Uganda

Gorilla Trekking & Big Game Viewing in the Pearl of Africa

In his 1908 book titled My African Journey, Winston Churchill referred to Uganda as the ‘Pearl of Africa'. The nickname neatly sums up the East African country's rich beauty in three simple words, encapsulating everything from its vibrant colours and lush vegetation to the magnificent wildlife that roams its plains. Today, the moniker is as valid as ever, as Uganda has grown into one of Africa's most coveted travel sojourns.

A safari in Uganda is undoubtedly one of the most unique adventures you'll experience on the continent. With over 20% of its land dedicated to wildlife reserves, the country remains largely untouched, leaving the country's gorgeous landscape to take centre stage on Uganda safaris.

The wildlife in Uganda is immense and diverse, affording visitors unique experiences that can be found in few other places in the world. Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda are the country's premier wildlife destinations, offering classic big game viewing, chimpanzee trekking and river cruises, as well as a chance at seeing the famous tree-climbing lions. While Kibale Forest National Park provides accessible and enlightening insight into life in a tropical rainforest when on guided chimpanzee treks. And we can't forget the wonders that lie in Uganda's rainforests. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga National Park protect more than half of the world's total population of mountain gorillas – making them two of the best locations to enjoy a life-changing gorilla trek.

With so much to do and see, here are our favourite reasons to book a Uganda safari:

1. Search for Great Apes and Other Primates in Uganda’s Verdant Rainforests

Uganda is home to the highest density of primates and gorillas in the world. The expansive rainforest jungles of this landlocked country in East Africa are home to 20 species of primates, including mountain gorillas, chimpanzees and golden monkeys.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda has become one of Africa's most powerful wildlife experiences and because of its success, the endangered gorilla population is on the incline. Trekking for great apes in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest boasts a 90% success rate at finding habituated family groups. Meaning, you have an all-but-guaranteed opportunity to spend an hour face-to-face with these majestic creatures as they interact with each other in their natural habitat. December to February and between June and August are considered the best time to visit Uganda for trekking for mountain gorillas and chimpanzees.

Mountain gorillas are not the only primate you'll have the privilege of seeing up close in Uganda. Kibale Forest is home to the globe's highest population density, with 13 primate species currently inhabiting the area. Naturally, this makes Kibale Forest the premier destination for chimpanzee tracking. You can round off your primate trekking experience by hiking the slopes of the Virunga Mountains in Mgahinga National Park in search of the gorgeous golden monkey.

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2. Extraordinary Wildlife Encounters in Uganda’s Hidden Gems

Although Uganda is renowned for its great ape treks, the country is also a fantastic wildlife destination. Queen Elizabeth National Park is the country's premier destination for classic game viewing. Being one of the most biologically diverse parks in the world, the national park offers potential sightings of elephants, hippo, crocodile, buffalo and a variety of antelope species, to name a few. However, the stars of the show are undoubtedly the famous tree-climbing lions that call the park home.

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3. Relish in the Breathtaking Views of Uganda’s Lakes & Mountain Ranges

Uganda's landscape boasts outstanding features like the second-largest freshwater lake in the world, as well as the source of the longest river, the strongest waterfall, and Africa's tallest mountain range. From the fertile, lush basin of the Great Rift Valley and magical rainforest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to the glistening water of the Kazinga Channel and striking vistas of the Virunga Mountains, it's a nature lover's paradise.

We can't forget to mention Uganda's most extraordinary natural beauty, the Rwenzori Mountains. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is a breathtaking sight to behold, offering stunning scenery of waterfalls, lakes, rivers, glaciers and forests. Experience the captivating terrain up close through hikes, boat cruises or even mountain biking excursions.

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4. Enjoy a Crowd-Free Safari that Easily Combines with Other Top Destinations

Compared to its neighbours in East Africa (such as Tanzania and Kenya), Uganda sees fewer visitors. One of the first questions we are asked is: Where is Uganda? A true hidden gem, Uganda is relatively unknown to many outside of Africa. However, this is fantastic news for safari-goers seeking a crowd-free trip. A safari in Uganda affords a more private, personalised and exclusive experience, where there are little to no other guests around during your stay.

In addition to the smaller crowds, Uganda is easily combined with other top African destinations. Logistically, neighbouring countries Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Congo are easily coupled with your Uganda luxury safari. Meaning, you can enjoy big game viewing and the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara or Serengeti before trekking through the rainforests of Bwindi National Park, Volcanoes National Park and Odzala-Kokoua National Park. And once you've ticked off all the places to visit in Uganda, end your trip off with a beachside escape in Zanzibar for a bit of rest and relaxation before heading home.

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5. Enriching Cultural Experiences with the Local People of Uganda

In addition to the rich, diverse wildlife and natural landscape, Uganda is also renowned for its people. Happy, generous, friendly and welcoming are the words closely associated with the Ugandan people. They are known as sociable, exuberant extroverts who are more than willing to welcome and help every visitor to their country.

Beyond the friendliness and warmth of the population, the people of Uganda are also some of the most fascinating individuals you'll ever meet. Over 50 tribes with different cultures call Uganda home, making it a cultural melting pot of various indigenous people. One of the highlights of visiting Uganda is immersing yourself in the culture and learning from the Ugandans as they share their colourful dress, music, dance, food and languages with you.

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1. Kampala: Capital City & Gateway to Uganda

A typical African capital with a compact, high-rise centre surrounded by sprawling suburbs, busy Kampala is Uganda’s commercial, political and logistical hub but also one of East Africa’s most laid-back and friendly cities. Uganda’s only international airport is set next to Lake Victoria in Entebbe 35kms away. This small town serves as the country’s main entry and exit point and many visitors will spend a night here or in Kampala before and after their Uganda safari.

2. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Gorilla Trekking & Rainforest Wildlife

Don’t be put off by its intimidating name: Bwindi is, in fact, penetrable and considered one of the best places in Uganda for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. You’ll be led into Bwindi by naturalist guides and trackers and the reward is worth the effort – this majestic forest is a truly magical experience. Spend an hour with a gorilla family, observing these gentle giants in their pristine rainforest habitat before slipping away and back to your comfortable jungle lodge. A gorilla trek is wet, humid, muddy and tough, but the experience is absolutely extraordinary.

3. Murchison Falls National Park: Game Viewing, River Cruises & Birding

With the Nile River neatly bisecting Uganda’s largest park, you’d expect a wide range of animals at Murchison Falls and you’d be right. It’s where to go in Uganda for classic big game species such as elephant, buffalo, lion and hippo. In addition to a bird count of nearly 500, Murchison Falls also boasts chimpanzees and colobus monkeys in its forests. The piece de resistance, however, is a boat cruise to the spectacular falls themselves where the thundering Nile is squeezed through a 7-metre cleft in the Great Rift Valley Escarpment.

4. Queen Elizabeth National Park: Birding, Game Viewing, Chimps & River Cruises

Combining easily with Bwindi Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most popular and most accessible savannah reserve and is home to elephant, buffalo, leopard, numerous antelope species and the famous tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha Plains. Take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel to spot hippo and crocodile and don’t forget your binoculars: with a staggering 600 recorded bird species, Queen Elizabeth NP is one of the world’s premier bird-watching destinations.

5. Kibale Forest National Park: Primates, Birds & Butterflies

Rapidly becoming one of the must-visit places in Uganda, Kibale Forest offers visitors an accessible and enlightening insight into life in a tropical rainforest. Large mammals aren’t so easily seen but the clouds of dazzling butterflies and gorgeous forest birds more than make up for it, with Kibale in fact being most famous for its primates. Go on guided chimpanzee treks in the majestic forest and see how many of the other 12 primate species you can spot.

6. Lake Mburo National Park: Serene Game Viewing & Birding

Halfway between Uganda’s capital and entry point Kampala and the gorilla trekking forests of the south-west lies Lake Mburo, a perfect overnight stop-over for travellers making their way between the two destinations. Although the heavyweights such as elephants are missing, the great mix of wetland and woodland habitats makes for a wide range of mammals and birds and Mburo’s tranquil atmosphere and soothing views provide welcome relief after a tough journey.

Visiting Uganda from January & February

January is a hot month and this weather is perfect for encountering chimpanzees and the endangered mountain gorillas, in some of the best places to visit in Uganda. The skies are clear, there is less rain and more sunshine. You can observe families on the move through the lush forests, a spectacularly connective experience with Mother Nature and her wild creatures.

February is quite a dry month which makes it an ideal time to pay a visit to the national parks in the south, and to do some gorilla trekking – without having to trek in muddy conditions. The north of the country can be quite hot and dusty during this period.

Travelling to Uganda from March to May

March marks the beginning of the first rainfall season. This is the perfect opportunity to spot the animals in the parks giving birth to their young and birdwatchers will be treated to an array of colourful, winged beauties.

April is by far the wettest month of the year. Many roads may be closed due to the consistent downpour and the parks are far quieter. However, this is a great time to take advantage of discounted rates for hotels, lodges, Uganda safari tours, and even on gorilla trekking permits – bearing in mind it will be a wet-weather journey.

May is another rainy month across the country, although there isn't quite as much rainfall as April. Despite the weather in Uganda during this period, this can be a lovely time to explore the surrounding areas.

Visiting Uganda from June to August

June is one of the best times to visit Uganda and it is the start of the peak season for luxury Uganda safaris. When it comes to booking a gorilla trek, we advise that you book well in advance, especially for permits, to avoid any unnecessary hassles.

July is one of the best months for gorilla trekking and safaris in Uganda. The wildlife often tend to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot in the national parks. This is a great time for seeing gorillas in Uganda, mostly due to the fine weather conditions – the hiking trails are clear of mud and are easier to navigate.

When visiting Uganda in August, anyone in search of fantastic game viewing will have the chance to not only see elephants and lions, they may even encounter the elusive leopard. This is pegged as one of the best times to visit Uganda's many national parks.

Visiting Uganda from September to December

September is usually classed as the end of the dry season, but depending on when the rains arrive, you may experience some downpours on your safari. This is not an ideal time of year for gorilla trekking, however if you can brave the possibility of wet weather, you will certainly save on lodging and other travel costs.

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

During November the rain continues. The dry plains in the countryside turn a vibrant green due to all the thunderstorms, but there are fewer visitors this month because of less than ideal weather conditions.

December is the end of the wet season when rainfall eases off, making it a great month to visit Uganda. This is a good time to travel to the northern and southern regions for game viewing. Plus, it's one of the best seasons for birdwatching, with a wide variety of migratory birds making their way into the area.

Money & Spending

Uganda’s unit of currency is the Uganda Shilling and you’d be advised to get some on arrival as it is far easier to buy drinks, curios and meals in the local currency when travelling between destinations.

US Dollars are widely accepted throughout the country though note that cash is best: traveller’s cheques and credit cards can be used at most lodges and in Kampala but attract hefty transaction fees.

Tipping

Tipping of around 10 – 15% is customary in Uganda for good service. Tips are usually given in Uganda Shillings or US Dollars. If you are doing a gorilla trek, tipping is at your discretion – your porter (if you choose to take one) should usually receive the highest tip, with a second tip distributed between your guides, trackers and security personnel.

For in-depth tipping guidelines, enquire with one of our Africa Safari Experts – they’d be happy to share their knowledge with you.

Climate

Average year-round temperatures: 14°C to 27°C

Rainy seasons: March to May and September to December

Refer to “best time to visit Uganda” for climate charts and advice on the best times of year for gorilla trekking.

What to Pack

During the day, temperatures in Uganda are generally warm so pack plenty of lightweight clothing. If you are going gorilla trekking, pack long trousers and long-sleeved tops, long socks to wear over your trousers as protection against ants, a pair of light gloves to protect against nettles, a hat and a raincoat.

A pair of sturdy, comfortable hiking boots is most important – try to break these in before your trip rather than wearing them brand new as you're likely to get blisters.

The mountains tend to be cold and damp so pack according to the altitude – a change of clothes and a warm fleece in your day pack, along with sunscreen and insect repellent are advised.

Flights & Getting Around

For flight schedules, fares and booking terms, check directly with the airline or your chosen travel agent.

Entebbe International Airport: located 35km from Kampala, Entebbe is Uganda’s international gateway. Visitors usually arrive via Nairobi.

Flying by private charter aircraft is very expensive in Uganda – most travellers use road transfers with mini buses or, preferably, 4X4 vehicles.

Despite Uganda’s small size, infrastructure is limited and roads are often in poor condition; expect long days in vehicles when driving between destinations, especially in the rainy season. Game drives in the national parks are generally conducted in open-sided 4X4s.

Visa & Passport Requirements

All visitors to Uganda require a visa and every visitor's passport must be valid for at least six months from their departure date. Visas for Uganda can be obtained at all major borders as well as at the international airport at Entebbe. Single and double-entry visas are valid for up to three months at a cost of around US $30 and extensions are available at the immigration office in Kampala. 

History & Economy

Settled for at least 50 000 years, Uganda’s indigenous people included the pygmoid Batwa, a hunter-gatherer society displaced by the arrival of Central African cattle herders and farmers. The development of political dynasties resulted in a sophisticated pre-colonial history and by the time Arab and European explorers, traders and slavers reached the region, the Buganda Kingdom was well established. Colonised by Britain, independence came in 1962 but it was only in the mid-1980s, after the catastrophic regimes of Milton Obote and Idi Amin, that Uganda experienced social stability and economic growth.

Fertile soils and regular rainfall mean an economy built around agriculture. Cash crops such as coffee, tea and tobacco dominate the export market but most agriculture in Uganda is subsistence farming, occupying some 75% of the workforce. Significant mineral, gas and oil deposits are set to be exploited in the future while tourism has proved to be an ever-growing sector of the economy.

People & Culture

Uganda’s 34 million people are concentrated in the country’s better watered south and west with the Kampala-based Baganda the largest of the country’s many ethnic groups. Some 40 regional languages exist but Swahili and English are Uganda’s official languages. Religious belief is overwhelmingly Christian-based though Islam is strong in Uganda’s Asian communities. It should be noted that Ugandans hold their ancestry in high regard.

Uganda is a conservative country and visitors would do well to adhere to local rules of behaviour. That said, visitors often remark on the friendliness and politeness of the locals: greetings are an elaborate affair and may include inquiries as to the health of your family – perfunctory greetings and a demand for immediate action are somewhat frowned upon!

Landscape & Wildlife

Lying in a basin between the eastern and western branches of the Rift Valley, Uganda’s elevated position means a more temperate climate than its equatorial location might suggest. Most of the country is over 1 000m in altitude and relatively flat apart from the forested mountain ranges that often define its borders. One of Africa’s most well-watered countries (25% of Uganda is covered by lakes, rivers and wetlands) the landscape is lush and green for most of the year though northern Uganda grades into semi-desert.

Such a setting makes for staggering biodiversity. Uganda’s montane and lowland forests are home to mountain gorillas, chimpanzees and other forest animals while its savannah parks – Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls – offer classic game viewing, though not on the scale of Kenya or Tanzania.

Uganda wildlife highlights include gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest, chimpanzee encounters in Kibale Forest and bird watching – with over 1 000 recorded species, Uganda is one of the world’s top birding destinations.

Start Planning Your Uganda Safari

Chat with someone who’s been there. Get in touch with one of our Africa Travel Experts to help tailor-make a trip to Uganda that’s right for you.

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Uganda Safaris: What Are Your Options?

As a fairly compact country, the best places to visit in Uganda are not too difficult to reach, nor take too long to get to. From the main city and capital, Kampala, the international airport is just a 35km drive. Fortunately, a few of its top attractions combine easily due to their proximity, such as Queen Elizabeth National Park and Bwindi Forest. There are a few options for your Ugandan safari, we break down a few below:

How Much Does a Uganda Safari Cost?

A Uganda safari typically ranges from $770 to $1,980 per person per night based on double occupancy, depending on the level of luxury, season, and whether it includes fly-in transfers or gorilla trekking permits. Entry-level options start around $770, while mid-range safaris cost between $1,100 and $1,160. Luxury and 5-star safaris can reach up to $1,980 per night. Accommodation is generally more modest than in Kenya or Tanzania but still offers excellent comfort and access to top wildlife areas like Bwindi Forest and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Uganda Safari Tour Costs

As with any holiday, what you choose to do, and where you go will impact the general cost of your safari. The below table breaks down costs for Uganda safaris calculated per person per night sharing in both low and high season:

* Please note: all the costs are guidelines only and an average for per person, per night, sharing a room in High and Low Season, including the necessary permits, conservancy and park fees required.
They exclude international flights, visas and optional activities. Note that conservation fees, levies and permits are all subject to change. Peak or High Season generally runs over Christmas and New Year, and from about July to October.

Uganda Accommodation Costs

As there are two wildlife hotspots in the country, Uganda accommodation options fall mainly to the south and west, allowing easier access to its top spots. While the offerings are not typically as opulent as its safari counterparts, such as Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda still has ample options from comfortable camps to luxury lodges. Proximity to the ‘action', level of comfort, and included activities will all impact associated cost, as well as the time of year.

Uganda Accommodation Prices

* Please note: all the costs are guidelines only and an average for per person, per night, sharing a room in High and Low Season. They exclude international flights, visas and optional activities. Note that conservation fees, levies and permits are all subject to change. Peak or High Season generally runs over Christmas and New Year, and from about July to October.

How the Time of Year affects the Cost of a Uganda Safari

The cost of a Uganda safari varies with the seasons, which are closely tied to rainfall patterns. Peak season falls during the dry months of December to February and June to August, when trekking conditions are ideal and wildlife is easier to spot - especially around water sources at the end of each dry period. These months typically come with higher prices due to increased demand. The shoulder and low seasons, particularly March to May and September to November, are more cost-effective, offering reduced rates and fewer crowds. However, these wetter months can make gorilla trekking more challenging due to muddy trails and unpredictable weather.

Additional Costs

It's important to note that ‘all-inclusive' may not be as comprehensive as you first expect. In Africa, and on safaris, that can mean a range of things and it's always worth clarifying what is not included. One of the first things to do is consult our blog on visa free African countries for US citizens as that may tick off one of the boxes regarding associated costs already. What possible additional costs could you come across? Have a look at our list below:

Should you wish to plan your next great adventure with the help and guidance of one of our Africa Safari Experts, they will be able to advise you on all of the above and ensure each of your transfers is organised ahead of time and occurs as seamlessly as possible – just remember, in travelling, anything can happen and sometimes delays are unavoidable.

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