Uganda

Even though gorilla trekking takes the top spot when an itinerary to Uganda is planned, the country offers a plethora of options for those seeking anything from a wildlife safari to thrilling adventures to understanding the local culture. Apart from following in the footsteps of the mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or looking up instead of down for lions in the Queen Elizabeth National Park, visitors can visit the Semliki Valley to trek chimpanzees or taste the water from the hot springs. At the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary walks are offered where an experienced guide will inform the curious about the fight for the survival of the white rhino. These parks, together with Kidepo National Park, provide ample opportunity for serious birders to scan the skies for more than a thousand species existing in the country.

Adrenaline junkies are spoilt for choice with either climbing Mount Elgon—an extinct volcano with one of the world’s largest calderas— whitewater rafting down the Nile River with rapids from Grade I to Grade V, or bungee jumping in Jinja and zip-lining in the Mabira Forest. A visit to the Batwa community, pygmy people making a living on the outskirts of the Bwindi and Mgahinga national parks, will provide travellers with a better understanding of the local culture. For a unique experience, visitors can head to the Uganda Equator, where they’ll be able to stand with one foot in the southern and the other in the northern hemisphere.

Uganda is, first and foremost, a destination for those who seek to observe all things wild and wonderful in their natural habitat. With 60 protected areas, including 10 national parks, and an array of other breathtaking panoramas, each day will be filled with encounters not experienced anywhere else in the world. Lying on the slopes of the Rwenzori Mountains, the lush rainforest of the Bwindi National Park is a haven for around 300 mountain gorillas, half of the remaining worldwide population. Close to 400 chimpanzees live in harmony with these great apes, while more than a hundred other mammals and approximately 360 bird species also call the park home.

To marvel at the famed tree-climbing lions, visitors should venture to the Queen Elizabeth National Park. Game viewing to observe other species such as elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and antelopes can furthermore be undertaken in Ruwenzori National Park, Kibale National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Mount Elgon National Park, and Semuliki National Park.

Whether making use of a seasoned tour operator or going it alone, visitors to Uganda won’t want for any style or type of accommodation. All budgets are catered for, from those intending to rough it and camp, to those who like a little (or a lot) more comfort, with all the added amenities.

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As far as African safaris go, Uganda is considered a great destination to visit all year round. It is generally dry from June to February, with July regarded as the coldest month and February the hottest. The wet season occurs between March and May and some establishment shut down in this period because of inaccessible roads. For optimum gorilla trekking, especially in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, June until October is considered the best time. Travellers should be aware though that it is high season and booking is essential.

Click here to discover all our safari parks in Uganda.