The safari connoisseur’s choice, Uganda is most famous for its Gorilla trekking expeditions, beauty, serenity and sheer diversity. Friendly Uganda also offers some of Africa’s greatest game viewing, being home to classic game reserves, Uganda is rapidly making a name for itself as an excellent chimpanzee tracking and bird watching destination. Explore huge, wild reserves by 4X4, canoe and boat and enjoy superlative safari accommodation.
‘Uganda ni nchi ya kifahari na kujivunia, Ninatamanio ya kuitembelea milele…
kwa Mapenzi, urafiki, ustaarabu na uremboyakiajabu, Siwezi kumweleza yeyote ambayehajawahikufika Uganda!!’
Translation
‘Uganda is a breath-taking haven, I already miss her! I have desire to visit Uganda forever & ever… For;Love, friendly smiles and sheer, serene beauty that is extraordinary, I can’t describe it to anyone who has never been to Uganda!!’
Uganda is a beautiful land, revered by travellers and explorers for centuries. It offers a wealth of wildlife, spectacular scenery, a warm and welcoming population; Winston Churchill fell in love with the country and christened it the “Pearl of Africa”. Country of the many Kingdoms, source of the Mighty Nile- The World’s Longest River, A birder’s paradise, home of the mysterious “Mountains of the Moon” and if you’ve ever wanted to sit with mountain gorillas in their natural rainforest habitat then a Uganda safari will deliver on your expectations. Boasting a 90% success rate at finding habituated gorilla family groups in the extraordinary Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, gorilla trekking in Uganda has become one of Africa’s most powerful wildlife experiences and such is its success that the gorilla population is actually increasing.
Endless lakes, rivers, waterfalls and wetlands make Uganda a lush tropical haven: From the air much of the country seems to shimmer; Lake Victoria dominates the South, her blue waters funnelling into the Nile River which journeys the length of Uganda. Mountains form the Western borders, the Virunga volcanoes and the legendary “Mountains of the Moon”. The far North stretches towards the Sahara and the East transforms into arid plains. But don’t think that a Uganda safari is only about gorillas in rainforests and water bodies: this landlocked East African country is also home to a range of diverse national parks and is a strong contender for one of the world’s best bird watching destinations boosting huge numbers of the rare shoebill stork. Nestled on the western arm of the Great Rift Valley, Uganda benefits from flora and fauna species of both East and West Africa. Head for Murchison Falls National Park,breath taking crater area ofQueen Elizabeth National Park, semi-arid Kidepo National Park, Lake Mburo National Park and Ishasha plains for classic big game viewing and boat cruises, Kibale National Park and Kyambura Gorge offer Africa’s best chimpanzee trekking experiences.
A green, hilly and elevated country covered in sheer beauty with many lakes and mountains, Uganda’s appeal lies in its simplicity. Infrastructure is limited but growing and there is now a good range of safari accommodation and city-based hotels. Ideal for seasoned safari-goers, bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts, Uganda’s star is on the rise – combine it with Kenya or Tanzania for a holistic East African safari experience.
Uganda is a beautiful land, revered by travellers and explorers for centuries. It offers a wealth of wildlife, spectacular scenery, a warm and welcoming population; Winston Churchill fell in love with the country and christened it the “Pearl of Africa”. Country of the many Kingdoms, source of the Mighty Nile- The World’s Longest River, A birder’s paradise, home of the mysterious “Mountains of the Moon” and if you’ve ever wanted to sit with mountain gorillas in their natural rainforest habitat then a Uganda safari will deliver on your expectations. Boasting a 90% success rate at finding habituated gorilla family groups in the extraordinary Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, gorilla trekking in Uganda has become one of Africa’s most powerful wildlife experiences and such is its success that the gorilla population is actually increasing.
Endless lakes, rivers, waterfalls and wetlands make Uganda a lush tropical haven: From the air much of the country seems to shimmer; Lake Victoria dominates the South, her blue waters funnelling into the Nile River which journeys the length of Uganda. Mountains form the Western borders, the Virunga volcanoes and the legendary “Mountains of the Moon”. The far North stretches towards the Sahara and the East transforms into arid plains. But don’t think that a Uganda safari is only about gorillas in rainforests and water bodies: this landlocked East African country is also home to a range of diverse national parks and is a strong contender for one of the world’s best bird watching destinations boosting huge numbers of the rare shoebill stork. Nestled on the western arm of the Great Rift Valley, Uganda benefits from flora and fauna species of both East and West Africa. Head for Murchison Falls National Park,breath taking crater area of Queen Elizabeth National Park, semi-arid Kidepo National Park, Lake Mburo National Park and Ishasha plains for classic big game viewing and boat cruises, Kibale National Park and Kyambura Gorge offer Africa’s best chimpanzee trekking experiences.
A green, hilly and elevated country covered in sheer beauty with many lakes and mountains, Uganda’s appeal lies in its simplicity. Infrastructure is limited but growing and there is now a good range of safari accommodation and city-based hotels. Ideal for seasoned safari-goers, bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts, Uganda’s star is on the rise – combine it with Kenya or Tanzania for a holistic East African safari experience.
For a small, landlocked country of which almost 25% is lakes and rivers, Uganda certainly packs in the places of interest. Mountainous, forested Bwindi National Park is where to go in Uganda for gorilla treks but the country is also home to large savannah reserves, lowland rainforests and enchanting lakes which – in combination – make for one of the biggest wildlife experiences in Africa.
Kampala: capital city
Kampala, the capital of Uganda, is spread over seven hills and takes its name from Kasozi k’impala, “the hill of antelopes”. The city grew around the court of the Kabaka (King) of Buganda, British officials as well as Indian merchants who settled on the adjoining hills, their legacy has seen the city’s expansion on its distinct green hills continue years after independence. 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 East Africa’s most laid-back and friendly cities.
Hotel facilities range from international, good standard hotels, to budget-minded with conference facilities. There is also a good choice of restaurants. A tour of Kampala might include the following sights:
The Kasubi Tombs; the traditional royal burial tombs of the Kings of Buganda – are a fine showcase of the Baganda architecture.
The King’s Palace: A traditional royal ceremonial palace of the Buganda King- Here king Muteesa II was attacked by Idi Amin`s soldiers forcing him into exile in Great Britain. Still present are the torture chambers inside which dictator Idi Amin used to persecute any one perceived a political threat. Still at the gate of this palace is a traditional fire source that has never burnt out since the inception of the Buganda monarchy/Kingdom and never stops burning least a king is dead. Here is a representation of all Baganda Clans and their respective role in this Kingdom since time in memorial as narrated by a royalist at this fire source. A mail away but directly positioned gate to gate is the ‘Bulange’- king’s parliament. The architectural design of this building has proven a spectacular tour site.
The Kabaka`s Lake: The is the largest man-made lake in Africa dug out during the reign of King Mwanga and was meant to connect to Lake Victoria as an escape route for the King in case of any attack to the throne. The King’s dream was never fulfilled and the water body has only remained as a royal lake near the palace which is home to some birds as well as a fishing spot.
The Baha’i Temple: Being the only Baha’i Temple in Africa makes a good stopover while in Kampala. Located 4Km outside of the city centre on a beautiful hill covered by fruit trees, flowers and gardens overseeing the city.
Namugongo Martyr’s Shrine: This is a memorial place from where 22 young Christian martyrs were burnt to ashes after rebelling against the then king Mwanga. The unique architecture of the temple in this place is amazing.
The National Theatre; Opened in 1959, offers a variety of music, dance & Drama to traditional music & dance enthusiasts.
The Parliament Building; A symbol of the country’s independence.
Makerere University; The oldest and most prestigious university in East Africa.
The Uganda Museum; has a display of Uganda’s cultural heritage and a fascinating collection of musical instruments.
And do not miss the colourful markets, especially the Nakasero fruit and vegetable market, the Owino general goods market and the crafts market.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: gorilla trekking & rainforest wildlife
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park covers an area of 190 square miles and is located in south western Uganda on the edge of the Western Rift Valley. Don’t be put off by its intimidating name: you’ll be led into Bwindi by naturalist guides and trackers and the reward is worth the effort – this majestic forest is where to go in Uganda for your gorilla trekking experience. Designated as a World Heritage Site, Bwindi is a world of towering trees, giant ferns, tangled undergrowth and hanging vines, creating the quintessential equatorial jungle. The altitudinal range of montane and lowland forests at Bwindi support more species of trees, ferns, birds and butterflies than any other forest in East Africa. It is also the only one which contains both gorillas and chimpanzees.
Bwindi is home to about 300 endangered mountain gorillas (50% of the world population) Bwindi is rich in other primates, including chimpanzee and blue monkey. Butterflies are the most conspicuous of the rich insect fauna of the park, with more than 200 species. 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.
There is also a large variety of trees, dense undergrowth, an extensive stand of bamboo and a number of swamps. In addition to gorilla trekking, there are a number of nature trails in the park to explore this primeval African forest: taking the course of the waterfall, along the Rushura trail for some sweeping views towards Lake Edward and the Rwenzori’s; and to the Mubwindi swamp near Ruhija for some unusual bird species.
Murchison Falls National Park: game viewing, river cruises & birding
The meandering Victoria Nile and the dramatic Murchison Falls neatly bisecting Uganda’s largest park, you’d expect a wide range of animals at Murchison Falls and you’d be right. It’s a stunning habitat for wildlife and it’s where to go in Uganda for classic big game species. Murchison Falls was discovered by Samuel Baker in 1864. The 50 meter wide Nile is forced through a narrow 7 metre cleft in the rift valley escarpment, dropping down with a thundering roar and a beautiful rainbow.
The terrain is dominated by rolling savannah and tall grassland teamed with classic big game such as elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard and hippo, other game includes; Rothschild’s giraffe, Uganda kob, hartebeest, waterbuck, oribi, bushbuck, Bohor reedbuck, sitatunga, bush duiker, warthog, bush pigs and with 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 bottom of the falls.
Queen Elizabeth National Park: birding, game viewing, chimps & boat cruises
From open savannah to rainforest, dense papyrus swamps and brooding crater lakes to the vastness of Lake Edward, it is little wonder that Queen Elizabeth National Park boasts one of the highest biodiversity ratings of any game reserve in the world. This magnificent Savannah grassland is located in the western corridor of the Great African Rift Valley, blessed with a variety of habitats – tropical forest, green meadows, crater lakes and swamps.
Within the park is Lake George, the Kazinga Channel- a waterway rich in wildlife and birds, and half of Lake Edward, home to the largest concentration of hippos in the world. The Rwenzori Mountains (Mountains of the Moon) act as a backdrop to this park, being the highest mountain range in Africa with the third highest peak at 5,109 meters above sea level. This is one of Africa’s most beautiful and biologically diverse reserves. You may also see the famous tusk less elephants that have evolved in response to poaching in the past.
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.In the Maramagambo forest, a vast virtually untouched woodland area, search for forest game and primates.
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.
Kibale Forest National Park: primates, birds & butterflies
Rapidly becoming a must-do destination in Uganda, Kibale Forest offers visitors an accessible and enlightening insight into life in a tropical rainforest. The extensive Forest, located in the West of Uganda, is thought to have the greatest variety and highest concentration of primates in Africa- Thirteen species have been recorded including the red colobus, the black and white colobus, the vervet and of course the chimpanzees.Large mammals aren’t so easily seen but the clouds of dazzling butterflies and gorgeous forest birds more than make up for it, and besides, Kibale is 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.
As a moist forest Kibale is unique, with an extraordinary high diversity of wildlife and flora. Taking a forest walk from Kanyanchu provides a high chance of encountering chimpanzees, several families of which have been habituated. Over 300 bird species have been recorded and experienced guides help to locate specials under the ecosystem of a tropical rain forest rich in abundant flora and fauna.
Dawn walks to watch the chimps waking are quite exciting and noisy. Night walks are good for seeing nocturnals, such as bush baby and pottos. The adjacent Bigodi Wetland, also called Magombe Swamp, offers an unusual habitat for seeing wildlife and birds that live in and around swamps. It is considered to be one of the best guided bird trails in East Africa.
Lake Mburo National Park: serene game viewing, boat cruises &birding
Located South West- halfway between Uganda’s capital and entry point Kampala and the gorilla trekking forests of the south west – lies Lake Mburo NP, a perfect location for stop-over for overnight travellers making their way between the two destinations and out-of-city weekend visitors.
It is a small but interesting savannah reserve within a four hour drive from Kampala. Its landscape consists mainly of open plains, acacia woodland and mashes. The open valleys on the western side of the game offer the best game viewing opportunities, with large herds of Zebras and buffalo roaming the land. Other wildlife encountered include; leopard, hyena hippo and a large variety of antelope including the rare Impala, klipspringer, oribi, topi and reedbucks. It is the perfect destination for ornithologists, a huge variety of birds is found within the park particularly round the lake.
Although the heavyweights such as elephant 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.
It’s the one National park where you can do a walking safari, horse safari, boat safari as well as a game drive.
Kidepo Valley National Park: serene game viewing& cultural tours.
Kidepo Valley is maybe the only national park left in the whole continent where you can have the park all to yourself. We believe that safari’s in this park must be like safari’s in Kenya 35 years ago! The great savanna landscapes and the mountains on the background make you feel like being at the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater at the same time. If you go for bush camping you have a good chance of being visited by lions and jackals. Kidepo hosts most of the animal species found in all national parks in Uganda, including lions, giraffe, elephants, buffalo, leopard, Zebras, ostrich and cheetah. Kidepo is for sure the best kept secret in Uganda! Lonely planet named it Uganda’s most beautiful park. Located in the extreme North of the country bordering with South Sudan and Kenya. Kidepo Valley National Park covers an area of 1,344 sq.km.The park is home to the Karimojong pastoralists- a Nomadic tribe that’s in constant movement in search for water & pasture for their cattle.
Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Ziwa rhino sanctuary is a popular destination for travellers’ en-route Murchison Falls or Kidepo National Parks. This Rhino reserve is a true success story after the extreme poaching that killed the last rhino in Uganda in 1982. Doing this guided trek gets you “up close and personal” to these special animals that are among “Africa’s Big five.” The sanctuary is not only home to the rhinos but also to approximately 20 other species of wildlife as well as 300 different bird species highlighting Uganda’s unique biodiversity and emphasizing the importance of conserving it. The conservation effort is proving successful as we see the numbers of wildlife growing within the sanctuary.
Hiking and Trekking in Uganda
If you love adventure, unique, beautiful landscapes and areas seldom visited by tourists; trekking either the Rwenzori Mountains or Mount Elgon is a ‘must-do’ when visiting Uganda. Along with some stunning scenery, challenging climbing and a range of flexible trips on offer, all you have to do is ensure that you are on ‘peak’ form!
Mount Elgon & Sipi Falls.
Mount Elgon is the 8th highest mountain in Africa, a relic of an extinct volcano which first erupted over 20 million years ago. At 4,321 meters, the Wagagai summit is the second highest peak in Uganda and the mountain also boasts one of the largest calderas in the world – an impressive 8km, surrounded by a series of jagged peaks. Straddling the Kenyan border, the mountain is also dotted with crater lakes, giant heathers and lobelias and hot springs.
As you ascend the mountain, you will come across some distinct vegetation zones including: lush, evergreen montane forest, dense bamboo, spectacular moorland hyraces, fascinating and rare endemic plant species, (including giant lobelia elgonensis) and dotted clusters of peculiar groundsels, which are unique to Africa. The main ethnic tribes living around the mountain are the Bagisu and Sabiny, who earn their living through agriculture.
Trekking Mount Elgon is also a bird lover’s paradise, and to date, there are approximately 300 recorded species. These include: the endangered Lammergeyers, the rare Jackson’s Francolin, Guinea fowls, Sunbirds and the Turaco. There is also a high concentration of primates, as well as Bushbuck, Antelope, Civet, Wildcat and the elusive Leopard. Bush duiker, Hyena, Jackal, Rock hyrax, Buffalo and Elephant also roam between the forest and the moorland.
Visiting Mountain Elgon National Park presents an exciting setting for extended hikes, interesting and unique flora and fauna, magnificent water falls, enormous caves, scenic peaks, gorges and hot springs which bubble up to 480 Celsius!
The best times to visit are during the drier seasons (June to August) and December to March. No technical climbing equipment or skills are required, as all major peaks are accessible.
Sipi Falls is a series of three tall waterfalls all plunging along the lower slopes of Mt Elgon. The tallest tier stands at about 100m height, the second waterfall is said to be 75m tall, and consists of upper cascades before making its big plunge. The third water fall stands at 85m tall and columnar. The views are amazing!
The Sipi River is named after the ‘Sep’, a plant indigenous to the banks of the River. Resembling a type of wild banana, Sep is a medicinal plant; the translucent green frond with a bolt of crimson rib is used for treating measles and fever.
The Sipi Falls area is particularly famous for locally grown Bugisu Arabica coffee. Bugisu Arabica only grows at an altitude of between 1,600 and 1,900 metres. Coffee tours are organized through guides with knowledge of coffee farming, processing and roasting. Profits from this go towards community projects.
Rwenzori Mountains (“Mountains of the Moon”)
Fancy climbing Africa’s highest mountain range and straddling the equator at the same time? Head to the Rwenzori and try your hand at reaching the Margherita (5,109 meters) or Alexandra (5,083 meters) Peaks which are exceeded in altitude only by Mount Kenya and Mount Kilimanjaro, both of which are extinct volcanoes standing in isolation above the surrounding plains.
The Rwenzori Mountains are unique among East Africa’s major peaks in that they are not volcanic in origin, but they do rise directly from the Rift Valley floor and their formation, like that of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya, was linked to geological glacial peaks in the Rwenzori: Mt. Speke (4,890 meters), Mount Emin (4,727 meters), Mount Gessi (4,715 meters) and Mount Luigi da Savoia (4,627 meters). These mystifying ‘Mountains of the Moon’ have often been regarded as the Source of the Nile – a legend which began in AD150 with the Roman geographer, Ptolemy.
Known primarily for their challenging hiking and climbing possibilities, the Rwenzori also supports a diverse range of animals including 70 mammals and 177 bird species, several of the latter being Albertine Rift Endemics. The ever-changing landscape gives way to an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna, forests of bamboo, giant heathers, lobelias and swampland. On the lower regions of the mountain, Forest Elephants and Chimpanzees meander and crash through the undergrowth and if you’re lucky, you may spot a shy Bushbuck or Golden Cat.
The River Nile: White water rafting, Bungee jump & Source of the Nile tour
The Nile gets its name from the Greek word, “nelios”, meaning river valley. The river Nile is the longest river in the world. In the 18th and 19th Centuries, European explorers ventured into finding the source of the river Nile. Many tried and died in attempt to find the source. In 1862, John Hannington Speke succeeded in discovering the source of the River Nile in Uganda’sJinja town- 80Kms East of Kampala Capital city.
From its source, the Nile flows northwards to Lake Kyoga, through Murchison Falls National Park and reaches a point where the water forces itself through a six metre wide cleft which cascades 30metres below, making it one of the most spectacular sites. From Murchison Falls, it flows to Lake Albert- at this point, its name changes to Albert Nile. When it enters the land of Sudan its name changes to White Nile. The River Nile flows downhill from the high mountains in the middle of Africa up to the Nile delta where it enters the Mediterranean Sea, a distance of 6,695km. Its average discharge flow rate is 300 million cubic metres per day.
Gripping sites on the River Nile include; exploring the source of the Nile by taking a boat cruise to the actual spot where the Nile begins, water adventures like; Kayaking, Bungee jump and White water rafting on the mighty grade 5rapids at Itanda falls. There are numerous boat cruises on the Nile, for instance, a boat cruise along the River Nile at Murchison Falls gives a visitor the opportunity to see a variety of game teamed with giant Nile crocodiles basking in the sun.
The Nile and its tributaries flow through nine countries. The White Nile flows through Uganda, Sudan and Egypt and the Blue Nile starts in Ethiopia. Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Zaire and Burundi all have tributaries which flow into the Nile. Four major dams have been built in the Nile River, of which the Owen Falls dam was built in Uganda in 1954. The hydro-electric power station at the park supplies electricity to Uganda and parts of Kenya.
For sport fishing, the River Nile gives excellent opportunities for catching the huge Nile Perch, Tilapia and other fish varieties.
ENTEBBE: Gateway to Uganda
Uganda’s only international airport is set next to Lake Victoria in Entebbe- probably the most easy-going airport in Africa, some 35 miles south of Kampala. 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.
Entebbe became a colonial administrative centre at the end of the 19th century. With its botanical gardens and its old fashioned colonial buildings, Entebbe is a charming introduction to Uganda. Golf, tennis, sailing and swimming are available. The Entebbe Wildlife Centre features an open zoo. From Entebbe there are regular trips to the beautiful lush archipelago of Lake Victoria Islands.
Ngamba Chimpanzee Island
The Chimp Island is situated on Lake Victoria and provides a sanctuary to orphaned and rescued Chimps, for which a return to their natural habitat is not possible. Visitors may watch and learn about Chimpanzees from resident researchers, and with prior arrangement, it is also possible to join the younger Chimps on a forest walk or act as a ‘Care Giver’ for the day, learning about the work that goes on behind the scenes. It is a wonderful experience to get up close and personal with the Chimps and see their behavior at first hand. Their playfulness and willingness to clamber all over you – or even hold your hand – is a true delight!
Ssese Islands
Ssese Islands are an archipelago of 84 Islands on the waters of Lake Victoria in Uganda. Lake Victoria is Africa’s largest fresh water lake, largest in the tropics and world’s 2nd largest after Lake Superior. Our visit is mostly on Bugala Island which is the largest and most developed in the archipelago. This island has got fine sand, ever green tropical rain forests which habituate; beautiful birds, monkeys, squirrels and insects like fireflies & butterflies.
The islands are teeming with birds, and vervet monkeys. Mostly, people just sit along the beach and stare at the tranquil surroundings. On weekend nights, there is a bit of a party scene along Kalangala bay, though the atmosphere is mostly serene & relaxed.
Getting there
There are two large ferries serving Buggala Island. One, a modern passenger/car ferry, runs daily between the Nakiwogo dock just south of Entebbe and Kalangala Bay. The ferry departs from Kalangala for Nakiwogo at 8 am daily, and returns leaving Nakiwogo at 2 pm daily. The journey takes about 3.5 hours, and there is a snack bar on the ferry.
Bulago Island
A scenic paradise on Lake Victoria covered with beautiful shore lines of white sandy beaches and low cliffs that leave you with a feeling of serenity and peace; this makes Bulago Island a perfect vacation spot for weekend getaways or even honeymooners.
Bulago Island is all about enjoyment and relaxation. The island is comprised of several resorts but one that stands out is the Pineapple Bay resort, the most beautiful resort on this Island. Bulago offers brilliant lake side views, sunbathing, water sports, jogging around the island, horse-riding and hiking trails and also an excellent base for bird-watching as the island is home to approximately 200 bird species. This vast range of birds is simply dazzling – even to non-watchers. Otters play along the shores, and the nature trails provide wonderful opportunities for observing nature at her best. Fishing trips and enchanting Sun-downer cruises can also be arranged on request.
Uganda’s raised topography means a cooler climate than its equatorial setting suggests but if you’re planning a gorilla trek, it’s important to know when to go to Uganda for the easiest trekking conditions. Although it’s regarded as a year-round activity, the best time to visit Uganda for gorilla trekking is during the country’s two dry seasons: January to mid March and from June to September.
Game viewing in Uganda’s savannah parks is best at the end of the dry seasons – February and March and September/early October – when wildlife is concentrated around water sources. Bird watching is fantastic all year round but is at its peak between November and April when migrant species are present. We’d recommend avoiding a Uganda safari entirely during the heavy rains of April and May.Generally Uganda enjoys ideal weather conditions all year round ranging from the warmth of the low lands to the coolness of the high lands.
Planning on combining a visit to Uganda with other East Africa destinations? Read our advice on the:
- Best time to visit Rwanda
- Best time to visit Tanzania
- Best time to visit Kenya
- Best time to visit Zanzibar
There’s nothing like up-to-date, relevant travel information direct from the experts you’re advised to get essential Uganda travel advice before you go.
Climate
Average year-round temperatures: 14°C to 27°C
Rainy seasons: March to May and September to early 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
You are highly advised to travel lightly. Each person is allowed a maximum of two pieces of luggage on international flights; however we recommend two smaller bags rather than large suitcases. Hotels do provide storage facilities for extra luggage.
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
Did you know you can book your flights through Sun Africa Expeditions? For more information please contact us.
Entebbe International Airport: located 35km from Kampala, Entebbe is Uganda’s international gateway serviced by a number of international airlines.
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
A single entry East Africa tourist visa is available for travellers intending to visit Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda. 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 and extensions are available at the immigration office in Kampala.
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.