered mountain gorillas .
• Savannah Game - Here, you can experience traditional safaris alongside the gorilla tracking, spotting the big five and the big cats.
• Tree Climbing Lions - Unlike most African destinations, here you can see lions relaxing in the shady trees rather than underneath them!
• Incredible Combination s - Uganda’s location makes it perfect for combining with lots of other African destinations, including Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania and beaches.
• Track Chimpanzees - Track the chimps of Kibale Forest and Kyambura Gorge
• Boat Cruise - Enjoy a boat cruise on the abundant Kazinga Channel
• Conservation - Spend time with a doctor from the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project

Where to stay in Uganda?

Standards vary in Uganda from smaller intimate lodges to luxury eco-lodges, as tourism is relatively new in Uganda and accommodation range is more limited than some other African destinations, with many of the lodges being located near or in the heart of th National Parks to offer close proximity and ease of access to wildlife. Read more about where to stay in Uganda.

When to go?

The best time to visit Uganda depends on the wildlife you'd like to see as the climate is good all year round. Average temperatures in Uganda are around 21.5°C or 71°F, dropping to a minimum of 12°C or 54°F at night time, with altitude also affecting this. Being on the equator, rainfall ranges between 1,000 and 2,000 millimetres each year, but depending on time of year these can be short bursts which give rise to clearer skies. Read more about when to go to Uganda.

How Much Does Uganda Cost?

For a 6-day safari in Uganda, we recommend a starting price of £6,000 per person. This will generally include gorilla permits, accommodation and private guides. If you are looking to stay in some of Uganda’s most iconic and best loved lodges, you’ll need to increase the budget to £20,000 per person including private helicopter transfers, multiple gorilla permits and private guides.

Download our Gorilla Trekking Guide

Discover the top gorilla tracking experiences, when to go, best accommodation and more..

Where To Stay

Planning & Inspiration

Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka

A leading conservationist, Veterinarian, Founder and CEO, Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka has always loved animals.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Supporting nearly half of the world’s estimated 820 mountain gorilla population, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is situated along the Great Rift Valley. As the name suggests, it is an area of almost impassibly dense rainforest spread over a network of valleys and ridges, carving a silhouette of undulating peaks into the skyline. Dating back over 25,000 years, this is one of Africa’s oldest and most captivating parklands; its bamboo and swamp forests provide the ideal environment for the gorilla population that call it home.

Jinja and the Source of the Nile

On the shores of the River Nile and huge Lake Victoria, Jinja is Uganda’s fourth largest town, having once been the capital city. Its tropical atmosphere and lush vegetation are big attractions, but the main highlight is undisputedly the River Nile. Thought to be the home of the source of the Nile, the world’s largest river spanning Egypt Sudan and Uganda, it holds major spiritual significance for the local people and offers some thrilling grade 5 rapids for us visitors.

Primates are where we started over 15 years ago. Specialising in primate safaris worldwide we were the sole global specialists in this field. While we've come a long way since, now covering 42 destinations around the globe, encounters with our primate relatives remain close to our hearts.

What to Expect from a Trip to Uganda?

This trip was a 10/10 experience! It was well organised and I really loved the gorilla treks which I am glad to have done two of.

This was a 10/10 trip! The accommodation was the best ever, an amazing lodge! We were really well supported by all involved in our trip and we never had any issues.

We had an excellent trip! Everything was well organized, with great destinations and fantastic lodging.

David worked hard to organize the trip so that it flowed smoothly for me and I had some amazing opportunities to photograph wildlife.

It was very good and thorough. Thanks for setting up a wonderful trip David! The food on this trip, especially at the Kicheche camps, was soooo wonderful. It was a really great trip and we had many, many highlights. It was really amazing and we definitely want to come back and see this beautiful place called Africa again someday!

Uganda Safaris FAQs

What wildlife can i see in uganda.

A relatively small country, Uganda landscapes are intense which means its wildlife offering is unexpectedly large. Some of the wildlife you can expect to see include:

• Mountain gorilla
• Chimpanzees
• Monkeys (including baboons and golden monkeys)
• Birds (over 1,000 species live in Uganda)

Check out our Uganda wildlife guide for more information on the incredible animals that populate the country.

What languages are spoken in Uganda?

Uganda is a linguistically diverse country with over 40 languages spoken across its various regions. Whilst English is the official language of Uganda and used in government, education and business, some of the other major languages spoken in Uganda include:

• Runyankole-Rukiga

What injections do I need to go to Uganda?

Before travelling to Uganda, it's advisable to consult a travel health professional for personalised guidance on vaccinations. Generally, vaccinations recommended include Yellow Fever (required for entry), routine vaccinations like MMR and DTaP, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Meningitis, and Polio. Due to the risk of malaria, consult a healthcare provider for antimalarial medication and follow preventive measures. Consider vaccinations for Rabies if interacting with animals and discuss cholera vaccination if relevant. Ensuring up-to-date vaccinations and adhering to health precautions will help safeguard your well-being during your trip to Uganda.

What to do before going to Uganda?

Before travelling to Uganda, make sure your passport is valid and apply for a visa if required. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, understand local customs and etiquette, and stay informed about travel advisories.

Can you brush your teeth with tap water in Uganda?

It is generally recommended to use bottled or purified water for brushing your teeth in Uganda, especially if you are not accustomed to the local water supply. While some urban areas might have treated tap water that is safe for locals to use, the quality of tap water can vary, and travellers may be more susceptible to waterborne illnesses.

Uganda Safari Tours

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10 best Uganda safari tour packages

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Nadine Uganda travel expert at TourRadar

8 Days Primates, Wildlife and Water Rafting Uganda Safari (Private tour)

10 days uganda birding, rhinos and primates safari ( private tour), 11 days uganda plus gorillas, 11 days uganda gorilla trekking, big 5 & big cats safari, 5 days queen elizabeth and lake mburo national park, 5 days big five and chimpanzee tracking, 10 days uganda gorilla trekking, big 5 & big cats safari, 7-day the glorious north murchison falls & kidepo valley, 15 days uganda wildlife and activity holiday, 7 day gorillas, wildlife, lake bunyonyi and chimp trek.

“Truly the safari of a lifetime. Recommended by all means!” Martin Janousek, traveled in November 2023

• Gorilla Trekking
• Christmas & New Year
• Exploring the Ziwa Rhino sanctuary to encounter with the endangered White rhinos
• Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge
• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

“The lodge was amazing and we had a big bus just for ourselves. Won't look for another tour operator when we come back.” Nico, traveled in May 2021

• Track rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
• Walk through Bigodi Swamp for birdwatching
• Trek gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

“Epic trip. Had to take one shot at an African Safari in case can't go again. Saw huge number of elephants on land and water, hippos in huge colonies.” Debashis Biswas, traveled in February 2024

• Gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable
• Boat ride on the Victoria Nile to Murchison Falls
• Meet your guide at Entebbe Airport

“Devine Safari Ltd provided top customer service and an experience of a lifetime.” LISA I GLASNER, traveled in August 2023

• Cruise the Nile for hippos and crocodiles
• Trek chimpanzees in Kibale National Park

“I saw the most beautiful sceneries and animals, the accommodations throughout the trip were very nice.” Sophie Dings, traveled in April 2019

• Go on a dawn game drive in Queen Elizabeth Park
• Stop at the Equator for photos and experiments
• Track chimpanzees in the Kyambura Gorge

• Spot lions, giraffes, and elephants on safari
• Take a boat trip to the base of Murchison Falls
• Walk with rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

“The most incredible, life-changing trip!!! Absolutely exceptional in every way.” Emily Jansen, traveled in June 2024

• Trek chimpanzees in Kibale National Forest
• Watch tree-climbing lions in Ishasha
• Explore Murchison Falls from the Nile River

• Witness the Nile's power at Murchison Falls
• Trek with rhinos at Ziwa Sanctuary
• Cruise the Nile, spot hippos and crocodiles

“We were very pleased. We will be happy to recommend Tourradar and Primate World Safaris.” Daniel Flanagan, traveled in December 2019

• Embark on a safari cruise along the Victoria Nile
• Witness the majestic Murchison Falls up close
• Track wild chimpanzees in Kibale National Park

“Eco bamboo tours are outstanding. All communication with Edison (the owner) beforehand was clear and v responsive.” HazelWilford, traveled in June 2022

• Spot wildlife on the Kasenyi Plains game drive
• Trek chimpanzees in the lush Kibale forest
• Drive through Uganda's scenic farmlands to Kibale

More about Uganda

Discover TourRadar

Uganda safari | Luxury, Lodges and Tours

Uganda is an ideal destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable African experience in a uniquely beautiful untamed wilderness.

A fascinating country, with breathtaking landscapes, flora, and fauna. Winston Churchill named Uganda ‘the pearl of Africa’ in 1908, due to its vast scale, profusion of birds, insects & reptiles making it one of the top destinations for an African Safari.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa as well as the most visited national parks in Uganda. The park which is commonly known as “medley of wonders” is an ideal habitat for big game, 10 primate species and over 600 birds’ species.

A fertile land with volcanic soil and many lakes and rivers, the country is mostly located on a plateau. There are also high mountains in the east and west of the country.

Table of Contents

Why Uganda for a safari

As a safari destination, Uganda is famous for being home to rare mountain gorillas. Per the current mountain gorilla census, Uganda has a record highest number of mountain gorillas in the whole world.

Only three countries offer gorilla trekking safaris, of which Uganda is one. The country’s gorilla trekking stands out because of the huge number of gorillas visitors will see, a magnificent sight to behold these intelligent creatures.

The country is also one of the best settings for an adventurous spirit seeking first-hand wildlife experience. Visitors will see the Big Five (African Cape Buffalo, African tree climbing Lions, African Leopards, Southern White Rhino, African Bush Elephants) in the country.

From the mountain gorillas in the Bwindi, chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park and Budongo, Snow-capped mountains of the Rwenzori to the source of the Nile, Uganda is absolutely an outstanding safari destination to visit.

Top attractions visitors can expect from a Uganda safari include:

Uganda is a unique destination offering a wonderful mix of savannah and forest parks. Gorilla safaris and chimp trekking are highlights, but many smaller primates can be seen as well.

Uganda also offers great savannah safaris, and all of the Big Five are present.

Primates are especially well represented in Uganda. Patas monkey, red-tailed monkey, l’Hoest’s monkey, golden monkey, Ugandan red colobus and Uganda mangabe are some of the special species, many found near Lake Bunyonyi in south-western Uganda.

Uganda is also home to a wide variety of antelope species. The Uganda kob, the national antelope, is locally common, while the rare sitatunga antelope is found in six national parks in the country but rarely seen.

Lions are quite common and can be found hunting Uganda kob whilst African bush elephants live in both the grassland and woodland areas whilst Cape buffalo live in dense forests.

In the rivers, lakes and swampy areas, hippos can be seen near the Ntungwe River in Queen Elizabeth NP whilst crocodiles inhabit Murchison Falls National Park and leopards in the savannas and forest areas of Lake Mburo National Park.

Giraffes can also be found living on the savannas where they can find plenty of leaves and grass to eat. They are found in Murchison National Park as well as Kidepo National Park in Uganda.

Uganda’s remarkable avian diversity (more than 1,000 species within an area similar in size to Great Britain) can be attributed to its location between the East African savannah, West African rainforests and the semi-desert of the north.

The country has only two endemic species that only occur in the country, but if you only take East Africa into consideration, there are 150 species to be found only in Uganda. Migrant birds are present from November to April.

Notable birds include the shoebill, Albertine Rift endemic, Guinea-Congo regional species and the crowned hornbill.

Best Parks & Reserves

Uganda has a diverse range of wildlife parks and reserves. Aside from lush forest parks and their fascinating primate denizens, Uganda also has distinct savannah and riverine parks and reserves.

Visitors can go on game drives and bush walks to view the plains game animals and on boating safaris to view birdlife and aquatic fauna.

These national parks can be explored on foot, by 4×4 or by air and make for a truly unique experience with Uganda’s hidden secrets opening up to those that invest the time and effort to dig beneath the surface.

Of particular note amongst all of the incredible parks and game reserves are Bwindi Impenetrable Forest NP, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale NP and Queen Elizabeth NP.

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best place in Uganda to track mountain gorillas. The park protects 40% of the world’s mountain gorilla population and has an incredible 350 species of birds.
• Murchison Falls National Park – Excellent wildlife viewing with four of the big five seen here. Huge herds of elephant and buffalo are common, as are lions. The Victoria Nile bisects the park and boat trips to Murchison Falls are spectacular.
• Kibale National Park – Formerly Kibale Forest NP, this is the best place for chimpanzee trekking in Uganda. Thirteen species of primates have been recorded, the highest number of any Ugandan park.
• Queen Elizabeth National Park – Uganda’s most popular savannah reserve and has the widest variety of wildlife of any Ugandan park across grassland savannah, forests, wetlands and lakes. Four of the Big Five are present and chimp tracking is available.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – The park protects the Ugandan slopes of the majestic Virungas, a range of freestanding volcanoes. Mountain gorilla trekking is popular as well as hiking to the summit of three of the park’s volcanic peaks.
• Budongo Forest – The forest contains two ecotourism sites: Kaniyo Pabidi and Busingiro offering excellent chimpanzee trekking and the Royal Mile, one of the top bird-watching tracks in Uganda.
• Katonga Wildlife Reserve – A low-key wildlife reserve about five hours drive west of the city of Kampala. Several antelope species are easily seen, including the Uganda kob and the marsh-dwelling sitatunga antelope.
• Kidepo Valley National Park – In the remote northeast corner of the country, the park has a true wilderness feel and is a great destination for the adventurous traveler.
• Lake Mburo National Park – This scenic little park, close to Kampala, is home to several wildlife species including Burchell’s zebra, impala, Rothschild’s giraffe, buffalo and defassa waterbuck.
• Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve – Mainly of interest to bird-watchers, the reserve has attractions including hot springs, a Pygmy village and wildlife such as Buffalo, elephants, leopards and chimpanzees.
• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – A private, non-profit, animal sanctuary established in 2005 to reintroduce Southern White Rhinos in the wild, the only place in Uganda where one can observe these endangered creatures in the wild.
• Semuliki National Park – Famous for being home to the largest population of Uganda kobs and birds. The park is a rich wildlife destination with a variety of attractions.

Safari tours

A safari tour package in Uganda is typically organized by a tour operator, safari tour company or via a self drive Africa safari trip.

Spread across the country, including various tour packages, Uganda’s parks and reserves can take several hours/flights to connect to each other.

It is therefore important to take many elements into account when visitors plan their Uganda tour including:

• Getting to Uganda
• Which animals you would like to see
• Budget for the trip
• Travel party (solo, with friends or a larger family group)
• Things to do in Uganda (hot air balloon, hiking)

Guided tour

A guided safari package brings the benefit of:

• Transfer via a Uganda fly in safari /4×4 to the safari camps and lodges
• Luxury lodge packages
• Meals/drinks all catered for
• Safari guides and transport
• Facilities prepared including showers, wifi, cocktails and all requests
• Combined trips to neighboring countries and beach trips
• Tailored trips including chimp trekking tours

Self drive safari

For self-drive African safaris, visitors can hire their own 4×4, whilst accommodation can be secured in park campsites or in the vehicle itself if a campervan option is selected.

Part of the fun of a self drive safari is spotting the abundant wildlife on your own and taking the time to spend viewing your favourite animals.

A normal 2 wheel drive car may be sufficient, and of course cheaper, for some parks however other parks have deeper sand and a 4*4 will be required.

Best time to go to Uganda

The best time to visit Uganda is during its two dry seasons: between December and February, and between June and August, when conditions are particularly good for trekking to see mountain gorillas and chimpanzees.

Game spotting in national parks is also good at this time, as well as between February and March.

Certain periods are more favorable for a safari in the best conditions. To know when to travel to Uganda, visitors should take into consideration the following key criteria:

• Regions visited
• Weather conditions

Uganda safari cost

Uganda is marketed as an ecotourism destination unlike other African countries which have broader tourist markets. This results in lower tourist numbers and prices can be higher due to tourist restrictions on group trek sizes and the cost of permits required for gorilla trekking.

There are multiple factors that can impact the cost of a safari in Uganda including accommodation selected, duration such as week long or 9 day tours , safari costs, tours, flights, transfers, meal options and additional activities visitors may request.

Travelers on a budget can reduce costs by booking their own flights, accommodation and activities as well as hiring a 4*4 to travel between the parks and reserves.

Organizing your safari

There are a number of different options available for organizing your safari in Uganda including:

Organizing your own safari is possible but only recommended for more experienced travelers and visitors on a strict budget. This option requires time and know-how to plan for all flights, transport, meals, accommodation and safari tours.

Without the knowledge of specific safari destinations and logistics in navigating an African country, this may be a challenging option for many travelers.

Tour operators

The biggest tour operators will offer safaris in Uganda where visitors can book a package that will cover their flight, transport, accommodation, activities and food, an ideal option for those with no previous safari experience in preparing for such a trip.

Safari travel agencies

Visitors will often find dedicated safari travel agencies to be the best option in booking their dream safari. These agencies have many years experience in booking safaris as well as multiple partnerships with local tourism networks and lodges/game reserves.

Travel agencies typically offer:

• Tailor-made tours
• Local tour guides
• Trips to must-see wildlife areas and parks
• All transportation
• High quality accommodation at reduced prices

The cost of the service of these specialized agencies can be a bit higher compared to other options, a cost worth bearing given the quality and ease of services provided.

Accommodation

Visitors typically will have the choice between lodges, chalets and campsites as well as African tent camps, suites and bedrooms.

Luxurious facilities are common including swimming pools, restaurants, bars, spas and terraces. Game viewings and plane transfers are organized by the accommodation providers.

Trip preparation

Tourists can visit for up to 3 months with a visa and passports must have at least six months of validity remaining beyond their exit date when deciding the best time to visit Uganda.

Visas are required for citizens of the United States travelling to Uganda. You can apply for a visa at the Ugandan High Commission or apply online for an ‘e-visa’ .

All British passport holders need a tourist visa to enter Uganda. You can apply for a visa at the Ugandan High Commission in London or apply online through this ‘ e-visa external link ’.

EU & Switzerland

EU & Swiss passport holders will need a tourist visa to enter Uganda. You can apply for a visa at the Ugandan High Commission in London or apply online for an ‘e-visa’ .

The CDC and WHO recommend the following Uganda vaccines : Covid-19, Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

Yellow fever may be required if traveling from a yellow fever endemic country.

The CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Uganda take prescription medicine to prevent malaria.

Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Malaria is a risk in Uganda. Consider taking anti-malarial medication if you’re travelling to this area. Other insect-borne diseases include leishmaniasis. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof.

Malaria is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito and so the first line of defence is to protect yourself against mosquito bites. Malaria Prophylaxis may be prescribed to you during your consultation depending on your itinerary.

Check with a travel medicine specialist to see if antimalarials should be considered to help prevent malaria contraction.

For travelers who have been completely immunized against COVID-19, a negative PCR test certificate is no longer necessary to enter or leave the country.

Regardless of whether they have had vaccinations or not, parents of children less than 6 years old do not have to provide proof that their child has a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate.

What to pack

The essential items to pack for your Uganda safari include:

• Neutral coloured clothes
• Long-sleeved shirts protecting against the sun and mosquitoes
• Plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and insect repellent to cover longer trips
• Jackets and sweaters for early morning game drives
• Comfortable walking shoes

The currency of Uganda is the Uganda Shilling (UGX).

USD $1/GBP £0.80 =  Approximately Ugandan Shillings.

Driving in Uganda

Ugandans drive on the left-hand side of the road and visitors driving through parks may require a 4×4, whilst carrying a map & GPS is recommended.

There has been a rise in the number of automatic transmission vehicles in the country which are slowly overtaking manual transmission vehicles.

Visitors should consider travel insurance when planning their trip to help protect and cover the costs of hospitalization or repatriation if required.

Some credit cards may already include travel insurance. Online travel insurance comparators are also useful in finding suitable offers.

How much does a safari in Uganda cost?

A Uganda safari can cost USD $1,200 per person for a simple 3 day safari.

When to go on a safari in Uganda?

The best time to visit Uganda for a safari is during its two dry seasons: between December and February, and between June and August, when conditions are particularly good for trekking to see mountain gorillas and chimpanzees.

Is Uganda a good destination for a safari?

Uganda is a good safari destination due to its variety of incredible chimpanzees and mountain trekking adventures combined with a savannah game viewing experience and incredible birding adventures.

Uganda safari – Planning guide for first-time visitors

A Uganda safari evokes impressions of mythical, old-world Africa . Gorillas travel serenely through misty rainforest. Curious chimpanzees meet your gaze. Elephants march across ochre-hued trails.

The people are wonderful and there is always a sense of going off the beaten track, whether exploring volcanic mountains or drifting around a lake in an indigenous canoe.

For a purely big game experience, Uganda safaris are not the best safaris in Africa . If you are seeking the classic big five or enormous herds then Uganda will leave you disappointed.

However, there is no better destination in the world for meeting wild primates in their natural habitat , including gorillas and chimpanzees. And Uganda is so much more than a safari destination. Uganda is an adventure into vibrancy and vigour, where every day brings surprise.

Why Visit Uganda

Uganda is home to elephants, lions, hippos, buffalo, giraffe, and plenty of other four-legged giants. Still, the abundance of these animals can’t match that of a Kenya safari or Tanzania safari .

A classic big-game safari will be good , especially if it’s your first time to Africa. You will see wild animals roaming epic landscapes and feel the rhythm of the wilderness.

However, Uganda is so special because a big-game safari is only a small part of the experience .

Mountain gorillas are the famous highlight. Two thirds of the world’s population live in Uganda and gorilla trekking is cheaper here than in Rwanda.

Chimpanzee trekking is often forgotten. Uganda is the best place in Africa to get close with our closest wildlife cousins.

Then there are magical lakes , draped in mist and enveloped by rolling green hills; roaring rivers , populated by hippos and dotted with remote camps; arid plains home to desert-adapted animals; and so many different monkeys and macaques it is hard to keep track.

The best Uganda safaris combine these destinations and experiences. They immerse you in an exotic country and can reflect many preconceptions about Africa: untouched , exciting , a little rough around the edges and filled with warm and welcoming people .

Uganda is not an easy country to visit. It is impossible to rush and there will be moments of frustration. You won’t go searching for your wild side here. On a Uganda safari, your wild side will find you .

Unique experiences in Uganda

• Coming face to face with one of the few remaining mountain gorilla troops .
• Paddling across Lake Bunyonyi in a narrow and impossible to navigate local canoe .
• Exploring the behaviour of tree-clinging chimpanzees in Kibale Forest.
• Rushing down the River Nile on some of the world’s ultimate white-water rafting .
• Enjoying an extended four-hour encounter with mountain gorillas, through the new gorilla habituation experience .
• Traveling completely off the beaten track with a rugged big-game safari on the arid Kidepo Valley plains.
• Admiring chimpanzees walking on two legs in remote Semuliki National Park .
• Horse riding and walking with zebra on a safari in Lake Mburo.
• Wandering streets of heritage and change by spending time in old capital Entebbe , and new capital Kampala .
• Lazing away a few days on a tropical island in Lake Victoria .

Experiences common across Uganda

• Camping amid hippos , especially at Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth national parks.
• A baboon or vervet monkey trying to steal your sunglasses.
• Wondering are we nearly there yet as the dirt road goes on and on and on.
• Getting completely lost when trekking , either in a national park or between villages.
• Going to bed dreaming of chimpanzees and gorillas.
• Feeling like an old-world explorer and pushing your own comfort zone.

Essential Information for First-Time Visitors

Uganda requires visitors to be a little travel savvy . The Wi-Fi will be slow or non-existent. You will get lost and confused. Something is going to go wrong and somewhere along the road your plans will unravel.

Sharp negotiation skills are essential, along with an ability to rethink time . Anyone in a rush will quickly become frustrated. Anyone seeking an idiot-proof vacation will struggle.

None of this is intended to be off-putting. Uganda safaris are a wonderful choice as a first-time visit to Africa, even a first-time trip out of Europe. Just come with an open mind , not just about culture and customs, but some of the basic concepts you take for granted, such as time.

Getting to Uganda

Entebbe has Uganda’s only significant international airport and is the country’s transport crossroads.

The typical overland route is Kenya to Uganda to Rwanda, or vice versa. There are direct buses to Jinja and Kampala from various destinations in central and western Kenya. Crossing the border into Rwanda usually requires private transport.

Getting around

Do not underestimate the size of Uganda and the state of the roads. Traveling here takes a lot of time . The main destinations are slung around the country’s outskirts. Maps fail to convey the complicated terrain and topography.

Guided small-group tours cater for a variety of budgets . These offer private transport, usually in small minivans.

Most independent travellers use a network of buses , minibuses , and shared taxis . Timetables are scarce and most only leave when they are full. Often you need a private taxi to complete a journey as public transport doesn’t go directly to the national parks .

The majority of luxury travellers make some use of domestic flights , especially the route from Entebbe to the gorillas of Bwindi. These are convenient for time-pressed visitors but will seem expensive to most.

Culture and customs

Uganda is not an easy country to understand. It is home to almost 56 different tribes , that were artificially shoved together when the Europeans divided Africa.

Cultural contrasts are pronounced. Unfortunately these have also been bloody. The wounds of civil war and Idi Amin’s dictatorial reign are mostly healed, but the scars are clear to see.

It is really worth reading up on the country’s history before you travel, just to provide context to what you may see.

Still, do not expect a downbeat vibe. Uganda is vibrant and overflowing with energy . The experience is even more vibrant when you place some trust in the locals.

Many people will greet and befriend you. Unique cultural experiences can come everyday, as long as you trust in saying yes to where the locals want to take you.

In the West we think of time as a linear concept, marked by the hours of a clock. You can calculate how long everything takes and plan a day accordingly. This is not how time operates on Uganda safaris. It really is best to wake with the sun and see what happens.

English remains the official language but it is not universally spoken. There are almost as many languages as tribes so you can expect to meet people with some communication barriers.

Indicative costs

Most visitors are surprised at the cost of a Uganda safari . Economically, this is one of the poorest countries in East and Southern Africa. Basic infrastructure is often lacking. You will find poverty and enormous unemployment.

However, Uganda is an expensive country to visit , either on a tour or as an independent traveler. National park fees quickly add up and the gorillas are an eye-watering hit to a tight budget.

A limited tourist infrastructure and lack of mass tourism reduces your options, as well as increasing your costs. It is difficult to import anything into the heart of Africa, meaning certain Western comforts will cost far more than at home.

Uganda can be cheap if you live like the locals . That means traveling on public transport, eating at local eateries, and staying at very simple roadside guesthouses. Many visitors find this beyond their comfort zone over a prolonged period.

Uganda safaris will be expensive as there are high costs to exploring the wilderness in a country with limited infrastructure. Realistically, budget $60 per day as a minimum, ideally a figure around $100. Then factor in gorilla and chimpanzee trekking on top of this.

Remember that tourism is integral to local economy and the money you spend can trickle down a long way.

When to Visit Uganda for Safari – Month by Month Guide

June to August – dry season and peak season for travel

• Peak season for travel ; book gorilla and chimpanzee permits a month in advance.
• Mostly dry , with beautiful green landscapes as the rains have just finished.
• A pleasant climate , with warm and humid-free days, then cool evenings.
• Moderate to good game viewing throughout the country.

September to October – warm, dry and humid; good game viewing

• Landscapes shrivel and are no longer as lush and beautiful, but these dry conditions are good for viewing big game.
• The country warms and it can be sweaty when you’re not in the mountains.
• A quiet two months for tourism.

November to December – rains and heat

• November’s rains are usually more intense than in Kenya and Tanzania.
• No Christmas rush of visitors as the climate keeps many people away.

January to March – premium game viewing, warm and dry

• The long dry season months and still without crowds.
• The best time of year for a big-game Uganda safari .
• Mostly arid landscapes , without the extravagant green the country is known for.
• The long rains usually start in March but this date is increasingly unpredictable.

April and May – a wet and wild adventure

• The major rainy season , with torrential downpours an everyday occurrence.
• Some roads are washed away and areas can become inaccessible .
• Off season , with very few other tourists anywhere in Uganda.
• Off season prices and no need to plan trekking permits long in advance.

Guide to Uganda’s Safari Destinations

Planning an itinerary

On a Uganda safari there is beauty in surprise . Rush around and you will not see much more than the road and a few famous primates. Slow down your itinerary and all sorts of magic takes place.

Like a rare colobus monkey troop elegantly passing through the camp. Or a lion hidden in a tree, surveying a buffalo herd. Maybe an impromptu invitation to a village shebeen , as mist circulates through the surrounding rainforest.

A trusted method is to choose the destinations you want to visit , but be prepared to drop one or two from the itinerary. It’s better to visit less places and explore them properly, than cram six or seven parks into only two weeks.

Kampala and Entebbe

If you fly to Uganda you will land at Entebbe International . Entebbe itself is a half deserted colonial town along the shores of Lake Victoria. It is a calm and somewhat charming insight into a former time.

Kampala is only 30 minutes away by road, but absolutely different in terms of atmosphere and experience. This is Uganda’s bustling capital city, where every street is chocked full of intrigue, crowds, street traders, minibus taxis, potholes, dust, colour, smiles, shouts, extravagant market stalls, and so much to ignite the imagination about Africa.

In short, Entebbe is calm, Kampala is brilliant, but in your face and overwhelming. You will need to pass through as this is where most itineraries must start and end. Plan to minimize your time but understand that a layover will be very interesting .

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Home to two thirds of the world’s mountain gorillas, Bwindi provides an experience beyond what the imagination can conjure .

This is where you come for gorilla trekking . Permits need to be arranged in advance and there are four different trekking locations. Each of these has its pros and cons.

This definitive guide to mountain gorilla trekking has all the information you need to plan a gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and covers all the different options, along with tips on maximizing the experience.

Essentially, you trek into the wild and can spend one hour with a habituated mountain gorilla troop . Although the permits are expensive and off-putting (USD 650 in 2019), virtually everyone believes it was worth it.

When planning a Uganda safari allow for three nights in Bwindi . You will need one night before the trek and the day of the trek. Such a mysterious and dramatic landscape is always worth another day, purely for admiring where you are.

To get even closer with the world’s largest primates consider the new gorilla habituation experience , a chance to spend four hours with researchers habituating a troop. You do not come as close, but there is an enhanced air of authenticity.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga is the alternative to Bwindi for seeing gorillas . Or at least it was, 15-20 years ago.

Unfortunately, Mgahinga’s habituated gorilla troops move across an unmarked rainforest border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Sightings are uncertain and why pay for a 60% chance, when in Bwindi the encounters are practically guaranteed?

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Half a day’s drive north of Bwindi, backdropped by the same Ruwenzori Mountains, lies Uganda’s flagship big-game destination .

The lions climb trees and are relatively easy to find. Numerous elephant and buffalo march across the plains. Over 600 bird species flutter around, offering some of the best birding in East Africa.

Wild chimpanzees and endangered macaques lead the primate encounters. Then there are hippo pods encountered on short boat safaris.

Throw in a quintessential assortment of zebra , wildebeest , and different antelope , and this arresting park is worthy of at least two full days.

Note that the highlight is wildlife variety , rather than a dazzling abundance. So if you have just been in Serengeti National Park , or on a Kenya safari, you could be underwhelmed.

But if a Uganda safari is your first safari, Queen Elizabeth National Park is an excellent first choice . Lions and chimpanzees in the same park is unheard of anywhere else.

Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale is contiguous with Queen Elizabeth National Park . The classic Uganda safari is to combine this trilogy of destinations: Kibale to Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi, or vice versa.

Put simply, Kibale Forest is the best destination in Africa for chimpanzee trekking . Like the gorillas, you can spend one hour with a habituated troop, deep in their natural habitat.

Also like Bwindi, allow three nights here : one before the trek, a full day for the chimps, then another day to explore some of the park’s other trails.

12 different primate species live in the forest and some of these are incredibly rare, including the Ugandan red colobus and L’Hoest’s monkey.

Elephants also travel through the park, along with Cape buffalo , bushbuck , sitatunga, and other elegant antelope species .

The lack of vehicles makes this a surreal and special place. In contrast to Bwindi, there are many other walking trails you can enjoy, meaning more experiences than simply gorillas or chimpanzees.

Kibale is a wonderful destination for walking safaris . If you have the time and are a keen trekker, make Kibale number one on your Uganda safari list.

Semuliki National Park

Along the Congo border, in a region of dramatic natural splendour, lies this large but mostly undiscovered forest park .

Semuliki provides the less touristic alternative to chimpanzee and primate trekking in Kibale Forest.

The monkeys and chimps are a little harder to see ; the trails are rougher and need greater stamina; and the choice of accommodation leaves a lot to be desired.

However, those who brave Semuliki can have the park virtually to themselves. This is where the wild side will find you , along with plenty of bugs and mosquitoes.

You can comfortably spend two to four days walking the rainforest trails. A day of chimpanzee trekking requires a special permit .

While the chimpanzee experience is similar to Kibale, Semuliki’s chimps are most likely to be encountered on forest clearings. This is where you may witness chimpanzees walking upright , an evocative and inspiring insight into how humans evolved from these creatures.

Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo is neatly on route between Bwindi and Kampala . Devoid of lions and elephants, it’s a pleasant little park ideal for walking and horseback safaris.

Hippos live in the lake, impala and eland gallop around, and you can come very close to zebra and Cape buffalo . Game drives are less than inspiring but the walks and rides are very good.

There used to be a lot more, but wildlife suffered enormously during civil war in the 1980s.

It’s a good and cheap destination for self-sufficient campers wanting walking safaris and slow exploration. Or a nice place to break the journey back to the capital.

Lake Bunyonyi

Mist rises redolently across Lake Bunyonyi, revealing a landscape of volcanic green hills and tiny Ugandan villages . Small camps dot the lakeshore and locals go fishing from their elongated canoes.

This is a gorgeous destination, a place to rest and relax after a Uganda safari , a setting that really takes the breath away.

Most visitors come to Lake Bunyonyi after their safari. It is located south of Bwindi , on route to Rwanda. Activities include canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and generally just hanging around doing nothing at all.

Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls has always received mixed reviews. There is good and diverse wildlife , including most of Africa’s famous four-legged giants. The actual falls are stunning and birders are always impressed.

Still, the wildlife is not plentiful and the experience is similar, just not as good, as Queen Elizabeth National Park. It can be underwhelming.

Including Murchison Falls in a Uganda safari eats up a lot of time . It will be a full day of travel to get here from Kampala or Kibale.

Kidepo Valley National Park

There is wild. And then there is Kidepo Valley, an arid savannah along Uganda’s border with South Sudan.

This is forgotten Africa , a place in the heart of a continent that has even evaded poachers. In most African safari destinations the wildlife has grown accustomed to vehicles and visitors.

In Kidepo Valley National Park there is a very real possibility you will be attacked by buffalo, charged at by elephants, or potential prey for hyena. It can start feeling like you are just another mammal , no different from all the others.

Wild dogs move in packs, cheetah and leopard lurk around the savannah, and all sorts of antelope kick up dust.

It is an incredible destination for people returning to Africa seeking a truly wild Uganda safari experience . For the connoisseurs it is a highlight of the continent.

However, Kidepo Valley is really out in the sticks , two long days of driving from Kampala and just as far from any other Uganda safari destination. Safari flights are worth the money because the road journey can feel torturous.

Once in Kidepo Valley National Park  allow at least three full days , ideally even longer. In such a wild place you must search for the treasures. Plus, there can be no clear schedules in such a lost and uninhabited place.

Jinja is a pleasant and somewhat dusty town draped around the River Nile and Lake Victoria waterfront . It is a good place to ease into the Ugandan experience when coming from Kenya, or even after landing in Entebbe (Entebbe to Jinja is only two hours by road).

In Jinja you can enjoy some of the world’s best white-water rafting , a full day of tackling grade IV and grade V rapids on the River Nile.

Lake Victoria

Islands dot Africa’s largest lake . Some have been commandeered by exclusive resorts, others remain cheap to visit and carefree.

Think beaches, lazy days, water activities, and probably a few too many beers in the sun. Like Lake Bunyonyi these islands are good places to relax at the end of a Uganda safari , and to also break the journey back to Kampala.

Bugala and Rusinga islands have upmarket accommodation while the more remote Ssese islands have stayed a hidden gem for more than a decade now.

Planning a Uganda Safari

Search for Uganda safaris online and dozens of local safari companies come up. Note that quality varies wildly and there is no standardised mark of quality or tourist accreditation.

Uganda safaris do not sell out . Other than gorilla trekking in July and August, you can comfortably arrange a safari once you arrive in the country.

A good approach is to contact different operators in Kampala and Entebbe. Ask them difficult questions and see how they can respond to specific interests. Then go visit them after arriving in the country.

This naturally adds a day or two onto the itinerary but means less risk and more room for price negotiation.

An alternative is to plan a Uganda safari in advance . We have partnerships with trusted African safari specialists who can give you personalised and impartial advice. Click here to find out more .

So, good luck and get ready for a raw connection with your wild side . Uganda is a country like no other and there is a good reason why Churchill called it “truly the Pearl of Africa.”

About The Author

Editorial Team

Related posts.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda – How to plan & top tips for Bwindi Forest

Kidepo Valley National Park – A gem among Uganda game parks

Mountain gorilla trekking: ultimate how to guide

4 thoughts on “uganda safari – planning guide for first-time visitors”.

Thank you for sharing this piece of information to especially the first time visitors, as it is indeed very comprehensive and you would not want to stop reading.

The beauty of Uganda is unmatched. thank you Africa Freak for this beautiful article

Africa Freak, thank you for sharing this information about Uganda safaris. I love the writing and the photos. Great tourism information worth reading

I really enjoyed reading the “Uganda Safaris” blog on Africa Freak. The vivid descriptions and stunning photographs truly transported me to the heart of Uganda’s diverse and breathtaking wilderness.

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Planning Your First Uganda Safari

The Ultimate Guide To Planning Your First Uganda Safari

Traveling to Uganda on safari is the most memorable and life-changing of leisure holidays. You’ll fall in love with safari life in Africa. The first time you go on a game drive, see an elephant, touch a rhino, giraffes, and watch lions climb trees, the moment will stay with you forever. The most profound of all Uganda safari experiences is the close encounter with the higher apes. That little moment you’ll spend close to a mountain gorilla or band of chimpanzees will profoundly change your relationship with nature. 

We live in this giant wildlife reserve and use every leisure time we can spare to inspect this destination’s treasure trove. We have been on countless Uganda safaris and work with numerous safari lodges. We have traveled extensively through the Pearl of Africa as travel bloggers. For us, anytime is safari time because our love for the wide-open spaces, the bush, and all the beautiful creatures in it reincarnates every single day.

Planning your first Uganda safari may be a daunting experience, but with a bit of research and local expert advice, it becomes the most memorable journey you ever make. We’ve written this first-timer’s guide to making planning your holiday in Uganda a great memory.

Why Go On A Uganda Safari

When and where to go, what to expect.

Your first Uganda safari will unwrap vast horizons, open skies, emerald landscapes, and rich tropical forests. Take more days on your first-time safari for a great memorable experience. A slow safari will allow you to immerse yourself in the raw wilderness, to get up close and personal with primates , meeting people of different cultures and ways of life, and contributing to the conservation of the very places and animals you’ve come to see.

You may have seen a lion or elephant in an enclosure at a zoo or in a wildlife documentary on the National Geographic channel. But there is a profound difference when you come upon a band of chimpanzees, a herd of elephants, or a pride of lions in their natural habitat with no fences between you and no commercial breaks to interrupt the action.

A longer Uganda safari allows you a chance to experience indigenous cultures. Whether through traditional foods that might appear on the menu or perhaps interacting with local tribespeople. Uganda Safaris can leave you with a new perspective on life as you witness different ways of living in the remote villages you walk through.

Most Uganda safari holidays are eco-friendly and contribute a big chunk to the conservation of wildlife resources. Uganda’s tourism generates much-needed income to fund conservation efforts. For example, gorilla tourism ensures that the conservation and protection of the mountain gorillas and their sanctuary are well supported. Uganda safaris operators, camps, and lodges directly employ people and resources from local communities.

Going on your first Pearl of Africa safari journey will be a break from the hustle and bustle of daily modern life. It’s a change of scenery, an adventure, and maybe even a culture shock. As the sun rises over the savannah plains or sinks in the Rwenzori Mountain backdrop, you will catch your breath and embrace the silence of these moments, knowing that they will remain in your memory long after you have returned home.

Uganda is a well-endowed destination with many incredible attractions to visit, each with its own charms and attractions. The country has a warm and sunny tropical climate, mostly throughout the year. But different regions within the country experience a variety of climates and weather conditions. 

When planning your first Uganda safari, the best time to travel depends very much on the destination activity you’ve chosen. Generally, it’s best to go during the dry season, when water is scarce, and animals tend to gather in places where the water hasn’t dried up. 

Dirt roads are also easier to navigate during the dry season, and so you can expect to see a lot more animals during the two dry seasons of December to January and June to August. 

Note, though, that since the dry season is considered peak season for Uganda safaris, it will likely come with a heftier price tag. If you’re expecting to observe the mountain gorillas in the impenetrable forest of Bwindi, be sure also to consider the availability of gorilla permits. 

Here are five Uganda safari destinations for first-timers to consider:

1. Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Uganda offers outstanding gorilla jungle experiences. Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the two gorilla habitats and protects more at least half of the last mountain gorillas worldwide. The other half live on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains and is shared between Uganda’s Mgahinga, DRC’s Virunga, and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Parks.

Bwindi’s 19 habituated gorilla families at four trailheads around the park boundaries offer guaranteed mountain gorilla sightings. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is a year-round activity.

But because gorillas live in rainforests, many trekkers will recommend that you trek during the drier and cooler months of January and February and June to September.

The reason why it’s called gorilla trekking is that there’s no way to predict where the gorillas will be on any given day. It would be best if you came prepared for anything, from a 15-minute walk in the impenetrable jungle to six hours of tortuous trekking. But in the dry season, trekking is not as difficult as in the wet season, so six hours in the jungle is not a torturous ordeal.

Mountain gorillas are foraging wild animals that cover a vast territory of the jungle on any given day. Guides have to rely on their tracking skills, not GPS tags, to find them. There are no used trails or signposts to lead you to the mountain giants. Rangers find where the gorillas built their nests to sleep last night, and from there, track their movements to their location.

The jungle terrain is slippery, uneven, dump, and misty. If it’s your first Uganda safari experience , it’s a good idea to hit the gym two hours a day for three weeks before your gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi. But it’s all worth it , as spotting a gorilla in the wild can be a life-changing experience .

While gorilla trekking permits are much cheaper than in neighboring Rwanda, Uganda is not an excellent choice for a short safari. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a 10-hour drive from Entebbe International Airport, and the trek is generally physically demanding. 

Although you can take a small chartered or scheduled flight that lands 3-hours outside Bwindi, we recommend you spare at least three days to enjoy the amenities of this gorilla destination.

Where to stay in Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking

Top 6 Luxury Lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

When is the best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda?

July and August are right in the midst of Uganda’s dry season (June to September) are very popular for gorilla trekking because of the clear skies and sunny conditions. Keep in mind that the gorillas live in the rainforest habitat, which is very wet, and it could rain any time of the day.

In Uganda, gorilla permits are currently (2021) sold by UWA on promotion for USD 400 for non-residents. But the regular price of a Uganda gorilla permit is USD 700. So the best time to see mountain gorillas in Uganda is now. Just go! 

When planning your first Uganda safari and considering gorilla trekking in Bwindi to be on your all-inclusive itinerary , many travelers who’ve been here recommend adding the savannah game drives in the nearby Queen Elizabeth National Park.

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2. Queen Elizabeth National Park

For many travelers, Uganda safari means Queen Elizabeth National Park, the oldest and most popular park in Uganda. QENP offers a high chance of spotting Uganda’s big game animals like elephants, buffalo , lions, hippos, pushbacks, and Uganda kobs.

The Maramagambo forest at the foot of the rift valley escarpment is home to seven diurnal primates ; Chimpanzee, L’hoest’s, Red-Tailed, Vervet, and Blue Monkey, Baboon, and the Black and White Colobus, plus nocturnal species such as Bushbaby And Potto.

Aside from the big game animals , Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to 95 mammal species – more than any other park in Uganda, and supports a remarkable number of bird species: the last count totaled 612 bird species.

Of animals, there is plainly no shortage. Hippos in huge numbers wheeze and wallow. Buffalo includes many ochre animals, a product of interbreeding with the forest buffalo of the Congo. Lions climb fig trees and lay in them all day keeping a sleepy eye on the antelope herds. Elephants roam the plains, although not so big or heavily armed with ivory as the Murchison variety. Topi graze in large herds under the sneaky eyes of the treed lions. The aquatic birds rival those of the Nile.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most popular park in Uganda. Many choose to combine a game drive in QENP to visit our foraging cousin chimpanzees in Kibale Forest or see the magnificent mountain gorillas in Bwindi.

It can be challenging to find safaris that offer enough activities for the kids while still being an easily accessible see to visit, but QENP fits the requirements perfectly. It’s a good choice for a first-time family safari in Uganda.

The area has almost entirely a warm climate, has excellent roads, and many lodges have a children’s play area, nanny service, and child-friendly activities. Besides, up-market lodges offer Junior Ranger programs where children learn to track animals.

The best time to plan for your first Uganda safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park is during the dry seasons of June to August and December to February.

3. Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale

Suppose you are planning your first Uganda safari, and you have only one activity to choose from. In that case, it should be spending precious time with the habituated chimpanzee troops in Kibale National Park.

Kibale Forest is powerfully and mysteriously attractive to nature lovers who come to view a wide range of forest birds and track chimpanzees and other twelve primate species (the highest on the continent) that find refuge within the park. 

The Park’s scenic appeal, affordable chimps tracking permits, and the rising number of safari lodges around the sanctuary make it one of the top destinations in Uganda and a great alternative to the southern gorilla destination Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

The most popular activity in Kibale National Park is the guided chimpanzee tracking excursion out of Kanyanchu. Almost as popular is the guided walking trail through the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, which is probably better for general primates viewing and one of the finest birding trails in the country.

Immediately as you enter this pristine jungle, you will feel a profound sense of the freshness of the dew, the fragrances of endemic flowers, and the musty scents left behind by chimp troops in the canopy. The sounds are also alien, from the distant echoed hoot of red colobus monkeys to the exotic chirping of endemic birds.

In the distance, you may hear the sound of one of the park’s elephants plowing a path into the trees, and all-around your camp, there will be evidence of four-legged visitors, like the bushbuck and the warthogs. Gaze up, and a single scene might capture the iconic and the unique as an olive long-tailed cuckoo will fly above a small buffalo herd.

The best time to visit Kibale National Park for chimpanzee trekking is during the dry seasons of  December to February and June to July. Walking the trails is more accessible at this time, and the overall chimpanzee experience more enjoyable.

June to September is the most favorable dry season for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking , and most travelers consider it the peak/high season. Permits are scarce during this time, and safari lodges hike their prices to meet the demand.

4. The Roaring Murchison Falls

In 1884, Sir Samuel Baker traveling with his wife Florence on a historical Nile expedition, wrote;

“Upon rounding the corner in our canoes, a magnificent sight burst upon us…Rushing through a gap that clift the rock exactly before us, the river, contracted from a grand stream, was pent up in a narrow gorge scarcely fifty yards (50m) in width. Roaring furiously through the rock-bound pass, it plunged in a single leap of about 120 feet (40m) perpendicular into a dark abyss below.”

Murchison Falls is a roaring waterfall along the Nile that violently explodes through a narrow six-meter gorge on the edge of the Albertine Rift. The falls are the icon that gives Murchison Falls National Park its name, one of the top destinations in Uganda.

At a powerful force of over 300 cubic meters per second, the Nile pushes through the narrow ravine bouncing off igneous rocks 43 meters down before continuing on its north-bound journey. Murchison Falls is the most powerful waterfall on the continent.

Seeing this enormously impressive waterfall splashing 140 feet up and cutting the horizon against the sky is an unforgettable spectacle first-timers shouldn’t miss out on. Your first Uganda safari in Murchison will be pretty rewarding.

And that’s not all. Just below Murchison Falls, another moment-grabbing sight are the grazers that can often be found hanging in the waters of the Nile. At your tented camp at night, this hippo , a nocturnal feeder, will emerge and spend the entire evening searching for grass.

On the Nile banks, just a few meters away from the falls, hundreds of birds color the scene blending their sounds with that of the falls to create a roaring wild orchestra. This type of wildlife diversity is breathtaking. Imagine thousands of birds alongside buffalo, crocodiles, and elephants. 

Murchison Falls National Park is the largest in Uganda and is also home to lions, leopards, and hundreds of birds, including the rare shoe-billed stork. Over three-quarters of the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe and the second-largest population of elephants in the country live in MFNP. On a game drive or boat safari, you’ll spot several other herbivores, including Jackson’s hartebeest, buffalo, oribi, waterbuck, Uganda kob antelope, and reedbuck.

Hot and dry, December, January & February are the best months to visit Murchison Falls National Park. Thirsty animals concentrate in enormous numbers on the Victoria Nile River backs. At the same time, the September, October & November summer rainy season turns the Nile Banks into a sensational bird-watching destination.

When planning your first Uganda safari, adding Murchison falls to the gorilla trekking destinations will not be easy, for the park sits a little far from the southwestern safari routes. The nearest top destination is Kibale National Park, 230 mi (9 hours drive), or Kidepo Valley 250 mi northeast. Therefore plan your journey with enough days to enjoy Uganda.

5. Island Hopping at Lake Bunyonyi

“There’s nothing like that powerful moment when the mystical scene opened up to us for the first time after arriving at Arcadia Lodge, a cottage high up on a hill with the most breathtaking panorama of Lake Bunyonyi.” Helen, notwithoutmypassport.com

Lake Bunyonyi (place of birds) is one of the Natural Wonders in Uganda. Dotted with at least 20 small islands and encircled by steep terraced hills, Bunyonyi is a magical spot. For hippies, it’s a popular day trip out of Kabale and has been for decades. 

Over the past few years, the lake has further gained popularity thanks to a proliferation of budget and other campsites and resorts around the small fishing village of Rutinda (also known as Kyabahinga) and nearby islands.

Lake Bunyonyi is framed by lush, green-terraced hills that reach a height of 2,200-2,478m, but it’s the small islands of various shapes and sizes scattered across the calm waters that make it most magical — you could admire them all day. 

It’s a sight that reinvents itself every hour or two with the ever-changing climate and direction of the sun. In the early morning, the islands weave through cotton candy-like streams of mist and, in the afternoon, they’re bathed in the warm glow of the sun. Later, they’re silhouetted against a dim sky as evening approaches. Occasionally in the day, the islands vanish from sight completely, hidden under a blanket of clouds. But in just an hour, they emerge from obscurity like enchanted pirate ships.

Apart from worshipping the scenic landscapes from a hilltop, there’s plenty to do here, so we recommend spending at least two or three days on Bunyonyi shores or one of the islands.

The lake is one of the few in Uganda, free of bilharzia, hippos, and crocodiles. You’ll find it a bit difficult to refrain from taking a dip. Besides swimming, you can go island hopping in a hand-made canoe, go hiking, go on a walking safari , or bird watching around the lake.

There are a few things you should know when planning your first Uganda safari or any other big African adventure, no matter where you’re headed;

1. The price of a Uganda Safari

A Uganda safari does not have to break the bank. There is a common misconception that Africa safaris are reserved for the big earners, retirees, or honeymooners. With careful research, you can find safari experiences that aren’t prohibitively expensive as most all-inclusive Uganda safari operators include your accommodation, meals, drinks, and guided adventures. A Uganda safari is actually of good value.

Exactly how much is a Uganda safari? 

A Uganda safari can cost anywhere from USD 100 to slightly above USD 1,000 per person, per day. The cost will depend on a number of factors like the ones estimated below. – Decent accommodation with a day’s meals – $100 – $1,500 per night – Transport 4×4 – $100 – $300 per day – Gorilla permit $700/$1,500 per person – Chimpanzee Permit $150/$200 per person – Guide walk – $30 – $50 per person – Park entrance fee $10 – $40 per person – Vehicle park entrance $15 – $150 per vehicle – Camping tent $30 – $40 – Local Flights $180 – $350 between two destinations – Any miscellanies and extra things don’t cost more than $50 a day. – Local operators charge between 10% – 35% for ground handling.

2. Early Rising

The early bird catches the worm, so expect to get out of bed bright and early for optimal savannah game viewing. Animals are most active at first light and again around dusk, meaning you can expect some very early starts to your game drives. 

Even if you’re not a morning person, force yourself to be one for those early morning drives. You will usually be given tea or coffee and a few biscuits to start your day and will have breakfast when you return to camp after your drive.

3. Sundowners

Sundowners is a word you will happily become acquainted with on safari. These are the drinks you will enjoy during the golden hour as the sun sinks over the horizon, usually in a suitably picturesque and photogenic location.

4. Between Activities

On safari, there is always downtime. Between your morning and afternoon game drives, you will have plenty of time to soak up your surroundings, relax, nap, or read. 

Dinners will often be served by the campfire — a three-course meal under the stars followed by sitting around the fire swapping safari stories.

5. Manage Your Expectations

You’re not guaranteed to see anything you have on your tick-off list. There are no guarantees when it comes to safaris. We are talking about wild animals in huge national parks, most of the time without any fences or barriers to hamper their movements. 

While most animals do have a general territory that they stick to, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll see them in it. Also, leave the big game tick-off list. There are smaller animals that are interesting to watch on the plains or in the rainforest jungle.

It’s not just with the animals that you need to lower your expectations. The African atmosphere, cultures, language, food, and music are quite different from yours or what you read about. Allow the destination to surprise, teach, and wow you. At the end of your first Uganda safari, you should have new experiences that have violated your beliefs. That’s what Africa safari is all about.

How To Prepare Your First Uganda Safari

1. passport & visas.

Nationals of most countries require a visa to enter Uganda. Visas can be bought in advance electronically online https://visas.immigration.go.ug/ (to reduce human contact) or at any Ugandan embassy or high commission abroad. Still, usually, it’s simpler to buy the visa upon arrival. On arrival is a straightforward procedure that takes a few minutes at Entebbe International Airport or any overland border.

Though some queuing and social distancing are inevitably involved, most people will still find it more convenient, not to mention cheaper, than traveling twice into the middle of London (for example) to submit and later collect their visas.

Visa rulings are prone to change, so all visitors must check the current situation with their travel agent or a Ugandan diplomatic mission before they travel.

A standard Uganda single-entry visa, valid for three months, costs USD 50. Student visas cost USD 20. Multiple-entry visa valid for 12 months, costs USD 100, 24 months visa costs USD 150, and 24-36-months visa costs USD 200.

Travelers with a single-entry visa intending to leave and return to Uganda (e.g., to trekking gorillas in Rwanda or visiting nearby Kenya) may find it more helpful to apply for an East African Visa (cross-border joint visa).

The East African visa allows entry into all three countries (Kenya, Uganda & Rwanda) on a single visa which costs USD 100.

Recommended for you: Uganda Visa & Entry Requirements

2. Vaccinations And Medicines

Covid-19 Vaccination is essential for travel these days. Although not required for entry, make sure you have one before you travel long distances. Uganda requires that you have a valid Negative PCR Test done 72 hours before entry or exit. Although you may have gotten a COVID-19 vaccine, you’ll still need a test done.

Make sure you have your shots and medications in order. You will usually need a few vaccinations as well as antimalarials and any prescriptions. 

Vaccinations you will require usually include yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, and typhoid. 

Some vaccinations take several weeks to take full effect, so get your shots done way in advance. For more information on destination-specific vaccines, consult the Centers for Disease Control’s destination list. Speak to your GP or a travel medicine clinic three months in advance.

3. Travel Insurance

Get travel insurance! We recommend buying full coverage, including trip cancelation insurance. 

Comprehensive travel insurance is vital for an African safari. Your adventures are likely to take you off the beaten track and away from easily accessible medical care. Should something happen, it is essential to have a travel insurance plan that covers healthcare, lost or stolen luggage, and canceled or delayed flights. 

Whichever option you go for, make sure it covers all activities you plan on taking part in while you are in Uganda. It is hard to know how much cover you need. As a guide, the UK’s independent consumer watchdog recommends a minimum cover level of £5,000,000 for British travelers heading worldwide. They advise that in most cases, this should be enough to cover emergency medical evacuation, any medical bills while in the country, and medical repatriation to your home country if required.

Ensuring the full cost of your first Uganda safari, some insurance companies put a maximum cost limit on the value of the trip they will insure. In the UK, this is typically around £5,000 per person. Many will offer extensions to cover the total value of trips for additional premiums.

Travel insurance providers increasingly include a cover of various forms against Covid-19. As international travel returns, we expect all major travel insurers will include Covid-19 cover in their policies. 

The Covid-19 insurance may include medical cover if you are infected and cover against disruption to your trip caused by travel advice, travel bans, and quarantine requirements relating to Covid-19.

3. What To Pack for Your First Uganda Safari

Two simple rules to bear in mind when deciding what to pack on your first Uganda safari trip. Your packing list should include everything that might not be readily available when you need it and carry as minimal as possible. 

Somewhat contradictory rules, you might think, and you’d be right — so the key is finding the right balance, something that probably depends on personal experience as much as anything. If it came to it, you could easily travel to Uganda with little more than a change of clothes, a few basic toiletries, and a medical kit. 

For what to wear , there are a few things to consider when dressing for the African bush . Morning activities can be chilly, no matter the time of year, so pack some warm layers that you can peel off as the day starts to warm up. Avoid brightly colored clothing; stick to beige, green, and brown to blend in better to your surroundings. 

Sun protection is a must, so pack a good hat and sunglasses. Long pants and boots are essential if you are planning any gorilla trekking or walking. It’s also a good idea to pack a swimsuit for the camp pool in the heat of the day. 

Pack a sturdy pair of binoculars. They will make a massive difference to your trip. Pack plenty of sanitizers, facemasks, and insect repellent, and spray yourself liberally with it, especially at dusk.

Take a look at this detailed packing list to get a great picture of what you need in your bag.

4. Cameras And Photography

Be sure to bring a camera with extra memory cards, extra batteries, and/or a power pack to make sure you’ll be able to capture all the action.

A word of advice, though, leave the dedicated wildlife photography and filming to National Geographic professionals. Put the camera down occasionally and absorb your experience. It will make the photos you do take that much more memorable.

You might like reading: Important tips to help you improve your photography on safari

When out on a game drive, keep your voice down. Don’t be the person hollering across the vehicle when everyone else is trying to keep quiet and avoid scaring off the animals. Take a night drive if you can, but don’t expect to get good pictures (unless you bring professional equipment). Night drives are the time to put the camera away and just watch. Bring a headlamp! You will use it every time you need to walk outside after dark and maybe even read in bed.

Your first Uganda safari will be an adventure of a lifetime, exploring faraway places surrounded by unique landscapes and spectacular wildlife. There are plenty of great reasons to go on a safari. Whether you want to see the incredible mountain gorillas, get up close and personal with wildlife, take your family on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, or just relax in nature, a Uganda safari will not disappoint.

The Author, Nkuringo Safaris

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UGANDA: THE PEARL OF AFRICA AWAITS

Discover the magic of Uganda, a pristine African paradise teeming with wildlife, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Known as the "Pearl of Africa," this enchanting country offers unforgettable safari experiences that will leave you breathless.

From tracking majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat to exploring the vast savannahs teeming with lions, elephants, and more, Uganda has it all. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, encounter diverse wildlife, and create lifelong memories.

Why visit Uganda? Here, you can embark on thrilling gorilla trekking adventures, witness the dramatic Murchison Falls, and explore the serene shores of Lake Victoria. Uganda's unique blend of lush rainforests, rolling savannahs, and pristine lakes make it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With Nandi Adventures, you'll experience expertly guided tours, personalized itineraries, and sustainable travel practices, ensuring your safari is not only memorable but also responsible.

HANDCRAFTED SAFARIS

WILDLIFE SAFARIS

Gorilla trekking.

At Nandi Adventures, we meticulously craft each safari to be a unique and unforgettable experience. Our goal is to curate journeys that go beyond the ordinary, offering unparalleled access to the heart of Uganda. From tracking elusive wildlife through the remotest landscapes to immersing yourself in rich cultural encounters, we design itineraries that cater to your specific interests and desires. Let us curate a safari that unveils the rarest animals, the most spectacular wildlife events, and the deepest connections with local communities.

How to BOOK YOUR SAFARI with us

Ready to embark on your African adventure? Choose from our curated safari packages or let us create a custom itinerary tailored to your desires. Explore our destination and experience guides for inspiration . Discover ready-made safaris designed to showcase the best of Uganda. At Nandi Adventures, we specialize in creating authentic and personalized safari experiences. Let's start planning your dream vacation holiday today.

Everything was perfectly organised and very diverse. We have seen the big five. The price was adequate considering the value we got. We have had the perfect guide – the incredible Jacob – and perfect car for our safari to Murchison Falls NP and Kibale NP. We witnessed Jacob’s love for the country, its people and animals. He cared for us in a special way at any time, thus we fell in love with the country.

- Deisen

WHAT THEY SAY ABOUT US

From start to finish they were able to incorporate the packed schedule of things I wanted to do! From East to West and across the country, their efficiency and adaptability was everything a traveller needs in Uganda. Sam’s knowledge of the different cultures in Uganda’s regions helped me learn so much about Uganda and truly appreciate the uniqueness of each kingdom. His professionalism and wealth of experience being a guide throughout Uganda was an invaluable resource that made all the difference and my trip a success. Thank you!

We spent a great holiday in Uganda, perfectly organised by Kwezi Outdoors (now Nandi Adventures). Everything worked very well, i.e. pick up at the airport, all the different tours, accommodation and also the drop off at the airport again. Our guide, Jacob, was very knowledgeable and reliable, and he is an excellent driver. Uganda is a beautiful country with plenty of animals in the National Parks.

Great company to help plan your trip. Everything was well planned and they communicated with the lodge to check our dietary requirements were taken care of. Sam was such an excellent guide that I have taken 2 trips with KO. Highly recommended to help you see the beautiful country of Uganda

Why Choose Nandi Adventures?

Authentic Experiences

Our safaris are designed to provide genuine, immersive encounters with Uganda's diverse ecosystems and communities.

Expert Guidance

Our team comprises knowledgeable guides who are passionate about Uganda's wildlife and culture, ensuring that every journey is educational and enriching.

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We are committed to responsible travel practices that benefit the environment and local communities, supporting conservation efforts and sustainable development.

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Your comfort and safety are paramount. We offer well-maintained vehicles, excellent accommodations, and meticulous attention to detail to ensure a seamless and enjoyable adventure.

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• UAAV 001 – 1 Day Jinja Excursion
• UAAV 002 – 1 Day Ngamba Island Excursion
• UAAV 003 – 2 Days Lake Mburo National Park Safari
• UAAV 024 – 20 Days Uganda Classic Safari
• UAAV 006 – 3 Days Bwindi Gorilla Safari
• UAAV 004 – 3 Days Lake Mburo National Park Safari
• UAAV 005 – 3 Days Murchison Falls National Park Safari
• UAAV 007 – 3 Days Queen Elizabeth Wildlife Safari
• UAAV 008 – 4 Days Murchison Falls National Park Safari
• UAAV 010 – 5 Days Bwindi Gorillas & Queen Elizabeth Wildlife
• UAAV 009 – 5 Days Lake Mburo & Bwindi Gorilla Safari
• UAAV 011 – 5 Days Queen Elizabeth Wildlife & Kibale Chimps
• UAAV 015 – 7 Days Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth & Kibale Chimps
• UAAV 014 – 7 Days Uganda Classic Gorilla Safari
• Safari Offers
• UAAV 019 – 7 days Volcanoes, Bwindi and Kibale Forest Safari
• UAAV 016 – 7 days Lake Mburo, Bwindi and Volcanoes
• UAAV 017 – 7 days Volcanoes, Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth
• UAAV 021 – 11 Days Nyungwe, Volcanoes and Bwindi Tour
• UAAV 013 – 5 Days Gorilla Tour in Uganda & Rwanda
• UAAV 020 – 8 days Bwindi, Volcanoes and Nyungwe Tour
• UAAV 025 – 9 Days Volcanoes, Bwindi, Queen & Kibale Safari
• UAAV 022 – 13 Days Uganda and Rwanda Wildlife & Chimps
• UAAV 012 – 5 Days Bwindi Gorillas & Kibale Chimps Safari
• UAAV 023 – 15 Days Rwanda & Uganda Adventure
• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Murchison Falls National Park
• Kibale Forest National Park
• Kidepo Valley National Park
• Lake Mburo National Park
• Mt. Rwenzori National Park
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• Mount Elgon National Park
• Semliki Forest National Park
• Budongo Forest Reserve
• Our Tour Guides

Welcome to Uganda Safaris & Gorilla Tours

Uganda is a top undiscovered safari destination. A safari to Uganda is one of the best and memorable experiences you will ever experience while on Safari. Uganda is still untouched and virgin. Uganda is a country of many surprises with rolling hills, sparkling crater lakes, abundant wildlife, adrenaline activities and, of course, the endangered Mountain Gorillas . Uganda is still authentically African, lush green and home to the friendliest people on the continent. Read more... Abacus African vacations welcome you to the diverse and fascinating Uganda. Let us help you to experience the warmth of its people, its natural beauty, great scenery, its wildlife including the endangered Mountain Gorillas, Chimpanzees, and other primates and explore roads less traveled.

You may ask why you should travel with Abacus African vacations since on the internet you are offered cheap tours everywhere. We will say that you may be lucky and get a good trip that way, but more often than not, the quality of these tours are not up to the standard of a good safari

With us you are sure to get a good experience

we craft  Uganda safari itineraries around you….  We specialize in tailor-making safaris that suit your time frame, needs, interest, budget constraints as well as your style and pace.

Whether your interest is in a  Mountain Gorilla Safari , wildlife safaris or bird watching safari , we will be more than happy to assist you in planning your dream trip.

Uganda has one of the best climates in the world. It is sunny and green all year around with two distinct rainy seasons stretching from March to May and September to November. However, rain can occur anytime. The temperature average 27C with the highest being 31C in the Karamoja and Kasese regions and lowest being 15C in Kabale. This makes Uganda a safari destination that can be visited all year round. Uganda lies astride the equator and bordered by Tanzania and Rwanda in the south, Kenya in the east, Sudan in the North and Congo in the west. Uganda is the only country on African Continent with high altitude despite being right on Equator.

We arrange safaris and tours that include gorilla safaris into Uganda and Rwanda, birding safaris, chimpanzee tracking tours , trekking safaris, wildlife safaris / game viewing tours, mountaineering safaris to Rwenzori Mountain and other guided Uganda tours. On our safaris, we care not only about your safety and security but also your needs and aspirations. Our Uganda safaris are cost-effective and cater for your budget needs with our safari prices being quoted based on budget, mid-range, and luxury basis. We can also extend your Uganda Safari to other countries in Africa. Whether you want to include a Kenya Safari or Tanzania Tour with in your safari, we are ready to serve you! Our safaris and tour packages cater for both high end and budget travelers. During our safaris, you do not to worry about your accommodation since we book you the best safari lodges or hotels in Uganda.

We have prepared suggested Uganda safari packages that have been prepared by our travel experts for your preview. Feel free to select one of them or write us and we craft a safari itinerary together with you.

UGANDA SAFARI OFFERS 2024 / 2025

• SCHEDULED GORILLA TREK – RWANDA/UGANDA

Day 1: Arrival: On arrival, the allocated English speaking safari guide will pick you up and transfer to your hotel [...]

AUG 002 – 3 Days Uganda Wildlife Safari

Experience the Uganda’s Wildlife Safari with this 3 days / 2 Night Uganda safari adventure offer. Carefully designed with the [...]

• AUG 001 – 5 Days Queen and Bwindi Safari

Day 1: Kampala –Queen Elizabeth national park Meet at your hotel and leave Kampala for Queen Elizabeth National Park. We [...]

• AUG 003 – 6 Days Uganda Gorilla Wildlife Safari

Day 1: Depart to Kibale/ Chimpanzee Trekking After Breakfast, meet your safari guide who will warmly welcome you and drive [...]

UGANDA GORILLA SAFARI

• UAAV 025 – 9 Days Volcanoes, Bwindi, Queen & Kibale Safari
• UAAV 005 – 3 Days Murchison Falls National Park Safari

UAAV 008 – 4 Days Murchison Falls National Park Safari

• UAAV 015 – 7 Days Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth & Kibale Chimps
• UAAV 014 – 7 Days Uganda Classic Gorilla Safari
• UAAV 012 – 5 Days Bwindi Gorillas & Kibale Chimps Safari
• UAAV 011 – 5 Days Queen Elizabeth Wildlife & Kibale Chimps
• UAAV 007 – 3 Days Queen Elizabeth Wildlife Safari
• UAAV 010 – 5 Days Bwindi Gorillas & Queen Elizabeth Wildlife

UAAV 006 – 3 Days Bwindi Gorilla Safari

• UAAV 009 – 5 Days Lake Mburo & Bwindi Gorilla Safari
• UAAV 004 – 3 Days Lake Mburo National Park Safari
• UAAV 003 – 2 Days Lake Mburo National Park Safari
• UAAV 002 – 1 Day Ngamba Island Excursion

• UAAV 019 – 7 days Volcanoes, Bwindi and Kibale Forest Safari

UAAV 023 – 15 Days Rwanda & Uganda Adventure

• UAAV 022 – 13 Days Uganda and Rwanda Wildlife & Chimps
• UAAV 021 – 11 Days Nyungwe, Volcanoes and Bwindi Tour
• UAAV 020 – 8 days Bwindi, Volcanoes and Nyungwe Tour
• UAAV 018 – 7 days Volcanoes, Bwindi and Kibale Forest Safari
• UAAV 017 – 7 days Volcanoes, Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth
• UAAV 016 – 7 days Lake Mburo, Bwindi and Volcanoes
• UAAV 013 – 5 Days Gorilla Tour in Uganda & Rwanda

• AUG 004 – Uganda Gorilla Safari-2 nights/3 days
• AUG 005 – Uganda Gorilla Wildlife Safari-4 nights/5 days

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Uaav 024 – 20 days uganda classic safari, accommodations in uganda.

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