10 reasons to visit uganda

• 10 Reasons Visit Uganda

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Uganda

Culture Trip Writer

There are so many reasons one should explore Uganda . Sir Winston Churchill was so much in awe of the country he called it the “pearl of Africa.” Read on to find out why you should visit this unique fairy tale country.

You can enjoy the african sun all year round.

Uganda’s sun blazes all year round. Having said that, Uganda’s weather still amazes even the Ugandans themselves, as it can pour and shine within 10 minutes.

You will receive a warm welcome

Your money will go further

In an age where everything seems to cost an arm and leg, most travelers are seeking high style at a low budget, which makes Uganda the best destination in the region for its affordability. The cost of living in Uganda is lower than that of its neighbors, which gives travelers more purchasing power to indulge in all that Uganda has to offer.

Explore the country’s gift of nature

Uganda is a natural beauty, with an abundance of gifts bestowed to her: the snowcapped Rwenzori mountains, named one of the best hikes in the world by the National Geographic; Mountain Elgon, with the largest volcanic caldera in the world; and Africa’s largest lake, Lake Victoria; the mighty River Nile, the second-longest river in the world, whose largest source is in Lake Victoria.

You will enjoy the cultural diversity

Uganda is made up of a number of ethnic groups from the central and south, east, west, and north, each with its own language, distinctive customs and norms. There are over 50 languages are spoken in Uganda. It’s this cultural diversity that offers curious travelers an authentic and enjoyable experience.

Tease your taste buds with Uganda’s rich cuisine

Uganda’s food is as rich as its culture, because each tribe has its own staple food. A proper Ugandan meal is a celebration in itself, and some meals are prepared as early as the day before, to be served at lunch the following day. Then there is the street food, the most notable being the rolex. While a Rolex is a timepiece in most countries, in Uganda it’s a popular street food that can be eaten any time of the day. It’s an omelette that is rolled with a chapatti and some onions and tomatoes; bonus points if the tomatoes are raw and if you eat it by the stall.

1. Get your adrenaline high

Jinja is known as East Africa’s adrenaline capital. It is home to the source of the mighty River Nile and is also a bucket list destination for those seeking adrenaline kicks through white-water rafting and kayaking. Jinja offers what are arguably the best rapids in Africa. If water isn’t your thing, you can get your dose of adrenaline by bungee jumping instead. There is also quad biking and horse riding through the villages along the Nile.

Rafting along the River Nile in Jinja, Uganda | Olive Nakiyemba / © Culture Trip

2. Explore the bird paradise that is Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi , which means “lake of small birds,” is located in southwestern Uganda. It is the second-deepest freshwater lake in Africa and is a stunning view when seen from one of the hills around it. Its beauty is even such that it is printed on one of Uganda’s currency notes. There are 29 islands in the lake, and it’s a heaven for bird lovers.

The island-studded Lake Bunyonyi in southwestern Uganda | Olive Nakiyemba / © Culture Trip

You’ll be blown away by the unique wildlife

Although Uganda is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant) it also boasts unique wildlife such as tree-climbing lions and the Nile crocodile. Uganda is a must on any birder’s bucket list, with over 1,000 bird species, including some of the very rarest, such as the shoebill, the great blue turaco, Shelley’s crimsonwing, and many more. Indeed, Uganda’s wetlands and savannah are great habitats for some of the world’s most spectacular birds and wildlife.

Uganda is lucky to be the home of the famous endangered mountain gorillas, and it has the highest population of mountain gorillas in the world. They can’t be found anywhere else on earth but in the Virunga Massif that is shared by Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These gentle giants can be found in two of Uganda’s national parks: Mgahinga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

You’ll feel the urge to dance

Here’s a reason to spend the first weekend of September in Uganda, and in Jinja to be exact. Nyege Nyege means an irresistible urge to dance, and the Nyege Nyege International Music Festival has been dubbed Uganda’s Burning Man festival. It showcases underground musical acts from all over Africa, as well as celebrating the diversity of East African food, and attracts revelers from as far as North America and Southeast Asia. The festival is a three-day nonstop music celebration with four stages by the shores of the River Nile; most revelers opt to camp at the site for maximum enjoyment. Even the rain can’t stop you #whenthenyegenyegehitsyou #raindance #nyegenyegefestival #nyegenyege2017 #NNIMF17 #toomuchsauce #Repost @picturesthatwilliamtakes with @insta.save.repost • • • A post shared by NyegeNyegeFest (@nyegenyegefest) on Sep 3, 2017 at 7:26pm PDT

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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10 Reasons to Visit Uganda Right Now

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Are you looking for the perfect getaway experience? Come to Uganda !

Located in East Africa along Lake Victoria, Uganda is a beautiful mix of wildlife, lush greenery, beautiful bodies of water, glorious mountains and, of course, Uganda is brimming with culture.

There must be a reason it’s been donned “The Pearl of Africa”. Like an oyster, Uganda took its turbulent past of civil wars, poverty, and despair and transformed itself into a radiant pearl of hope, beauty, and resilience.

If you are looking to get away from the stress of living in a fast-paced world, then Uganda is just the destination for you. Here are ten reasons to visit Uganda right now .

Exciting Safaris

Inject tranquility into your life and reconnect with the harmony of nature as you voyeuristically fawn over the elegance of the animals on the African plain. With its dense foliage, equatorial climate and mountains, a Ugandan safari is unlike one you’ll encounter elsewhere in the world. The country can boast the most exciting safaris because Uganda was blessed with impressive and varied populations of wildlife animals and such rich terrain.

With over ten national parks, Uganda is home to hippos, lions, elephants, chimps, leopards, giraffes, golden monkeys, reptiles, half of the world’s endangered mountain gorilla population, and over 1000 species of birds.

Most notable of these parks include the Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest, Kibale Parks, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Rwenzori National Park and much more.

Learn Simplicity from the Gorillas

Uganda is famous for its gorilla habitats. Its dense foliage and equatorial climate provide the ideal environment to over half the world’s remaining population of wild mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking is the most popular tourist activity in Uganda. Its not hard to see why.

A 2 to 6-hour trek in the shrouded foliage of Bwindi offers a personal encounter with these majestic creatures. The tour includes and hour-long interactive session with the mighty primates. Though a wild gorilla trek in Uganda may run you about $600, the money may well be worth the expense if it means you can enjoy this deeply personal and unique experience with one of the world’s most precious endangered species.

Though there is so much to learn from these gorillas, one of the most fundamental lessons they teach us is about the simplicity of life and a reminder of what’s really most important in life, food, water, shelter, and most importantly, family.

Relax with Scenic Water

Uganda’s scenic water bodies provide good hearty therapy for the mind, body, and soul. At the peak of the list is the majestic Murchison Falls, which offers a splendid mixture of sight and sound. Along the stream, people enjoy white water rafting, kayaking, going for a nice long trek to the top and getting sprayed along the way!

Another must-see natural attraction is Bunyonyi Lake; Africa’s second deepest lake and home to an enormous variety of bird species. The bird’s bustle, lush greenery, and ever-blue depths of the lake offer a relaxing atmosphere for honeymooning couples, bird watchers, and committed trekkers who just finished a morning safari and gorilla encounter.

Finally, there’s Lake Victoria; the world’s largest in-land fresh water lake. Shared between Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda’s famous lake gives origin to the longest and perhaps most famous river in the world: The Nile.

Pygmy Tours

The Pygmy people of Uganda are locally known as “Batwa” or “Keepers of the Forest”. These people are known for their impressive short-stature and small build. They’re an endangered forest-dwelling hunter-gatherer population of what is commonly accepted as the indigenous people of Uganda. The success they’ve had in living harmoniously with nature with a low-impact on Mother Earth has granted them generations of fertile culture and community.

However fortunately or unfortunately, the establishment of various nature preserve territories have displaced many pygmy populations in order to reserve the land for endangered chimpanzee and gorilla populations.  In 2011, the government created a Batwa cultural trail for the pygmies, giving them an opportunity to showcase their eco-friendly culture and prosperity in a minimalist symbiotic lifestyle. It is encouraged to go for ethical pygmy tours where 50% of the tour fare is given to the Batwa communities.

Mountain Climbing on Rwenzori Mountains

Rwenzori Mountain (also known as the Mountains of the Moon) is Africa’s third highest mountain. This mountain is perfect for energetic hikes. The Mountains of the Moon are always capped with stunning white snow, clouds, and fog. It also has clear streams, lush vegetation, and hospitable locals at the foothill.

Cultural Heritage

Uganda is a melting pot of over 40 languages. This wide variety is thrilling to tourists who see the rapid changes in music, dance, dress, and food preferences amongst the locals.

Uganda has lots of cultural landmarks a few of which include; Gadaffi Mosque, Kasubi Tombs, Ndere Centre, Uganda National Museum, Ba’ahi Temple and many others. In Kampala alone, there are over twenty craft markets selling souvenirs, fabric, jewelry and artwork made by local artisans.

Bird Watching

Uganda is home to about 1,000 species of birds scattered across the varying forests, agricultural lands, swamps, lakes and savannah. These birds are found in most of the ten national parks in the country. Some of these birds include: kingfisher, black headed heron, African jacana, lesser jacana, black weaver, African open billed storks, shoebill, swamp flycatcher, African marsh harrier and many more; So get your binoculars and get to Uganda!

Scenic Ssese Islands

The scenic Ssese islands are a beautiful stretch of 84 islands on Lake Victoria with beaches, forests, and a good number of crocodiles, snakes, hippos, birds, and vervet monkeys. Enjoy picnics, treks, beach parties, bicycle rides, kayaking, and sight-seeing on these scenic islands!

Chimp Tracking

Uganda is home to about 1,500 chimps. These witty creatures are mostly found in Kibale National Park. They can also be tracked in Budongo anytime from Feb-Sep, and at the Kyambura Forest in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Tasty Local Meals

Of the ten reasons listed here, this one may be the most essential.

Ugandans eat generous helpings of food rich in starchy carbohydrates. Plantain matoke, cassava, maize, millet, and Irish potatoes are popular staples served with groundnut sauce, chapati, or goat meet stew.

There is also the famous Luwombo; made from fish, meat and groundnut sauce steamed in banana leaves. Don’t forget to try whole fried tilapia, or slices of the Nile perch served with French fries and binyebwa (groundnut sauce).

There’s never been a better time than right now, so start packing!

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The Pearl of Africa: 10 Reasons To Visit Uganda

Uganda: The Ultimate Safari Destination

When you think about your dream East African escape, chances are you’re picturing the wide open spaces of Kenya’s Maasai Mara or Tanzania’s Serengeti.

Those wishing to trek with the beautiful mountain gorillas tend to associate them most closely with the mountains of Rwanda.

Uganda, it seems, is often overlooked in favour of one of these more well-known spots.

Always the bridesmaid and never the bride, Uganda does safaris better than Rwanda and primate trekking better than Tanzania or Kenya, but can’t claim to be the top dog for either.

Despite this, Uganda’s reputation as the ‘Pearl of Africa’ is a justified one.

There are few countries in Africa that are as beautiful, and none where you can go from a traditional safari one day to sweating in the jungle in pursuit of chimpanzees or gorillas the next.

Read on to find the ten reasons to visit Uganda that ought to get your imagination running wild.

10 Reasons to Visit Uganda, The Pearl of Africa

#10 – a pleasure cruise on lake victoria.

Africa’s largest lake is often overlooked by visitors to Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. In Kenya and Tanzania, its location puts it away from popular tourist destinations and national parks, but Uganda happens to have a gorgeous city right on the shores of the lake – Entebbe.

The former Ugandan capital is also home to the country’s only international airport, so it’s easy to fit in a day or two on the shores of the mighty lake at the beginning or end of your Ugandan safari.

Visit the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

For those who might not be physically prepared for chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park, Ngamba Island is a great day trip from Entebbe.

Offering both day trips and overnight chimpanzee experiences, Ngamba Island is a great place to learn more about our closest living relatives. Day trips feature the chimpanzee feeding, while longer stays allow guests to camp on the island, go hiking, and act as a chimpanzee caregiver for a day.

For the truly commited, the sanctuary also offers one week and one month volunteering positions.

Take a pleasure cruise on Lake Victoria

Who doesn’t love a sunset cruise with some good beer (or wine) and some finger food?

Pleasure cruises out on Lake Victoria are a great way to spend a relaxing couple of hours at the start or finish of your Ugandan adventure.

For avid birdwatchers, there are also guided bird-watching boat safaris to introduce you to the country’s startling array of birdlife.

Visit the Source of the Nile in Jinja

Lake Victoria is  big . While it’s most famously a part of Entebbe’s charm, you can also visit Lake Victoria at the city of Jinja.

You’ll learn more about Jinja at #7 on this list, but the adventure capital of East Africa is also home to the reported Source of the Nile.

A pleasure cruise out onto Lake Victoria to visit the fabled source of the mighty Nile is a must if you’re in the area, even if the source is little more than an eddying current of water where a waterfall used to be.

Lake Victoria Beach Holidays

It’s a sad fact that swimming in Lake Victoria is a perilous activity. Between the resident crocodiles and hippos and the lake’s problems with bilharzia (snail fever), taking a dip in Africa’s largest lake is inadvisable.

That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a few days relaxing on the beach with a good book or exploring by canoe though! The Ssese Islands archipelago in Lake Victoria are a popular place for locals and off the beaten path travelers to get away from the crowds and get back to nature.

Where to Stay on Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria’s size means that there is no shortage of properties boasting waterfront access, but I’ve picked out a few of my favourite properties from my travels to recommend.

Entebbe Accommodation

In Entebbe, Boma Guesthouse is my preferred place to hang my hat. While it is not located especially close to Lake Victoria, its lovely rooms and fantastic servive make it my home away from home when I’m in Uganda for work.

If you want some waterfront access, my suggestion would be  2 Friends in the budget realm and  Lake Victoria Serena in the luxury area. It’s worth noting, however, that Lake Victoria Serena is not located in Entebbe.

#9 – Experiencing the Bigodi Swamp Walk

A popular inclusion with #2 on this list, a visit to the Bigodi Wetlands is a great companion to your chimpanzee trekking adventure.

While it’s not a reason to visit Uganda all of its own, it’s certainly something a bit unique that you’re unlikely to find in Kenya, Tanzania, or Rwanda.

A Birder’s Paradise

The main draw of Bigodi Swamp is its dazzliny variety of bird life, with more than 200 species calling the relatively small area home.

While birding might not sound like everybody’s cup of tea, you’d be surprised how quickly you become a fan when your guide points out an especially rare find.

I’m not gonna lie, I get a bird boner for a Malachite Kingfisher.

I don’t even know what I’d do if I spotted a shoebill in the wild.

Where to Stay

Check out #2 on this list for some great accommodation recommendations in the area.

#8 – Surrendering to Serenity at Chameleon Hills

I’ve been lucky enough to stay in some truly fantastic lodges in Uganda, many of which I’ve recommended later in this post.

My favourite lodge, though, doesn’t rate a mention elsewhere because it’s not really located  near anything.

While many lodges boast great access to Bwindi Impenetrable, Kibale Forest, or some other local landmark, this lodge’s isolation is a huge part of its charm.

The lodge, Chameleon Hill , is a colourful and serene escape from the world that I’ve been dying to get back to ever since my first visit.

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The Location

Located in southern Uganda just a stone’s through from the Rwandan border, Chameleon Hill is  technically an option for those who are gorilla trekking in either Mgahinga or Bwindi-Impenetrable National Park.

Sitting halfway between the two, it’s not an ideal starting point for either, but it does give you that flexibility.

What makes Chameleon Hill’s location such a winner, however, is its isolation.  Perched in the mountains above Lake Mutanda, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better view anywhere in Africa. It’s simply stunning.

Brightly coloured like something out of a Wes Anderson film, Chameleon Hill leaps out at you as you round that last bumpy bend and your car comes to a halt.

The reception and dining area vaguely resembles a fairytale castle, while each of the cute bungalow style rooms boasts its own eye-catching shade of pastel.

Couple these bright colours with the breathtaking backdrop, and you’ve got something truly picturesque.

The location was fantastic, but it’s the homemade meals that linger with me years after my last stay at Chameleon Hill.

Everything – from the meat to the ice cream to the sauces – is made on site and uses locally sourced ingredients.

On top of that, the food is just f***ing amazing. Everything we ate was exquisite, and I gave some serious thought to getting down on bended knee to propose to the gentleman doing all of the cooking.

#7 – Whitewater Rafting on the Nile

The mighty Nile may be most closely associated with Egypt, but the world’s second longest river finds its roots near the Ugandan town of Jinja.

Sometimes known as the Adventure Capital of East Africa, Jinja is a thriving adventure travel hub for those wishing to tackle Nile rapids, go ATVing, cycling, horse-riding, or even bungee-jumping.

A fun city with a young, adventurous vibe – Jinja is worthy of inclusion for anybody wanting to get their pulse racing as part of their Ugandan adventure.

Whitewater Rafting on the Nile

The biggest drawcard in Jinja is undoubtedly the opportunity to tackle the Nile rapids with a whitewater rafting or kayaking adventure. Kayak the Nile  is the top local company when it comes to whitewater kayaking or more sedate kayak tours of the Victoria Nile.

There are, of course, a number of other options in and around Jinja – so do your research to land the best price.

Extreme Sports & Youth Culture

Jinja isn’t just the place to go for kayaking and whitewater rafting. Visitors can also go horseback riding, cycling, ATVing, or even fling themselves headfirst off of a cliff with Nile High Bungee Jumping .

For those with a passion for learning more about Ugandan youth culture, the annual Nyege Nyege Festival is a celebration of African music, film, food, and art.

Where to Stay in Jinja

I’ve highlighted a few good accommodation options for the Jinja area in item #6 on this list, so scroll on down to get my recommendations!

#6 – Overnight on the Nile at Wildwaters Lodge

Uganda proudly proclaims itself as one of the sources of the mighty Nile, with the Victoria Nile finding its roots near the city of Jinja in the country’s east.

As the river picks up steam, it turns into a raging torrent that really needs to be seen to be believed. My first glimpse of the tumultuous Nile was one of those moments where you have to take a moment to be sure you aren’t dreaming or seeing things.

While there are a number of lodges along the shores of The Nile that offer a great view, there is only one lodge  on the Nile , and that is the stunning Wildwaters Lodge .

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A Nile Canoe Adventure

Just getting to Wildwaters Lodge is a once in a lifetime adventure. You’ll trade your safari vehicle for a canoe, pile your belongings into it, and hold on as your local guide paddles you out into the seething river.

You see, Wildwaters Lodge is on an island at the very heart of the angry Nile, and you’ll be spending your night out amidst the rapids!

It doesn’t look as if your tiny boat should be able to match it with the sheer power of the Nile, but soon enough you’re through the rapids and tying up at a secluded dock to check in.

Bathtub With a View

Wildwaters sits on an island in the middle of the Nile and each of their luxurious rooms overlooks the churning waters of the famous river.

Each of the rooms has a real feeling of African exploration to it, with glistening hardwood and comfortable four-poster beds for guests.

While there’s a perfectly good bathroom indoors, my favourite element of Wildwaters Lodge’s rooms is undoubtedly the old-school claw foot bathtub on the balcony.

It’s a pretty surreal feeling to be lounging in a bubble bath out under the stars while the Nile rushes by just past your feet.

Amazing Food

A special mention also has to go to the restaurant at Wildwaters. They do a fantastic multiple course meal at the lodge, and you eat it in an open air banda with a brilliant view of the Nile as it races by.

I particularly enjoyed the feeling of sipping an ice cold Nile beer while the Nile rushed by my feet.

Other Accommodation on the Nile

Wildwaters is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of lodge that I’d recommend at the drop of a hat, but it comes with a hefty price tag that might make it a bridge too far for some travellers.

Thankfully, there are some great accommodations on the banks of the Nile that offer you a similar experience at a fraction of the price.

Haven Eco River Bush Lodge is probably my pick as the best alternative. Situated on a hill overlooking the rapids, it’s got some lovely private huts that are perfect for a romantic getaway.

From a budget perspective, Source of the Smile Guesthouse does the job. The staff are a bit disinterested and its a bit of a tacky tourist trap, but you can’t argue with its pricing. Their restaurant has some decent local and western options too.

#5 – Walk with Rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

It’s a sad fact that it is no longer possible to see rhinoceros in the wild in Uganda, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t see them. In fact, Uganda offers you the chance to get much closer than you’re likely to get on safari in Tanzania, Kenya, or South Africa.

Visiting the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Located midway between Jinja (source of the Nile) and Murchison Falls National Park, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers visitors the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk alongside the most endangered member of the Big Five.

A charitable organisation that acts as home to nineteen white rhinoceros, Ziwa lets you step out of the 4WD and walk side by side with these impressive specimens.

Accompanied by an armed ranger and with a strict pre-hike briefing, you’ll venture out onto the plains to track a rhinoceros and observe it as it grazes and moves through the sanctuary.

My Rhino Trekking Experience

I paid Ziwa a visit in November of 2016 and was lucky enough to track a young mother and her calf in the wilderness.

The inquisitive young calf was constantly drawn to us, forcing us to stealthily backpedal through the undergrowth lest we earn its mother’s ire.

We never felt unsafe, but it’s hard not to respect the motherly instict of an animal with as much weight as the car you’ve been driving in all day.

It’s an amazing experience and one I’ll forever treasure.

Spending the Night

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is ideally located at the halfway point between Jinja and Murchison Falls, so it’s entirely possible to make your way there on your way north.

Alternatively, it can also be arranged as a day trip from the Ugandan capital, Kampala.

But if you’re feeling like you’d like a more leisurely visit, there are accommodation and dining facilities on site. You can even camp!

#4 – Witness the Raw Power of Murchison Falls

One of Uganda’s two popular safari destinations, Murchison Falls National Park’s location in the northeast of the country means that it is often overlooked in favour of more accessible parks such as Queen Elizabeth or Lake Mburo.

If you’re looking for the authentic safari experience, don’t let Murchison Falls’ isolated location put you off. It is a park of wild and rugged beauty that deserves your attention.

What Animals Can I See?

Like Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls is home to four of the Big Five – with elephants and buffalo being common sightings and big cats such as lions and leopards being less so.

While rhinos, zebras, and cheetahs are not present, there is an abundance of  hippos and giraffes , as well as  crocodiles, Ugandan kob, and hyenas . In fact, this is the best park in Uganda for spotting giraffes.

A Murchison Falls game drive involves a ferry ride over the bloated Nile to get into the park, which is an experience in and of itself.

See the Murchison Falls

The real drawcard in the park are the waterfalls for which the park is named.

Thought of as the most powerful waterfall in the world, Murchison Falls sees the mighty Nile reduced to a raging torrent as it is forced through a tight space to continue its long journey north.

The raw power of the waterfall is hard to fully describe. You’ll barely be able to hear yourself as you approach and the mists thrown up by the churning torrent mean the entire climb is one shrouded in cool spray.

Whether you hike to the top to see it up close or take in the view of seething waves of foam from a boat below, you’re going to bear witness to a truly awe-inspiring display of nature’s power.

A Nile Boat Ride

Another popular activity in Murchison Falls National Park is to take a scenic boat safari out onto the Nile proper.

Much like the boat safari in Kazinga Channel, this offers you an excellent opportunity to spot  crocodiles and hippos , as well as animals stopping by the Victoria Nile for a drink. Birds are also present in a startling variety.

The highlight of the boat ride is unquestionably the chance to stop near the base of Murchison Falls for a view of the mighty waterfall, and adventurous photographers can even step nimbly from the boat and out onto a tumble of rocks at the centre of the Nile for their photos.

Where to Stay in Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is a bit more off the beaten track than Queen Elizabeth, meaning accommodation variety is a little more limited.

Nonetheless, there’s something for all budgets in the park.

Budget Accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park

Red Chilli Hideaway is the only real budget accommodation near the park, and boasts a mixture of private bandas, tented camps, and budget camping on their property.

Despite its lower price tag, this is still a facility with plenty of charm, delicious meals, and a fun, social vibe. They can even arrange game drives for those without their own car or tour arranged.

Medium Accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park

Located right on the banks of the Nile, Murchison River Lodge is a great option for those looking for a comfortable place to stay without breaking the bank.

The food and service at the lodge is first class, and the tented accommodations are super comfortable.

Luxury Accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park

The decadent  Baker’s Lodge is my choice for the best luxury option in Murchison Falls National Park. Run by the fantastic Uganda Exclusive Lodges brand, Baker’s Lodge blends luxury accommodations with the adventurous spirit of Africa’s early European explorers.

Baker’s Lodge was my base for exploring the park in 2016, and I absolutely loved my experience.

You don’t get much closer to the action than this, with the lodge’s tents regularly receiving visits from curious hippos at night. For those wanting a truly authentic African experience, just wait until you’re being accompanied back to your tent by a flashlight wielding security guard to make sure you don’t fall afoul of a startled hippo!

A Note on Bookings

A lot of these properties aren’t on sites like Booking.com, but you can get access to reduced rates by booking through a certified travel agent. Luckily, I happen to be one!

Contact me if you’d like some help in planning your Ugandan safari.

#3 – Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park

It’s fair to say that the likes of the Serengeti National Park, the Maasai Mara, and South Africa’s Kruger National Park are amongst the best game drive destinations in the world. When it comes to sheer wildlife diversity and numbers, these larger parks have it all over Queen Elizabeth National Park.

But as you photograph tree climbing lions in Ishasha or sit by a crackling fire and listen to the distant trumpeting of elephants, it’s hard to care that other places might be doing it better.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to four of the big five, with lions, elephants, and buffalo being especially common throughout the park. In particular, the Ishasha section in the park’s south is home to  tree-climbing lions . This is a phenomenon that only occurs in a few places on earth!

While you’re missing a few iconic African animals such as giraffes, rhinos, and zebra, this is made up for by the presence of more unique sightings such as the  Ugandan kob, sitatunga, and topi antelope .

You’ll also find an abundance of  hippos and crocodiles along the shores of the Kazinga Channel, and both  black and white colobus monkeys and chimpanzees dwelling in certain areas of the park.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Queen Elizabeth National Park

A quick note on the presence of chimpanzees in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

While it is entirely possible to arrange a chimpanzee trekking tour as part of your stay in the park, I really would recommend paying a little extra to do it in Kibale Forest National Park. Trekking conditions are infinitely better in Kibale, and you’ve got a far greater chance of actually seeing something.

Unbeatable Location

What makes Queen Elizabeth National Park so worthwhile is its unbeaten location. Located at the halfway between the chimpanzees of Kibale and the gorillas of Bwindi-Impenetrable, it’s the perfect place to spend a few days between your primate trekking adventures.

Many people wishing to see both of Uganda’s iconic primates will spend a night or two in Queen Elizabeth to break up the long drive and to check a few more animals off of their African bucket list.

Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

A 20 mile long natural channel that connects Lake Edward and Lake George, Kazinga Channel is a unique feature of Queen Elizabeth that offers something you won’t find in other parks.

Taking a boat out onto the channel offers you the chance to spot hippos and crocodiles up close, and there’s ample opportunity to also spot buffalo, elephants, antelopes, and big cats as they come to the shores to get a drink.

But its for bird-watching that Kazinga excels, and even the most disinterested birder is going to come away with a newfound appreciation of just how beautiful Africa’s bird species can be.

Don’t believe me? Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to the largest variety of birds in all of East Africa’s protected areas.

Where to Stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park’s accessibility makes it a great safari destination for travellers on a budget.

Where large parks like the Maasai Mara and Serengeti tend to cater towards those with a substantial budget, Queen Elizabeth has backpacker friendly accommodations located just a stone’s throw from the action.

Budget Accommodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park

It’s rare to find dormitory accommodation near a safari park, but  Simba Safari Camp offers just that.

I stayed here in 2015 and found it to be totally fine. The rooms are a bit dated and the place has a very ‘budget’ vibe to it, but there are also private rooms available.

The outdoor common area for meals has a fun ‘BBQ in the park’ kind of feel. The WiFi is near to non-existent.

For those on a tight budget, they also offer campsites.

Medium Accommodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park

My two favourite lodges in Queen Elizabeth National Park would be Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge and Marafiki Safari Lodge .

Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge was my base in the park in 2016 and feels like you’re truly at the heart of Africa. Your tented accommodation has a rustic outdoor shower and you’ll fall asleep lulled by the chortling of wading hippos in the nearby river.

Marafiki has a more clean, modern look to it – but also offers dorm accommodation to complement its tented rooms. It sits atop a hill and has a great view of the surrounding land.

Luxury Accommodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park

My favourite luxury lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park is undoubtedly Katara Lodge . A newer lodge that opened in 2015, its private tented accommodation looks out over a sprawling landscape that speaks to the awesome natural beauty of Africa.

I was a big fan of the outdoor dining area and the friendliness of the staff, and can’t wait to have a long stay at the property so I can enjoy the serenity upon which it markets itself.

#2 – Chimpanzee Trekking & Habituation in Kibale Forest

If there is one thing that Uganda does better than anybody else, it’s chimpanzee trekking

Forget what you’ve heard about chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda – Uganda’s Kibale Forest National Park is the best place to see our closest primate relatives in their natural habitat.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Far and away the most popular thing to do in Kibale Forest National Park is the half-day chimpanzee trekking experience.

A comparatively affordable $120 USD per person, the chimpanzee trekking experience starts at around 7am and sees you traipsing through the cool forest air in pursuit of the chimpanzees who call the park home.

The chimps here are wild but slightly habituated. They aren’t going to stick around for you to snap photos of, but they’re also not so afraid of you that they’ll immediately flee at the snapping of a branch.

Where in Rwanda you’re forced to literally run after the chimpanzees, here you’re able to approach at a more sedate pace. It’s a relatively easy hike that sees you moving with the family as it hoots, hollers, swings, and drums its way through the treetops overhead.

Actual trekking groups are quite small – no more than 4-8 people per group – but you’ll doubtless cross paths with other groups as your guides share notes.

It’s a hell of an experience, and one I’d consider a must in Rwanda.

Chimpanzee Habituation

For those with a more keen passion for all things chimpanzee, it’s also possible to arrange a full day chimpanzee habituation in which you’ll track the chimps from dusk ’til dawn.

You’ll observe the chimpanzees as they feed, sleep, play, and travel – spending your entire day out in the wilderness.

I’ve not had the pleasure of trying this myself as of yet, but my friends and clients who have raved about the experience as a far more intimate, less-crowded way to see the chimps.

Where to Stay in Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest National Park is serviced by some great local accommodation options, and the nearby town of Fort Portal also has some good options for all budgets.

Budget Accommodation in Kibale Forest National Park

The cheapest option in the area is  Ruboni Community Camp , which has both private cottages, campsites, and hostel-style dorm rooms.

Medium Accommodation in Kibale Forest National Park

I’ve been lucky enough to stay in two wonderfully rustic lodges in the Kibale Forest Area, with both  Kibale Forest Camp and  Primate Lodge offering comfortable accommodations that feel very much a part of the surrounding forest.

Primate Lodge has a fantastic location that puts you just a few hundred metres walk from the chimpanzee trekking start point, while Kibale Forest Camp definitely feels like you’re at the heart of an African jungle.

Luxury Accommodation in Kibale Forest National Park

It’s not especially close to the park, but I can’t speak highly enough of the lavish  Kyaninga Lodge . Located on the rim of an ancient volcanic crater, this lodge has spectacular views and an adorable ‘European adventurer’ motif that makes you feel every bit like the explorers of old.

Ndali Lodge is also a wonderful option, with the family-run business feeling more like a luxurious B&B than a hotel. The food is delicious, the dogs are friendly, and the pool is a great way to unwind after your chimpanzee trekking adventure.

Both of these lodges put you a little far from the action, so a more centrally located option might be  Kluge’s Farm .

#1 – Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi-Impenetrable National Park

While neighbouring Rwanda may be more famous when it comes to gorilla trekking, Uganda remains the most economical option for those wanting to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Rwanda’s recent decision to jack up prices to $1,500 USD per person has priced many gorilla enthusiasts out of ever achieving their dream, but Ugandan gorilla permits remain stable at a relatively affordable $600 USD per person.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

It’s true that Rwanda offers more accommodation options and an easier hike than Uganda, but in my mind, there’s something very fitting about the hard slog through the jungle. I’ve written before about my own gorilla trekking experience and how I felt like I had earned my precious hour with the gorillas, and I think that’s a big part of the charm.

Every pained breath, every drop of sweat, every scratch from thorns, and ever muddy stumble is the price you pay to spend an hour in quiet contemplation alongside those beautiful creatures. Gorilla trekking is tantamount to a religious experience.

Getting to Bwindi-Impenetrable National Park

It’s true that Bwindi-Impenetrable National Park is a bit difficult to get to from Entebbe. There’s a long ten-hour drive between Uganda’s only international airport and Bwindi.

Thankfully, you can visit Bwindi as part of an eight-day Ugandan safari circuit that includes Kibale Forest National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park. You then swing through Lake Mburo National Park on your way back to Entebbe.

Alternatively, you can go gorilla trekking from Rwanda . You’ll land in Kigali, make the stunningly scenic six-hour drive north to Bwindi, and then return to Kigali. It gives you access to a much more well-connected airport and ends up being a shorter drive.

Other Activities in Bwindi National Park

Gorilla trekking is obviously the main attraction in Bwindi-Impenetrable, but the area around Buhoma is quite stunning. Dense mountain rainforest surrounds a quaint little mountain town where upmarket hotels rub shoulder with local businesses.

Popular activities within the park include hiking to a picturesque waterfall, visiting with the local Batwa pygmy population, or take a longer hike between local settlements.

Where to Stay When Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi-Impenetrable National Park

It’s important to note that Bwindi-Impenetrable National Park is a large park (more than 32,000 square kilometres) and that the gorillas range wherever they please within this space.

With that being said, specific families tend to range in specific areas, so there are a number of ‘hubs’ that exist.

The most popular of these is Buhoma, but other smaller centres include Rushaga and Nkuringo.

Budget Accommodation in Bwindi-Impenetrable National Park

My two budget picks for this area would be Buhoma Community Rest Camp or Rushaga Gorilla Camp .

Both of these properties offer backpacker style dorm rooms and private rooms, making it a good way to save some money after dropping $600 USD on a gorilla permit.

Medium Accommodation in Bwindi-Impenetrable National Park

My go-to option in the affordable luxury tier would be Buhoma Haven Lodge , which affords a spectacular view of both Buhoma and the surrounding forest.

It’s a bit of a hike to get up to your room, but you won’t be complaining when you’re sitting out on your private deck after your gorilla trek with a cold beer in hand.

Luxury Accommodation in Bwindi-Impenetrable National Park

Mahogany Springs is, in my mind, the best lodge when gorilla trekking in Uganda.

I’ve had the pleasure of staying at Mahogany Springs in both 2015 and 2016, and both times I was met with the same fantastic rooms, wonderful service, fantastic food, and spectacular location.

The staff there are so good that they remembered me a year on and knew exactly what my beer order was.

And, it’s a small thing, but their free shoe-cleaning service is a life saver after gorilla trekking.

So many reasons to love Uganda

As might be evident after reading my 5,000+ word love letter to Uganda, I’ve got a bit of a crush on the country.

My two week long explorations of the Pearl of Africa have only served to whet my appetite.

I’ll forever love Africa, but it’s Uganda that holds the largest portion of my heart.

It is wild and vibrant in a way that speaks to me of the Africa I’d always imagined.

While tourism is a continually growing industry in the region, it can still be daunting to plan a trip to Uganda.

Thankfully, I’m here to help.

As a safari expert with Shadows of Africa, I can not only help you with your itinerary, but I can also get you great discounts on hotels and activities. Contact me below!

Click the image below to send me an email and start planning your dream safari!

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7 Reasons To Visit Spectacular Uganda 

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations

I’ve recently come back from Uganda, and no, I was not gorilla trekking — unlike 90 percent of international visitors that come to experience this east-central African country. Why did I not do what Uganda is most famous for, just like its neighbor Rwanda ? On one hand, I was time-poor, and on the other hand, I am not particularly interested in trekking through the jungle. I get bitten by everything and hate humidity. I was honestly more interested in seeing what the country had to offer for those not traipsing through gorilla country.

And, you know what? I talked to others who had done the trekking and loved it, but they had not seen the places I had searched out. But everybody was happy with their choices, agreeing that Uganda has a lot to offer travelers with various interests and things on their wish list.

So, here, I have listed my personal reasons why Uganda is a great country to visit. If you are doing the trekking, then maybe you can add a few days to enjoy these as well as the gorillas.

1. The Great Lake Victoria

The world’s second largest freshwater lake, after Lake Superior in North America, Lake Victoria is also Africa’s largest freshwater lake. The 26,600-square-mile lake borders Uganda — which has the largest share of its waters — Tanzania, and Kenya. It contains roughly 1,000 islands. To me, staying right by the lake was one of the top reasons for coming to Uganda, as it is a land-locked country. But the lake gives a feeling of being by the sea, at times moody, other times just calmly stretching to the horizon. Sadly, it is not advisable to jump in because of numerous parasites living in the water that can cause some nasty diseases. Still, I stayed at the Protea Marriott in Entebbe , right on the coast where you can sit by the pool and watch the lake, and the bird life was incredible.

2. Amazing Bird Watching

The birds bring me straight to the next reason to visit Uganda. There are some 1,066 bird species recorded as of May 2020, and from the hotel pool alone, I spotted kingfishers, brown kites, herons, cormorants, pelicans, egrets, and more. Gigantic marabou storks live nearby and one came to the pool to have a drink. We were practically on eye-level with each other, it was so tall. 

Uganda is a haven for twitchers — bird watchers from around the world — with Uganda’s birds representing more than 50 percent of Africa’s total bird list and 10 percent of the world’s bird species. I am not a focussed twitcher, but I really wanted to see the shoebill bird — a stork with an enormous beak “common” in Uganda — but alas, it eluded me. 

Instead, around Lake Mburo, I spotted African fish eagles, pretty spotted Guinea fowl, malachite kingfishers, hamerkop, and many more. And while I might sound knowledgeable, I am not. I simply looked at the birds the ranger pointed out to me. But I was surrounded by Italian and Finnish twitchers who were all terribly excited.

3. The Source Of The Nile

After having encountered the Nile previously in Cairo, and then again on a Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan, I was keen to see where the longest river in the world had its humble beginnings. But there is nothing humble about it. The city of Jinja, some 50 miles east of Kampala, lies at the very beginning of the Nile and pinpoints exactly where Lake Victoria ends and where the Nile officially begins. 

The majority of the water in the Nile, some 70 percent, comes from the lake. The rest of it is made up of natural springs that bubble up where the Nile begins its 4,132-mile-long journey to the Mediterranean. Apparently, it takes the water 3 months to complete the journey between Lake Victoria and the Mediterranean. Taking a boat trip to the very beginning of this mighty river is quite humbling.

4. The Climate

Dare I admit it? My first reason for looking at traveling to Uganda was the climate. It is tropical with temperatures around the mid-70s Fahrenheit, so much better than the 118-degree heat in Qatar where I live at the moment. And even though traveling in mid-August — at the end of the high season for travel and the beginning of the rainy season — the weather was gorgeous throughout.

It was cool for me, a bit humid, yes, but no rain at all. The tropical climate offers two rainy seasons per year, with the best times for visiting generally between December and February (the hottest season), and June and August. While temperatures can peak in the 90s, Uganda generally experiences little fluctuation, perfect for those of us who can’t abide too much heat.

5. The Rolex

By a rickety stall alongside a dusty road to Jinja, I tasted my first Rolex — a traditional breakfast found everywhere in Uganda. Basically, it’s a flat omelet rolled into a chapati, an Indian flatbread. The Rolex stands for “rolled eggs” and is simple, tasty, and easy to eat on the go. It’s my favorite breakfast for sure. Another typically Ugandan breakfast, for which you will need to sit down, is katogo — a plate full of rice, posho (a sticky dumpling-like side made from ground maize), or cornmeal, eggplant, plantain, and some meat. You need to be very hungry for this.

But it is not all about breakfast in Uganda. They also prepare some seriously good fish, especially around Lake Victoria, the great lakes of Uganda, and the Nile. Fish dishes you can find include tilapia and Nile perch — both very nice white fish usually served with salad or vegetables, posho, or Irish (what they call potatoes locally).

6. Hippos And Crocs

One of the main reasons I wanted to go to Uganda, apart from the weather and Lake Victoria, were the hippos. While I have seen the “Big Five” across Kenya, Senegal, and South Africa before, I had never seen hippos. I was beyond excited to spot not just one far away in the distance, as I had expected, but countless hippos young and old in Lake Mburo. They were very close to the shore and visible on a boat trip around the lake, with their little ears twitching as they watched me as much as I watched them. 

There were also huge crocodiles on the lake’s beaches, big enough to — according to the wildlife guide — eat baby hippos. The main reason for the Lake Mburo tour is the abundant bird life, for most visitors, but for me it was the hippos. It was a dream come true.

7. Equator Hopping

If you read TravelAwaits regularly, you might already know that I love visiting destinations and locations where you can be in two places at once . Standing with one foot in the northern hemisphere (where it is summer) and the other in the southern hemisphere (where it is winter) — even if you don’t notice the difference — is pretty fun. 

I had previously crossed the equator by plane when I was on the way to Mombasa in Kenya. The pilot made the plane swerve, announcing that we had just crossed the equator, much to the delight of everybody. I had crossed by car, but never on foot, so this was a good reason to goof around and hop from one hemisphere to the other. 

Related Reading:

• Why The Most Luxurious Train In Africa Should Be On Your Travel List
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• 8 Incredible Luxury Hotels And Lodges To Experience In Africa

A travel writer and guidebook author for the last 20 years, Ulrike's work has been seen in National Geographic , BBC , The Independent , Australian Women's Weekly , The Telegraph , The Australian , Fodor's , France Today , CNN Travel , Lonely Planet , Travel + Leisure , CNTraveler , numerous inflight magazines, and many others.

She has written three books for Moon Travel Guides: 'Living Abroad in Australia' (3rd edition), 'Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef', and the shorter version 'Spotlight Sydney' and are all available in print and as e-books.

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 100, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style.

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50+ Fantastic Reasons to Visit Uganda | The Pearl of Africa

Uganda is blessed with lush tropical forests, endless hills, and imposing mountains. There is also a wide array of wildlife and beautiful sunny weather that make this small gem a fantastic destination for tourists. Whether you’re a birder, outdoorsy, adrenaline junkie or foodie, you’ll find it when you visit Uganda.

No wonder Winston Churchill dubbed it “the pearl of Africa” during his 1907 visit to the country. For a full picture of why the country is worth a visit, here are my 52 reasons why you should visit Uganda!

Ads are how we pay our bills and keep our blog free for you to enjoy. We also use affiliate links; if you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

52 Reasons to Visit Uganda

• Visit the Source of River Nile

If you didn’t know, River Nile is the longest river in the world and flows through 11 African countries. So, visiting its source is quite a big deal. The source is found in Jinja . The town is about an hour away from the capital city of Kampala on a good traffic day. You can take photos next to a plaque marking the spot for bragging rights that you visited the source of the longest river in the world.

• Climb Mt. Rwenzori

This snow-peaked mountain in a tropical country is an enigma in itself. One option is a hike to Margherita peak. It is the third-highest peak in Africa and takes you through green forests with flowers, butterflies, and birds. It gives the mountain a ‘La La land’ feel.  It’s best to climb this mountain during the dry season between June – August.

• Go gorilla trekking

This is a must-do activity while on a tour to Uganda because it offers an experience of a lifetime. These endangered “second cousins of man” are a wonder to see and interact with within their natural habitat. You can either track the gorillas in Bwindi impenetrable forest or Mgahinga national park.

• Track the chimps

Tracking chimpanzees is best done in the Kibale forest. You can also see other primates like the rare L’Hoests monkey, red colobus monkey, blue monkey and bush babies.

If you don’t enjoy hiking or have young children, you can opt to take a boat trip to Ngamba Island on L. Victoria. It’s the only place in Uganda that has no age restrictions for children. You can easily see the chimpanzees in their sanctuary from the visitors’ center.

• Check out the caldera in Mt. Elgon

The highlight of climbing mountain Elgon isn’t exactly reaching the peaks for most hikers. But rather trekking down the mountain to see the hidden caldera lying at the Eastern border of Uganda and Kenya.

• Cross the equator

Plan a stopover at Kayabwe town while on your way to visit the Bwindi impenetrable N.P or Queen Elizabeth national park. It’s a great place to take goofy and memorable photos at the equator. You can event stand with a leg placed on either side of the equator line.

• Enjoy delicious organic food

The fresh taste of Ugandan food is incomparable any other food in the world. The same can be said about the generous food portions served in restaurants across the country. Have a taste of staple foods like Matooke (mashed plantain) served with pounded groundnuts and fresh veggies. Not forgetting the sweet potatoes which many visitors to the country attest to being sweeter than they are used to.

    8. Take a cruise along the Kazinga channel

The Kazinga channel cruise in Queen Elizabeth national park is an all-time favorite. It’s especially great for those who wish to see a wide range of birds and animals in luxury. Hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and birds such as the saddle-billed stork and pink-backed pelicans can be seen lazing around on the water banks or in water as you sail.

    9. Visit the Batwa of Mgahinga

Pay the Batwa people – an indigenous pygmy tribe – a visit and learn about their culture. You can learn about the caves they lived in before the primates invaded their domain. You’ll also learn how they now co-exist with the animals in the Mgahinga forest.

     10. Visit the beautiful Murchison falls

If you visit Uganda, take a boat cruise to the bottom of these breathtaking falls in Murchison Falls N.P, sailing past hippos, lurking crocodiles, and startling eroded earth cliffs along the way.

    11. Raft on the White Nile

Are you an adrenaline junkie? Then rafting through the fierce rapids on the mighty river Nile will be a worthwhile experience for you. And no need to worry if you’re a first-timer because there are different rafting trips designed to suit everyone – first-timers to skilled rafters, while still giving you that well-deserved challenge.

    12. Bungee jump on R. Nile

While you might have bungee jumped before back home, that’s not an excuse to skip out on it because you didn’t do it on the mighty river Nile. Besides, it never gets old – that adrenaline hike you get from bungee jumping.

     13.  See the famous big 5

Few countries can boast of hosting all these animals, and I am happy to tell you that Uganda is one of those lucky few. While you can spot the big 4 (lion, elephant, Hippo and leopard) in these three national parks: Murchison Falls , Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo Valley , the rhinos can only trek at the Ziwa rhino sanctuary – 125.2 km from Murchison Falls N.P.

    14. Go on a night game drive

For an assured opportunity to see the elusive cats like the leopards, hyenas, and lions that are hard to spot during the day.

• Visit the most beautiful national park in Africa

Nestled in the far northeast of Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park is an unspoiled park with picturesque landscapes and a valley teeming with ostriches, buffalos, and cheetahs. No wonder CNN argues that it’s the most beautiful park in the whole of Africa.

• Enjoy the traditionally brewed alcohol

We have distinctive local brews like Malwa, which is drunk hot from a pot using a long straw and Kwete, which is actually a sweetened drink. But don’t get it twisted, these drinks can still get you drunk.

Camp in the wilderness, and take pride in your braveness as you hear lions roaring in the distance and hyenas laughing out loud.

• Listen to the powerful roar of the Kidepo valley lions

The roar of these lions is like no other you have ever heard before. Their roar is carrying that one from miles away can seem close by and a close-by roar can rattle drinks on a table.

• Amabeere ga Nyinamwiru caves

Amabeere ga Nyinamwiru means “the breasts of Nyinamwiru” and these are breast-like features found in the caves that drip milk-like water. Legend has it that these are Princess Nyinamwiru’s breasts, which were chopped and thrown into these caves by her father Bukuku, the King of the once-powerful Chwezi Kingdom to prevent her from breastfeeding her son whom he feared will grow up to overthrow him.

• Witness the Imbalu

A public circumcision ritual performed by the Bagisu people to initiate their boys into manhood. If the thought of watching the ritual gives you the heebie-jeebies, then you can choose to only watch the exciting imbalu dance that always precedes this ritual.

• Fort Bigo Bya Mugyenyi

Visit the ruins of the fort built by the supernatural Bachwezi. They are believed to have disappeared into thin air instead of dying to protect their kingdom. It’s a marvel to view their fascinating earthworks in person.                        

• Visit the Karamojong

Like the Masai of Kenya, the Karamojongs are pastoralists with unique cultural wear and dance. While visiting, you can get to tour their manyatas (homes with low doors that you have to almost crawl to enter), and also attempt their jump into the sky dance.

• Canoe across the Mabamba swamp to see the shoebill stork

The Mabamba swamp is one of the best places to see the elusive shoebill stork in Africa while you canoe through the papyrus swamp and see other birds (a sure plus) like the Papyrus Yellow Warbler and Blue Swallow.

• Visit the beautiful Ssese Island

Relax away from the bustle and hassle of Kampala on the incredible beaches of Buggala Island, one of the 84 islands that make up the Ssesse islands in Lake Victoria. It’s a popular romantic destination for lovers and honeymooners.

• Great weather

Uganda’s weather is nothing like any you’ve experienced anywhere in the world. You’ll get to bask in the sun no matter the season (dry or wet) because the sun shines throughout the year.

• Track the Golden monkey

While golden monkey trekking isn’t as popular as gorilla tracking, tracking this rare and elusive monkey through the bamboo forest of Mgahinga national park offers an exciting experience. It’s an adventure you will relish as you take in scenic views of the Virunga mountains along the way.

• Enjoy cultural dances at Ndere center

The many different tribes in Uganda stem from the different cultural dances. But you don’t have to go gallivanting the entire country to watch them because you can enjoy all these captivating dances from the Ndere center found in Kampala.

• Try on the different cultural wears

Like the Mushanana, Gomesi, and Kanzu which you can wear to a traditional wedding. Or you can dress up in one just to take pictures and show off your diverse fashion sense on Instagram.

• Tour the tea plantations and enjoy Uganda’s Arabica coffee

Take a tour through the beautiful tea plantations in Eastern Uganda, see how Arabica coffee is made, and after, savor a cup of tasty Arabica coffee.

• Enjoy the party scene

If you’re a party animal, then Kampala city, also known as “The Las Vegas of Africa” for its crazy nightlife is a tick off the bucket list destination for you. With plenty of hangout places to suit all kinds of people like the Sky Lounge, Club Guvnor, and Silk Lounge, you can party till dawn. Just know the city never goes to sleep.

• Honeymoon at the Kyaninga lodge

Hidden in a forest on top of a hill with the picturesque Rwenzori Mountains in the backdrop and overlooking a crater lake, Kyaninga lodge offers an exceptionally romantic experience for honeymooners. The place is a refreshing change from the usual honeymoon destinations -especially for nature lovers -where you can take a walk around Lake Kyaninga or just unwind at the lodge.

• Annual Mt. Elgon bike race

Compete in the annual Sipi falls mountain biking race and if you’re quite determined or ‘lucky’, you’ll win it along with the prize that comes with coming first. Otherwise, the scenic ride up the mountain from Sipi and the thrill of riding through the mountain is a worthy reward.

• Friendly and hospitable people

Ugandans are warm and welcoming people that will make you feel at home while you enjoy your stay in the country. Don’t be shocked if people keep inviting you to share a meal with them, or keep waving and saying “hello” as you travel around the country.

• Visit Fort Patiko

A place riddled with the sad history of the slave trade. The Arabs built this place as a collection center for slaves, but it was later turned into a fort by Sir Samuel Baker in the 1870s after he was sent by the Queen of England to stop the slave trade. The stories about the mistreatment of the slaves are quite horrifying and insightful at the same time.

• Take a hot air balloon ride

For two reasons. Or rather three. To see all the animals in either Murchison falls N.P or Queen Elizabeth N.P, even those that you wouldn’t otherwise see while on a game drive. Enjoy the splendid ariel views of the savannah along with your ability to ‘fly’ in the air.

• Go sport fishing

Do you love fishing? Then, sport fishing on L. Victoria is a must-do for you. If you’re that fortunate, you’ll get to fish out some of the biggest Nile perch fish, take photos of your perfect catch and, cook and devour it.

• Nyege Nyege music festival along the Nile

This is one festival that both Ugandans and foreigners live for. Pack your bags in September and come watch artists from all over the world perform on 5 different stages while you enjoy an assortment of drinks, delicious food and dance with the talented locals.

• The Uganda Martyrs shrine and museum

For those who are religious or retrophiles, seeing where the Uganda martyrs were burnt and visiting the museum to see how all 46 Uganda martyrs died is a worthwhile experience.

• See the picture-perfect Aruu falls

Not to take away anything from the beauty of Murchison falls and Sipi falls, but these less-known falls are by far the most beautiful falls in Uganda.

• Visit the Gaddafi mosque

As the name suggests, Gaddafi built this mosque in Old Kampala and it’s arguably the most beautiful mosque in Africa. You can delight in its beauty, take lots of photos, and also enjoy views of the city from atop the hill it sits on.

With over 1500 bird species in the country, it’s no wonder that Uganda’s well-known as the birder’s paradise. That number is over half of Africa’s total population of birds. Some of the birds you can see include: African green broadbill, Black bee-eater, Karamoja Apalis and Nahans francolin.

• See the Nyero rock paintings

These rare paintings are a representation of the early days of man and show how the people of that time lived their lives.

• Go ziplining

You can opt to zipline through the tallest trees in the Mabira forest while enjoying views of the red-tailed monkeys, the R. Musamya and Griffin falls in the central part of the country. Or zipline across L. Bunyonyi in the Western part of the country.

• Canoe on L. Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is the second deepest lake in the world with 29 islands residing within it. That aside, most people liken its mystic beauty to that of the scenic landscapes found in the “Lord of the Rings” movie.

• Soothe your body in the Kitagata hot springs

Two adjacent hot springs actually make up the kitagata hot springs. The Ekyomugabe were once exclusively used by the former kings of Ankole while the Mulago ones are believed to have healing powers. You can soak in either of them depending on what your greatest desire is- to walk in the footsteps of kings or to have your ailments ‘cured’ by supernatural waters. The choice is yours.

• Abseil down the 100m Sipi falls

Heighten your visit to the Sipi falls by abseiling down the tallest of the three Sipi falls while you get cheered on by the locals. And also, have someone from your party take photos and make a video for remembrance.

• Visit the Bahai temple

The only temple of the Bahai faith in the whole of Africa. Meditate and relax in this tranquil place atop Lukaya hill, about 15 minutes away from the noisy city center of Kampala. You can also get a historical recount of how the Bahai religion started and how it was introduced in Uganda while you take in lovely views of the hilly city.

• Check out the crater lakes in Fort Portal

Fort Portal is not only the most beautiful town in Uganda but it’s also blessed with almost all the crater lakes in Uganda. Ambitambe Crater Lake in the Northern parts of the country is the only lake found outside Fort Portal. Some of the lakes to look out for are Lake Africa , which looks like the map of Africa, and Lake Kigere (leg) which gets its name from the footprint found on a giant rock located near it.

• Visit the snake park

For snake lovers, this is a place where you can see all kinds of snakes found in Uganda like the forest cobra, bush viper, Jameson’s mamba, and the African rock python. And if your visit is well-timed, you’ll get to watch as the snakes feed on birds, rats, and toads.

• Take a sunset cruise on R. Nile

You can watch the sunset while savoring dinner with a glass of wine.

• Visit the Kabaka’s palace and enjoy its rich history

Kabaka means the King in the Buganda culture. Just like the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, the place offers a terrific view from the palace to the Buganda kingdom’s parliament. You can also visit the torture chambers of Former President Idi Amin which are located within the palace grounds.

• Attend a cultural wedding

A colorful occasion filled with local music and dance that normally precedes the church wedding. You’ve to attend donned in traditional wear otherwise you risk standing out like a peacock.                                  

So, what are you waiting for? Plan a trip to Uganda and come see all that the country has to offer.

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WHY GO TO UGANDA

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Why go to uganda in 2024-2025 for a gorilla, chimpanzee & primate trek, wildlife safari, cultural & historical trip, lakeside vacation, key takeaways.

• Incredibly beautiful country poised to make its mark on the world tourism scene
• Has a staggering range of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to the country and not found in any other worldwide location
• Displaying a stunning diversity of landscapes and habitats that support an array of creatures
• Fabulous culture with 65 distinct tribes, each with a unique history, customs, and traditions
• Listed as 52 Places to Go by New York Times and 50 Places of a Lifetime by The National Geographic Society

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1. a one-stop safari country for a range of adventures - exciting or tranquil.

• Ultimate location for every kind of adventurer, including sightings of rare gorilla and chimpanzee families
• Riverside and lake excursions at Murchison Falls, Kazinga Channel, Nile River, and Lake Victoria
• Mountain-climbing in the Rwenzori Mountains or Mount Elgon

2. Big Game Safari & Birding Paradise At Unique Tri-Parks - Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls & Kidepo Valley

• Each unique parks for viewing plains diverse wildlife e.g Murchison Falls, Kidepo Valley, and Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Sightings of riverside wildlife including buffaloes, elephants, hippos, and over 600 species of avian life
• View four of the Big Five including striking predator and prey engagement

3. Twin Gorilla Trekking Safaris At Bwindi & Mgahinga Including The Unique Gorilla Habituation Experience

• Visit the famous mountain gorillas of the Bwindi and Virunga Mountains
• Tracking the golden monkeys in the bamboo forests of the Mgahinga National Park
• Spending extended time with researchers as they study the wild gorilla families and habituate them to the presence of humans

4. The Most Affordable Country In Africa To See Wild Chimpanzees

• Track down wild chimpanzee communities in 4 different areas - Kibale, Budongo, Kyambura Gorge and Semliki
• Watching the primates from a safe distance as they feed, nap, groom, and tend to the babies
• Learning more about these fantastic creatures through the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX)

5. River Boat Cruises For Aquatic Wildlife & Bird Sightings

• Uganda recognized as the location where the Nile originates from Lake Victoria near Jinja
• Traveling to Murchison Falls to see the river gush out of the narrow 8-meter cleft and pour into Devil’s Cauldron
• Cruising on the Kazinga Channel and Victoria Nile to spot diverse birdlife, hippos, crocodiles, and various other thirsty wildlife visiting to drink

6. Hiking & Climbing The Mountains Of Uganda

• Hiking and climbing expeditions in the some of the highland parks to discover their natural treasures
• Virunga peaks at Mount Gahinga, five volcanic peaks in Mount Elgon Park and six peaks in Rwenzori Mountains considered one of the best places to go mountaineering
• Opportunity to view and capture on film some of the most unique flora and ice fields that have existed here for many centuries

7. Fascinating Cultures Of Uganda

• Rich, ancient heritage of age-old kingdoms ruled traditionally by the Buganda Kings
• Learning more about the awe-inspiring history and culture of the 65 tribes of Uganda, including the Pygmy Batwa, Ankole, Bakiga, Batoro, and Bakonzo people
• Visiting the different communities such as the Bakiga Village, Kikorongo Women Community near Lake George, Nyanz’ibiri Cave Community, Katara Village, and Leopard Village

8. Idyllic Private Lake Islands For Relaxing Beach Experience

• Exploring the 84 islands of the Ssese Archipelago amidst Lake Victoria, the second-largest inland lake in the world
• Visiting Ngamba Island, the site for the research and conservation of orphaned chimpanzees
• Booking a stay at Pineapple Bay and experiencing the lakeside activities from island hopping, boating, fishing, farm visits to nature walks

9. Visiting Jinja, The Adventure Capital Of East Africa

• Visiting the historical town of Jinja that was established in the 1860s after John Speke arrived in the area, while looking for the source of the Nile
• Indulging in activities like a white water rafting, paddleboard trip, sunset cruises, fishing, mountain biking, quad biking, and horseback riding
• Birdwatching excursions in the forest wilderness and enjoying a buffet lunch aboard a riverboat

10. Bustling Cities & Towns Of Uganda - Kampala, Entebbe, & Fort Portal

• Several urban locations showcasing the development of Uganda into an upcoming economy
• Exploring cities like Kampala, Entebbe, and Fort Portal for their eclectic blend of cultures and town attractions
• Extend out to the lakeside Entebbe for rest and relaxation after your safari

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UGANDA GORILLA TREK & CHIMPANZEE SAFARIS

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East africa safari booking & tour holiday idea uganda for 2024-2025, best safari planning ideas & trip experiences for uganda, 1. how to plan uganda safari trips (summary), 2. wildlife safari trip planning guide for uganda, 3. private & tailor-made safaris trip planning guide for uganda, 4. honeymoon safaris trip planning guide for uganda, 5. family safaris trip planning guide for uganda, 6. luxury safaris trip planning guide for uganda, 7. photo safaris trip planning guide for uganda, 8. cultural safaris trip planning guide for uganda, 9. gorilla, chimpanzee & primate safaris trip planning guide for uganda, 10. hike, trek & bush walk safaris trip planning guide for uganda, 11. birding safaris trip planning guide for uganda, 12. wedding safaris trip planning guide for uganda.

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10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Uganda

•  Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
•  Kibale National Park
•  Kidepo Valley National Park
•  Lake Mburo National Park
•  Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
•  Mount Elgon National Park
•  Murchison Falls National Park
•  Queen Elizabeth National Park
•  Rwenzori Mountains National Park
•  Rwenzori National Park
•  Semuliki National Park
•  Bwizibwera
•  Entebbe
•  Fort Portal
•  Hoima
•  Jinja
•  Kabale
•  Kabarole
•  Kampala
•  Kamwenge
•  Kasese
•  Kiboga
•  Kisoro
•  Kisumu
•  Masaka
•  Masindi
•  Mbale
•  Mbarara
•  Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
•  Kalinzu Forest Reserve
•  Lake Bunyonyi
•  Mabamba Wetland
•  Mabira Forest
•  Mount Rwenzori
•  Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
•  Sipi Falls
•  Source of the Nile
•  Ssese Islands
•  Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

•  Algeria
•  Angola
•  Benin
•  Botswana
•  Burkina Faso
•  Burundi
•  Cabo Verde
•  Cameroon
•  Central African Republic
•  Comoros
•  Democratic Republic of the Congo
•  Djibouti
•  Egypt
•  Equatorial Guinea
•  Eritrea
•  Eswatini
•  Ethiopia
•  Gabon
•  Gambia
•  Ghana
•  Guinea-Bissau
•  Guinea
•  Ivory Coast
•  Kenya
•  Lesotho
•  Liberia
•  Libya
•  Madagascar
•  Malawi
•  Mauritania
•  Mauritius
•  Morocco
•  Mozambique
•  Namibia
•  Nigeria
•  Niger
•  Rwanda
•  Sao Tome and Principe
•  Senegal
•  Seychelles
•  Sierra Leone
•  Somalia
•  South Africa
•  South Sudan
•  Sudan
•  Tanzania
•  Tunisia
•  Uganda
•  Zambia
•  Zimbabwe

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• Sep 11, 2019

10 Reasons to Travel to Uganda

Updated: Jul 17, 2021

There are so many reasons to travel to the 'Pearl Of Africa'.

Below we have listed our top 10 authentic ugandan experiences ..

1. Gorilla Tracking

Of course, we have to start with the obvious . This bucket list activity is the main driver of Uganda’s thriving tourism industry. Be prepared for a life changing experience. It’s hard to describe the feeling after jungle trekking through the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest only to be surrounded by these great apes.

Seeing a 250 kg Silverback Gorilla staring you deep in the eyes will be a memory that will live with you forever.

Tracking Mountain Gorilla's can only be done in The DRC, Rwanda & Uganda.

Reasons to Gorilla Track in Uganda:

Best overall value for money - USD 700 versus USD 1,500 in Rwanda

Uganda is home to more than half of the worlds Mountain Gorillas

The country is safe to travel

There are many lodges that range from budget to luxurious

The country is full of other Authentic African Experiences to combine with the Gorillas

2. Diverse Safari Experiences

Uganda has 10 Proclaimed National Parks offering a diverse safari experience.

The country is quickly being recognized as the ultimate off the beaten track safari in Africa.

The country is not yet faced with the over-tourism like its neighboring countries. When you go on safari in Uganda, you are really immersed in nature and have a truly authentic and natural experience.

Best Safari's In Uganda:

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Murchison Falls National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park

3. Authentic Tribes and Villages

Uganda has a unique culture and some of the last remaining traditional African tribes . Uganda is enriched with history and culture. The complex structure of Ugandan heritage is still in the heart and soul of the people.

There are two highly specialized tribes, known as the Batwa Pygmies and the Ik Tribe . Both of these tribes are accustomed to living off the land and have survival skills that cannot be matched in the Western Societies.

4. Murchison Falls National Park

A must see! Uganda is home to the magnificent Murchison Falls , where the famous Nile River channels from over hundred of meters wide into a small 6 meter gap in the earth, falling down 45 meters to continue its long course towards Egypt.

The waterfall is truly a spectacular sight. There are very few remaining places on earth where you can enjoy earths raw beauty and have the benefit of very few tourists. This is one of those places!

The National Park is also home to the Big 4, Chimpanzees and the extremely endangered Shoebill Stork .

5. Natural Adventures

Freedom to Explore . Uganda has Savannah's, Lakes, Mountains, Safari and Volcanoes. It is an adventure lovers dream . You can combine all these activities in an adventure filled trip of a lifetime .

Some notable adventure activities:

Multi-day hike to the Rwenzoris Highest Peak - 5,109 Meters

Full day hike up the Volcanic Mount Muhuvura - 4,127 Meters

Cycling safari in the Lake Mburo National Park

Golden Monkey Tracking in Mgahinga National Park

6. Tree Climbing Lions

Uganda is home to the famous Tree Climbing Lions. The lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park are special in the way that they regularly climb up the trees during the hot midday hours. The prides of lions lay lazily up in the fig trees and create the perfect photo opportunity for the lucky visitors.

7. Lakes and Rivers

The small landlocked country is home to the Source of The Nile (the longest river in the world) as well as Lake Victoria (the second largest lake in the world) . The country has lakes scattered all over the country and adds to its huge biodiversity.

You may enjoy a boat safari offered in various locations including the Kazinga Channel and Nile River , both of these offering the opportunity to see the Big 4, Crocodiles and Hippos while cruising down these immense rivers.

8. Birding Mecca

The country is home to more than 1,000 birds in its small borders. Most of them very colorful and unique.

Uganda is one of those places that people arrive to see the gorillas and go on safari but leave with a new found love of birds.

The birding in Uganda offers visitors a mix of prehistoric birds (Shoebill Stork), colorful birds (Great Blue Turaco) and even the largest bird in the world (Ostrich).

9. Makes You Feel Alive

The country has been plagued with a troublesome past but has come back stronger than ever. You will see this from the sight of all the children's smiles . The locals are friendly and are all willing to help a ‘Mzungu’ (wandering traveler). The country helps you slow down and forget about worldly problems.

Driving along the rolling hills, tea plantations, mountains, forests, savanna's and countryside, gives you a true sense of freedom .

10. The Chimpanzees

Uganda allows you to visit our distant relatives - the Chimpanzees .

The 99% human animal is an impressive sight. From their strength, intelligence, communities and physique. It is humbling to see an animal, so similar to us, living in harmony, free from technology and modern-day stresses. We are only 1% different genetically but we seem worlds away.

To conclude:

Uganda is the true ‘ Pearl of Africa ’. We hope the above points has got you inspired.

Trust us, once you truly experience this country, your world will be turned upside down.

For more information and tips please refer to www.afriventure.org

• Boni National Reserve
• Kakamega Forest Reserve
• Nyungwe Forest National Park
• Volcanoes National Park
• National Parks
• Serengeti National Park
• Tarangire National Park
• Udzungwa National Park
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10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Uganda

Uganda, according to Winston Churchill described it as the “pearl of Africa”. The people of Uganda are the friendliest and ready to lend a helping hand to anyone. Uganda also boasts remarkable beauty, an abundance of wildlife, birdlife, and spectacular landscapes highlighted by the tallest mountain ranges with snowcaps, the source of the Nile River, and Africa’s largest freshwater. Here are the 10 reasons you should consider visiting Uganda.

Uganda is one of the greatest locations for gorilla trekking because it is home to over 54% of the world’s mountain gorilla population. A fascinating primate adventure, gorilla trekking can be had in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. In addition to regular gorilla treks, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda is renowned for offering thrilling mountain gorilla habituation experiences. When participating in the gorilla habituation experience, you are given four hours with the gorillas as opposed to the usual gorilla trek’s one-hour limit.

Mountain gorilla trekking is accessible in two national parks; Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. There are several habituated gorilla families within both parks. Twenty gorilla groups have been habituated in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park. Each group is given a group of 8 tourists per day, and treks begin in the four regions or sectors of Rushaga, Ruhija, Buhoma, and Nkuringo.

The sole group in the fifth sector, Ntebeko, of Mgahinga National Park that is accessible for tourists is the Nyakagezi group. In contrast to the gorilla habituation experience permit, which costs USD 1,500 per day, the standard gorilla tracking permit costs US$700 per permit per day.

Only four individuals are permitted to participate in the gorilla habituation experience each day, whereas 8 people are permitted to track a habituated gorilla family. If you’re thinking about doing a gorilla safari in Rwanda, a permit costs US$1500 each day.

Abundant Flora and Fauna Species

Due to the distinctive and numerous floral and fauna species found there, Uganda is a popular tourism destination. Uganda is home to all five of the big game species as well as numerous primates, reptiles, birds, amphibians, and butterflies. Awe-inspiring natural features, unspoiled wilderness, and unusual vegetation, including open forested savanna, ecosystems, acacia woodlands, montane forests, grasslands, bush thickets, and extensive wetlands, are all found there.

Experience chimpanzee trekking and habituation at its best

The Kibale Forest National Park in Uganda is home to the largest group of chimpanzees in East Africa. In Uganda, there are roughly 5,050 chimpanzees, 1500 of which are found in Kibale Forest Park. Tourists can take part in chimpanzee tracking and chimpanzee habituation experiences in Kibale National Park. The Budongo Forest in Murchison Falls National Park, the stunning Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Kalinzu Forest, and the chimpanzee research at Semliki Wildlife Reserve are other places in Uganda where you can go chimpanzee tracking.

Golden Monkey Tracking Experience

There are many primate activities available in Uganda, including the opportunity to track and acclimate golden monkeys. The gorilla tracking and the golden monkey tracking, or habituation, are the two remarkable primate encounters that take place in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. It should be mentioned that only 2,000–5,000 golden monkeys remain in existence today.

Additionally, while visiting Uganda, you get the opportunity to see these stunning creatures in their natural environment. The cost of a permit for the golden monkey trek is USD 100, while the cost of a permit for the habituation of golden monkeys is USD 140 per permit per day including park entrance.

Birding Safaris

The vast majority of the world’s bird species are found in Uganda, which has a wide variety of habitats and is home to roughly 11% of them. Uganda is a true birders’ paradise with over 1080 different bird species recorded there.  Everywhere in Uganda is a good place to go birding, but according to some birders who have taken safaris to Uganda to go birding, the best places to go are Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest, Semuliki National Park, The Royal Mile in Budongo Forest, Lake Victoria, and Mabamba Swamp, which is known for its shoebill population.

These bird species include; guinea fowls, Shelley’s crimson wings, crested cranes, marabou stork, the shoebill, Doherty’s bush shrikes, Shelley’s crimson wings short-tailed warblers, African green broadbill, Shelley’s crimson wings, African dwarf kingfishers, standard-winged nightjars, great blue turacos, Rwenzori turacos, African emerald cuckoos, pelicans, and others

Breathtaking Scenery

Not other nations enjoy the same natural bounty as Uganda. Travelers on a Uganda tour come not just to see the wildlife but also to appreciate the stunning scenery and landscapes of the nation. The Mountains of the Moon, also known as the Rwenzori Mountain ranges, rift valleys, the Nile River, and numerous picturesque water features, including Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in the world, are just a few of Uganda’s distinctive features. It is only possible to enjoy the country’s unspoiled environment while you are there, particularly at Kidepo Valley National Park, where seeing it will make you feel fortunate for choosing to travel there.

Responsible tourism and conservation

It is undeniable that Uganda is such a beautiful destination since the country’s tourism industry is heavily reliant on the beauty of nature. There are more well-maintained protected places in addition to the 12 Wildlife Reserves and 10 National Parks. The fundamental objective of conservation is to preserve resources for generations to come , and a sizable amount of tourism revenue is used for this purpose. The national parks’ tourism money directly benefits the local communities that surround them. Schools and medical facilities including hospitals have been established to serve the surrounding towns, and many more facilities have been built to help the community live in a good and healthy environment.

The hospitable people and their cultures

Uganda is a vibrant cultural safari destination with 56 tribes and about 70 spoken languages. These include Batwa in southwest Uganda, the Banyankole in western Uganda, the IK, Karamojong, Bamba and Basongora , which are just a few of the eight indigenous communities in Uganda. You will meet and interact with the friendly and warm welcoming Ugandans as soon as you land on Ugandan soil for your Uganda tour.

The IK community on Mount Morungole in the country’s extreme northeast, is primarily a farming community despite having close neighbors who are pastoralists, and the Batwa, who live in the forest and are found in Bwindi, Semliki, and Mgahinga and are often referred to as “pygmy people,” are among the indigenous communities that are most frequently visited.

The best of Uganda’s distinctive cultures and traditions can be experienced in a variety of ways on a cultural tour, this includes visiting sustainable community-based tourism initiatives like the IK and Karamojong Communities, the Batwa Development Programme. If you get to travel to Uganda during an even year, you can observe the Bagishu in the country’s east participate in the Imbalu initiation rite all year long and witness how men are being circumcised in a local way.

Food and Dining

There should be a wide variety of foods available in a nation with more than 50 tribes. Various food types are linked to a certain location because practically every region has its own traditional dish. In central region, you can find matooke (steamed bananas), potatoes in eastern Uganda, millet, sorghum, Irish potatoes, and cassava in most of the country. The Luwombo made with banana leaves is the most popular of all. However, the majority of guests prefer the quick supper known as the rolex, which consists of a chapatti wrapped with eggs and associated other ingredients.

Pleasing Weather and Climatic Conditions

The climate and temperature are pleasant all year round in Uganda because it is located near the equator. As a result, it’s a great place for nature enthusiasts to embark on guided mountaineering expeditions, gorilla treks, and other related nature walks. With January and February being the hottest months, the average daily temperature in Uganda ranges from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius. The dry months—June through September or December through February—are the ideal times of year to travel to Uganda.

Remember that Uganda is a tropical country full of mystery, so you might be astonished when you visit to find that it doesn’t rain during the wet season. Here the season is unpredictable.

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10 Reasons to Visit Uganda

10 Reasons to Visit Uganda, get to know the 10 reasons why you should visit Uganda as a destination, also known a s the Pearl of Africa.

Introduction

Uganda, a vibrant and diverse country nestled in the heart of East Africa. It offers a rich tapestry of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and awe-inspiring wildlife. From the mist-covered peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains to the vast Savannah of the national parks, Uganda presents a unique and captivating travel destination. In this essay, we will explore ten compelling reasons why you should consider visiting Uganda.

Unparalleled Wildlife Diversity

Uganda is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream come true. It is home to an extraordinary array of animal species, including the rare mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Witnessing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Additionally, Uganda’s numerous national parks offer opportunities to encounter elephants, lions, leopards , buffaloes, and an astonishing variety of bird species.

Breathtaking Landscapes

Uganda’s diverse landscapes are a sight to behold. From the mesmerizing beauty of the Sipi Falls in the east to the picturesque crater lakes of Fort Portal, there is no shortage of natural wonders to explore. The vast savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park , along with the tranquil beauty of Lake Bunyonyi and the source of the Nile in Jinja, will leave you awe-struck.

Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable gorilla trekking expedition in Uganda’s dense rainforests. As you navigate through lush vegetation, the encounter with these majestic creatures is an intimate and deeply moving experience. The trek itself is an adventure, and the rare opportunity to observe gorillas up close is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that sets Uganda apart as a premier destination.

Friendly and Hospitable People

Uganda is renowned for its warm and welcoming people. With a rich cultural heritage comprising over 50 different tribes, visitors can immerse themselves in local communities, witness traditional ceremonies, and gain insights into the Ugandan way of life. Engaging with locals will leave you with a lasting appreciation for their vibrant traditions, music, dance, and cuisine.

Unique Safari Experiences

Uganda offers a different kind of safari experience. Whether it’s a traditional game drive through the national parks or a boat safari along the Nile, the opportunity to witness the “Big Five” and other exotic wildlife in their natural habitats is an adventure like no other. Exploring Kidepo Valley National Park , often referred to as “the true African wilderness,” will leave you with memories of unspoiled beauty and remote tranquility.

Adventure Sports and Outdoor Activities

For adrenaline junkies, Uganda offers an array of outdoor activities. Whitewater rafting on the mighty Nile River , bungee jumping, quad biking, and hiking the dramatic peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains are just a few of the thrilling adventures awaiting the intrepid traveler. Uganda’s diverse landscapes provide the perfect playground for those seeking excitement and a touch of adventure.

Pristine and Undiscovered Beauty

While Uganda’s popularity as a travel destination has been steadily growing, it still remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. This means you can explore its natural wonders in a more authentic and intimate manner, away from the crowds. Whether it’s tracking chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park or embarking on a boat safari in Lake Mburo National Park , Uganda offers a sense of discovery and pristine beauty that is truly refreshing.

Affordable Travel Destination

Compared to other African countries, Uganda offers excellent value for money. Accommodation, food, transportation, and activities are relatively affordable, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers. The warm hospitality and diverse range of options, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses, cater to different travel preferences and budgets.

Conservation and Ecotourism

Uganda has made significant strides in conservation and ecotourism, with a strong focus on protecting its natural treasures. The revenue generated from tourism plays a crucial role in supporting conservation efforts and local communities. By visiting Uganda, you are contributing to the preservation of its wildlife and habitats, ensuring their longevity for future generations.

Soul-Stirring Sunsets and Sunrises

Last but certainly not least, Uganda is known for its awe-inspiring sunsets and sunrises. Whether it’s watching the golden hues paint the sky over the savannah or witnessing the misty dawn break over the mountains, these natural spectacles will leave you spellbound. The beauty of Uganda’s landscapes combined with the vibrant colors of the sky create unforgettable moments of tranquility and reflection.

Conclusion:

Uganda’s extraordinary and diverse wildlife, landscapes, warm people as well as unique cultural experiences gives you an amazing stay. The affordable travel options make it an enticing destination for all types of travelers. From the thrill of gorilla trekking to the serenity of a sunset over the Nile , Uganda offers a captivating and authentic African experience. So pack your bags and embark on an amazing journey of discovery to the Pearl of Africa. Explore Uganda’s beauty and charm leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul.

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27 Reasons To Visit Uganda For Safari Holiday In 2024.

Uganda’s small size on the African map might deceive you into underestimating what the country has to offer for visitors. This article will give you 25+ reasons to visit Uganda – and have you start planning. From the gorillas and chimps, the beautiful scenery, colorful birds, and of course – the people, you should be thinking about visiting Uganda.

The travelers who have visited Uganda have great things to say and rightfully so. In this article, we have listed 27 great reasons why we think you should visit Uganda in 2024.

Read through and see which reasons will speak to your personal preferences the most. And of course, talk to us about the vision you have in your mind for your epic safari .

Note:  We have added several links to our other articles that dive deeper into the various reasons/topics. Feel free to open them in a new tab for further reading.

Why visit Uganda in 2024

1. ugandans are very welcoming people.

Of all the reasons to visit Uganda, the biggest and best is the People. Ugandans are warm and welcoming people who receive everyone equally and with joy.

In Uganda, it is customary to go above and beyond to make your visitors feel welcome and at home.

2. Uganda is a safe place to visit and live in.

Uganda is a safe place for anyone, from anywhere to come and visit or even live. You can move freely and safely in all parts of Uganda and any time.

Political stability is one of the reasons why Uganda’s tourist numbers have been increasing over the last 20 years. Here is our full article that takes a deeper look into why Uganda is safe to visit

3. Sunny & warm weather – all year long

Uganda enjoys an equatorial climate characterized by warm temperatures and sunny days all year round. Except for some very high-altitude areas such as Bwindi, Mgahinga, Rwenzori, and Elgon, much of Uganda enjoys a warm day of 20 o C to 26 o C ( 68 o F to 78 o F ).

In areas like national parks, the experiences are still very good and you will be able to see animals even in the wet season.

Learn all about Uganda’s weather and seasons to better plan your safari.

4. Explore the rich & diverse local culture

Uganda is made up of around 50 subcultures with different traditions, norms, and ways of life. Whether it is the food , the traditional dances, and the various customs Uganda’s diversity can be witnessed in every corner.

5. See endangered mountain gorillas in the wild.

Uganda is the best place where you can go for your chance to see endangered mountain gorillas in their wild habitat. Gorillas can be seen in either Bwindi Impenetrable or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park s – every day of the year.

The total population of mountain gorillas is just over 1000, more than half of which live in Uganda and can safely be visited for tourism and research.

6. Meet chimpanzees deep in the rainforests

Chimpanzees are around 98% related to humans, and seeing them in the wild is a fascinating experience. While chimps live in other countries, Uganda has the highest concentration of chimps in the wild.

Kibale National Park is the ultimate chimpanzee tracking destination in the whole world with more than 1500 wild chimps as well as 12 other primates roaming the rainforest.

7. Enjoy a classic wildlife safari in the Savannah

The perfect picture of a classic African safari is driving in the savannah and seeing all the animals that live there. Uganda is home to lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, rhinos, hippos, cheetahs, crocodiles, antelopes and so much more.

A visit to Murchison Falls, Kidepo , Lake Mburo, or Queen Elizabeth National Park will offer great opportunities to see the animals that live in these parks. You will be able to see your favorite savannah wildlife in Uganda.

8. Great hiking spots at every turn

Hiking is a great way of experiencing your surrounding nature and Uganda’s beautiful landscapes offer unlimited possibilities. Whether you like forests, waterfalls, caves, hills or making your own path, your hiking is endless.

While there are popular spots like Sipi , Fort Portal, and Sabinyo, you don’t have to limit yourself in any way.

9. High Adrenaline activities on River Nile

The Nile is the longest river in the world and a very important part of human civilization that started in Egypt. The Nile leaves Lake Victoria in Jinja and starts its long journey to Egypt and the Mediterranean sea.

In Jinja, there is a number of exciting activities that can be enjoyed on this great river such as kayaking, white water rafting, or bungee jumping among many others.

10. Big Mountains that are worth climbing

Mountain climbing enthusiasts can enjoy climbing any of Uganda’s mountains. Uganda’s tallest mountain is the Rwenzori range which rises to 5109 meters above sea level and is covered by permanent glaciers at the top.

Besides Rwenzori, Mount Elgon is another great mountain worth climbing and has the world’s biggest mountain caldera at more than 4000 meters above sea level.

Elgon is slightly Easier to climb because Rwenzori is a mountain range whose ascent involves a lot of going up and down. Climbing either mountain is fascinating as you will go through the various climate zones and all the beautiful plants and animals there.

While Rwenzori might be the toughest mountain to climb in Africa, its beauty and biodiversity are just out of this world.

11. Delicious Uganda foods

Uganda’s diverse culture and traditions are greatly expressed in food. From the well-known rolex street food to traditional dishes like Luwombo or Eshabwe which have a strong cultural significance.

Whichever part of Uganda you visit, the food has a story to tell and is a way for you to be welcomed. Traditionally, when you visit someone, eating something at their home is a sign of a strong friendship with many future visits and returns.

As an extra, most of Uganda’s food is grown by small local farmers. This means the food is prepared fresh and organic and naturally.

12. Uganda is a budget-friendly destination

The cost of an African safari can most times seem overwhelming. Generally speaking, Uganda is one of the destinations where you can enjoy a quality safari at a lower cost.

The tourism infrastructure is well developed with enough options for making your Uganda safari fit into your budget. Uganda’s biggest ticket item is the gorilla tracking permit at 700 USD but most of the other activities are quite affordable.

The best way to do budget travel is to talk extensively with your safari operator (such as ourselves) and see what can be optimized. Here is an article we wrote about the cost of an African Safari and how it can be greatly optimized for any budget.

13. Uganda is a real birding Haven

Uganda is home to more than 1000 different bird species. This is around 50% of all of Africa’s birds.

For the avid birder, there is no other place where you will get to check off as many birds on your list.

There are so many special bird species such as the shoebill, the Rwenzori turaco, and many Albertine Rift endemics. Get your binoculars and your bird checklist ready.

14. Uganda is Africa’s fruit basket

Uganda’s fertile soils and warm climate mean fresh local fruits all year round. Local farmers sell their fruits on most major roadsides.

On the way to the various parts of the country, you pass many local markets where you can get fresh fruits that have just come from the farm.

Fruits like Mangos, pineapples, Papayas, oranges, sugarcane, bananas, jackfruit, and many more are grown around the country and sold cheaply. Instead of packed snacks, many tourists find themselves choosing a banana.

15. Uncongested parks

Uganda’s national parks are never crowded by tourists. In places like Bwindi, the number of people allowed to see mountain gorillas is strictly limited.

In other national parks, the crowds are usually very rare and guests get to enjoy nature in as pure of a setting as possible.

16. Sustainable tourism

Visits to Uganda’s protected areas are sustainable and respectable for both the environment and the local communities. The money collected by the parks is regarded as conservation fees that go back into conservation work in and around the parks.

A percentage of the money is directly given to the neighboring communities to enhance local development in form of projects such as schools, hospitals, roads, and more.

When you visit Uganda, you can be certain that your contribution to the environment is direct and the impact on the community will last for generations. This is a great reason to visit Uganda – knowing that you are positively contributing to the world and fellow humans.

17. Developed Tourism Infrastructure

Uganda’s tourism infrastructure has seen massive investment in the recent past and is now quite developed. The roads, hotels, and activities have been developed to make everything easy for the guests.

It is much easier to move between various attractions whether it’s by road or local flight.

18. Knowledgeable guides and rangers

A good tour guide is what makes your African safari run well and exceed any expectations. There is a curiosity in every traveler and you want a guide who is knowledgeable about all the various experiences on your Uganda safari holiday.

Whether it is in the wild with the animals or in the community, a good guide is a valuable part of your safari experience. Uganda has a high number of well-trained and experienced guides who will truly elevate your Uganda experience.

19. A simple and clear visa process

Applying for a Ugandan tourist visa is a very simple and streamlined process that you can do online – wherever you are. Another great alternative that some guests choose is to get their visa on arrival.

While the process of getting a visa might not seem like the biggest reason, frustration in the visa process can make your trip seem impossible. Take a look at our complete guide to Uganda tourist visas and see what you will need. You might even be visa-exempt depending on your nationality.

20. Many international flights come to Uganda every day

There are more international flights that come to Uganda that before. Generally, international travel has improved all over Africa and Uganda has been a big beneficially of that advancement.

While flight times can still be long for some countries, getting to Uganda has never been easier. International airlines like Emirates, Etihad, Turkish, Qatar, KLM, Brussels, and many more come to Uganda on a regular basis.

Here is a full article we made to give you all the insight about how to get to Uganda for your holiday.

21. Kampala nightlife

Many people will refer to Kampala as one of Africa’s sleepless cities. For the guests who love going out for some drinks and dancing, Kampala will have a special place in your heart.

Most safari packages are not designed with a night out on the town but if this sounds good, it can be added as part of your custom safari holiday. As many Ugandans say, it’s party after party.

22. There is a wide choice of tour operators

There are around 2000 tour operators in Uganda. This is a big number for a small country, but more importantly, this gives you enough options to look at and make a decision.

Obviously, we want you to choose us as your trusted Uganda safari handler. We have more than 10 years of providing great service to our guests who come from all parts of the world.

You can learn more about us and we hope you will choose Primate World Safaris as your Uganda travel company because we are waiting to hear from you.

23. Meet the rare & playful Golden monkeys

Golden monkeys are the lesser-known primates that are quite interesting and can only be seen in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. Like Mountain gorillas, Golden monkeys do not live in any captive environment (zoo/sanctuary) and they are considered endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature ( IUCN ).

In Uganda, golden monkeys can be seen in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. While they are not gorillas or chimps, they are probably the next best primate worth seeing.

24. Plenty of relaxing spots

Places like the Ssese Islands , Lake Mutanda, and Lake Bunyonyi are great for relaxing and unwinding.

25. Uganda has some cool unexplored attractions

Uganda has some attractions which less explored and therefore offer authentic feelings of discovery. Whether it is the wildlife reserves, forests, or mountains – there is a wide array of less-beaten paths which are awaiting the more adventurous and curious traveler.

Eastern and Northern Uganda attractions are just ripe for exploration.

Here is our safari that goes to some of the places in Eastern and Northern Uganda which tend to fly unnoticed. 12 Days Eastern Uganda Safari holiday

26. Great opportunities for photography

Photography is now part of every travel experience – especially with a good camera on our smartphones. For professional photographers, Uganda is a great place worth visiting for wildlife, landscape, and culture photography trips.

With all there is to explore and learn about in Uganda, photography is a great way of documentation. Depending on the specific goals for your photography trip, Uganda is a great place to showcase with your photographs.

27. Uganda truly is the pearl of Africa

From the amazing words of Sir Winston Churchill – “ For magnificence, for variety of form and color, for a profusion of brilliant life, bird, insect, reptile, beast — for vast scale — Uganda is truly the Pearl of Africa. ”

Anyone would agree that the lush green country-sides, terraced hillsides, amazing birdlife, wildlife, and many other attractions this is one of the most beautiful places in Africa. All this holds true and there is beauty at every turn.

Final thoughts

We clearly love talking about all the good and beautiful things in Uganda. We know that every traveler has different preferences and we hope we highlighted enough of yours in this long list.

More than inspiring your curiosity and sense of wonder, we would love to talk with you and plan that once-in-a-lifetime safari you have envisioned. We are eager and excited to hear from you.

We invite you to take a look at our safari packages to get a clear idea of how a safari in Uganda often flows from start to finish. You can go to our dedicated Uganda safari holidays page, or you can start with the popular pages that are shown below.

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10 REASONS FOR VISITING UGANDA

10 reasons for visiting Uganda are simply the overview of the landlocked country in the African Great lakes’ region lying within the Nile basin. There are several reasons why you should visit Uganda but evidently the following 10 reasons surely are outstanding.

1.MOUNTAIN GORILLAS   

Besides the several reasons for visiting Uganda, the mount gorillas are ranked among the main. Given that Bwindi harbors 60% of all the remaining endangered mount gorillas, gorilla trekking is more interesting and easier in Uganda than elsewhere hence a reason to visit.

Similarly, Uganda has an excess of 4950 chimpanzees in Kibale forest alongside 2000 other primates. Chimpanzee trekking is very fascinating and rewarding in Uganda than in the other parts of the world which adds on the reasons for your visit.

It’s important to realize that Uganda’s wildlife comprised of both flora and fauna is also part of the 10 reasons for visiting. For instance, it harbors an excess of 4500 vascular plant species i.e. bamboo thickets and wooded grassland, 110 species with ferns etc. For the floral, 1020 species of birds, 142 of reptiles, 501 of fish, 345 of mammals, over 1,242 species of fish etc. Very rare to find so for that case, making it a reason for visiting Uganda.

• HISTORICAL SITES

Additionally, Uganda holds several historical sites due to the authentic cultural encounter. Almost every tribe with culture has a historical site e.g., the Baganda own Kasumbi tombs the resting grounds of the kings, the Bunyoro kingdom also has the tunnels, not to mention Namugongo Martyrs shrine etc.

  5.AFFORDABILITY

Another key point, the prices of the services and the standards of living are cheap and affordable in Uganda compared to most of the African countries. For example, unlike Rwanda where the gorilla permit costs USD 1,500, its at USD 700 in Uganda not forgetting how rewarding the trek is.

Uganda harbors an excess of 1000 bird species which is half of all the population in Africa and 11% in the whole world. They include both migrates and breeding birds e.g Karamoja Apalis, blue swallow, Archer’s Robin-Chat, the African white backed vulture etc.

• WEATHER AND CLIMATE

The weather and climate of Uganda is tropical with two rainy and dry seasons throughout the year which unlike elsewhere. The temperature keeps fluctuating with warm and cool not hot and cold which is rare elsewhere.

• CULTURAL DIVERSITY

The cultural diversity of Uganda is an important factor for visiting Uganda. There are 56 tribes speaking and practicing different languages and cultures which are unique and attractive to the outsiders. For example, the Bagishu practice circumcision accompanied by very interesting cultural dances and drums commonly known as akadodi etc.

• NILE PERCH SPOT FISHING

Nile perch spot fishing is an exciting activity  in Uganda favored by the many fresh water bodies like L. Victoria etc. Nile perch is a very common fish specie in Uganda. Unlike elsewhere which makes the fishing game very fascinating hence a reason for visiting Uganda.

• WELCOMING PEOPLE.

Lastly, Uganda is the friendliest country in Africa where love and respect is instilled at the tender age. As an illustration, “My African Journey,” “people are different from anything elsewhere to be seen in the whole of Africa.” Winston Churchill’s.

In conclusion, there are several reasons why you should visit Uganda but the above 10 are the most outstanding ones. Therefore SEND INQUIRY or reach us at +256 393 247 137 / +256 742 678 918.

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10 reasons to visit Uganda

1. gorillas.

3. Variety of wildlife

4. Friendly locals

5. Verdant landscapes

6. Adventure

7. Remote mountains

8. Picturesque waterways

9. Conservation

10. Responsible tourism

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10 reasons to visit Uganda

Uganda boasts a varied and thriving landscape that is home to an abundance of rare and exotic wildlife. Go in search of elusive chimp in tropical rainforest and observe giant gorilla in its natural habitat. Here are ten reasons to visit Uganda.

1. Gorillas

3. Variety of wildlife

4. friendly locals, 5. verdant landscapes.

6. Adventure

7. Remote mountains

8. picturesque waterways, 9. conservation.

10. Responsible tourism

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10 reasons why you should visit Uganda this year!

The Independent February 11, 2023 Business , Features , Features catergory , TOURISM Leave a comment

SPECIAL FEATURE | THE INDEPENDENT |  Why visit Uganda 2023/2024? Uganda is distinct – described by Winston Churchill as “The Pearl of Africa”, and indeed it is!

Boasting of its remarkable beauty, abundant wildlife, birdlife, and spectacular landscapes characterized by the tallest mountain ranges with snowcap, the Source of the Nile River, and Africa’s largest freshwater Lake, Lake Victoria, then most importantly, the people of Uganda who are by far the most friendly, always wearing a smile and willing to extend a helping hand to anyone.

Below, we have identified the 10 best reasons why you should visit Uganda;

✳ Abundant floral and faunal species- Uganda

Uganda is a preferred travel destination due to its unique and abundant floral and faunal species. All the big 5 game live in Uganda and diverse primates, reptiles, birdlife, amphibians as well as colorful butterflies. It is a spectacular destination with natural wonders, untouched wilderness, and unique vegetation featuring open wooded savanna, forests, acacia woodlands, montane forests, riparian forests, grasslands, bush thickets, and vast wetlands.

 ✳  A face-face encounter with the massive mountain gorillas

About 54% of the world’s mountain gorilla population resides within Uganda making it one of the best places to enjoy the gorilla trekking experience. Gorilla trekking is such a captivating primate adventure and in Uganda, this experience is enjoyable while in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Other than normal gorilla treks, Uganda is also known for its exhilarating mountain gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Where as you are allowed one hour with the mountain gorillas while on the normal gorilla trek, you are allowed 4 hours with the gorillas when doing the gorilla habituation experience.

Trekking with Uganda mountain gorillas is possible in the 5 sectors of which, 4 sectors are located in Bwindi Impentrable National Park and one exists in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. In Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park, there are 20 habituated gorilla groups to be visited, and each is assigned a group of 8 tourists per day and treks start from the 4 regions or sectors of; Rushaga, Ruhija, Buhoma, and Nkuringo. The 5 th sector is Ntebeko located in Mgahinga National Park where only one group is open for tourism purposes and that is the Nyakagezi group. Note that the normal gorilla tracking permit costs USD 700 per permit per day which the gorilla habituation experience permit costs USD 1,500 per permit per day. Where as 8 people are allowed to track a habituated gorilla family, only 4 people are allowed to engage in the gorilla habituation experience per day. Some people may ask what about our neighbours in Rwanda, don’t they have gorillas? In case your are interested in a Rwanda gorilla safari , the gorilla permit in Rwanda costs USD 1,500 per permit per day.

✳ Experience the best of chimpanzee trekking and chimpanzee habituation

The biggest population of chimpanzees in East Africa lives in Kibale Forest National Park in Uganda. There are about 5,050 chimpanzees living in Uganda and 1500 of them are in Kibale Forest Park. In Kibale NP, chimpanzee tracking and chimpanzee habituation experience can be enjoyed by tourists but endeavor to read a Uganda Holiday Guide on what to pack, and expectations. Aside from Kibale Forest, there are other locations in Uganda where you can do chimpanzee tracking namely; Kaniyo Pabidi forest located in Murchison Falls National Park, the beautiful Kyambura Gorge that has a forest in the gorge located in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest, and the chimpanzee research at Semliki Wildlife Reserve.

✳ Golden monkey tracking & habituation experience

Uganda offers plenty of primate adventures including golden monkey tracking and habituation experience. The two incredible primate encounters are done in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park tht is; the gorilla tracking as mentioned earlier and then the golden monkey tracking or habituation. It should be noted that less than 2,000 to 5,000 golden monkeys still survive on earth. And while in Uganda, you have a chance to experience first hand these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. A permit for the golden monkey trek costs USD 60 while the one for the golden monkey habituation costs USD 100 per permit per day. Note that the cost does not include the park entrance fees which are USD 40 and valid for 24 hours.

✳ Birding tours

A huge profusion of birds reside within Uganda’s diverse habitats and it is important to note that Uganda boasts about 11% of the bird species of the world. Over 1080 species of birds exist in Uganda making it a true bird watchers haven. These bird species include but not limited to; standard-winged nightjars, great blue turacos, guinea fowls, Shelley’s crimson wings, crested cranes, marabou stork, the shoebill, Doherty’s bush shrikes, short-tailed warblers, African green broadbill, Abyssinian ground hornbill, African dwarf kingfishers, African emerald cuckoos, pelicans, Rwenzori turacos and others. Everywhere in Uganda is a birding destinatination however, some birders who have been on a Uganda self drive have noted the most important birding destinations as; Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest, Semliki National Park, The Royal Mile in Budongo Forest, Lake Victoria most notbly for the shoebill at Mabamba Swamp.

✳ The hospitable people and their distinct cultures

Uganda is a vibrant cultural safari destination, consisting of 56 tribes with about 70 spoken languages. About 8 indigenous communities are in Uganda and include the Batwa in south western Uganda, IK, Karamojong, Benet, Banyabindi, Maragoli, Basongora, and Bamba. While on Uganda tour, you will meet and interact with the friendly and warm welcoming Ugandans right at the Entebbe International Airport or any land border entry until the day you leave. Amongst the indigenous communities, the most visited include the IK in Mount Mulongole found in the estreme north eastern part of the country, this community has a unique setting and stay in the mountain. They are predominantly farmers and yet their immediate neighbors are pastoralists. The other are the Batwa who are forest dwellers and they are found in Bwindi, Semliki and Mgahinga; they are associated with the term pygmy people.

On a cultural tour, there are many ways for enthusiastic visitors to experience the best of Uganda’s unique cultures and traditions including visiting sustainable community-based tourism project such as Kibale Association for Rural and Environmental Development, the Batwa Development Program, IK and Karamojong Communities, etc. In case you happen to visit Uganda in an even year, the Bagishu in the eastern part of the country engage in the Imbalu initiation ceremony throughout the year.

✳ Breathtaking sceneries

Not all countries are gifted by nature as Uganda. Tourists on a tour to Uganda come not only to encounter wildlife but also to experience the country’s breathtaking sceneries and landscapes. Uganda is characterized by distinct landforms and mostly importantly the home to the Mountains of the Moon also commonly referred to as Rwenzori Mountain ranges, rift valleys, the Nile River and other scenic water bodies including the world’s freshwater Lake that is; Lake Victoria. There is an array of untouched wilderness that can only be experience while you are in the country especially while at Kidepo Valley National Park where sighting this would make you feel previllaged for having chosen to visit the area.

✳ Responsible tourism and conservation

Uganda’s tourism sector largely depends on nature and it is with no doubt, that it is such a lush destination. There are 10 National Parks and 12 Wildlife Reserves plus other protected areas that are well-kept. A large portion of the tourism revenue collection is used for conservation purposes and the main goal is to conserve for future generations. The communities living around the national parks directly benefit from the tourism revenue of these protected areas. A guest who did a Uganda car hire and drove himself around the country mentioned that a hospital was built in Bwindi called the Bwindi Community Hospital with a purpose of extending health facilities to the communities around the area and today, it is one of the most equipped hospitals in the country and yet the service delivery there is top notch.

✳ Favorable weather and climatic conditions

Uganda lies astride the Equator and enjoys all-year-round weather and climatic conditions. This makes it a favorable destination for nature lovers to enjoy a guided gorilla trekking, mountaineering, or chimpanzee tracking experience. The average daytime temperatures recorded in most parts of Uganda range from 24 to 33 degrees celsius with the hottest months running from January to February. The best months of the year to visit Uganda for a holiday are the dry months -that is June to September or December to February. Note that Uganda is a tropical country and full of mysteries, meaning; you might be surprised on your visit that no rain falls during the wet season and also you might experience the rains during the dry season. That explains the common nortion that goes saying Uganda is truly a country gifted by nature.

✳ Food and dining

A country with over 50 tribes surely calls for a multitude of food options. The food is associated with a particular place visited with almost each region having its very own staple food. You will find matooke (steamed bananas) in most of the central region, potatoes in eastern Uganda, millet, sorghum, Irish potato, cassava in most parts of the country. The most tasted of all is the Luwombo prepared using the banana leaves. Most visitors however enjoy the easy to go meal called the rolex which is a chapatti wrapped in eggs.

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10 reasons to visit Uganda: From golden monkeys to gorillas

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Easily overlooked for the quiet charm of neighbouring Rwanda or the pull of big game in nearby Kenya, Uganda is arguably the most underrated destination in east Africa.

Home to superb street food and fascinating ancient tribes, not to mention an array of wildlife that puts more popular African countries in the shade, it’s the ideal place to explore for those who want an adventure away from the crowds.

Pick up a rolex

No, not knock off luxury watches. Rather, the ultimate street-side breakfast treat. An omelette with red onions, cabbage, peppers and tomatoes wrapped in a fresh chapati, this delicious snack was once known simply as “rolled eggs” before tourists simply started calling them “rolex” instead. They’re the perfect way to fill up before a trek across Uganda’s vast savannah or virgin rainforest. And unlike their costly namesakes, these will only set you back 2,000 Ugandan shillings. A grand total of 40p.

Get up close and personal with mountain gorillas

Along with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda is home to the last remaining population of mountain gorillas on Earth. Families are found in Mgahinga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, in the country’s far southwest. Bwindi is home to 14 habituated groups of gorillas, with a total population of 400 according to the last regional census in 2012. Groups of eight people, led by armed rangers and qualified trackers, can spend an hour with these beguiling primates, usually after an arduous trek through thick rainforest. At $600 (£480), permits are expensive, but far cheaper than the $1,500 required to see gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.

Cruise the Kazinga

Connecting Lake Edward and Lake George in western Uganda, this 40km channel is home to the largest concentration of hippopotami in Africa. At only 8m deep, the channel makes for the perfect resting place for these hulking mammals, which spend most of the day bathing in the shallows along its banks. It’s also possible to see large groups of elephants, as well as African fish eagles and pied kingfishers. Be sure to pack binoculars and charter a smaller boat in order to get first-hand information from the pilots who are also naturalists.

Spend time with the Batwa

The Batwa, once known as pygmies, are conservation refugees. Traditional hunter-gatherers, they were thrown out of Mgahinga and Bwindi when both became national parks in 1991. Since then, they have been marginalised, forced to eke out a living working on others’ land and losing their traditional skills. Through its Partnership Trust, tour operator Volcanoes Safaris purchased and gifted 10 acres of land near its Mount Gahinga lodge on the edge of the national park for local Batwa people in 2018, helping them build 18 homes and a community centre, with access to medical care. Tribe elder Safari Monday holds special sessions for guests at the lodge, teaching them about traditional hunting and herbal medicine, with the chance to visit the village and learn more about their plight.

Catch a glimpse of tree-climbing lions

Found only in Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park and the Ishasha plains of Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park, these rare big cats spend most of the day lounging in acacia trees, rather than sleeping on the ground like their regular cousins. There’s a small population of around 50 such lions in this part of Uganda, meaning it pays to go with a qualified guide who can get intel from park rangers on their location.

Support a life-changing women’s non-profit

Ride 4 A Woman is a nonprofit organisation set up by Evelyn Habasa. Conceived as a way to help local victims of domestic violence and HIV sufferers learn new skills, the organisation is run from the sprawling Bwindi community centre, 1km from the main entrance to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in the village of Buhoma. The site is home to budget accommodation, while also selling handmade crafts including jewellery, clothing and handbags. All money spent goes towards providing wages, food and shelter for the 300 female members.

Understand Uganda’s past in Kampala

Uganda’s capital offers the ideal window into the country’s past. The most chilling but essential stop off is Mengo Palace. The former home of Kabaka Mutesa II, ousted as king in 1966 by prime minister Milton Obote and the then army chief Idi Amin, it’s perhaps more famous for its underground prison. The prison was used by Amin when he took control of Uganda and is a stark reminder of the brutality of what people here had to suffer throughout the late 20th century. Tours of the prison are available for 35,000 Ugandan shillings (£7).

Track endangered golden monkeys

Found only in the Virunga Volcanoes forests that stretch across the borders of Rwanda, Uganda and DR Congo, golden monkeys number just 4,000. Unlike mountain gorillas, however, they tend to stay put, meaning treks to find them within Mgahinga National Park’s swathes of bamboo are relatively straightforward, if somewhat strenuous on the thighs. Permits cost $90 (£68), with visitors allowed an hour with the habituated groups.

Learn all about coffee while being pampered at Kyambura

Renovated in 2018, Kyambura Gorge Lodge is one of Uganda’s hottest luxury hotels, with just eight standalone “bandas”, or houses, offering sweeping savannah views over Queen Elizabeth National Park and the newly protected gorge. While its spa and pool make for the ultimate rest stop after a day’s wildlife watching, the nearby Omwani Coffee Cooperative is a must-see. Run by 11 local women and their families, the cooperative teaches guests at Kyambura about the coffee making process, and travellers can tour the 100-acre farm before sipping on samples that make Starbucks’ finest taste like cheap instant by comparison.

Murchison Falls National Park

Spreading northeast from Lake Albert, Murchison Falls National Park is another gem for wildlife lovers. As well as the largest population of Nile crocodiles in Uganda, there are also elephants and Rothschild’s giraffes. It’s also possible to fish for Nile perch in the raging white waters of the world’s longest river as it crashes into a waterfall. With over 450 different birds, including the rare shoebill stork, it’s a paradise for birdwatchers too.

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An eight-night package with Africa Odyssey starts from £7,030, based on two people sharing a room. Includes international flights, internal flights, ground transport, two nights on full board at each of Volcanoes Safaris’ four lodges, plus one gorilla permit and one golden monkey permit.

For information about visiting Uganda, see visituganda.com .

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10 Reasons to Visit the Natural Wonders of Uganda

Natural Wonders of Uganda- the Pearl of Africa

Uganda Wonders

For travellers heading to Africa, Uganda is a must-see destination. Nature has gifted this country with stunning landscapes, beautiful waterways, fascinating wildlife and warm people. Here are 10 reasons to visit Uganda on your next vacation.

See The Mountains, Rivers and Lakes

From high mountain ranges through cascading waterfalls to the birthplace of the Nile River, Uganda is filled with many wonders of the natural world. Be sure to visit Murchison Falls, Lake Victoria, the Virunga Mountains and the Rwenzori Mountains for a one-in-a-lifetime travel experience.

Get Friendly with the Primates

The catalogue of primates living in Uganda is the reason it is known as the primate capital of the world. The array of creatures that call Uganda home is broad and diverse, including monkeys, baboons, chimpanzees and gorillas of all sizes and shapes. Be sure to arrange a safari expedition or schedule a visit to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park so you can experience these amazing primates as part of your Uganda wonders holiday.

Delight in the Sensational Climate

The climate of Ugandan favors both agriculture and tourism with its two distinctive seasons. The wet season with heavy rainfall runs between April and October, and the dry season from November to March. Temperature vary across different locations but in the capital, Kampala daytime temperatures range from 29 °C (84 °F) between January and March to 27 °C (81 °F) between June and August; night temperatures are more stable, hovering around 17/18 °C (63/64 °F) throughout the year.

See What all the Fuss is About

Uganda has drawn accolades and high praise from National Geographic, Lonely Planet and CNN.

“With its diverse landscapes, natural beauty, and warm and inviting people, Uganda is one of East Africa’s gems. Set out to discover the country’s many wonders, from sparkling crater lakes to legendary wildlife. Venture into the jungle to spot chimpanzees and mountain gorillas in their native habitat, and learn about conservation of these remarkable species. Delve into Uganda’s turbulent history and modern-day culture, and experience its colorful traditions firsthand.” — National Geographic

“With a tapestry of landscapes , excellent wildlife watching and welcoming locals, Uganda packs a lot into one small country. It is home to Africa’s tallest mountain range (the Rwenzoris), the source of the Nile, the world’s longest river and the continent’s largest lake. Rafting the Nile offers a world-class adrenaline adventure, but the country’s most iconic experience is tracking mountain gorillas in their misty habitat. And if you view the Big Five, you’ll see that nature – diverse and resplendent – looms large here.” — Lonely Planet

Enjoy All Types of Accommodation — Budget, Midrange & Luxury

However much you want to spend on your accommodation in Uganda, there are many different properties to choose from. You can stay in a hotel or apartment in Kampala. Relax in a lakeside lodge in Jinja, or experience one of the safari camps or hostels. All budgets and tastes are catered for here.

Experience World Famous National Parks

Uganda’s 10 national parks are the perfect place to see wildlife up close and personal. Murchison Falls National Park is the largest, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the second largest, Bwindi impenetrable National Park is the home of mountain gorillas similar to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Kibale Forest National Park is the home of Chimpanzees, Lake Mburo National Park is the smallest National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park is a virgin destination for wildlife viewing in Africa. Of all the parks, the most visited are Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park & Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offering some of the best wildlife viewing experiences in the country.

Discover the African Community Spirit

The indigenous people of Uganda are ancient hunters and gatherers such as the Batwa and Karamojong communities. Visit these tribes of bushpeople to learn about their long cultural history including unique hunting techniques, warrior traditions, food preparation, homestead construction, fire rituals, song and dance, and clothing customs.

Savor Delicious Fresh Foods

Ugandan food is arguably the best in Africa. Only in Uganda will you find such a vast array of fresh food including tropical fruits, vegetables and varieties of recently caught fish. Each tribe or region has its own delicacy or specialty including dishes featuring potatoes, yams, maize, nuts, sesame, green bananas, pineapples, bamboo shoots, fish and beans.

Meet the People & Their Culture

There are a wide range of ethnic groups who live in Uganda with many different languages spoken. The Ugandan people are hospitable and welcome visitors to their villages and homes. Every tribe has unique customs regarding their art, music, dance, food, marriage, family and kinship.

Attend Amazing Festivals

Bayimba International Festival of Music and Arts (August) – a four day celebration on Lunkulu Island off the shores of Lake Victoria, focusing on arts and culture in Uganda.  Bringing together music, film, dance, theatre and visual arts.

Kampala Rolex Food Festival (August) — In Uganda, the Rolex is the country’s favourite snack, a sandwich made up of an omelette and chapati bread, and it derives its name from a play on the words “rolled eggs”. At the festival, Indian, Mexican and Kenyan chefs all offer their own special takes on the sandwich.

Nyege Nyege International Music Festival (September) — Nyege Nyege takes its inspiration from the legendary World Festival of the Black Arts that took place in Dakar Senegal in 1966. The festival showcases the connections between Africa and the rest of the world featuring Afro Diaspora with Cumbia from South America, voodoo jazz from Haiti and underground hip hop from America.

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10 Reasons to visit Uganda

Uganda, often hailed as the “Pearl of Africa,” is emerging as a premier safari destination , captivating the hearts of adventure seekers worldwide. Ngoni Safaris beckons you to embark on a journey like no other, unveiling the diverse wonders of Uganda . Here are 10 compelling reasons why this East African gem deserves a spot at the top of your travel bucket list.

• Unique Wildlife Encounters

Uganda boasts a spectacular array of wildlife, including the famed “ Big Five” (lions, rhinos, elephants, buffalos and leopards) and rare species like the mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. Ngoni Safaris offers unparalleled opportunities for close encounters, allowing you to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitats and recording experiences that last a life time.

• Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a sanctuary for endangered mountain gorillas . Trekking through the lush forest with Ngoni Safaris gives you the chance to observe these incredible creatures up close, fostering a profound connection with one of nature’s most remarkable species.

Gorillas with their expressive eyes and impressive eyes and impressive silverbacks, navigate the dense foliage with a swagger that suggests they might be the true kings of the jungle. As they munch on leaves and swing from tree to tree, one can’t help but admire their laid back attitude, almost as if they have mastered the art of taking it easy. You can’t miss out on seeing giants play, groom and love on each other.

• Cultural Riches

Uganda is a melting pot of cultures , each with its own traditions and customs. Ngoni Safaris integrates cultural experiences into your journey, providing insights into local life through visits to villages, interactions with communities, and participation in traditional ceremonies.

We are talking over 56 indigenous tribes each with its customs, dressing styles, staple foods, special cuisines, dance and music, arts and crafts and many other diverse interesting aspects to explore. Culture is such a safari on its own that one may need to stay a life time to exhaust.

• Breathtaking Scenery

From the mist-shrouded mountains of the Ruwenzori’s to the vast savannas of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s landscapes are a photographer’s dreams . Ngoni Safaris ensures that every moment is a visual feast, allowing you to capture the diverse beauty of the country.

This experience does not have the best words to describe but you will understand what we meant after your experience. There is a piece of heaven here, you can almost touch it but it remains a mystery that only God can unravel.

• Intimate Safari Experience

Unlike more crowded safari destinations, Uganda offers a more intimate experience with nature. Ngoni Safaris carefully selects routes and accommodations to avoid overcrowded areas, providing a serene and exclusive encounter with the wild.

• Adventure Beyond the Ordinary

Ngoni Safaris goes beyond traditional game drives, offering thrilling adventures such as boat safaris along the Nile River and hot air balloon rides over the savannas. These unique experiences elevate your safari, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Another piece of heaven is on the sunsets and sunrises on the Nile. It is like nature is telling you its stories, encounters, experiences and about its favorite songs. The sun shades the earth with such an innocence that makes one believe in humanity again.

• Warm Hospitality

Uganda is renowned for its warm and welcoming people and this is one of the 10 compelling reasons to visit Uganda. Ngoni Safaris ensures that your journey is not just about wildlife , but also about the genuine connections forged with the local communities, making your safari experience truly memorable.

We believe that our God-given purpose as Ugandans is to love, host and create everlasting experiences and our rewards are with our creators. If you want to feel like you knew people in another life time then Uganda is your perfect destination.

• Optimal Weather Conditions

Timing is crucial for a successful safari, and Uganda’s climate plays a pivotal role. Ngoni Safaris plans your adventure during the dry seasons, ensuring optimal wildlife viewing conditions and enhancing the overall enjoyment of your safari experience.

• Conservation Commitment

By choosing Uganda and Ngoni Safaris, you actively contribute to conservation efforts. The tourism industry plays a vital role in preserving Uganda’s biodiversity, and Ngoni Safaris is dedicated to sustainable practices, ensuring a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

The Uganda safaris not only give us resources to practice sustainable tourism, it gives chance to individuals to actively be responsible tourists and adhere to the destinations guidelines so as to preserve the destinations for future generations.

• Affordable Luxury

Uganda offers a unique blend of affordability and luxury. Ngoni Safaris tailors packages that cater to various budgets, providing a high-quality safari experience without compromising on comfort and exclusivity.

It’s is not difficult to experience the most luxurious time of your life in Uganda and as Ngoni safaris team, we are here to make sure it is hustle free for you.

Choosing Uganda for your safari adventure with Ngoni Safaris is an invitation to immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of the “Pearl of Africa.” From rare wildlife encounters to cultural immersion and breathtaking landscapes, Uganda offers a safari experience that transcends expectations. Ngoni Safaris ensures that your journey is not just a vacation but a transformative adventure, leaving you with memories etched in the heart of Africa.

Muhimbo lynn

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THE 10 BEST REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT UGANDA

Best 10 Reasons why you should visit Uganda! Here we bring you the reasons why visit Uganda next as your travel destination for an Africa trip. Uganda is one of the best destinations to visit because of its rich culture, beautiful climate, great water bodies, variety of wildlife and the breathtaking landscapes. Sir Winston Churchill an English explorer in awe of the beauty and natural wonders of Uganda he called it “ the Pearl of Africa ” and indeed Uganda is the whole of Africa in one small country.

Best Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi Forest

Uganda is a home to a half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas . Uganda hosts endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable national park (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and Mgahinga national park. Trekking through the lush vegetation and climbing the hills in search of these great apes might get tiring but when you set your eyes on them it’s one of the most beautiful and memorable moments that are got once in a life time. Uganda is one of the only three countries in the world that have these mountain gorillas.

Variety of Wildlife Species

Uganda is blessed with many different wildlife species that live in the country’s conservation areas. Visiting Uganda gives you a chance to see tree climbing lions as well as the big 5 animals including elephants, lions, buffalo, rhinos and leopards. There are other wild animals like hippos, crocodiles, zebras, waterbucks, bushbucks, giraffes, monkeys and so many more. Uganda has more than 1065 bird species scattered all over the countries vegetation and for bird lovers Uganda is a perfect destination to come see these beautiful birds. Some of the bird species are turacos, storks, hawks, eagles, cranes, king fisher and more.

Best Chimpanzee Tracking Experience

Chimpanzee tracking in Uganda’s Kibale national park. Kibale forest is one of the best places in Africa having about 1500 chimpanzees. Chimpanzees share 98% DNA with humans so visiting Uganda gives you a chance to spend time with our close relatives. Visitors to Kibale have 90% chance of seeing these chimpanzees unlike other places in the country. Visitors can engage in either chimpanzee tracking or habituation and all these are offered in Kibale national park. Chimpanzees can also be seen in other parts of the country like Kyambura gorge in Queen Elizabeth national park, Budongo forest, kalinzu forest and Ngamba island sanctuary.

The Source of the world’s longest River, the Nile & Lake Victoria

River Nile is the longest river in the world having its source in Jinja on Lake Victoria “the 2 nd largest fresh water body after superior in North America”. While visiting the source of the Nile you can also engage in the different activities along the river Nile for example bungee jumping, white water rafting, boat rides and you can still visit the waterfalls along the Nile or nearby the source of the Nile. These waterfalls include Murchison falls, Sezibwa falls, Karuma falls, Bujagali falls and Itanda falls. Lake Victoria is another beautiful lake with many islands. So visiting Uganda can take you to Lake Victoria to enjoy boat cruises, visit the fishing villages, go to some of the islands like SSese island and Ngamba island for the amazing activities that will give you life time memories.

Uganda is a land gifted by beautiful nature

As land of verdant landscapes. Uganda is a land of beautiful mountains and rolling hills, lakes and rivers, valleys, waterfalls and flat plains. Uganda is blessed with the snowcapped Rwenzori Mountains which is the 3 highest mountain of Africa after Mt Kilimanjaro and Mt Kenya. The two are free Standing Mountain. This makes Rwenzori the highest mountain range in the entire Africa continent. Uganda has Mount Elgon of its eastern border with Kenya that has the largest caldera in the world, Lake Victoria the largest lake in Africa, River Nile the longest river in the world, lake Bunyonyi the second deepest lake in Africa to mention but a few. Come to Uganda and get in touch with the beautiful landscapes and great scenery on these natural wonders.

Beautiful climatic Condition.

Uganda is an ever green country with an equatorial savanna climate. In Uganda you’re likely to see both rain and sunshine in the same day which keeps the temperatures so favorable for travelling and touring around the country. Uganda has two wet and dry seasons but there is no period where no rain is received at all so expect rain at any time while in Uganda.

Friendly people and diverse culture

Visiting Uganda allows you to meet its friendly people. Uganda has over 50 tribes that have different culture norms, beliefs, languages, staple foods and ways of life. The good thing is most Ugandans are united by English language and Uganda is one of the best English speaking countries in Africa. Visit Uganda and learn about some of these beautiful cultures. Visit the batwa people, the shortest people in the world that are also known as the forest people who used to live in harmony with the mountain gorillas and learn their traditional way of living.

Enjoy Unique and Variety of local cuisine

Uganda’s beautiful climate and nature supports the growth of abundant foods and fruits in the fertile soils across the country. With these foods each cultural tribe in Uganda has its staple food so getting to enjoy one of the Ugandan meals is an adventure itself. So tease your taste buds to a few of these meals like luwombo, atapa, matooke, Kalo and more. There is a street quick food called Rolex which is basically an omelet with chapatti, eggs, raw tomatoes and onions, trying this Rolex keeps you longing for more. The fresh fruits are found anywhere along the streets of Uganda.

Uganda people are welcoming and is secure country

Visiting any place one must consider the safety and security of that place so worry not, Uganda is a safe country for travel. Since 1986 when the national resistance movement came into power led by H.E YK Museveni Uganda restored its political stability and security. Slowly the negative international image of Idd Amin and Obote times has vanished. Ugandans are also known to be one of the most welcoming and hospitable people in the world. Every Ugandan you meet will be smiling and willing to offer any help. Every visitor to Uganda can testify to this. So feel free to come visit the peaceful Uganda.

Uganda practices responsible tourism

Uganda wildlife authority (UWA) is responsible for the national parks and wildlife reserves in Uganda. UWA helps in protecting the nature and its inhabitants. The communities living around these conserved areas have been sensitized on how to feel part of the nature and take part in the tourism industry.   A percentage of funds collected from tourism goes back to the communities’ development and conservation of the protected areas. So visiting Uganda allows you to be part of this good cause of preserving nature.

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Visit Uganda : Top 10 Sounding Reasons To Visit Uganda

10 reasons why i love to visit uganda.

Visit Uganda or some where else next? Come to Think of it _ why was it even named the pearl Of Africa and why has this name taken the lead in marketing Uganda? I have probably heard about Uganda surprisingly the country that I live and the country that I love for over 30 years, yes I love the country that I live . While in School, Our teachers always made sure the words were part of our vocabulary not because they were mere words but i believe its been passed on to them from their teachers as well and yes this has always been a slogan in our Uganda national anthem whenever we ended the Stanzas.

I grew up from the western parts of Uganda where beauty was just indescribable, where one would wake up in the morning to the beautiful sounds of the birds, a place you will wake up to shiny beautiful white peaked mountains all to yourself with clearing white dusky clouds while witnessing the golden sunset clouds on the same shinny iced peaked peaks of the Rwenzori mountains . I havn’t mentioned the beauty created by the rivers flowing out of the ever clear mountain peaks, Did i? No I didn’t but so you know a little.

Lets flip the coin around, I have been lucky fortunately (not like many other Ugandans of my age) be able to go through school till  university, a platform that has given me chance to see a lot of Uganda in a different angle, same platform that has presented chances for me to fall in love with Uganda in a personal way. I just remember 10 years ago when I graduated at university in Business Administration majoring in accounts ( just to have my parents happy) but my heart was always thinking about the fancy tourists I always saw pass-by my home area. Then my wish was always being on those wheels endlessly speaking like I saw those guys then do.. I presumed they were doing as i thought and yes they seemed so happy always.

That wish is now in the past, That jealous i felt then is no more, because I had the chance to walk in the shoes till today even when am supposed to be sited in the chairs at office and let the other persons do that work….It is the passion, it is the pride and happiness i find within my heart in personally showing people the country that I know and the country that I Love _ UGANDA . So Every evening as I sit with my kids at the balcony or every morning as i healthily lay in my bed contemplating whether to wake up and get going, i fantasize on how best i can get someone out there share the beauty of this country _ The Pearl Of Africa which I wouldn’t deny a passion that has turned into a full time job.

After a very extensive travel through East Africa and firmly accepted there is beauty out there but within me the beauty of this country that I have found within me has constantly pulled me back, not because its home but I continue to genuinely fall in love with Uganda surprisingly every day is a different experience and something new pops up. And that said I have decided to share the beauty of this country and openly sharing among the many, Top 10 sounding Reasons why you should include Uganda on Your Next travel bucket List…. Read with me….

Visit Uganda The Pearl Of Africa

• Lush, Still Virgin Vegetation and Responsible Tourism

We have a saying in our local language “That child that does not go visiting or interacting always say, mum is the best cook in the whole world” literally meaning this kid has no idea and hard to convince that there is another better cook than her mum same applies to what is imagined by many around the world when you mention Africa, which sounds like a desert full of dry scorching sun (Apparently which is not true) but occasionally to Northern Uganda .  Uganda being in the middle of the African continent and lying along the Equator with tropical climate prides with one of the best weather throughout the year. Even the Dry months will still have some cool climate day and night. The landscapes will always sprout in endless green and the mountains will always stand in extra beautiful green a distance. Changing altitudes from when you arrive will still present a great weather averagely 23 degrees and the hottest months will rarely hit the 30 degrees Sahara climate. On the Out scats or boundaries of many game reserves, communities have learnt how to live in harmony, they also offer a chance to be part of this tourism cause where visitors can partake on the conservation measures while keeping the world green or can indirectly or directly contribute to the Host community.

The Beauty of Water and it is Every Where

You would be taken far to believe that out of the 241,551 square kilometres  about 93,263 sq mi, 41,028 square kilometres (15,841 sq mi) is water body while the remaining 200,523 square kilometers (77,422 sq mi) is land while part of the land prides inhabiting over 10 national game parks and reserves. Water space is comprised of lakes, Rivers and crater lakes which excitingly contribute to very fine weather in Uganda . I wouldn’t  want to mention the Source of the river Nile with nile rafting which is a famous feature and apparently discovered by John Hannington Speke. I  won’t step on the fact that we own about Over 35% of the 2 nd largest water body_ lake victoria. It wont be fair if I don’t mention the other 25% of the wetlands that have contributed to the stunning landscape formations like the Murchison falls National Park In Uganda, and the jaw-droping inland Crater lake formations. It isn’t fair as well that i leave-out mentioning Uganda being the host of the 2 nd deepest lake in Africa_Lake Bunyonyi, a beautiful larva dam formed lake stretching about 27kms and widening about 7kms that is a place to un-wind off the safari or journey memories… It is actually so beautiful.

• Off the beaten Track Experiences

I probably do not want to exagulat this, but trust me not, Uganda still has and offers some of the un-said off the beaten track experiences, be it Wildlife off the beaten track or Local Authentic Experiences. Agree with me, the rest of East African countries like Kenya and Tanzania have reached the mass tourism level, I presume many of the visitors wouldn’t like to find themselves engulfed and taking turns with other tourists watching a pride of Lions or a combined mama ring and un coordinated engine cars taking turns around a solitary leopard hitching in a tree for better views. Yes, Tanzania and Kenya have it all, but you will agree with me that it feels a little different & special finding yourself alone in a car besides a pride of lions on the ground or hitching and lazily slumbering on the fig trees. Again, imagine yourself playing hide and seek with a shy solitary leopard in an acacia tree? Or imagine yourself encountering a herd of over 50 plus elephants crossing ahead of you, Now that’s what I envision as a great Uganda safari  Yes that’s Uganda, That is the still authentic experiences you will not have anywhere in Africa’s Savannah parks. I am not joking but its just the truth.

There is one thing for sure about a Uganda Safari, A safari with a great creative guide… Oh yes that’s what we absolutely have down here. Super Knowledgeable & creative safari guides that will go off their way to show you more than what other normal tourists see.. Ok lets see an example.. Envision yourself in a local home, having a typical African Meal, prepared to you by a atypical African lady in a typical African home in a typical African setting as part of the local Authentic Experiences? Doesn’t this sound extraordinarily nice for any Enthusiastic Traveler that has traveled far miles to see what a country is like and would appreciate something beyond the Uganda Highlight? That’s a little of the much Uganda for you.

• People their culture and food

I haven’t probably mentioned up somewhere that Uganda is a diverse country with over 56 languages spoken, Did I?  Not Again for sure that i have probably mentioned that Uganda is made up of three ethnic tribes that is the bantu, Hamites and Nilo Hamites and these three have in between 56 tribes speaking over 56 languages all together but most importantly is how friendly all these tribes can be, how they can opt to be friendly, not because they act this out for tourists but a gesture that is in-born. One thing more is the the fact that most tourists (ok lets call these visitors to Uganda) will appreciate to get a one-on-one with the local young boy shouting Mzungu (A general name given to a white person in Africa) a hand and ask “What’s your name?” while the little gets more friendly and loving. You will probably see kids and people smile all the way as you drive past the local villages and you would surely wonder why all people are always smiling? Its just the nature of Ugandans… They will always smile.   Then comes the Food, Among the top to mention is the Luwombo meal, that’s a typical combination of organic foods cooked together and regarded as the healthiest foods in Africa oh yes a typical Ugandan meal that you won’t resist among the many other Great foods prepared by different indigenous people.

• Fast-growing Business Atmosphere.

Being a developing country, I wont miss to say how welcoming the opportunity to invest are with the first visit Uganda Trip. The mushrooming hotel chains while hosting some of international events like the Chogm or the refugee National assemblies. 70% of the tourist Lodges in and around the country are owned by foreign investors who count great returns year in – out. Surprisingly they were here as First time tourists until they saw opportunities to invest. Ok, Lets talk about Kampala a city that never goes to sleep. You will be stunned at what Kampala would offer for the night lovers but of course when you are in the right place like any other cities around the world. Am not praising the city because it’s my country but the rewarding night handouts and fun places that present a great stay with fun. The Volunteers or Foreign experts will actually testify to this ever bright city with very friendly and welcoming people. Its so easy to find a genuine friend in Kampala or Uganda than anywhere else in the world

• Up-close & personal Encounter with the Mountain Gorillas

I absolutely should have presented this first but saving the best for almost last is awesome; Isn’t it? Partially, when you mention name Uganda most people would start thinking of Amin Dada probably because they are scared of him or heard a lot of nasty things about him But hey!! That’s a 1979 history of Uganda, Uganda was re-born, Uganda is new and Uganda is an amazing safe destination. However one thing leading to the other and very important is the fact that all this is changing because Human closest relatives in a remote but beautiful forest has for years now redefined the Pearl Of Africa. The Mountain gorillas of uganda and chimpanzees in Uganda are a complete Uganda’s pride and now are on the front line of Uganda’s face worldwide. Mountain Gorillas are the best and number one highlight on a Uganda must do and see things, A Uganda Safari is awesome but without the mountain gorillas of Uganda is not Complete i must say. There is absolutely no mistaking the bond that exists between man and these great apes. The whole love and experience gets your blood boiling from time you start descending into the jungle or rain forest while being done with ease and absolutely possible while that 1 hour feeling you get while with the gentle Giants in their natural habitat is extraordinarily rewarding.

Tree climbing lions

Who as an enthusiastic traveler doesn’t love being in the presence of big cats? Probably one of the reasons that continue to draw a lot of tourists (I will call them visitors) to Tanzania and Kenya..Big Cats and these include the Lions. Uganda may not have the big numbers of cats to offer but trust me not, the number we have is enough to give a great wildlife encounter to any visitor to this pearl OF Africa. Apart from over 10 National Game parks found in Uganda exists the Ishasha sector famous for the tree climbing lions. Now the most interesting part is you will find these Awesome cats slumbering many in the big Fig Trees with Big canopy while they relax from their kill or plan their next move. The drive is done rotating around the fig trees as you marvel or shoot awesome pictures in different positions of the big sleeping pride in the tree including the playful young ones playing around moving from one branch to the other while they monitor your movements with their glowing wide open eyes. Yes, chances are that you would be alone around them. Wouldn’t that be awesome? Uganda safari is one of the best to see the tree climbing lions so easily and clear while on safari.

• More birds than anywhere else in Africa

While new species are being recorded and discovered in Uganda like the Pacific Golden Plover and Dicknisons Kestrel, Uganda boasts of a staggering 1082 species of birds  and a haven for bird watchers around the world. I haven’t mentioned that; Uganda year-in – year out hosts international birders and currently been ranked as the best birding destination worldwide. The Savannah, forest and Migratory birds sprout the airspace on Uganda boundaries. Uganda also prides as one of the few countries in the world where the famous Shoe Bill calls home and will have people close off their bird list check when they see it display its “Small shoe-like beak”

Landscapes and features

If you are that traveler that has an eye or love to sit there and appreciate how beautiful this world can be, then Uganda has one of the best scenic view or land forms that will leave you awing. If I were your guide on Safari in Uganda while I guide you myself, while i knew you are that person that would love such encounters on a safari in Uganda, The karamoja region, Pian Upe, The Murchison falls National Park, the Rwenzori mountains or more so the south western uganda would be places I would direct you to. From the shiny and stunning mountains of the moons to the rolling hills of the kigezi highland region and the God Personally built and put together Karamoja is a place to behold. I haven’t mentioned the beauty that awaits from the Rwenzori mountain coupled with the stunning and changing vegetation while hiking the amazing destination. The Virunga Volcanoes at the boarder of Uganda, Rwanda and Congo are a wonder of rewarding scenic views and somehow define to confirm how thus beautiful country is. Bwindi forest being raised and on a good evening or night, one can witness the glow from the still active nyiragongo volcanoe in the congo and yes, it is a stone throw away.

• Endless challenges and experiences

Ever thought about challenges of being sucked, swallowed and later spit out by water? I mean ever thought of a challenge of ascending Africa’s summits or have you been rewarded with the challenges made? I mean again the happiness that comes with knowing you accomplished a task you previously had fears with? Oh yes, Uganda will absolutely reward you fully. From The challenging mountains like Rwenzori mountains to the more challenging rafting on The longest river in the world with the grade 5 rapids? Uganda has the best challenges any intrepid traveler would be looking for.