tour places in uganda

26 Beautiful Places to Visit in Uganda: Nature, Culture, Wildlife

Looking for the  best places to visit in Uganda ? In this huge guide, you’ll learn about 26 of the most beautiful and most interesting attractions in Uganda.

Often called the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda is a country jam-packed with breathtaking scenery, natural wonders, exotic wildlife and fascinating culture. Learn more with these 22 facts about Uganda .

26 Beautiful Places to Visit in Uganda

If you are traveling to Uganda for the first time, you may be hard-pressed to decide which places are best to explore. To settle your dilemma, we have compiled a list of the most beautiful places to visit in Uganda.

1. Murchison Falls

Whether you visit by boat cruise on the Victoria Nile or a safari tour, you don’t want to miss Murchison Falls in northwest Uganda.

Here, you can witness enormous waters bursting through a narrow gorge before crashing in powerful, roaring cascades.

While you are visiting this breathtaking sight, you may also want to explore the surrounding protected area that makes up Murchison Falls Conservative Area to spot some of Africa’s icons such as African lions , elephants , leopards , giraffes , buffalo and more.

Looking to stay in the Murchison Falls region? Here are some accommodation options .

Check out our Guide to Murchison Falls: 16 Things to Know

Check out our Travelers Guide to Uganda’s 10 National Parks (and 4 Wildlife Game Reserves)

2. Lake Victoria

If you really want to experience the heart of Uganda, the story begins with Lake Victoria , which is the birthplace of the Nile River.

Not only is it Africa’s largest lake and the world’s largest tropical lake, but Lake Victoria also boasts one of the world’s largest ecosystems.

There is so much natural beauty and wildlife to see here – from scenic mountain views to islands, beaches, fishing boats, and various bird and animal species.

More reading: How to Choose the Best Portable Water Filter

3. Jinja, Start of the Nile River

While you are touring Lake Victoria, you may want to check out Jinja, the colonial town that is positioned at the start of the Nile River.

Here are some hotel options in Jinja, Uganda .

The town is regarded as East Africa’s adrenaline capital, so not only can you view where the world’s longest and most historic river begins, but you can also get your blood pumping with activities like whitewater rafting, mountain-biking, quad-biking, and kayaking.

4. Ssese Islands

A major tourist attraction in Uganda, the Ssese Islands are a group of about 84 islands dotted along the northwestern shores of Lake Victoria. Each island differs in size, shape, and exotic flora and fauna.

Here, you can relax amid beautiful scenery, see chimpanzees, walk on white-sand beaches, enjoy horseback riding and windsurfing, as well as interact with the Bantu people and learn about their culture.

5. Kampala, Capital of Uganda

When visiting places in Uganda, you don’t want to miss checking out the country’s capital city, Kampala. This city is home to a steady expat community and offers plenty of things to see and do .

You can tour beautiful temples, cathedrals, art galleries and museums that include the popular Uganda National Museum. You can also browse various markets for clothing, foods, and crafts.

Kampala also offers a good range of restaurants and bars.

Check out our Uganda Food Guide (16 Must-Try Dishes for Your Visit)

6. Kasubi Tombs

While in Kampala, a visit to the Kasubi Tombs is well worth your time. A palace consisting of 35 buildings, this important historic site is the burial place of four former Ugandan kings and other royal family members.

A tour allows you to see interesting artifacts and learn about the rituals and traditions of Uganda’s largest tribal kingdom, the Buganda Kingdom.

7. Ndere Centre

Also in Kampala, the Ndere Centre is a great place to experience the colorful dance and music that is traditional to Uganda.

Opened Sunday, Wednesday and Friday evenings, the Centre offers a 700-seat amphitheater where you can enjoy dinner along with a spectacular performance of colorful, high-energy dancing and music that displays the lively culture of the Ugandan tribes.

8. Owino Market

One of the largest markets in the region, the Owino Market is a must-do experience when visiting Uganda.

Located in the capital city, Kampala, this busy market is full of color and character from its wide array of produce, clothing, electronics, and crafts to its lively vendors and customers.

More reading: Is Uganda Safe? Guide to Water, Crime, Disease, Sun

9. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Breathtaking mountain views, lush landscapes and an abundance of African wildlife are just a few reasons Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the top places to visit in Uganda. Moreover, it is home to some of the world’s last mountain gorillas .

There are many gorilla trekking tours you can join here to suit your level of skill or preference that will allow you to experience the sheer beauty of this place and to see mountain gorillas up close in their natural habitat.

Find a lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park region.

10. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is like a sample platter of Africa. You can try a little of everything African here with diverse habitats and exotic wildlife.

Wetlands, forests and savanna grasslands offer ample opportunities to see the likes of elephants, leopards, hippos , chimpanzees, giraffes, and the tree-climbing lion. There are various safaris, lake cruises, and even hot air balloon tours available here for you to explore this amazing area.

Here’s your Complete African Safari Packing List

Learn more: Uganda Currency: 12 Things to Know

Don’t forget about the equatorial sun! Here’s how to choose the best sun protection hat for Africa .

11. Lake Katwe Explosion Crater Drive

If already in Queen Elizabeth National Park, you should consider reserving space on your itinerary for one of Uganda’s most scenic drives, the Explosion Crater Drive.

It takes about 2 ½ hours, but it is well worth the time. Not only will you have the chance to see wildlife like buffalo and elephants, but also magnificent views of natural landmarks like Mountains of the Moon, Crater Lake, the Blue Mountains of the Congo, and Lake Edward.

12. Kazinga Channel

Taking a boat cruise on the scenic Kazinga Channel is another way to see amazing wildlife and gorgeous scenery if you are in Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park.

With the boat hugging the banks of the channel, you may see African Cape buffalo , hippos, Nile crocodiles , elephants, and numerous bird species.

13. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Although there is only one family of gorillas living here, the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers great trekking tours for you to experience striking vistas of the Virunga Mountains, bamboo forests, volcanoes, and the endangered golden monkey .

14. Lake Mutanda

Found nearby the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in the African Great Lakes region, Lake Mutanda is one of Uganda’s jewels. Surrounded by the Virunga Mountains and dotted with lush islands, this lake is a beauty to behold.

A visit here offers wildlife sightings, birdwatching, canoeing, fishing, hiking, biking and trekking with the Batwa People, the native people of the nearby forest.

More reading:  Is Hippo Milk Really Pink?

15. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Located north of Kampala in Nakasongola, this sanctuary is home to Uganda’s only population of wild rhinos, but that is not all it offers.

Scenic nature walks, canoe cruises, and guided trekking tours award you with sights of hippos, crocodiles, large antelopes , and more than 250 different bird species.

Learn more about the white rhino (northern and southern) . 

16. The Equator

A visit to Uganda offers you the unique opportunity to stand on the equator and be in two hemispheres at once. Uganda is one of the few countries in the world where the equator crosses through it.

The best equator landmark in Uganda is found on the Kampala-Masaka Road, where you will find a few restaurants and craft/souvenir shops as well.

Other equator markers in Uganda are found in Queen Elizabeth National Park and near Entebbe.

17. Entebbe Botanical Gardens

The locals say that the original Tarzan movies were filmed here, but whether that is true or not, the Entebbe Botanical Gardens is a wonderful place of beauty and discovery where you will find numerous trees, flowers, butterflies, monkeys, squirrels, and birds.

Located near Lake Victoria, this 40-hectare (98 acres) garden complex is a breath of fresh air where you can picnic, walk through a rainforest or just enjoy birdwatching.

Find a great hotel in Entebbe .

18. The Rwenzori Mountains National Park

If you want to experience Uganda’s most extraordinary natural beauty, a visit to the Rwenzori Mountains National Park is a must-do .

Home to the “Mountains of the Moon,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning scenery consisting of waterfalls, lakes, rivers, glaciers, and forests that shelter many bird species and chameleons.

Hiking, mountain climbing and culture visits with the Village of Ruboni are just a few of the exciting things you can do here.

19. Rubaga Cathedral

If architectural beauty is your thing, the Rubaga Cathedral in Kampala is well worth a visit. Built in 1914, this historic cathedral sits on a hill overlooking the capital city.

A free, guided tour gives you the chance to see the attractive interior, impressive stained-glass windows, and artifacts. There are also two tombs here that contain the remains of the first African Archbishop of Kampala Diocese and the first African Catholic Bishop.

20. Mount Elgon National Park

Home to the extinct volcano it is named after, Mount Elgon National Park offers diverse landscapes, wildlife, and activities.

You can amble through heath or hike through dense evergreen and bamboo forests to view magnificent waterfalls, stunning peaks, interesting plants, fascinating birds, and primates like the blue monkey and colobus monkey.

If you are lucky, you might glimpse a hyena , buffalo or even an elusive leopard.

21. Sipi Falls

Named after the wild banana plant that grows nearby, Sipi Falls is a popular site located in eastern Uganda on the border of Mount Elgon National Park.

This series of three waterfalls offers spectacular views no matter how you look at them, whether you hike to the top or the bottom. Nearby, you can also check out the coffee farms, explore caves or enjoy a nature walk.

22. Semuliki National Park

It may be one of Uganda’s newest and smallest national parks, but the Semuliki National Park packs awe-inspiring beauty and plenty of attractions that include its most famous, the Sempaya Hot Springs.

After watching the boiling hot springs blast off into a steamy spray, you can hike through the forest to catch glimpses of its many bird species and exotic animals such as flying squirrels, red-tailed monkeys, pygmy antelope , and the endangered shoebill stork .

23. Ssezibwa Falls

The Ssezibwa Falls site is more than just magnificent waterfalls. It is part of an incredibly beautiful oasis just outside of Kampala that is steeped in legend, history, and culture.

The Buganda people can tell you how a woman gave birth hundreds of years ago to the two rivers that flow around a serene island here. Others will tell you how the Ssezibwa Falls area is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the capital city.

24. Lake Bunyonyi

The locals call it “place of many birds,” but many tourists call it paradise. With its 29 islands, terraced hillsides, charming shore towns, and attractive resorts, it is no wonder that Lake Bunyonyi allures people from all over the world.

Many safari tourists choose Lake Bunyonyi as a base because the lovely setting is relaxing and peaceful. Additionally, the lake offers water sports and birdwatching while the nearby towns provide colorful markets and cultural experiences with the local villagers.

Learn more about the 18 largest cities in Uganda .

25. Lubiri Palace

Lovers of history and architecture may appreciate a visit to the Lubiri Palace, home of the former king of Buganda. Situated on a hill overlooking Kampala, this domed, colonial-style building was involved in the Battle of Mengo in 1966.

Today, you can take a guided tour to see the torture chambers and learn more about Uganda’s history and culture.

26. Nyero Rock Paintings

It is not every day that you get the opportunity to see prehistoric rock paintings, so if you are in Uganda, a trip to Kumi town to see the Nyero Rock Paintings is more than worth the effort.

Found in three separate rock shelters, these beautiful, well-preserved paintings portray concentric circles, animals, and canoes.

The hike to the site is relatively easy, and you just may see monkeys, lizards, and birds along the way.

Here’s our guide to airports in Uganda .

Here are 15 things to do in Uganda – including culture, nature, culinary and adventure.

And there you have it – 26 beautiful and interesting places to visit in Uganda .

Which places are on your bucket list? Let me know in the comments.

Hi, I'm Bryan Haines . And I'm a co-founder of Storyteller.Travel . I'm a traveler and photographer.

I also blog about photography on Storyteller Tech .

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36 Comments

Uganda is really a beautiful country to visit ,spend your vacation, honeymoon,picnics I love the tourism destinations there

Indeed Uganda , the pearl of Africa is enriched with natural beauty that one couldn’t imagine them..I love my motherland.

Am a Ugandan by ,There some tourist places which have been not mentioned above we Bahai Temple in Kawempe Division, kibuli mosque, Old Kampala Hill mosque, lake kyoga,Lake Albert,Mabira forest,Bwenri National Park,

What about kiyira fall kalagala

I love my beautiful country Uganda, the Pearl of Africa!

Ugandan is one of the best country in the world with beautiful nature

I like the Way mother gorilla looks at her beautiful baby. Thank you for sharing.

Great stuff bwana Bryan!

Thanks for compiling and sharing this nice piece of info about Uganda.

Will share this with my friends abroad.

Cheers Bryan!!!😊

Thank you William!

All in all, thanks for marketing UG.

Karimojong culture, and it’s kidepo valley national G.P known for its wilderness, different kinds of cats, 456 bird species or more, mountain hiking on mount moroto where you find the indegenious tribes of the Tepeth as well as the Ik of Kaabong would have been in the list….and by the way the Ugandan museum

This is Good I know the list is endless if we were to add. very good work so far guz.at 49 I don’t know if I can visit all these. One day..

There is also the kitagata hot springs which are know for their magical healings in Bushenyi kitagata town.

Thank you for the info but u forgot to include the beautiful Tooro kingdom palace,the beautiful crater lakes found in fort portal,Amabere gayina mwiru caves in fort portal,Kibale National park for Chimps and Mahoma Falls.

Thank you Dorcas for these great additions to the list!

Wanale falls and caves in mbale Sipi falls in Kapchwora Kisizi falls in Rukingiri Kilembe mines and lake katwe (salt lake) Bahai temple in Kampala Kabaka’s Lake (man made lake) The list is endless

Thanks for loving our country

Thanks for these great additions!

Thanks for compiling this information about Uganda. You forgot about karamoja, the culture and magnificent Kidepo national park

Really u miss to include kidepo national Park and mt Kenya, mt elgon national Park and mt elgon lake bunyonyi, mt rwenzori mt hiking are more touristic than owino and rubaga church.u need to revisit this publication.

Hi Timothy, thanks for the additions to the list. I agree – there are many more beautiful places than on this list.

We’ve covered Rwenzori Mountains and the 10 national parks in Uganda .

We’ll add these other ones to the list for future topics.

It’s absolutely very true friends,take your time and visit the pearl of Africa.however,the story teller didn’t give it all like the culture , there’s one called Acholi traditional dances it’s beating out the Zulu of south africa,am telling you friends as the true born of the land

Am a Ugandan but what I have to assure those wishing to discover the natural buity of the world visit the Pearl its a mazing and u will never regret

If it was not intationally to discrimination ISLAMIC PLACE GADAFI MOSQUE how can you be remembering to put LUBAGA CATHEDRAL and you forgotten GADAF MOSQUE (YET YOU KNOW VERY WELL WHO WAS GADAF TO AFRICA AND THE WHOLE WORLD, I MEAN HE WAS VERY FAMOUS THAN AND HIS PLACES ARE MORE ATTRACTIVE TO THE TOURISTS THAN LIKE 18 PLACES YOU’VE OUTLINED.

NOTE: YOUR NOT AT ALL A GOOD MARKETIER IF YOU STILL HAVE THOSE BACKWARDS DISCREMINATION IDEOLOGIES.

Thanks for your additions to the list. We included the Uganda National Mosque (Gaddafi Mosque) – in this post about 14 Kampala attractions .

It’s interesting that you missed to to mention Gadaffi Mosque!!!

We included it here – in this post about Kampala attractions .

Thank you for this brilliant article . Also 1. Amabere ga nyina mwiru caves and crater lakes in Fortportal. 2. Lake bunyonyi

Thanks for the additions!

I would refer to this as Uganda at the finger tips, this is awesome.

@Ben,there are more interesting places to talk about than Owino, Rubaga,Kampala city…..mabira forest should have been in the list too

wow, this is the entire information one needs to know if they intend to travel to Uganda on a safari .

Hello! I will like to know if June it’s a good time to travel to Uganda and Ruanda to see the gorillas

Yes, either January / February or June to September (the two dry seasons) are good times to go gorilla trekking.

@Bryan Haines, Am humbled by this presentation . I will visit half of these sites by end of 2022

@Bryan Haines, Thanks though you forgot to add the Westnile regions evenings with a cool lingala music, the culture of the people in westnile most notable the aringa people,katwa people where the former president of Uganda Field Mershall Iddi Amin Dada originated from and also some places to visit like mountain kei, liru etc

Thanks Samad – these are some great additions!

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Top 10 Best Tourist Attractions and Places To Visit in Uganda

Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of the Bradt guidebook to Uganda.

Uganda’s diversity of landscapes and wildlife is incredible. Ecologically, this smallish African country is where the eastern savannah meets the western rainforest, while a varied mosaic of wetlands covers 25% of its surface area. In Uganda, you might one day track chimpanzees or gorillas through lush tropical jungles and the next day go boating on a hippo-filled river or drive through the open grassland in search of the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino). This, in short, is a unique and magical destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Below we introduce you to 10 of its most compelling attractions.

1,216 Uganda Safaris

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Gorillas are the main attraction of this popular national park. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to more than 40% of the world’s remaining 1,060 mountain gorillas. More than 25 family groups here can each be tracked by up to eight visitors daily. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi often entails a steep and relatively demanding hike through dense undergrowth. On other days it might involve a short, flat 20-minute stroll. Either way, coming face-to-face with these gentle giants, who share 98% of their genes with humans, is an unforgettable, and for some life-changing, experience.

821 Bwindi Tours

2. Queen Elizabeth National Park

It is difficult to know where to start when it comes to singing the praises of this biodiverse national park. Perhaps the obvious place is the Kazinga Channel, where herds of thirsty buffalo and elephant gather alongside resident pods of hippo below the snowcapped Rwenzori Mountains. Boat trips on this scenic equatorial waterway are a highlight of visits to Queen Elizabeth National Park. So, too, are game drives on the nearby Kasenyi Plains, where large herds of Uganda kob (a type of antelope) attract plenty of well-fed predators.

Elsewhere, Queen Elizabeth NP’s attractions include the jungle-lined crater lakes of Maramagambo Forest, tree-climbing lions on the Ishasha Plains, and daily chimp trekking excursions in the bordering Kyambura Gorge and Kalinzu Forest. And the birdlife is sensational. Indeed, the park’s checklist of 610 species exceeds that of any other East African conservation area.

565 Queen Elizabeth NP Safaris

3. Kibale National Park

It’s showing off really, isn’t it? Not only does Uganda offer all-but-guaranteed gorilla tracking and a fair chance of spotting the Big Five, it is also the most straightforward place in Africa to track chimpanzees, humankind’s closest genetic relatives. Kibale National Park is the best place to do this if you want to be reasonably sure of a sighting, though other sites such as Kalinzu Forest Reserve, Budongo Forest and Kyambura Gorge are cheaper and not as busy.

Kibale has a lot more to offer than chimps. Over the course of a visit, you might easily see half a dozen monkey species including Uganda mangabey, which is unique to the country. A great variety of colorful forest birds includes great blue turaco, double-toothed barbet and red-headed bluebell.

456 Kibale Tours

4. Murchison Falls National Park

The explorer Sir Samuel Baker called Murchison Falls, the explosive centerpiece of Uganda’s largest national park, “the most important object on the entire course of the White Nile”. Thrilling boat trips to the base of this spectacular waterfall confirm this assessment, while also providing great wildlife viewing. You should see plenty of hippos, crocs and waterbirds from the boat, along with elephant, buffalo and various antelope. Elsewhere, lion and Rothschild’s giraffe are regulars on game drives north of the Nile River, while boat trips to the delta where the river enters Lake Albert routinely offer excellent shoebill sightings.

399 Murchison Falls Safaris

5. Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch

Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch is the only place in Uganda where rhinos can be seen today. Even better, it is one of the few places anywhere that offers visitors the opportunity to track these prehistoric-looking giants on foot, with sightings being almost guaranteed. Tragically, rhinos were actually quite common in Murchison Falls National Park in the 1960s, only to be poached out in the turbulent post-independence era.

The white rhinos at Ziwa have been bred up from six individuals that were translocated to Uganda (mostly from Kenya) in the early 2000s. Plans are in place to move some of these rhinos from Ziwa to other parks in Uganda. Until this happens, however, Ziwa will remain one of the best places to visit in Uganda for people who want to see all the Big Five.

94 Ziwa Safaris

6. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is sometimes dismissed as the second-best place in Uganda to visit mountain gorillas. This is a grossly unfair assessment. True, there’s only one gorilla group that can be visited in Mgahinga, so permit numbers are very limited. But this is also one of the most enjoyable groups to visit, since it contains three hefty silverbacks and tends to inhabit more open bamboo forest than its counterparts in Bwindi.

Mgahinga has several other assets. It is the only place in Uganda to track the beautiful bamboo-guzzling golden monkey. And the location on the forested slopes of the Virunga volcanoes, three of which can be climbed on challenging day hikes, is absolutely sensational.

91 Mgahinga Tours

7. Kidepo Valley National Park

Uganda’s most remote national park lies in the far northeast and shares a mountainous border with South Sudan. As a result of this far-flung location, it sees relatively few visitors by comparison to Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls NPs. But this is no reflection on the quality of wildlife viewing.

In Kidepo Valley National Park, animals you’re likely to see include thousand-strong herds of buffalo, and large numbers of elephant and Rothschild’s giraffe, along with plains zebra, patas monkey and a variety of antelope. Kidepo is the only place in Uganda where lion, leopard and cheetah might all be encountered. A long bird checklist includes East Africa’s only wild population of the striking rose-ringed parakeet.

92 Kidepo Safaris

8. Jinja and the Upper Nile

Wildlife viewing dominates most tour itineraries to Uganda, and understandably so. But for those who enjoy a bit of urban travel or adventure activities, it is worth heading to Jinja. Situated on Lake Victoria, this attractive town overlooks the scenic outlet where the Nile River, the world’s longest, starts its long journey north to the Mediterranean Sea via the Sahara Desert.

Jinja is studded with architectural relics from the days when it was Uganda’s second-largest city, along with a fun selection of modern cafés, restaurants and nightclubs. For adrenaline junkies, the Nile River immediately upriver of Jinja offers thrilling white-water rafting on Grade 5 rapids, as well as kayaking, bungee jumping and quad biking.

84 Jinja Tours

9. Lakes Bunyonyi and Mutanda

Situated in the same southwestern highlands that harbor Uganda’s gorillas, Lakes Bunyonyi and Mutanda have much in common. Both comprise submerged river valleys dammed naturally by lava flows from the volcanic Virunga Mountains. Scenically, both are enclosed by steep terraced slopes and studded with wooded islands. And they are both regarded as safe for swimming, thanks to the absence of bilharzia (a snail-borne disease common at lower altitudes), crocodiles and hippos.

Where the two lakes most obviously differ is in their level of tourist development. Lake Bunyonyi is a well-known post-safari chill-out venue, and it offers a large choice of resorts to suit all budgets and tastes. Lake Mutanda, by contrast, has a rather remote feel and is serviced by a handful of small mid-range to upmarket lodges. Still can’t decide? Well, on a clear day, the sundowner view across Lake Mutanda to the Virungas is one of the most beautiful anywhere in Africa.

282 Lake Bunyonyi Tours 20 Lake Mutanda Tours

10. Mabamba Swamp

Uganda’s Entebbe International Airport has a memorable location on the northern shore of Lake Victoria (Africa’s largest lake). Better still for new arrivals, Entebbe is only a short drive or boat ride from Mabamba Swamp, a bird-watcher’s paradise run as a community ecotourism project.

Mabamba heads the list of best places to visit in Uganda (actually, make that anywhere in Africa) to see the shoebill. This is a bizarre slate-gray bird that feeds on lungfish and claps together its massive clog-shaped bill like castanets when agitated. Other iconic birds likely to be seen on wobbly canoe trips into Mabamba Swamp range from African fish eagle and palm-nut vulture to the tall goliath heron and lily-trotting African jacana.

11 Mabamba Safaris

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15 Best Places to Visit in Uganda: 2024 Uganda Travel Tips

Thinking of going on safari in Uganda and looking for some Uganda travel tips to make the most out of your trip to the Pearl of Africa ? I made a list of the 15 best places to visit in Uganda that should be part of your itinerary. As a photographer and travel marketer, I spend more than 3 months in Uganda and I also host Uganda Group Trips. Therefore, I'm able to give you the best possible advice.

The green Uganda offers a serene beauty with wonderful natural tourist destinations and is popular for its breathtaking landscapes, biodiversity, and abundant birdlife and wildlife including the endangered mountain gorillas and chimpanzees.

Find the 15 most beautiful places to visit in Uganda , full of interesting travel tips, that deserve a spot on your Uganda itinerary:

1. Jinja and Lake Victoria: The Source of The Nile

Jinja is a popular tourist destination, famous because of the historic source of the (White) Nile. It is the starting point of the world’s longest river that flows from Lake Victoria to the Mediterranean Sea through central and northern Uganda, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt.

After Entebbe, Jinja is a great starting point for your Uganda trip, especially if you are in for adrenaline-based activities. Bungee jumping, rafting, kayaking, and other water activities are some of the many active tourist attractions in Jinja.

If you prefer a more relaxing way to experience Jinja, you may want to book a (private) boat tour on Lake Victoria to see the Speke monument at the 'source of the Nile'. A boat tour to the source of the Nile   is one of the highlights in Uganda and a great way to spot birds that live near the river, like kingfishers, fish eagles, storks, and ibises. When you reach the actual source of the Nile River , you can jump off the boat and walk over a wooden deck towards the source of the Nile sign to make a quick photo. Do know this is a small touristic spot with overrated boat trip prices that is not everyone's cup of tea. However, it's the only way to visit the ' source of the Nile '.

2. Sipi Falls: a Hiker's Paradise

Sipi Falls is a hiker's paradise! It’s a series of three impressive waterfalls located in a spectacular, unharmed, and green landscape near the border of Kenya . It’s one of the most beautiful places in Uganda and a perfect place to unwind. The hike to all three falls takes 7-8 km. The waterfalls are only accessible by foot.

A local guide will accompany you on the walk and tells you about the historical and geographical background of the area and share some interesting facts like the medical purposes of the surrounding plants. Taking part in guided hiking activities like these is a perfect way to support the local Ugandan community and a spectacular way to enjoy and learn about the beautiful green surroundings of Sipi.

Sipi Falls is also known for its many local coffee plantations . Coffee is Uganda's leading export crop, but because of financial difficulties, it’s hard for small local farmers to keep their heads above water. Visiting a rural coffee plantation in Uganda is a great way to support the farmers. They are extremely hospitable and are happy to show you the whole coffee process; from picking to shelling, grinding, and roasting. Obviously, you finish by consuming a delicious strong Ugandan  coffee  (Arabica), straight from the source.

3. Kidepo National Park: The Serengeti of Uganda

When it comes to game viewing, Kidepo Valley National Park is one of the best places to visit in Uganda. It’s the most isolated park and unknown to many tourists, but it offers an abundance of wildlife and spectacular Savannah landscapes.

Kidepo National Park is located in Northern Uganda, at the border with Southern Sudan. It takes some effort to reach the park, but the variety of wildlife and beautiful views are worth it.

My Uganda Travel Tip for you: when you are in for an adventurous safari, add off-the-beaten-path Kidepo National Park to your Uganda safari itinerary; a true gem and one of the most beautiful places in Uganda known as Uganda's own Serengeti . Make sure you have enough fuel to get to Kidepo (and for your planned game drives ) as there's no gas station in Kidepo. Kaabong and Kitgum are the nearest places to stock up on fuel.

4. Murchison Falls National Park

Being Uganda’s oldest and largest wildlife reserve, Murchison Falls National Park is one of the most visited places in Uganda . It’s home to four of the Big five game animals, rhinos excluded. Even if you have limited time, your chances of spotting animals are high. We saw lots of animals including a leopard, lions , elephants, giraffes, hippos, crocs, many birds, and antelopes.

One of the best things to do in Uganda is to visit the actual Murchison waterfall. I would highly recommend booking a half-day tour to explore the falls, including a boat trip to the bottom of the falls.

On the Murchison Falls boat trip , it used to be possible to get off the boat and hike to the top of the falls where the water of the river Nile clashes with the borders of a narrow rocky gap and drops down 34 meters.

Because of the flooding, it's no longer possible as part of the boat trip but you can still do the ' Top of the Falls Hike ' from a different starting point. If you are not able or don’t want to hike to the top, an alternative to see the actual Murchison Falls is to get there by car. As the most visited National Park in Uganda , it's definitely worth it to add this amazing place to your Uganda trip itinerary.

  RELATED: find the 9 best things to do in Murchison Falls National Park

5. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

We all know that rhinos are critically endangered because of poaching. The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary located near Murchison Falls National Park is the only place in Uganda to see rhinos roaming around in the wild. It’s a rhino re-introduction project for white rhinos. You can trek them on foot, accompanied by a ranger . The rhino trekking will last about 1.5 to 2.5 hours and costs about $45 per person.

The rhinos are heavily protected but can roam free in an area that covers 7000 hectares of land. The walk is not heavy, but it’s an open space, so it can be very hot in the sun.

While visiting the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, you have the opportunity to do more activities like a Shoebill trek, night walk, or canoe ride. You can also stay overnight in a lodge or tent. When staying overnight, you’ll have the highest chance of seeing the prehistoric Shoebill .

6. Kibale National Park: The Primate Capital of Africa

Kibale Forest National Park is known as Uganda's primate capital of the world and the best place to visit in Uganda to see the chimpanzee. Booking a chimpanzee trekking   is the only way to see the chimps in Kibale. You will hike through the lush tropical rainforest looking for the chimpanzees and you’re allowed to stay with them for one hour at the moment you've found them.

If you want to spend more time with chimpanzees and learn even more about their daily routine, it’s recommended to book the chimpanzee habituation experience . It’s a bit more expensive than a chimp trekking, but you will spend a whole day with the chimpanzees to watch their daily activities like de-nesting, foraging for food, grooming, playing, and making nests for the night.

It’s an exhausting day full of movement, but an experience of a lifetime. To me, one of the highlights of my Uganda trip.

While trekking in Kibale Forest you can also find monkey species, like the Ugandan Red Colobus and the rare L'Hoest .

  RELATED: Read my detailed blog about the differences between a chimpanzee trekking and chimpanzee habituation experience in Kibale National Park Uganda.

7. Kasendra Crater Lakes Region

The area around Kibale offers some of the most beautiful places to visit in Uganda, like the stunning crater lakes in the Kabarole district , tea plantations, and the Rwenzori Mountains . Especially, hikers should explore more of the region. There’s a recommended three-hour hike that includes three crater lakes, local villages, tea plantations, and a great view from ‘ the top of the world ’ overlooking all 3 crater lakes and the Rwenzori Mountains. Definitely one of the coolest places to visit in Uganda.

8. Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary: a Birdwatcher's Paradise

Near Kibale National Park, you can find the small Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary which is home to many other primate species and 200 different bird species (like the great blue turaco).  It’s a birdwatchers' paradise. This place is run by the Kibale Association for Rural and Environmental Development (KAFRED) and protects the Magombe swamp . All the profits are used to fund community projects around Bigodi, like supporting local schools.

I really enjoyed the swamp walking tour and visiting the local community, where we learned about traditional weaving techniques by the Bigodi Women Group .

9. Queen Elizabeth National Park: Spot Tree-Climbing Lions

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most popular national park, located in western Uganda, and named after the royal Queen Elizabeth II of England. This park is home to numerous mammal species and birds and offers stunning diverse landscapes and views of the beautiful Rwenzori Mountains in the back.

Besides the typical African Savannah, you will also find volcanic cones, beautiful salt crater lakes, and volcanic cones. From October to April, you might even be lucky to see flamingos at Lake Munyanyange . Large herds of buffaloes are also often found around the salt crater lakes in Queen Elizabeth NP.

To get the best out of your visit to Queen Elizabeth NP, you need to take time for several safari game drives.

Boat Tour Kazinga Channel

One of the most popular Uganda activities amongst tourists in Queen Elizabeth National Park is a peaceful boat trip to Kazinga Channel . This activity takes about 3 hours and offers great opportunities for wildlife viewing. This channel connects Lake Edward and Lake George and is home to large concentrations of water buffaloes, hippos, Nile crocodiles, and exotic birds. Sometimes you can even see elephants near or in the water. For the best views of the animals in the Kazinga Channel, you have to make sure to get a seat on the left side of the boat.

Tree-climbing Lions in the Ishasha Sector

Have you ever heard about the famous tree-climbing lions ? The Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the few places in Africa where you can see tree-climbing lions. This area is located in the Southern part of Queen Elizabeth NP, but it’s a must-visit place in Uganda . If you are heading to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to visit the mountain gorillas, I would highly recommend staying in Ishasha for one night; definitely one of the coolest places to visit in Uganda.

During the hottest parts of the day, you have the highest chance to spot tree-climbing lions. It is supposed that lions climb these huge fig trees as a way of protecting themselves against the numerous biting tsetse flies on ground level and to view their potential prey grazing on the open plains. I was lucky enough to capture tree-climbing lions. It was one of my favorite sightings at Queen Elizabeth National Park. 

10. Equator Sign Kayabwe: a Fun Photo Stop

Uganda is one of the countries that is crossed by the equator that cuts mother earth into the Northern and Southern hemispheres. The most iconic equator crossing spot is in Kayabwe , located about 70 kilometers from Kampala and a fun place to visit in Uganda.

This widely-known landmark is often visited by tourists on the way to the national parks in Southwestern Uganda like Lake Mburo, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queen Elizabeth NP, and Mgahinga. Not the most beautiful place to visit in Uganda, but the  equator landmark is a fun photo stop to capture yourself standing with one leg in the Northern Hemisphere and the other leg in the Southern Hemisphere.

11. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Home of The Uganda Gorillas

Visiting the critically endangered mountain gorillas should be on every traveler's bucket list when traveling to Uganda. Gorilla trekking in Uganda is done in two national parks of which Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is Uganda’s main gorilla trekking destination .

It’s declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its ecological uniqueness and is home to roughly half of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park is an expensive activity, but an experience of a lifetime, and definitely one of the coolest and best things to do in Uganda . You need to be in good health for the Gorilla hike because you will be walking uphill and downhill through dense tropical rainforest. At times, the hike can be exhausting, but it's definitely worth the money and effort. To me, my favorite Uganda experience.

  RELATED: Read my Guide to Gorilla trekking in Uganda featuring everything you need to know to plan your gorilla safari .

I also wrote an article about my Gorilla Trekking Experience in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi and 9 things to do in the Nkuringo sector of Bwindi National Park (including visiting the Nkuringo Batwa Tribe).

Visit the Batwa Tribe

While you’re at Bwindi, I would highly recommend visiting the Batwa Tribe . Learning more about the Batwa is one of the cultural things to do in Uganda . These original inhabitants of the jungle of Bwindi are known as the ‘keepers of the forest’. They lived in harmony with Uganda's rainforest for years and survived by hunting small game using bows and arrows.

Sadly, they lost their traditional way of living. Nowadays, these impressive people share their stories, history, and cultural habits like traditional songs and dances with tourists. Seeing the Batwa Tribe is a great way of learning about their way of life and the history of Uganda.

12. Lake Bunyonyi; Africa's Switzerland

As you might know, Uganda offers a great diversity of landscapes. One of the most tranquil and beautiful places in Uganda is Lake Bunyonyi . This lake is located near the border of Rwanda in the South West of Uganda, a 2 to 3-hour drive from Bwindi. Lake Bunyonyi is believed to be the second-deepest lake in Africa (44 m-90 m).

The lake is known as the ‘ Switzerland of Africa ’ because of the surrounding green terraces, hills, and valleys. The lake contains at least 29 islands and is 25 kilometers long and 7 kilometers wide.

One of the most well-known islands with a notorious history is Akampene island, known as ‘ Punishment Island '. Unmarried pregnant girls were sent there to starve to death in the past. During our stay, we met the only living survivor, Ms. Mauda Kyitaragabirwe, who shared her story with us. She was only twelve years old when she was abandoned by her family.

Visiting several islands by boat is highly recommended. There are no hippos or crocodiles, and it’s bilharzia free, so it’s safe to swim in the lake. Besides relaxing or swimming, you can also choose to go canoeing in a dugout canoe or hiking through the hills and villages. For the best view of Lake Bunyonyi , you should go to Arcadia Lodge for a drink on their huge terrace.

13. Lake Mburo National Park: Best Uganda Sunset Views

Out of the 10 National Parks in Uganda, Lake Mburo is the smallest and the closest to the main towns of Kampala and Entebbe. This park offers endless views of wide-open Savannah landscapes with rolling hills and idyllic lake shores. It’s home to 350 bird species as well as more than 68 mammal species including buffalo, leopard, hyena, and jackal.

It’s also the only place in southern Uganda to see many Burchell zebras and the only park in the country with impalas. There are no lions and elephants in the park, but because of that, Lake Mburo is the best place for walking safaris and horse safaris in Uganda .

Visiting Lake Mburo is the perfect place to break up a long journey from the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Lake Bunyonyi to Kampala or Entebbe. In my opinion, this Ugandan National Park park is a bit underrated. I really loved the iconic sunset views over Lake Mburo .

14. Kampala: Uganda's City of 7 Hills

Kampala is the heart and soul of Uganda and must-visit when you travel to Uganda . Kampala is surrounded by many rolling hills ad borders Lake Victoria, which is known as the largest freshwater lake in Africa. The capital city of Uganda offers a variety of things to do and places to see, including the Uganda National Mosque that offers a panoramic view over the city after climbing 300 steps to the top of the minaret.

Other interesting tourist attractions in Kampala are the UNESCO Kasubi Tombs and Idi Amin's Torture Chambers on the grounds of Kabaka's Palace. Also don't miss out on the vibrant Owino Market and the Nakasero Food Market to taste the flavors of the Ugandan cuisine, including the famous 'Rolex'. You can cover most top sights on a one-day Walking Tour in Kampala or a sightseeing bus tour.

Want to learn more about Kampala, the city that never sleeps? I wrote the best things to do in Kampala with lots of Uganda Travel Tips , including fun activities, must-visit tourist attractions, and Kampala's lively nightlife scene.

15. Mabamba Swamp: Best Place to See The Shoebill in Uganda

Mabamba Swamp in Entebbe is a birdwatcher's paradise, known as one of the  best place to see the Shoebill in Uganda . Home to over 300 different bird species, the Mabamba Wetland offers a captivating ecosystem that draws bird lovers, nature enthusiasts, and wildlife photographers from around the globe to go on a Uganda safari to see the Shoebill Stork .

  RELATED: Read everything you need to know about Shoebill watching in Mabamba Swamp Uganda.

Uganda Safari Tours

Here are examples of safari trips to Uganda from 3-day Gorilla trekking tours to a complete 3-week Uganda itinerary showcasing the best places to see in Uganda:

Conclusion: The 15 Best Places to visit in Uganda

Here's the shortlist of the 15 best places to visit in Uganda :

• Jinja and Lake Victoria
• Kidepo Valley National Park
• Murchison Falls National Park
• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
• Kibale Forest National Park
• Crater Lake Area
• Bigodi Wetland Reserve
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Equator sign Kayabwe
• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Lake Bunyonyi
• Lake Mburo National Park
• Mabamba Swamp

If you want to include all these 15 places to your Uganda itinerary, you need a minimum of 3 weeks to explore Uganda. Do you only have 2 weeks for a safari in Uganda ? With only 2 weeks, I would opt for top tourist attractions in Uganda that include Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest for Chimpanzee Trekking, Queen Elizabeth for the Tree Climbing Lions, and Bwindi National Park for Gorilla Trekking, and via a lunch stop at Lake Bunyonyi to Lake Mburo. Depending on the departure of your flight from Entebbe Airport, it's possible to do an early morning boat tour in Mabamba Swamp to see the Shoebill.

Hopefully, this list of the 15 best places to visit in Uganda inspires you to create your Uganda itinerary. Feel free to reach out if you have any suggestions to add to this list, or if you have any questions about traveling to Uganda; the Pearl of Africa .

Curious about the best time to travel to Uganda? Read my articles about the best time to visit Uganda and Uganda weather by month .

If this article was helpful to you, you could help me in return by sharing this Uganda blog on your social channels or pinning this article with the best places to visit in Uganda for later use.

Uganda Tours & Vacations

Many travel to Uganda to catch sight of the mystical, mountain gorillas living in the dense forests.

But the attractions don't stop there. From villages filled with enthusiastic locals to incredible wildlife on the shores of Africa's most infamous river, Uganda consistently captures the attention, imagination and hearts of travelers worldwide.

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Articles of Uganda

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Encounters in the mist: Exploring Uganda’s gorilla sanctuaries 

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7 unforgettable wildlife experiences for 2023 

The top 9 destinations for travel in November 2024

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Uganda at a glance

Capital city.

Kampala (population 1.507 million)

45.85 million

Swahili, English, Ganda

(GMT+03:00) Nairobi

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type G (Irish/British 3-pin)

Learn more about Uganda

Best time to visit uganda.

For sunshine and hot weather, visit Uganda from late December to late February as this is the dry season. June to September is also a good time to travel as you can expect warm temperatures and little rain. The wet seasons run from March to May and October to November – during this time downpours are frequent and often create less accessibility on roads and within some national parks.

Read more about the best time to visit Uganda

Culture and customs

Uganda is home to many different tribal groups, and a wide variety of different customs and traditions can be observed depending on where you travel in Uganda. Spontaneous dance and song is a hallmark of African culture and this is not an exception in Uganda, where tribes and villages will often greet groups of newcomers with rousing song and dance. Greeting others is a very important part of Ugandan culture and not greeting or acknowledging someone you are passing or meeting can be seen as impolite, especially in rural areas and villages. Shaking hands is an appropriate greeting when meeting someone for the first time and often both hands are given for a handshake. 

Food or drink is often extended to visitors, even though many Ugandans have very little, and it is viewed as impolite to decline an offer of food or hospitality. Accept willingly and graciously eat or drink what has been offered to you. Generally, most of Uganda’s population lives in rural or regional centers, although urban areas are rapidly expanding and modern influences are infiltrating Ugandan society at a fast rate. With this modernization, some of the old ways are dying out as younger Ugandans become more adept at using technology, although many still live tribal lives based on hunting and agriculture.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savoring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world.

Things to try in Uganda

This local dish of mashed plantains, often cooked in a nut sauce and served with meat or fish, is a favorite with locals and can be found pretty much everywhere in Uganda

2. Chai Tea

While coffee is grown widely in Uganda, most is shipped out for international sale so locals drink tea instead. Chai tea is popular, which you’ll find at markets, kiosks, cafes and restaurants.

3. Fresh Fruit

Mango, pineapple, avocado, banana, plantain, passionfruit and jackfruit are all plentiful in Uganda. Buy from a market or roadside stall as a refreshing, cheap snack.

Geography and environment

Uganda sits in East Africa and shares borders with Sudan,   Tanzania , Democratic Republic of Congo,   Rwanda   and   Kenya . Despite being landlocked, Uganda still has access to fresh water via surrounding lakes (Lake Victoria, Lake Edward and Lake Albert). As a well-watered country with rich soil, much of Uganda’s land is used for agriculture and cash crops. Coffee, cotton, tea and tobacco plantations are common sights, as are farms of plantains, corn and cassava. The rest of the country is a combination of woodlands, swamps, forests and savanna, as well as pockets of protected nature reserves and national parks.

History and government

Early history.

Inhabited by hunter-gatherer tribes for centuries, it's thought that the Hamitic people from neighboring countries arrived sometime before 1000 AD, bringing with them knowledge of animal husbandry and agriculture. Migration from neighboring countries continued, with tribespeople from Kenya and Tanzania flowing into Uganda well into the 16th century, as well as Arab traders moving inland from the coast and Christian missionaries arriving during the 1800s.

Recent history

Uganda came under colonial rule during the late 1800s, and was known as the Kingdom of Uganda under British rule. Colonial rule continued for many years until independence was granted in 1962. From 1971 to 1979, Uganda came under the rule of Idi Amin, hallmarked by a time of economic decline and human rights violations. By the time Amin had fled to Libya, many Ugandans were suffering from extreme economic hardship and social difficulties. Conflicts with neighboring countries in the 80s and 90s created more turmoil and upheaval, although more recently, Ugandans have enjoyed a time of relative peace with an improved economy largely due to an increase in tourist numbers and agricultural export.

Top 10 amazing animals of Uganda

1. mountain gorilla.

Be transfixed by the wonder and majesty of Uganda’s highly endangered mountain gorillas. The challenging trek through the steamy jungle of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is all worth it once you’re beholding these beautiful beings.

Experience once-in-a-lifetime gorilla tracking on our 16 day Gorillas & Game Parks trip or 6 day Premium Rwanda & Gorillas of Uganda tour.

2. African Elephant

Population numbers of the mighty African Elephant continue to grow in Uganda’s nature reserves and national parks. Catching sight of one of these brilliant beasts while on a game drive is a truly breathtaking experience.

3. Black and White Colobus Monkey

These curious creatures are fond of grunting, roaring and croaking – so they aren’t hard to find. Look for their white faces in the treetops while walking in Uganda’s national parks.

4. Black Rhinoceros

Although critically endangered, it’s still possible to see black rhinos in the Ugandan wild. Conservation projects have gone a long way in seeing the population numbers improve so with luck, you’ll spot a couple while on a game-viewing safari.

These stealthy predators are relatively difficult to spot as they are masters of staying silent and blending in with the scenery. Watching a leopard stalk prey is a tense, exciting and riveting experience.

There is simply nothing more thrilling than casting your eye on a pride of regal lions. Whether they are lying in the sun or going in for the kill, lions are captivating creatures to watch.

7. Hippopotamus

Hippos are synonymous with the African bush. Spot them lurking underwater and basking on the riverbanks along the rivers and channels of Uganda.

8. Chimpanzee

It’s fun to watch cheeky chimps swinging and playing in unadulterated bliss in the trees of Uganda’s forests.

9. Golden Cat

You’ll be lucky to catch a glimpse of this famously elusive feline. The African Golden Cat is a solitary creature, which favors living alone in the tropical and cloud forests of Africa. If you’re lucky enough to see one, count your blessings as they are simply remarkable.

10. Ostrich

These flightless feathered friends are commonly found in the savanna of Northern Uganda. Be amazed at their size and impressive plumage, as well as their remarkable ability to run at top speed.

Uganda has many interesting markets to visit, although many handicraft items are produced in neighboring Kenya.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Uganda

1. Basketry

The practice of making traditional baskets is quite developed in Uganda. Choose from assorted shapes – from shallow dish-shaped basketry to deeper bowls and baskets. Materials range from raffia to millet and banana fibre.

2. Paper Beads

Throughout Uganda, there are many workshops and organizations that sell beautiful and colorful beaded necklaces made from recycled paper. These creations not only cut down on waste by utilizing recycled paper, they also usually provide employment for local women.

3. Bark Cloth

Tribes from South Uganda have been creating bark cloth for centuries, and it’s still available for sale. Nice finds include journals, notepads and photo albums made from a combination of bark cloth and recycled paper.

Festivals and events in Uganda

For Ugandan Christians, Christmas Day is a time of holy reverence and family get-togethers. Most Ugandan’s dress up in their finest attire, go to church for a long service and spend the afternoon and evening eating beef. With many Ugandan’s living simple lives, eating beef is a rare pleasure reserved for Christmas.

Further reading

Uganda travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Uganda?

Visas are required by most nationalities, including the EU, US and Australia. Visas are available at point of entry to most nationalities. Some nationalities are required to obtain visas in advance - you MUST check before departure.

If you plan to purchase your visas on arrival, you will need new (post 2003), clean American dollars cash and the cost is around US$100.

If traveling on one of our gorilla itineraries visiting Rwanda, you may require a double entry visa to Uganda. This is dependent on the border guard of the day and can be easily purchased on re-entry from Rwanda for nationalities that qualify for visas on arrival. Please allow US$100.

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.  Last updated: 30/11/2023

Is tipping customary in Uganda?

Tipping isn’t mandatory in Uganda but considering that most Ugandans earn little, tips will be appreciated. As a guide, adding 10% in cafes and restaurants is acceptable, although not necessary.

What is the internet access like in Uganda?

Travelers will be able to access the internet quite easily in the internet cafes of Uganda’s capital and large cities, but limited to no access should be expected in regional and rural areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in Uganda?

Cell phone coverage is generally good in Uganda’s large cities and towns, but less so in rural and mountainous areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated before leaving home if you wish to use your Cell phone.

What are the toilets like in Uganda?

Squat/pit toilets are the standard in Uganda, except for western-style flushable toilets that are sometimes available in large hotels and other modern buildings. Carry your own supply of soap and toilet paper, as these are rarely provided.

What will it cost for a…?

Uganda's unit of currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

Can of soft drink = 1,500 UGX

Bottle of beer = 2,500 UGX

Street snack = 3,000-4,000 UGX

Meal at a cafe = 10,000-20,000 UGX

Can I drink the water in Uganda?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Uganda. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Uganda?

Credit cards are usually accepted by large hotels and western-style restaurants (particularly in the cities) but not by smaller vendors. Ensure you have adequate cash to cover purchases not able to be made on credit.

What is ATM access like in Uganda?

ATMs are easily found in large cities and tourist areas, but are rarer in small towns, rural areas and villages. Be sure to have other payment methods available when venturing out of the city, as ATMs aren't always an option.

Does my trip to Uganda support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Uganda directly support our foundation partner, Gorilla Doctors .

Gorilla Doctors help safeguard wild eastern gorilla populations with life-saving veterinary care. Donations from our trips help them provide routine health monitoring, veterinary visits and clinical interventions for injured mountain and Grauer's gorillas. Each animal they treat contributes to the gorilla populations' health, genetic diversity and long-term sustainability.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

What public holidays are celebrated in Uganda?

1 Jan: New Year's Day

26 Jan: NRM Liberation Day

8 Mar: International Women's Day

29 Mar: Good Friday*

1 April: Easter Monday*

1 May: Labor Day

3 Jun: Martyrs' Day

9 Jun: National Heroes' Day

Eid al-Fitr / End of Ramadhan*

Eid al-Aduha*

9 Oct: Independence Day

25 Dec: Christmas Day

26 Dec: Boxing Day

*Please note:  Uganda public holidays may vary.

Is Uganda LGBTQIA+ friendly?

Some of the language in the anti-homosexuality law passed in May 2023 is vague and open to interpretation, and it remains unclear how this law will be implemented. We recommend that LGBTQIA+ travelers carefully consider the risks of traveling to Uganda and refer to your government’s foreign travel advisories. Equaldex and ILGA are other useful resources for LGBTQIA+ travelers.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Uganda

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Uganda. There are 293 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 27 days. The month with the most departures is June, making it the most popular time to visit Uganda.

250+ Fully Guided tour packages in Uganda with 285 reviews

• Gorilla Trekking
• Christmas & New Year

10 Days Experience Uganda’s Exclusive Gorillas and Wildlife ( Private tour)

My partner and i visited Uganda in Mid -March as that was the only we could squeeze this year having failed to travel during December due to the travel disruptions that were brought about by the Omicron variant. I should say that all my grief for having not celebrated my 10th anniversary in Africa as planned in December was cured by the wonderful organization by Mukisa Safaris Uganda. The comfort and assurance I got from Richard and after our last minute cancellation was great. We had fully paid for the trip and only to get an email that our flights had been cancelled and therefore couldn’t travel. Thank God our trip was with the right and reputable company. Richard made sure that he handled the schedules very well and we got our dream trip to see gorillas and golden monkeys. I really recommend Mukisa Safaris to anybody intending to visit Uganda. I advise that you pay keen attention to every word written in the email. Richard will always be willing to offer information that’s of great importance for the successful organization of the trip. The lodges we stayed in were super clean and in a purely natural setting. Am very grateful to all the team especially my guide Veronica who was very knowledgeable about Uganda. Solomon who was our driver took good care of us on the roads and we felt safe entirely. Thank you Mukisa Safaris. We got more than we expected. We will surely return for an extension to the North and North Eastern part of Uganda.

• Wildlife Trekking

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

I posted my reviews on Google and trip advisor. But in short, it was amazing we enjoyed every moment of our trip. Truly the safari of a lifetime. Recommended by all means! Thanks again to all of you Richard! Martin and Andreea

Uganda Overland: Gorillas & Chimps

It was a very different experience from any travel I’ve done before and was a little outside of my normal comfort zone but both the guides and fellow travelers were awesome, very helpful and very patient.

11 Days Uganda Plus Gorillas

Epic trip. Had to take one shot at an African Safari incase can’t go again. After lot of research chose Uganda because that is the only place where in addition to the big 5 you can do mountain gorilla trekking. Saw huge number of elephants on land and water, hippos in huge colonies and even 3 grazing at night in our resort grounds. Saw leopard climbing down tree as well as pride of lions in close proximity. Saw a number of white rhinos giraffes huge herds of water buffalos, Nile crocodiles in addition to multitude of birds. The chimpanzee trek was a good preparation for the ultimate gorilla trek in biwindi impenetrable forest. The people of Uganda are very very courteous and polite. Our tour guide Bosco and driver Vince tried hard to make the trip memorable and were very attentive to our needs. Strongly recommend .

5-Day Big 5 Kidepo Safari

10 Days Uganda wildlife and Primate Trekking Safari

Great tour guides who put in a lot of effort

8-Day Best of Apes and White Water Rafting Adventure

6 Days Gorillas, Chimps & Lake Mburo Safaris Uganda

The tour was incredible! I can’t put into words the thrill I felt being so close to animals such as chimpanzees, gorills, zebras and giraffes. Bosco ran the tour very professionally and always made sure we were comfortable and happy. I highly recommend Enchanted Uganda Safaris to anyone who is looking to do a tour in Uganda. I’m from Australia and I can honestly say I would fly all the way here to do a tour with Enchanted Uganda Safaris and Bosco in a heartbeat!

8 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Tour

I took this tour late December/early January (December 2022/January 2023). Boaz was my guide the entire time. He was awesome, easy-going, had good knowledge of the areas we visited and great knowledge of the animals. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Uganda and Rwanda with Boaz. I definitely recommend this trip. However, even though the trip is lots of fun with many beautiful areas and animals, it is quite tiring and includes a lot of transit times (vast country - how else to get around than to do a lot of driving?!). As long as you are flexible and respect local cultures and standards, I think this is a fantastic trip.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

5 Gorilla and Chimps Safari

Ask for their guide Jaz, he was superb. Really knowledgeable and friendly. Get a list of the accommodation in advance and look them up on line to see you are happy with them.

6 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5 & Big Cats Safari

A really good tour, you see all important things in Uganda in 6 days, great lodges and activities. Our driver was really ambitious and we had the feeling to be in good company. The only thing was that our car wasn‘t in the best condition (no heating, no AC, etc)

Chimps & Gorillas of Uganda

Fix the roads hot. Hotels are Adequate would like to have better hot hot water service and water pressure

• Overland Truck
• Hiking & Trekking

6-day Gorilla Encounter (Camping)

Liz Is amazing. So full of caring and love. She was an absolute pleasure to have as a guide. Miss you Liz!

7 Days Rwenzori summit trek

9-day Gorillas & Nile River Encounter (Camping)

What people love about fully guided tours in uganda.

Let me start by saying that booking our Uganda/Rwanda safari through Mukisa was truly one of the best decisions that we’ve ever made! I am the type of person that meticulously plans every trip and will read through countless reviews, itineraries, etc. before making a decision. For this trip in particular, we were looking for a private tour that had a wide range of activities from multiple treks to game drives and cultural experiences. What initially drew me to Mukisa was the positive feedback from other guests and a mention on their website that they encourage/aid female tour guides. Upon reaching out through their website, I was immediately impressed with Richard’s quick responses, level of detail and ability to accommodate all of our requests. We started with the “10 Days Safari to Encounter Uganda’s Gorillas, Wildlife & Kigali City Tour” but Richard was able to help us customize the trip and integrate other activities that we were interested in - for example, my husband and I wanted to include a bike ride at the end of our trip. We originally didn’t think this could be part of our safari experience so reached out to a few local bike companies but received no responses. I posed the question to Richard (thinking it would be difficult to accommodate) and within 24 hours, he had found us a bike guide and adjusted our trip’s itinerary. Richard showed a tremendous amount of professionalism throughout the planning process, and loved that he met us in-person at the start of our trip! In terms of the actual safari, I could write several pages on all of the things that we loved but I’ll keep it to a few highlights: 1. The safari had an incredibly wide range of things to do, see, explore, etc. - from the types of animals (we were able to see the Big 5!) to the environments, ranging from jungle to forest to savannah. It was a lot to squeeze into 11 days but we truly feel like we left Uganda/Rwanda with a well-rounded experience. 2. All of the accommodations were conveniently located, clean and comfortable. If possible, we would recommend staying at the same hotel for at least 2 nights/each so you can feel settled and potentially upgrading 1-2 hotels, if you’re looking for additional amenities (e.g. swimming pool). Elephant Hab was our favorite hotel in Uganda. 3. We absolutely adored our guide & driver! Most of the other tour groups that we encountered had a single male guide/driver and we loved that Mukisa prioritized giving opportunities to female guides. Mable and Solomon went above and beyond to make sure we enjoyed every aspect of our trip and even made adjustments to the itinerary on the fly. Mable had a wealth of knowledge about the animals, culture, people, etc. and Solomon was an exceptional driver - making sure we saw all of the animals on our bucket list and navigating the constantly changing conditions. 4. It was quite clear that Mukisa has a strong reputation in the safari community. Several of the hotel managers and rangers made comments to us that they always enjoy working with Mukisa, and they have some of the best guides/drivers. If you’ve made it this far through my review then I hope you’re now considering Mukisa for your upcoming trip. I do not typically write extensive reviews but I genuinely think that this company is one of the best out there and will make this trip everything you could’ve imagined and more!

Regions in Uganda

• Western Uganda (181)
• Bwindi National Park (43)
• Queen Elizabeth National Park (28)
• Central Uganda (17)
• Kibale National Park (11)
• Murchison Falls National Park (10)
• Lake Mburo National Park (9)

Travel Styles

• Fully Guided
• 10 Best Jungle Safaris 2024/2025

• Africa Tours
• Uganda Tours

Uganda Tours and Holidays 2024/2025

From its towering Rwenzori Mountains to its sprawling Lake Victoria with plenty of natural parks in between, Uganda is a natural paradise. Visitors will love doing some gorilla and chimpanzee tracking in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park , or take a wildlife safari tour in Murchison Falls Natural Park for some hippo and waterfall sightings.

• Uganda Travel Guide
• Best Time To Visit Uganda

72 Trips in Uganda with 57 Reviews

• Starts Kampala, Uganda
• Ends Kampala, Uganda

3-Day Trip To Murchison Falls

• Free cancellation
• Best price guaranteed
• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Wildlife safaris and game drives
• Accommodation Lodge, Eco Lodge, Hotel & Tent
• Transport Boat, 4WD Jeep & Minibus
• Age Range 5-95 yrs
• Operated in English
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Ends Entebbe, Uganda

3 Days Trip to Murchison Falls

• Accommodation Lodge & Eco Lodge
• Transport Boat, Ferry, Private Vehicle & 4WD Jeep
• Age Range 5-79 yrs
• Operated in English, French, German

• Starts Entebbe, Uganda

5-Day Gorilla Trekking, Big 5 & Big Cats Safari

• No booking fees
• Accommodation Lodge, Eco Lodge, Hotel & Resort
• Age Range 15-85 yrs

Chimps & Gorillas of Uganda

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Wildlife & Wildlife safaris and game drives Wildlife , Wildlife safaris and game drives , Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking & Safari 'data-more-tripid='7982'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
• Transport 4WD Jeep & Boat
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 7,648
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 733
• Total Price from: US$ 6,915
• Aug 03 Only 8 seats left
• Aug 24 Only 5 seats left

Best of Uganda

• Activities Wildlife safaris and game drives & Adventure Wildlife safaris and game drives , Adventure & Walking tours 'data-more-tripid='16225'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Resort & Guest House
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Jun 07 Only 8 seats left
• Jul 12 Only 7 seats left

Five Day Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Safari in Uganda

• Trip customizable
• Activities Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking & Wildlife safaris and game drives Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking , Wildlife safaris and game drives & National parks 'data-more-tripid='30644'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Eco Lodge & Guest House
• Transport Boat & 4WD Jeep
• Age Range 15-80 yrs

6-day Uganda Wildlife Safari Tour

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Wildlife safaris and game drives
• Accommodation Hotel & Lodge
• Transport Boat, 4WD Jeep & Bus

7 Days Adventure Holiday Package in Uganda

• Activities Adventure
• Accommodation Lodge
• Transport Boat, Private Vehicle & 4WD Jeep

3 Days Gorilla Trekking Tour to Bwindi

• Activities Trekking and Hiking
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge & Eco Lodge
• Transport Private Vehicle

Uganda Overland: Gorillas & Chimps

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Wildlife & Cultural, religious and historic sites Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer & Safari 'data-more-tripid='4881'>+2 more
• Accommodation Camping & Lodge
• Transport Boat
• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• Jun 26 Only 1 seat left
• Jul 10 Only 1 seat left

Best of Western Uganda Safari

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Walking tours Trekking and Hiking , Walking tours & Wildlife safaris and game drives 'data-more-tripid='4053'>+1 more
• Accommodation Camping & Guest House

8 days Uganda Wildlife Holiday

• Activities Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking & National parks
• Transport Boat, 4WD Jeep & Private Vehicle

15 days Uganda Wildlife and Activity Holiday

Twelve-Day Uganda Safari

• Activities Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking & Local boat rides Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking , Local boat rides , Trekking and Hiking , Nature and bush walks & National parks 'data-more-tripid='32334'>+3 more
• Age Range 15-70 yrs

Uganda Tour Reviews

• Daniel Lassen
• Monica Bautista

Uganda - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

Uganda was given the title of 'Pearl of Africa' by Winston Churchill for the simple reason that it presents some of the most unique sights in the African continent, despite its relatively small size. A nature lover’s paradise, Uganda is particularly famous as home to Lake Victoria, the largest tropical lake on the planet. The African Great Lakes also ensure the presence of all kinds of landscapes and wildlife and Mount Elgon affording those on a trip to Uganda views to die for. 

The country has managed to emerge from the dark and transformed into one of the most beautiful countries of Africa. It still gets a rap for its anti-gay sentiments, but the country is still among the safest travel destinations in the continent. 

Tour Highlights

• Look for gorillas in Bwindi National Park
• Straddle the equator in Kayabwe
• Go white water rafting on the White Nile
• Experience the breathtaking rapids of Bujagali Falls
• Go chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park
• Canoe from island to island across Lake Bunyonyi

Travel Tips

• Be prepared to pay for your entry tourist visa to Uganda, which costs about USD 50. The visa can be paid upon entering the country, or online before you travel.
• The term “mzungu” means ‘white person’, and any white-skinned visitors to Uganda should expect to hear this called out to them regularly as they roam the streets. This is not necessarily a sign of disrespect, and should be embraced!
• Uganda is a fairly conservative country. Avoid touching members of the opposite sex in public, and women should dress modestly when holidaying in Uganda. This is especially true in busy cities.
• Be sure to ask your doctor for malaria tablets before travelling to Uganda to avoid being exposed to the mosquito-borne disease.
• The use of credit cards is limited in Uganda. If you’re lucky enough to find a shop that allows card payment, expect to pay a fee of around 5%. Be sure to always carry some cash, US dollars being the currency of choice.

Uganda has seasonal weather so please do check up on the  best time to visit Uganda  before planning your tour. And if you’re still hunting for more things to do and places to explore in Uganda, do check out our  Uganda Travel Guide  for more information.

• Uganda budget tours
• Eco tours in Uganda
• Uganda guided tours
• Uganda family tour packages
• Uganda luxury tours
• Uganda private tours
• Uganda small group tours
• Uganda solo trips
• Uganda tailor-made vacation packages
• Uganda tours for senior citizens
• Uganda tours for young adults
• Uganda group tours
• Uganda last minute deals
• Uganda travel deals

Popular Destinations

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Tours
• Entebbe Tours
• Kampala Tours

Popular Activities

• Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking tours
• National parks tours
• Wildlife safaris and game drives tours

Upcoming Departures

• Spring 2024/2025
• Summer 2024/2025
• Winter 2024/2025
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
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• December 2024
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Must-see attractions in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Southwestern Uganda

Home to almost half the world’s surviving mountain gorillas, the World Heritage–listed Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of East Africa’s most…

Top of the Falls

Once described as the most spectacular thing to happen to the Nile along its 6700km length, the 50m wide Victoria Nile is squeezed here through a 6m gap…

Igongo Cultural Centre

Located 12km from Mbarara on the road to Kampala, this cultural village features the best museum displays in Uganda. Set on the grounds of a former palace…

Murchison Falls National Park

Uganda’s largest national park is one of its very best; animals are in plentiful supply and the raging Murchison Falls, where the Victoria Nile crashes…

Kidepo Valley National Park

Offering some of the most stunning scenery of any protected area in Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park is hidden away in a lost valley in the extreme…

Mengo Palace

Built in 1922, this small palace is the former home of the king of Buganda, though it has remained empty since 1966 when Prime Minister Milton Obote…

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

This sanctuary in Lake Victoria is home to around 50 orphaned chimps that have been rescued from elsewhere in Uganda and are being rehabilitated as much…

Eastern Uganda

Located 23km southeast of Entebbe in Lake Victoria, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, or 'Chimp Island', is home to over 40 orphaned or rescued…

Queen Elizabeth National Park

This fabulous national park is on nearly all itineraries, and while you'll never be far from other safari groups, you're guaranteed to see a large range…

Uganda Wildlife Education Centre

While it functions primarily as a zoo, this centre is actually a world-class animal refuge that has benefited from international assistance in recent…

Budongo Forest Reserve

The Budongo Forest Reserve is a large (825-sq-km) tract of virgin tropical forest on the southern fringes of Murchison Falls National Park. Its main…

Taks Centre

It's worth popping into this happening community arts centre to see what's on, whether it be an art exhibition, fireside chat or cultural performance…

32° East Ugandan Arts Trust

This centre for Ugandan contemporary artists includes exhibit space, a library, workspace and resource centre. It is in the process of moving to a nearby…

Kibale Forest National Park

The 795-sq-km Kibale National Park is a lush tropical rainforest, believed to have the highest density of primates in Africa. It's most famous for being…

Mt Elgon National Park

Spread out over the slopes of a massive extinct volcano, Mt Elgon National Park is a good place to spot various primates and lots of birds, including the…

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

The smallest of Uganda’s national parks (34 sq km), Mgahinga punches well above its weight. Tropical rainforest cloaks three dramatic extinct volcanoes…

Rwenzori Mountains National Park

The legendary, mist-covered Rwenzori Mountains were named a World Heritage Site by Unesco in 1994 because of both their beauty and biodiversity. It’s the…

Source of the Nile River

The birthplace of the mighty Nile river (or one of them anyway…), here the water spills out of Lake Victoria on its journey to the Mediterranean flowing…

Kihingami Wetlands Sanctuary

This eco-tourism site, set up with the help of Fort Portal’s Kabarole Tours, preserves an attractive 13-sq-km valley that otherwise would have been…

Nabugoye Synagogue

An unexpected find in this neck of the woods, the synagogue is a simple, yet appealing, rustic red-brick building (with plans to revamp). The Jewish…

Kasubi Tombs

The Unesco World Heritage–listed Kasubi Tombs are of great significance to the Buganda kingdom as the burial place of its kings and royal family. The huge…

Lake Mburo National Park

The 370-sq-km Lake Mburo National Park is an increasingly common stop on the safari circuit. It’s the only place in southern Uganda to see zebra and…

Tooro Botanical Garden

Fort Portal

These homegrown botanical gardens have a lot of well-signed indigenous plants and trees, as well as an organic farming project growing herbs, flowers,…

Bwama & Njuyeera (Sharp’s) Islands

Lake Bunyonyi

Many boat drivers will take you to these islands, where British missionary Dr Leonard Sharp founded a leper colony and settled in 1921, but the story is…

Great Lakes Museum

Along the highway on approach to Kabale, keep an eye out for this museum. It has a varied collection of artefacts and masks, information on clans, and…

Nabajjuzi Wetlands

Just out of Masaka on the way to Mbarara, these Ramsar site–listed wetlands offer excellent opportunities to spy two of Uganda’s most elusive animals: the…

Source of the Nile Gardens

On the western bank of the river you'll find the pleasant Source of the Nile Gardens and Speke Monument – a pillar commemorating where the British…

Kyahugye Island

Run by Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort, this 35-acre island is worth a visit if you want to see to wildlife such as zebra, waterbuck, ipala and kob up close. All…

Uganda Reptiles Village

Get up close to some of the world's deadliest snakes, including mambas, cobras, puff adders and vipers, as well as chameleons, crocs and lizards, all of…

Afriart Gallery

This classy little gallery features works by serious local artists. Downstairs has changing monthly exhibits, while upstairs is a permanent collection,…

Mugusu Market

The Wednesday market, 11km south of Fort Portal, is the largest market in the west and attracts traders from all over, including many from the DRC selling…

Nyero Rock Paintings

Uganda's oldest rock-art site, with six panels painted on the granite outcrop of Moru Ikara. Figures include concentric circles, zebra, canoes and people…

Makerere Art Gallery

Small, but definitely worth a visit, with fascinating monthly exhibitions; check the website for events. There are also some cool sculptures on the…

Kampala Hindu Temple

Right in the city centre, this temple has elaborate towers and a swastika-emblazoned gate. Peek inside to see the unexpected dome.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The Big Five are back. In 2005, Rhino Fund Uganda opened this private 70-sq-km reserve, 170km northwest of Kampala, about 30 years after poachers shot the…

Parliament House

Open to the public, a visit to parliament is an interesting way to spend an hour or two. You can either tour the building or see the government in action …

The interesting village of Katwe on the north shore of Lake Edward, 4km west of Main gate (Kabatoro gate), is famous for its salt industry. Salt mining on…

Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine

Located in Namugongo, this shrine marks the spot where Kabaka Mwanga II ordered the execution of 14 Catholics who refused to denounce their faith,…

Tooro Palace

Looking down at town from its highest hill, the palace is worth a visit purely for its 360-degree panoramic views. It’s the residence of King Oyo, who…

Uganda Museum

There’s plenty to interest you here with a varied and well-captioned ethnographic collection covering clothing, hunting, agriculture, medicine, religion…

More destinations you need to see

Top Tours in Uganda, Africa

Uganda tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Private Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 1Day Jinja Tour & source of the Nile River Experience

2. 1Day Trip to Jinja and Source of River Nile

3. Kampala boda boda tours [motorbike tours].

4. 1 Day Ngamba Island chimpanzee tour

5. 2 Days Budget Safari to Murchison Falls National Park

6. Steve Kampala Walking tours

7. Lake Victoria Island Cycling Tour from Kampala

8. Safe Motorbike Tour in Kampala (Boda Boda Tour)

9. Inside Kampala Walking tour (Female Guided)

10. Kampala’s Best Experience walking tour

11. 2-days Murchison Falls and Wildlife Game Viewing

12. 1 Day Jinja tour special

13. 4 Days Gorilla tracking Tour in Uganda

14. Entebbe Walking Tour (3 Hours) with Zoo and Botanical Gardens Options

15. 3-Day Safari Murchison Falls Safari

16. 5 days gorilla & Wildlife safari in Uganda

17. Entebbe Eco Tour - Full Day

18. Complete Kampala Tour Experience

19. 7 Hours Guided Cycling Tour to Sezibwa Waterfalls

20. Kampala City Tour - Half Day

21. 2 Day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda via Kigali

22. Day Tour Of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and Wildlife Ranch - ZIWA RHINO TREKKING

23. Sipi Waterfall Hike and Swimming Experience

24. Cooking Class for Typical Ugandan Food in Kampala

25. 2 Days Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi through Kigali

26. 2 Days Safari To Queen Elizabeth National Park with Cruise

27. 3-Day Ultimate Big Five Safari - Murchison Falls & Rhinos

28. Equator Tour

29. Walking Tour in Kampala

30. 3 Days gorilla trekking Safari tour in Uganda

What travellers are saying.

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Places to Visit in Uganda

• Places To Visit

Uganda Tourist Places

Here is the list of best places to visit in uganda:.

Located in the Buikwe city in Central Uganda on the Kampala-Jinja Highway, this city is locally referred to as Kawelo. It is an important place culturally and is also a hub for educational institutes, sports, and business houses. Lugazi is surrounded by the thick Mabira rainforest that has a rugged yet beautiful terrain and is dotted with several tabletop hills and lush valleys. It is quite fascinating to see Roman architecture in Africa. One such landmark is the Our Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral, one of the best places to visit in Uganda,for its stunning architecture and scenic gardens. Golfing enthusiasts must visit the Mehta Golf Club for a round or two of golf. To remind you of your Ugandan adventure, head over to the Lugazi Central Market for shopping traditional African dresses, crafts, and food. Enjoy a safari to the Mabira Forest Reserve, one of the few-remaining evergreen rainforests in the area which houses the prehistoric Lophocebus Ugandae, which is an Old World monkey species and almost 300 varieties of birds. Another interesting adventure to enjoy here at Lugazi is leisurely walking through its dense banana and coffee plantations. The weather here is mostly humid with overcast skies. June to September are the lowest rainfall months, making this the best time to visit to explore the outdoor attractions.

This is a compact quintessential African city located in Central Uganda along the Kampala-Fort Portal highway. It is a city buzzing with commercial and administrative activity. Mityana has an impressive as well as interesting plateau landscape that comprises hills with gentle slopes and vast open U-shaped valleys. This is interspersed with some semi-rural settlements that add a beautiful lushness to the city’s landscape. Mityana is one of the few Ugandan places that house stunning architectural landmarks. One of the best such places is The Roman Catholic Diocese of Kiyinda-Mityana known for its beautiful and rustic architecture. If you are looking for natural wonders to explore, you can visit the nearby 4000-year-old Lake Wamala to see its several islands and wildlife like Wild pigs, Hippos, Bushbuck, Waterbuck, Guinea fowl, Catfish, Lungfish, etc. People who love unique social experiments must visit the Social Innovation Academy. You can see upcycled fashion exhibitions and see plastic bottle construction, etc. For an offbeat experience, hear the locals tell their stories at the Mityana Central Market. This is also a great place to try traditional delicacies. Weather Mityana has a tropical climate and receives rainfall throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the dry months of July and January-February.

Located in Central Uganda on the Mubende-Fort Portal Road, Mubende is a busy and vibrant commercial and administrative centre where one of the major activities is agriculture. This city has a rich heritage of being a part of the Buganda kingdom till the 1960s. Beauty Mubende has a unique landscape that ranges from 1148ft-4320 ft. This is covered in beautiful tropical forests and barren lands alternatively. One of the most fascinating places here is the Nakayima witch tree, which is a live shrine and is said to house the spirit of a Ndahura, an ancient Bachwezi king. If you are looking for daylong sojourns in the beautiful wilderness, you can enjoy farm tours to see banana, groundnut, cassava, coffee, and tea plantations. For people who want to explore the local way of life, these trails are the best way to meet the locals and enjoy the local foods. For those who are looking for adventures, must trek to the flat-topped Mubende Hill. This challenging trek will reward you with some of the best panoramic views of the surroundings. Those who love trying new foods, must visit the Mubende Central Market. Mubende experiences a warm and humid climate throughout the year interspersed with rains. June-September is the driest month to visit when you can enjoy outdoor activities.

Located in western Uganda, Mbarara is the second-largest city in the country. It is an important transport and infrastructure hub. The name ‘Mbarara’ is a twisted version of the word ‘Emburara’ that means tall grass. It is often referred to as the ‘land of milk and honey’ because of the huge numbers of Ankole cattle here. While the city has more of an urban landscape, the moment you get of its limits, you will be rewarded with stunning natural beauty and a landscape that’s rich in wildlife and offers stupendous experiences. Mbarara is one of the best Uganda tourist spots when it comes to exploring the country’s unique and beautiful history and heritage. Some of the best places to do so are the Igongo Cultural Center and Eriijukiro Museum to learn about the country and its ancient tribes like the Batooro and Bakiga. Another great place that you would love is the Sanga Cultural Village where the ancient artefacts of the Bahima tribe are stored. The lush Mbarara is the perfect place to lose yourself in the wilderness. The city houses the largest cattle farm in Uganda where you can take farm safaris and learn about the elusive Ankole cattle, learn to milk them, and try fresh dairy products. Nature enthusiasts cannot miss visiting Lake Mburo National Park to spot Waterbucks, Impalas, leopards, hyenas, etc. To round off your day and relax, visit the famous Nile Breweries to sample some of the greatest Ugandan wines. The weather in Mbarara is hot and humid throughout the year. The drier months of December- February, June, and August are the best months to visit.

Best of South Africa

Kasese is the largest city in the Rwenzururu region located north of Lake Victoria in Western Uganda. It is one of the most important copper and cobalt mining centres in the country. The city also has its airport. Kasese lies close to the almost 3 million-year-old Rwenzori mountain ranges, one of the top places to visit in Uganda, known as the Mountains of the Moon, which is made up of granite and quartzite stones and covered in tropical rainforests and snowy meadows. Visit the nearby UNESCO heritage Rwenzori Mountains National Park to see Africa’s third highest peak, glaciers, waterfalls, and lakes. Another place that will delight you with its local charms is the Kasese Central Market. The place offers delicious food and shops that sell traditional artworks and mementoes. Enjoy safaris at the Rwenzori Mountains National Park, one of the top places to visit in Uganda,to spot forest elephants, L’Hoest’s monkeys, Hyrax, etc., and almost 90 species of birds. Those who love to explore unique things can head over to the mines of Kasese Cobalt Company to see the process of cobalt extraction. Kasese has a tropical climate and experiences heavy rainfall even in the driest months. July and August receive the lowest rainfall and are the best months to visit.

Best of Cape Town

Located in northern Uganda on the Gulu-Mbale Highway, Lira has always been an important place during and after the Uganda-Tanzania War. It is one of the busiest economic and commercial centers in the country and also has an airport. Beauty Lira is bestowed with scenic natural beauty comprising thick woods and fertile valleys, plateaus, and plantations. The landscape here is dotted with several flat-topped hills and vast rugged meadow. Got Ngetta is a fascinating attraction here. It is a solid rock standing at a height of 4,500 ft. that is said to have appeared out of nowhere. Its silhouettes look like faces of beasts and have several caves around them. Enjoy vast expanses of lush wilderness at the Lira Golf course. The place allows tourists to enjoy a round of golf! If you are a nature lover, Lira has some amazing places and activities for you to enjoy. Some of these include the stunning Karuma waterfall and its surrounding forests that house baboons and a variety of birds and the nearby Budongo forest that has an abundance of African mahogany trees and chimpanzees. Those who want to enjoy a rustic experience must take a village safari to the nearby Masindi Village to enjoy African food and meet the locals. It is hot all year round at Lira with the weather varying between humid and hot. June-September is the best time to visit due to low rainfall.

Best of Africa

Entebbe is located on the Lake Victoria peninsula in Central Uganda. The name of the city translates to ‘the chair’, which is quite apt since this is where the President of Uganda lives and the State House is located. The city is a quiet and slow-paced place that’s loved for its natural charms. Its landscape comprises lakes, vast expanses of forests, and national parks. Entebbe has some of the most fascinating attractions in Uganda. These include East Africa’s oldest golf course and pristine beaches, thanks to Lake Victoria. Some of the best beaches to visit include Aero, One Love, Lido etc. One of the best ways to learn about Ugandan culture is to visit the markets here like the ones in Kitoro and Manyago. You can also try tropical fruits and just sit and observe the local way of life. The city is one of the best birding destinations in Uganda and a haven for nature enthusiasts. The best place to explore the enticing nature and spot species like Vervet monkeys, Hammerkop, Swamp flycatcher, Colobus, etc. is the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Another great place for naturalists is the Uganda Wildlife Education Center where you can see leopards, baboons, pythons, DeBrazza monkeys, etc. The climate here is mostly muggy and overcast the whole year-round. The best time to visit is between January-September when the rainfall is less.

Best of Johannesburg

Located in Eastern Uganda, Mbale lies at the foot of Mount Elgon, which is one of the extinct volcanoes here. Mbale is located amidst vast coffee plantations and is a major agricultural trade center. The beauty of Mbale needs to be seen to be believed. Its picturesque landscape comprises mountains, deep caves, valleys, waterfalls, cliffs, and vast expanses of sheer wilderness. If you are looking for amazing natural wonders, Mbale is the place to be in. Here you can see the world’s largest calderas at Mount Elgon National Park. Another great place is the Sipi Falls that offer amazing adventures like hikes, abseiling, and views of the scenic Lake Kyoga, Karamoja plains, and Mt. Elgon. Another must-see attraction is the Tororo Rock, the slopes of which house ancient rock paintings and caves. Mbale offers a glimpse into one of the traditional imbalu ceremonies followed by the Bagisu tribes. You can participate in the tribal dances and share the tribes’ food here. Mbale houses most of the 1000 bird species that live in Uganda. Head to the Kapkwai forest exploration center to see cinnamon-chested bee-eater, Doherty’s bush shrike, etc. Another great adventure here is to see the buzz and entertainment that comes with the extreme sport of bullfighting held at Wanale. You can hear locals singing war songs and betting. Mbale has the typical tropical Savanna climate that’s muggy and hot throughout the year. The drier months of June-September are the best to visit.

Best of Kenya

Njeru is the largest city of the Buikwe city, located in Central Uganda close to the River Nile. It is visited by travellers for its great homestays that offer traditional African experiences. Due to its proximity to River Nile, Njeru is quite lush and has miles of green grounds with hills in the background. Some pockets of the city have houses made in traditional African and Indian architecture, making it a beautiful place to visit. People who want to revel in the natural beauty of Njeru must visit the Bujagali Hydro Plant that harnesses energy from the nearby Bujagali Falls and lies on the Victoria Nile. Another great attraction is the Source of the Nile Bridge, also known as the New Jinja Bridge that connects Eastern and Central Africa to the Indian Ocean in Kenya. Njeru is loved by adventure enthusiasts for the amazing activities that it offers. You can enjoy horseback safaris, quad biking, and white water rafting at the Nile. The place has warm and humid weather almost all year round. The best time to visit is between June to September to see all the beautiful attractions.

Best of Nairobi

Located in Northern Uganda between the citys of Lamwo, Pader, Omoro, etc. Gulu is the erstwhile homeland of the Acholi ethnic group. Though it was synonymous with unrest till a few years ago, it is now quite a popular place to visit. Gulu is primarily an agricultural area and has acres of lush farms. The place also has some old settlements where you can see traditional African huts amidst beautiful rugged trails. Gulu offers a glimpse into the evolution of Uganda over the centuries. One of the best places to do so here is the Taks Centre. This is a great place to see art exhibitions, cultural performances, and enjoy fireside chats with local artists. Gulu houses an incredible landmark in the form of the 1941 St. Joseph’s Cathedral, one of the best Uganda tourist places known for its magnificent architecture. Round of the day with a visit to the Craft Market to pick up traditional Ugandan paintings and crafts. No trip to Gulu is complete without sampling the traditional African food and world cuisine at cafes like Elephante, Iron Donkey Restaurant, etc. Nature enthusiasts must visit the nearby Albert Nile area to see the elusive leopards, Ugandan Kobs, Warthogs, etc. What tops the charts is a visit to the Baker’s Fort, one of the best places to visit in Uganda to learn about the infamous slave trade practices. Gulu has overcast and humid weather throughout the year. The best months to visit are June-September to enjoy outdoor activities.

Best of Zambia

Masaka, lying in the Buganda region, is an equatorial city. The city has a history of being a base for the Uganda Army during the Tanzania-Uganda war in the 70s. This lakeside city has acres of lush plains and thick forests, especially around Lake Nabugabo. These forests have beautiful wildflower patches and several rugged trails that lead one deep into the raw wilderness. One of the best places to visit here is the nearby Lake Nabugabo, one of the best Uganda tourist places,that was formed from sand and was isolated from Lake Victoria almost 5000 years ago. This is one of the few places to see carnivore plants and rare native Haplochromine cichlids, fish, hippos, sitatunga, grey-crowned cranes, etc. If you are travelling to Masaka in June, you can’t miss attending the annual Uganda Marathon held in June here each to see some of the local celebrities and enjoy the infectious buzz of the place. Those who love to shop can visit Masaka Central Market, one of the best places to visit in Uganda famous for its indigenous textiles, paintings, jewellery, etc. Masaka has a tropical climate where the summer months get more rain than the winter months. June to September is the best time to visit to enjoy outdoor activities.

Best of Botswana

Hoima is located in Western Uganda on the Kampala-Hoima Road and was once the capital of the 18th-century Bunyoro-Kitara Empire. The place is important for being a source of oil and gas, the major drivers of the Ugandan economy. It is also an important cultural and heritage center. Hoima’s proximity to Kabwoya Game Reserve and Lake Albert make its landscape lush and scenic due to the thick tropical rainforest, savannah plains, streams, and the stunning Blue Mountains. Hoima is an absolute haven for nature enthusiasts. You should not miss visiting the Kabwoya Game Reserve, one of the best Uganda tourist places,to spot primates like Baboons and other species like Cape Buffalos, hippos, Ugandan Kobs, Waterbucks, Bush Duikers, etc. Another great place to explore the natural beauty of the city is the nearby Lake Albert where you can enjoy boating. Two of the most incredible sites here are the historic Mparo Tombs that are a royal burying site and the Katasiha Fort and Caves that have centuries-old carvings and trenches. Hoima is one of the few places that give you inroads into the ethnic Ugandan tribes at places like the Bunyoro Palace. You can enjoy a cultural safari here to know about the beliefs, customs, and heritage of this powerful empire. Another great experience that shouldn’t be missed is visiting the Kabwoya Game Reserve where you can enjoy fossil hunting, birding, horseback rides, etc. Hoima experiences short summers that are overcast and humid. The winter months are muggy and cloudy. The best months to visit are June-October and December since these are low rainfall months.

Best of Zimbabwe

Kampala, located on the East African plateau near Lake Victoria, has been the capital city of Uganda since 1962 and its cultural and educational epicentre. Centuries ago, it was the hunting ground for the Budanga kings and was referred to as the ‘Hill of the Impala’. Kampala is known as one of the most scenic Uganda tourist places due to its stunning and diverse landscape. The city is nestled between seven hills and its landscape is punctuated by beautiful valleys, slow-moving rivers, and forested plains covered in Elephant grass and evergreen forests of African olive and Natal fig. Kampala’s beautiful diversity of ethnic tribes and faiths is apparent in the iconic places of worship that it houses. You can not only see one of the seven Baha'i Temples here but also the Gaddafi Mosque, the second largest mosque in Africa. The city is also one of the best Uganda tourist spots to see the remains of its ancient tribes like the UNESCO protected Kasubi Tombs, which are a burial site of Buganda Kings. Another very interesting place is the Uganda Museum known for its collection of musical instruments, fossils, and the in-house cultural village. People who love shopping and exploring new cultures must visit the Owino market, which is the country’s largest open market. Here you can meet the locals, shop for clothes and local jewellery.  History enthusiasts cannot miss visiting the Ndere Center to see ethnic tribal dance performances and the infamous torture chambers at the Kabaka’s Palace. After a day of sightseeing, spend some time in solitude listening to the calming hymns at Gurdwara Ramgarhia Sabha. Kampala has two annual wet seasons with warm and muggy weather. December to February is the best time to visit the city since this period is less rainy.

Best of Namibia

Kira is located between Gayaza, Mukono, Kampala, and Lake Victoria and is Uganda’s largest urban center where most of the working-class people live. It is the country’s second most populated city and one of the best places to visit in Uganda. Kira is a quiet and laid back city dotted with marketplaces, residential colonies, and gardens of medicinal plants and trees. One of the best places to visit here is the Uganda Martyrs Shrine, one of the best Uganda tourist places,that’s dedicated to 15 martyrs who were burnt alive in 1886 for their refusal to stop following Christianity. Sports enthusiasts must visit the Mandela National Stadium that’s Uganda’s largest stadium. With some luck, you can even run into the famous local football teams. Those who love trying out indigenous cuisines must visit places like the Marian Gardens, The Address, and Grand Food Tavern, etc. These are some of the best places to try the unique Ugandan dishes like Luwombo, Katogo, Matoke, Kikalayai, Posho, etc. Kira mostly sees warm and humid weather with overcast skies most of the days. December to February are the best months to visit here.

This city is located in central Uganda near the Kampala-Jinja highway and is bordered by Kira and Kalangala. Mukono is visited by travellers to get a quintessential urban African experience of shopping and traditional food. This is primarily an urban city with pockets of rural settlements. These rural areas are the lushest areas that have dirt trails and traditional African thatched-roof huts. This is where you can meet beautiful people and see their famous colourful ethnic attire. Mukono is a haven for people who are out to explore the beautiful charms of Uganda. You can explore the Central Market and its local shops that sell traditional African textiles and jewellery. This is also a great place to try the delicious Ugandan street food and drinks. Nature-lovers should visit the Ssezibwa Falls, one of the most scenic Uganda tourist spots. This waterfall is famous for its roaring waters and the surrounding forests that house the rare Vervets, African Cobra, Green Mambas, Red-Tailed monkeys, etc. Don’t miss to explore the surroundings of the Ssezibwa Falls, one of the top Uganda tourist places,where you can find centuries-old artefacts of the Buganda people including ancient caves and 100-year-old trees. Take a break from the touristy places and head over to the beautiful campus of Uganda Christian University for a leisurely stroll. Don’t miss the ancient Catholic Church on the university grounds. The weather here is overcast and humid almost throughout the year. The best time to visit Mukono is from June to September to enjoy all the outdoor activities.

Other Attractions

Murchison falls.

Lake Victoria

Jinja, Start Of The Nile River

Ssese Islands

Nyero Rock Paintings

Kasubi Tombs

Ndere Centre

Owino Market

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Lake Katwe Explosion Crater Drive

Kazinga Channel

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Lake Mutanda

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The Equator

Entebbe Botanical Gardens

The Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Rubaga Cathedral

Mount Elgon National Park

Semuliki National Park

Ssezibwa Falls

Lake Bunyonyi

Lubiri Palace

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The 15 top tourist attractions in Uganda you need to visit

Aside from all the negative press, Uganda used to get in the past decade, this beautiful but rather small landlocked country in the Eastern part of Africa has emerged as one of the best African safari destinations .

From tracking gorillas in Bwindi impenetrable National park to seeing tree-climbing lions on a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National park, there are so many tourist attractions in Uganda that shouldn’t be missed.

Also, known as the Pearl of Africa, Uganda has amazing wildlife, incredible landscapes, amazing scenery, diverse cultures, a great climate all year round, and above all the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

Whether you’re traveling to the country for a short business trip or a long and adventurous trip, here are the best places to visit in Uganda for an ultimate African safari.

The top tourist attractions in Uganda

1. bwindi impenetrable national park.

Home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas (approximately 400 within the park), Bwindi Impenetrable National park located on the edge of the rift valley in the Southwestern region of the country is one of the best national parks in Uganda.

For travelers that have always wanted to track gorillas, Bwindi offers an impeccable experience of getting up close and personal with the endangered mountain gorillas.

Other than tracking gorillas which is the highlight of visiting Bwindi impenetrable national park (and Uganda as a whole) and enjoying the impressive biodiversity, the park offers breathtaking flora and fauna – harboring over 120 species of mammals, 348 bird species, 220 species of butterflies and over 1000 flowering species. All this and the ecological importance that Bwindi national park posses led it to be enlisted as a Unesco site.

Pro tip* You will be required to purchase a gorilla tracking permit from Uganda wildlife Authority (UWA) prior to your safari since only 8 people are allowed to track a specific mountain gorilla group. Also, the gorilla tracking safari can take anywhere between one to eight hours depending on where the gorillas slept the previous night.

But if you don’t want the hustles of planning your trip, here are some of the gorilla tracking tours you can join to experience one of the most incredible adventures in Africa .

2. Queen Elizabeth National park

Spanning districts of Kasese, Rukungiri, Kamwenge, and Rubiririzi in the western region of Uganda and approximately 400km south-west of Kampala, Queen Elizabeth National park is one of the best national parks in Africa and one of the most visited in the country.

A safari in Queen Elizabeth national park never disappoints as it lives up to its reputation of offering an amazing flora and fauna – with an impressive lush of vegetation, a number of crater lakes and the famous tree-climbing lions.

The park has a diverse ecosystem which includes the beautiful crater lakes beneath the park’s hills creating breathtaking views, savanna grasslands, ishaha plains whose trees are the resting places of the lions, views of the Kazinga channel which is filled with hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and buffalos on its banks.

In addition to boasting about the 95 mammal species that call Queen Elizabeth home, it also has over 612 species of birds to cater to bird lovers making Queen Elizabeth national park one of the major tourist places in Uganda.

3 . Murchison Falls National park

Harboring the glorious Murchison Falls, Murchison Falls National park is the largest national park in Uganda spanning an area of 3,840 square kilometers. It is located 283 km north-west of Kampala which is Uganda’s capital.

Murchison Falls is a breathtaking sight as the Nile river water gushes through a 7-meter rocky gorge creating a beautiful musical but thunderous sound – a feature that makes it the most powerful waterfall in the world.

The park together with its neighboring surroundings forms the Murchison Falls Conservation Area (MFCA) which is endowed with a lot of animals including but not limited to lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, Uganda cob, and bush backs. And along the shores of the Nile, hippopotamus, and crocodiles can be spotted.

On top of that, the park also houses over 400 bird species making it one of the beautiful places in Uganda, not only to get a glimpse of the African animals and birds but also the most impressive waterfall in the country.

And Since Murchison falls national park covers a huge part of Budongo Forest, a haven for Chimpanzees, Chimpanzee tracking which is the second exciting tracking adventure after gorilla tracking is possible.

Pro tip* The beauty of the mighty Murchison falls can be enjoyed from anywhere around the falls but to appreciate it even more and get into close proximity with the splashing water of the falls, hop onto a boat cruise along the Nile and your mind will be blown away.

4. The source of River Nile

River Nile is the longest river in the world and seeing it’s origin is a must when you travel to Uganda. A visit to the pearl of Africa is not complete if you don’t see the source of the Nile as it is one of the major Uganda tourist attractions.

Located in the Eastern part of Uganda in Jinja town approximately 80 km from Kampala, the source of the Nile is one of the most visited places in Uganda receiving a number of tourists from far and near to experience this incredible landmark.

One of the incredible features to look out for are the bubbles at the exact spot (source) which indicates that water comes from the underground which later spreads to other parts. And according to John Speke, the first European Explorer, It is believed that actually 30% of the Nile water comes from the underground at the “source”.

And after seeing the Nile and it’s source, explore Jinja town which is like Uganda’s “summer” destination packed with adventurous activities like White water rafting on the Nile, Kayaking, Quad biking, and many other fun adrenaline activities.

5. Kampala city

Located in the heart of Uganda, Kampala comes up as the most diverse city in the country accommodating millions of people from different tribal ethnics. Being the capital, it’s the most developed city in the country and over the years, many western cultures have been adapted making it a fun city to explore and one of the interesting places to visit in Uganda.

The city offers so many places to see that shouldn’t be missed out if you want to learn about Kampala and the locals in-depth. Some of the places to visit in Kampala include but not limited to;

• Kampala downtown: Get the feel of the real-life of the locals, the markets, the taxis parks, the chaos, the liveliness and how local businesses are carried out.
• Places of worship: Gadaffi Mosque also known as the Old Kampala mosque which is the biggest mosque in the country and also the National Mosque, Namirembe cathedral which is the provincial Cathedral for the Church of Uganda ( known as protestants), and Lubaga cathedral which is the provincial cathedral for the Roman Catholics in the country.
• Temples; The Bahai Temple and Shree Swaminarayan Temple.
• The Uganda independence monument;
• Historical places in Uganda like the Buganda kingdom palace, The Kasubi Tombs and so many others

These are just some of the many tourist attractions in Uganda that you can’t afford to miss while exploring this bustling city of Kampala.

6. Lake Victoria

Known as the birthplace of the longest river in the world, the Nile, Lake Victoria is not only one of the country’s landmarks but also one of the top Uganda tourist places.

With a surface area of approximately 59,947 square kilometers, Lake Victoria is not only Africa’s largest lake by area but also the largest tropical lake in the world. It is also the world’s second-largest freshwater lake by surface area just after North America’s Lake Superior.

Lake victoria boats itself with incredible natural beauty from amazing islands, breathtaking sunsets & sunrises, incredible views to the fresh cool breezes. It is also blessed with over 200 fish species and around 350 bird species across the lake region.

Since the lake is spread across the country, there are a number of places to enjoy Victoria but one of the coolest areas is in Entebbe town. A visit to the Entebbe botanical gardens guarantees the utmost relaxation from the cool breeze and a chance to spot some of the Lake’s birds. Other Ugandan locations where you can have a glance at Lake Victoria include Jinja, a town in the Eastern part of Uganda, Ssese islands, a group of beautiful islands on the lake and so many other places.

7. The Equator

Uganda is blessed to be one of the few countries where the equator passes. Located just 72 km from Kampala, visiting the equator can be treated as a stopover activity as it is on the way to some of the tourist sites in Uganda like Queen Elizabeth  National park or Bwindi impenetrable National park along Kampala – Masaka Highway in Kayabwe, Mpigi district.

So you basically get to ticket off a number of places in Uganda on the same trip and at the same time take the iconic photo of you standing right in the middle of the Equator landmark – talk about being in both the southern and northern hemispheres at the same time with just the imaginary line of the Equator cutting across.

While at the Equator, try out the exciting water experiment to see how water swirls in opposite directions when poured at different spots of the northern and southern hemispheres.

8. Kidepo Valley National park

Located in the Karamoja region in NorthEast Uganda, Kidepo Valley national park is one of the most remote and isolated National parks in Uganda and it’s only those that embark on the 700 km journey from Kampala can truly testify that it is one of (if not) the best Uganda wildlife safari.

Spanning an area of 1,442 square kilometers, Kidepo is a rugged savannah in the semi-arid valleys between Uganda’s borders with Sudan and Kenya cut across by the Kidepo and Narus Rivers.

Since the park is very isolated, it still has that wilderness virgin charm that can’t be found anywhere in Uganda. With a combination of the savannah landscape, mountainous features, and flowing water bodies, Kidepo national park is undeniably the best safari in Uganda.

With over 77 mammal species and approximately 475 bird species, Kidepo valley national park not only offers amazing game drives and bird watching extravaganza but also nature and bush walks to get up close with Uganda’s wildlife.

If game driving in the rugged savannah vegetation of Kidepo doesn’t inspire you to embark on this off the beaten path, then the cultural visits to the Karamoja villages should, in order to learn more about the culture, history and the way of life of the Karamajongs plus the IK people whose tribe is one of the oldest in the country.

9. Mt. Elgon National park

Home to the oldest extinct volcano in East Africa, Mt. Elgon National park is popular for the 4,321 m high mountain where it derived its name. It is located in Mbale split between Uganda and Kenya with the Ugandan side covering a surface area of 1,110 square kilometers while the Kenyan part is only 169 square kilometers.

The prime reason for visiting Mt. Elgon national park in Uganda is to climb Mt. Elgon and possibly reach its highest peak of Wagagai which stands at an elevation of 4,321 above sea level.

Mt. Elgon is a great option for hikers since even beginners can step up to the challenge due to the lower elevation and mild climate compared to its counterparts of Mt. Rwenzori or even Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

Aside from taking in the incredible views and reaching the highest peak of Wagagai (this is like a moment of victory), Mt. Elgon national park has an impressive landscape that keeps changing for each altitude reached. From the mixed-bamboo forest, lush Montana, the worldly uncommon plant species like the large Lobelia, to the beautiful wildflowers. The mesmerizing caldera, caves, and water bodies (with one shaped in the map of Africa) are some of the other beautiful features to see while trekking your way up the mountain.

While wild animals are rare to spot in Mt. Elgon National park, a few that call this park home (though at the lower slopes) include Elephants, Buffalos, antelopes, many types of monkeys including the red-tailed ones, black and white colobus plus the blue monkeys. The park is also endowed with a number of different tree species which amount to at least 144 and half of Uganda’s butterfly species are recorded to be in Mt. Elgon National park. All this certainly proves that Mt, Elgon national park is one of the best tourist attractions in Uganda.

10. Sipi Falls

Just located next to Mountain Elgon national park, Sipi falls whose named was derived from the wild banana plant that grows nearby is one of the best places to visit in Uganda for spectacular views and a good splash of water.

It is a collection of 3 falls dotted in the Kapchworwa region on the border of Mt. Elgon national park with each flowing at a different altitude.

Hiking up the falls gives spectacular views of the Karamoja low lands, Lake Kyoga and the coffee plantations in the area.

Pro tip*  Since the Falls are located just at the foothills of Mt. Elgon National park, a visit to the Sipi falls can be easily combined with that of Mt. Elgon. This can either be done before or after but since the falls give a more relaxed and calm vibe, it is better to visit them after a great 4 days climb of the mountain.

11. Ziwa rhino sanctuary

Located 176 km (100 miles) north of Kampala on the Gulu highway in Nakasongola district, Ziwa rhino sanctuary is home to the only wild rhinos in Uganda.

With 22 southern white rhinos, Ziwa rhino sanctuary has become one of the popular Uganda destinations to see rhinos in the country. What makes a visit to the Ziwa rhino sanctuary even more exciting is that you get to do an on-foot rhino trekking tour as the tour guides lead you to the African bushes to have a close encounter with the endangered white rhinos.

Ziwa rhino sanctuary is not just about tracking rhinos (do not let the name mislead you), it also has some other smaller animals like Uganda kobs, Bush backs, waterbucks and others. It’s prime location and the landscape is also great for bird watching and taking nature walks.

Pro tip* Since the Ziwa rhino sanctuary is just off the road that leads to Murchison falls, you can combine both of these safaris in just one trip to save time and money.

12. Lake Bunyonyi

Regarded as one of the honeymoon holiday destinations in Uganda, the beauty that Lake Bunyoni offers cannot be compared to anywhere else in the country. Lake Bunyonyi translated as a “lake of many little birds” is located in south-western Uganda between Kisoro and Kibale and it is believed to be the second deepest lake in Africa.

With a collection of 29 islands surrounded by steep terraced hillsides, well – maintained resorts, calm and quiet environment with the only noise coming from the singing birds, no wonder Lake Bunyonyi is where most travelers in Uganda head to get some peace and quiet after jam-packed safaris in the country as it is one of the most beautiful places in Uganda.

In addition to providing spectacular views, a number of activities can be done at Lake Bunyonyi; from boat canoeing, zip-lining across the lake, resort hopping to swimming in the crystal clear waters – it is perfectly safe to swim in since it has no hippos, crocs or even bilharzia.

So if you were looking for things to do in Uganda to get away from it all, then visiting Lake Bunyonyi will serve you just that and more.

13. Mt. Rwenzori National park

Located in western Uganda at the Uganda- Congo border, Mt Rwenzori National park harbors the snow-capped mountain of Rwenzori which is also referred to as the “Mountains of the moon”

Mt. Rwenzori may not be a volcanic mountain like other major mountains in East Africa, but it is definitely one of the Uganda places to visit for an incredible hike.

Standing at a height of 5,109m above sea level, Margherita is the highest peak on the mountain that makes tourists travel from far and near to conquer this Ugandan giant.

Apart from the incredible and challenging hiking trails, Mt Rwenzori national park which is also enlisted as a UNESCO world heritage site offers breathtaking views of the different landscape that changes with the altitude. From the land terrain, plant life of sub-montane vegetation, luxurious tropical evergreen forest to the incredible snowcapped peaks.

Bird watching, lounging on the foothills of Rwenzori, hiking and cultural exchanges are some of the incredible things to do in Mt. Rwenzori national park.

14. Ssese islands

If you’re looking for what to do in Uganda, then a visit to the Ssese islands will be fulfilling and relaxing. Located in the northwestern part of Lake Victoria in Uganda, Ssese islands are an archipelago of 84 beautiful islands that all differ in size and landscape but each remaining incredibly beautiful in each own way.

The Ssese islands are some of the major tourist attractions in Uganda that you can visit to unwind, relax, enjoy the white sand beaches, and participate in a number of water activities. When you want to get away from it all, the crazy noise of the city, the wildlife, Ssese islands will give you that escape route.

15. The wildlife Education center- Entebbe zoo

Having been listed as the best zoo in East and Central Africa,  Uganda Wildlife Education Center is one of the best places to visit in Uganda. It harbors most of the wild animals especially those that may have been rescued from animal traffickers and poachers.

The wildlife Education center is located just outside of Entebbe town perfect for a visit if you want to see the African animals but you don’t have enough time to visit some of the national parks in Uganda for an ultimate safari.

A visit to the Entebbe zoo will guarantee you a close-up encounter with the chimpanzees or even a guided tour to see the lions, white rhinos, leopards, zebras, and many other animals.

There you have it folks – that was the list of the major tourist attractions in Uganda. It is by no means exhaustive but if you were looking for things to do in Uganda, I hope this post gave you a number of options to consider.

Have you been to any of these Uganda attractions? What was your experience? Share with us in the comment section plus other places in Uganda that could be high on your bucket list but haven’t yet visited.

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26 Comments

I HAVE A SCHOOL PROJECT ABOUT OTHER COUNTRIES CULTURE AND THANK YOU SSOOOOOOO MUCH

Oh I am glad you got to learn about Uganda and its culture from my post. I hope your school project goes well.

I never knew Uganda offered so much! Now I want to go! Thank you for sharing!

Uganda has so much to offer, more than i could even fit in one post. I really hope you visit one time, you will be amazed

I had no idea that Uganda has so many beautiful attractions. Glad to know that it is blessed with so many splendid National Parks. Adding it to my wishlist!

Yes it has a lot – i might have left out some few but its definitely a must see if you are into wildlife and nature

Wow I have never bee to Uganda. Your blog post made me want to pack my bags and leave NOW! totally enjoyed the pictures too. Keep sharing 🙂

Thank you so much Anna. I am so happy, i’ve given you some inspiration to travel to Uganda. I hope you can travel there some time, you will love it. And i will definitely keep sharing- I hope i can inspire you more and more

I just wonder what I would like more. Seeing the life of locals or wildlife. I think Uganda is one of the best places for wildlife photography. But I am always more interested in people in every place I go.

I just wonder what I would like more. Seeing life of locals or wildlife. I think Uganda is one of the best places for wildlife photography. But

Trust me, you would like both and you would fail to choose the best. But if you are a wild life photographer, you would be so excited to see the wild life, its amazing.

What a great list of things to do in Uganda. Personally, my favourites would be the wildlife (which is most of them to be honest) but who could resist a picture opportunity at the Equator?

The wildlife in Uganda is amazing and enormous. It is not surprising that it is the most tourist attraction in Uganda. And of course who wouldn’t want a picture at the Equator.

Uganda has come a long way!

There sure are so many activities to do, places to visit and experiences to be had right?

Thank you for sharing this with us ?

Thank you for appreciating. Yes right, there are so many things to see and do in uganda

Wow, so much nature and wildlife in Uganda! I’m quite curious about the tracking gorillas… Sounds like it could be an incredible experience. Thanks for sharing this about your country!

Gorilla trekking is an amazing experience – one of the highlights of traveling to Uganda for many tourists.

Uganda is so full of life. The sheer number of national parks bears testimony to that. But I am happy to see that Kampala can be an ideal spot to take things slow and experience some great Ugandan history and culture. Do you have a blog on some of the must-try food in Uganda? Would love to read that too.

Kampala is full of diversity, tops the list in the country. I don’t have any post about food in kampala currently , but you have just given me a great idea. I am definitely going to write one as soon as possible. Thank you.

Very interesting. I never knew all these things about Uganda – that it’s the source of the Nile and about the impenetrable forest. Sometimes I wish humans would leave those poor gorillas alone instead of making them a tourist attraction. Then again, that goes for all wildlife.

Uganda is rich in beauty and magnificent wildlife. I did not know that the Nile started in Uganda. Kampala sounds quite cosmopolitan.

Yes Uganda has the source of the Nile. Kampala is a very interesting city, like a mixture of western and traditional

Uganda sounds like the perfect balance between enjoy nature, wildlife and some local culture in the cities too. It’s a wonder it hasn’t been on my list yet!

It is victor, with so many places to go on safari and at the same time many places to relax and connect with the locals. Indeed it is a perfect balance, there is always something for everyone .You should add it on the list already.

Great start Esy .Made some of our lives easier and challenge to explore the beauty of the magnificent world….

Thanks Ritah. Yes the world is so beautiful not to explore it!!

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The 18 Best Things to Do in Uganda, “The Pearl of Africa”

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In his book,  My African Journey , Winston Churchill wrote, “For magnificence, for variety of form and color, for profusion of brilliant life— bird, insect, reptile, beast— for vast scale, Uganda is truly ‘the Pearl of Africa.’”

Native Ugandans and ecotourism adventurers in the know tend to concur with Churchill’s assessment. There is an abundance of natural beauty in the Pearl of Africa.

Uganda boasts exceptional and endemic wildlife, myriad national parks showcasing the best experiences responsible tourism has to offer, and opportunities for immersive cultural experiences.  

Read on for our top picks among the countless things to do in Uganda, from Gorilla trekking and spotting Chimpanzees to our favorite tours, waterfalls and National Parks in Uganda .  

READ MORE: The 20 Safest Countries in Africa to Visit

Things to Do in Uganda, “The Pearl of Africa” Guide

• Track Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
• Observe Chimpanzees in Kibale Forest
• Take a Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• See the Splendor of Murchison Falls
• Traverse Lake Albert by Boat
• See Uganda Animals at the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre
• Explore Uganda History at the Uganda Museum
• Delve into History & Culture at the Kasubi Tombs
• Visit Indigenous Ugandan Drum Makers
• Explore the Tea Plantations at Fort Portal
• Get Caffeinated with Ugandan Coffee
• Birdwatching in Kidepo National Park
• Hike Some of Africa’s Tallest Mountains
• See Lake Bunyonyi
• Stroll Through Entebbe Botanical Gardens
• Rest & Relax in the Ssese Islands
• Wonder at Hot Springs
• Visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

READ MORE:  20 Endangered African Animals You Can See On A Safari

1. Track Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Established in 1991 to help save the critically endangered Mountain Gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top tourist attractions in Uganda.

Bwindi is home to a large population of gorillas (estimated at 320), as well as nine other species of primates, endemic bird species , and over 200 butterfly species.

Visitors have an opportunity to hike with experienced local guides and trackers to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Some experienced travelers suggest that spending time with these majestic creatures is the single most rewarding natural history experience in the world.

READ MORE: 50 Interesting Facts About Gorillas

2. Observe Chimpanzees in Kibale Forest

Did you know that humans and Chimpanzees share 98.8% of the same DNA ?

Located at the foothills of the Mountains of the Moon (a.k.a. Ruwenzori Mountains), Kibale Forest National Park has the highest concentration and diversity of primates in all of East Africa.

Hike with experienced local guides to track these threatened Chimpanzees, which number around 1450, and observe them for a while. You’ll also see plenty of birds (325 species) and other flora and fauna.

You may even spot the rare L’Hoest Monkey or the endangered Red Colobus Monkey, among the other primates that make this forest their home.

READ MORE: The 25 Best National Parks in Africa for Wildlife Safaris

3. Take a Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Measuring 764 square miles, Queen Elizabeth is Uganda’s most visited National Park.

And for good reason: Whether you love birding or mammals, you’ll find plenty to observe during a game drive at the equator-spanning park.

It’s known for prolific wildlife, including Leopards in the Mweya Peninsula, Chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge, and Tree-climbing Lions in the Ishasha area.

There are over 95 mammal species in all, over 600 bird species, Nile Crocodiles (which can be seen during a   cruise through the Kazinga Channel), and a variety of different ecosystems.  

READ MORE: 70 Cool & Weird Animals Around the World (An Epic Guide)

4. See the Splendor of Murchison Falls  

Located in the country’s northwestern region and measuring around 1,5000 square miles, Murchison Falls is the largest national park in Uganda. 

The park offers an impressive array of animals , including Lions, Elephants , Chimpanzees, and one of the largest populations of Hippos and Crocodiles in all of Africa .

And of course, there’s also the waterfall  for which the park is named.

Murchison Falls is one of the best places to visit in Uganda to see where the Nile River forces its way through a small gorge and then drops down over 140 feet, creating an extraordinarily picturesque view.

READ MORE: Animals in Kenya: A Guide to 40 Species of Kenyan Wildlife

5. Traverse Lake Albert by Boat

While you’re visiting Murchison Falls National Park, take some time to enjoy a boat ride on Lake Albert.

Its vast delta offers a chance to observe more wildlife.

Look for Hippos, Crocodiles, large game and small, and all kinds of birds (including the rare Shoebill Stork).

This is an interesting way to view the wildlife you’ve seen in Murchison Falls National Park from a very different angle, as well as spotting other animals that are best seen from the water.

READ MORE: The 10 Best Places for African Safari Tours

6. See Uganda Animals at the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre

Before or after seeing all this wildlife in Uganda’s national parks , you’ll probably be interested in learning more about them.

The UWEC focuses primarily on education and conservation, and is located in Entebbe, right on the shores of Lake Victoria.

Here you can learn about and see some of the country’s indigenous wildlife and ecosystems for yourself. It’s not a zoo , but rather a chance to view animals on open ranges.

In the process of learning about them, you’ll also be supporting animal conservation and species recovery initiatives.

READ MORE: How Botswana Wildlife Conservation Helps Fight Poaching

7. Explore Uganda History at the Uganda Museum

The largest and oldest museum in East Africa, the Uganda Museum has exhibits on the ethnography, archaeology, natural history, animals, geography, music, and paleontology of the nation.

Founded in 1908 and an excellent thing to do in Kampala, the bustling capitol of Uganda, the museum has a cultural village showcasing the traditional lifestyle of the indigenous natives and the many types of traditional houses.

It also has a range of musical instruments that guests are encouraged to play!  

READ MORE: 3 Countries in Southern Africa Worth Visiting (Besides South Africa)

8. Delve into History & Culture at the Kasubi Tombs

A UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Tombs of Buganda Kings at Kasubi is also a place to visit in Kampala. Here you’ll find four royal tombs within a large, circular building.

The traditional architecture of the Ganda people is exemplified at this site, as are the building materials, including wood, beautifully-shaped thatch, reed, wattle, and daub.

The Tombs were rebuilt after a fire in 2010. This is, according to UNESCO , “the most active religious place in the kingdom, where rituals are frequently performed.

The structures and the traditional practices that are associated with the site are one of the exceptional representations of the African culture that depict a continuity of a living tradition .”  

READ MORE: Top 10 Tanzania National Parks & Reserves

9. Visit Indigenous Ugandan Drum Makers  

Wooden drums in a variety shapes and sizes, usually with heads made from the skins of goats or cows, are essential to the music and culture of Uganda.

History shows that these carved wooden drums have been used in ceremonies and rituals for centuries.

Around Entebbe, you’ll find a great concentration of drum makers, including the Royal Drum Makers of Mpambire.

This is a unique cultural experience, and you can also purchase a unique souvenir to bring home!  

READ MORE: 15 Harmful Traditions & Cultural Practices Tourists Should Never Support

10. Explore the Tea Plantations at Fort Portal

Did you know that tea is grown in Uganda? These are high altitude teas, and Fort Portal is particularly known for its high quality tea.

You’ll see rolling fields blanketed in tea bushes along the lower slopes of the Ruwenzori Mountains. This area has a cool climate, which helps produce the best tea.

Local tea plantations to visit include the Kahangi Estate (which also grows coffee).

Besides providing an interesting learning experience, you’ll enjoy delicious tea samples at many of the shops in the area.

READ MORE: The 30+ Best Food Gifts From Around The World

11. Get Caffeinated with Ugandan Coffee

Coffee plantations abound in Uganda, and many take a farm-to-cup approach by offering tours to caffeine-craving travelers.

These coffee plantations, which are located on quite varied terroir, provide sustainable income to their workers and an excellent (and delicious) export.

Ugandan coffee farms, whether small or large, collectively employ millions of workers, as coffee is the country’s largest export crop. Coffee farmers in Uganda grow robusta and arabica coffee varietals in 3 different regions of the country.

Visiting the plantations will help you explore the entire coffee process, from seedling to harvest and from roasting to brewing.

READ MORE: Best Coffee In the World (A Gourmet’s Guide to 30 Types of Coffee)

12. Birdwatching in Kidepo National Park

Head northeast to Kidepo National Park to see an enormous variety of bird species (almost 500!). The park has both plains and mountains and features two seasonal rivers .

The IBA (Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas) here is situated within the Somali-Masai biome and is home to some of the rarest birds in Uganda.

Birdwatchers can hope to see the Abyssinian roller, Abyssinian ground hornbill, Black-breasted Barbet (Lybius rolleti), Clapperton’s Francolin, White-bellied go-away bird, and other endemic and rare Ugandan birds.

In terms of timing, migratory birds are in residence here from November until April.

READ MORE: The 15 Best National Parks in the World for Wildlife Watching

13. Hike Some of Africa’s Tallest Mountains

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rwenzori Mountains are located on the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and within the Albertine Rift (an incredibly biodiverse region).

Home to six of the ten tallest mountains on the continent , the snowy-peaked mountain range contains glaciers, and is a source for the Nile River. Much of the highest parts of the range are protected by Rwenzori Mountains National Park.

The highest point is Margherita Peak, on Mount Stanley, but you don’t need to summit it in order to explore the mountain range.

Just climb to Mutinda Lookout for a considerably easier journey (although it can only be accessed near the end via ropes and ladders), and then marvel at the picturesque view before you.

There is also plenty of wildlife to be seen there, including frogs, 217 bird species (including almost 20 Albertine Rift endemics), and 70 mammals!

READ MORE: 20 Best Mountains In The World (For Your World Travel Bucket List)

14. See Lake Bunyonyi

Appearing on the 5,000 Ugandan shilling note, Lake Bunyonyi is located in southwestern Uganda. It is surrounded by lush green hills, which make it a spectacular place to visit in Uganda.

What makes this location even more beautiful are the 29 islands that dot the lake. The lake is swimmable (there are no dangerous wildlife, and it’s bilharzia-free), and boasts deep waters.

Many visitors choose to explore the lake and islands via dugout canoe, which are available for rent (or via a guided tour). Or you can take a guided tour via motorboat, but watch out for otters!

The lake also has an abundant bird population, including the Uganda national bird, the grey-crowned crane. While you’re in the area, try the crayfish, which is a favorite local delicacy.

READ MORE: 20 Largest Lakes in the World by Continent (For Your World Travel Bucket List)

15. Stroll Through Entebbe Botanical Gardens

If you like both animals and exotic plants, then one of the best things to do in Entebbe is to go to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens (formally known as the National Botanical Gardens of Uganda), which is located on the shores of Lake Victoria.

Founded in 1898, the grounds are home to Colobus monkeys, a plethora of different birds, and over 300 plant species (including 200 that are indigenous to Uganda).

Of particular note are the medicinal garden, the enormous trees, and the botanical garden’s seed bank. Part of the garden– a thick jungle– was used to film the original Tarzan movie.

Hire a guide so you can learn more about the incredible plant diversity here, which was brought in from all around the world during the Uganda attraction’s early days.

READ MORE: The 7 Best Safari Parks & Game Reserves in Kenya

16. Rest & Relax in the Ssese Islands

Located on Lake Victoria, the Ssese Islands is an archipelago of 84 islands , about half of which are populated. With gorgeous forests, beautiful white sand beaches , and clear waters, this is a perfect location to simply relax and unwind.

Swimming here is not advised, due to the dangerous wildlife (see: crocodiles and hippos) and bilharzia.

Most travelers either stay on the largest island, Buggala, or Banda Island. Travel between the islands is available by lake taxi.

Birdwatchers will be especially delighted here, although there are also endemic butterflies, rodents, and a subspecies of Tragelaphus spekii , an antelope.

Of particular interest is Ngamba Island, which is home to the non-profit Chimpanzee Trust. Currently, there are 49 rescued chimpanzees in residence on 95 acres of forest.

READ MORE: The 21 Best Environmental Charities & Animal Charities

17. Wonder at Hot Springs

Founded in 1993, Semuliki National Park is one of the newer national parks in Uganda, and home to the area’s lowland tropical rainforest .

Located in western Uganda near the Rwenzori Mountains, the park features two mineral hot springs with extremely scalding temperatures (up to 212 fahrenheit). One of them, Mumguga, also has a geyser-like fountain.

The park also features two rivers, the Semuliki and Lamia, which offer watering holes for countless animals and birds. There are over 400 bird species and 53 mammals here, including 11 endemic species.

The area is also home to an indigenous forest-dwelling community, the Batwa (formerly known as pygmies). Visitors can learn about the Batwa’s forest-dwelling culture and traditions , as well as purchase some of their unique handmade crafts.

READ MORE: 25 Biggest Forests in the World (For Your World Travel Bucket List)

18.Visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is located in southwest Uganda, is an important place to visit in Uganda for many reasons.

Uganda’s smallest national park protects rare mountain gorillas, as well as the endangered golden monkey.

Gorilla trekking experiences are available here at much more affordable prices than in Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda , and well worth doing.

There are also three extinct volcanoes within the park, which are all part of the Virunga Range. Other activities in the park include birdwatching (115 species!), hiking, climbing, and taking the Batwa Cultural Experience Trail.

This trail, which was created in conjunction with (and benefits) the Batwa, takes visitors to the compound of the last Batwa king and teaches them about this ancient Ugandan culture. –by Jessie Voigts, courtesy of Green Travel Media , f eatured image of Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda via Canva

BIO: Jessie Voigts has a PhD in International Education, and has traveled all around the world . She’s published 8 books about travel and intercultural learning, with more on the way. Jessie is constantly looking for ways to increase intercultural understanding, and is passionate sharing the world through her site, Wandering Educators .

About the Author

Green Global Travel is the world's #1 independently owned ecotourism website encouraging others to embrace sustainable travel, wildlife conservation, cultural preservation, and going green tips for more sustainable living.

We've been spotlighted in major media outlets such as the BBC, Chicago Tribune, Forbes, The Guardian, Lonely Planet, National Geographic, Travel Channel, Washington Post and others.

Owned by Bret Love (a veteran journalist/photographer) and Mary Gabbett (business manager/videographer), USA Today named us one of the world's Top 5 Travel Blogging Couples. We were also featured in the 2017 National Geographic book, Ultimate Journeys for Two, for which we contributed a chapter on our adventures in Rwanda. Other awards we've won include Best Feature from both the Caribbean Tourism Organization and the Magazine Association of the Southeast.

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25 Best Things to Do in Uganda

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: January 23, 2024

Categories Uganda

Home » Africa » Uganda » 25 Best Things to Do in Uganda

I have traveled to Uganda twice. On my first trip, I spent two weeks backpacking the country. I fell in love with Uganda from the moment I arrived. A few years later, I returned and ended up spending 5 months living in Uganda. During that time, I visited many of Uganda’s major attractions. Uganda is one of my favorite countries. The people are incredibly friendly and welcoming and the landscape is lush and stunning. It’s also a reasonably safe and affordable place to travel. This guide outlines the 25 best things to do in Uganda.

In this guide, I’ll cover Uganda’s top tourist attractions including nature and wildlife spotting, adventure travel activities, cultural activities, city attractions, foods to try, and more. Whether you’re looking to trek to meet the mountain gorillas, raft down the Nile, explore the local culture, or relax on the shores of Lake Victoria, Uganda offers something for everyone.

If you’d prefer, you can watch my condensed version in my YouTube video below.

Table of Contents

• Lake Bunyonyi
• Mountain Gorilla Trekking
• Visit Sipi Falls
• Hike Mount Elgon
• Hang out in Kampala
• Sample Local Food
• Visit the Source of the Nile
• Adventure Activities in Jinja
• Chimpanzee Trekking
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Stand on the Equator
• Murchison Falls National Park
• Lake Victoria
• Ssese Islands
• Visit Entebbe
• Hike in the Rwenzori Mountains
• Visit the Volcanic Craters in Western Uganda
• Shop for Arts and Crafts
• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
• Kidepo Valley National Park
• Mabira Forrest
• Lake Mburo National Park
• Meet the Ugandan People
• Semuliki National Park and Sempaya Hotsprings
• Visit the Batwa Pygmy People
• Uganda Itinerary Recommendation

The Best Things to Do in Uganda

1. Visit Lake Bunyonyi

I’ll start this list off with my absolute favorite place in Uganda, Lake Bunyonyi. This freshwater lake is located in the southwest of Uganda near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, just north of the Rwanda border. Interestingly, Lake Bunyonyi is recognized as the second deepest lake in Africa.

Along the shores of this tranquil lake, y ou’ll find farms, campgrounds, eco-resorts, and several small villages. Boating and birdwatching are the most popular activities for tourists visiting the lake. Lake Bunyonyi is a great, laid-back place to just relax and enjoy nature.

The name Lake Bunyonyi translates to ‘Place of Many Little Birds,’ in the local language. Birdwatchers will find themselves in a paradise. A visit to Lake Bunyonyi provides an excellent opportunity to spot some of Uganda’s colorful and diverse bird species.

One of the must-do activities is taking a boat trip on the lake. Experience the lake up close, as you paddle through the calm waters in a dugout canoe, exploring the various islands, each with its unique tale. If you’d rather not paddle, you can book a tour in a power boat.

There are 29 islands on Lake Bunyonyi. One of the lake’s most well-known islands, Punishment Island, holds a poignant history. It was traditionally where unmarried pregnant girls were abandoned to underscore societal norms. Today, it serves as a historical symbol of the area’s cultural past.

For hikers, the hills surrounding the lake offer rewarding trails with panoramic views. Hike up the hills surrounding the lake and take in a spectacular view of the terraced hills, islands, and villages. There are also opportunities for mountain biking.

The cultural richness of the area is another highlight that shouldn’t be missed. While visiting, you can gage with the warm and welcoming locals, and learn about their customs and traditions.

While visiting Lake Bunyonyi, consider staying in one of the eco-resorts dotting the lake’s perimeter. These sustainable accommodations offer a chance to unwind while enjoying the lake’s beauty.

If you’re on a tighter budget, the town of Kabale is the best place to stay. This is a small, quiet town located about 7 kilometers (4 miles) from the lake. The town offers several budget hotel options available. You can take a taxi from Kabale to the lake.

To read my complete guide, check out my article: How to Visit Beautiful Lake Bunyonyi.  Here, I outline how to travel to Lake Bunyonyi from Kampala and list the best things to do on the lake .

2. Go Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forrest

Mountain Gorilla Trekking is the most popular activity in Uganda. It’s on every traveler’s bucket list. Mountain gorillas are an endangered species that are found only in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

In Uganda, you can go gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Rwanda has gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. In DR Congo, you can go gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park.

Getting up close and personal with the mountain gorillas is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The entire species has fewer than 1000 individuals remaining. Uganda is home to half of the world’s mountain gorillas. It’s the best place to go gorilla trekking to view them.

Gorilla trekking involves hiking through the lush jungle to find a gorilla family. The trek can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 7 hours depending on the location of the gorillas on the day of your trek. The trekking time varies greatly. Only a handful of gorilla families have been habituated to humans. Once you find the gorillas, you’ll have around an hour with them before you return to camp.

Mountain gorilla trekking is an expensive activity. If you book a tour in advance, expect to spend around $1200-$1500 for an average tour. The price of the tour includes your permit, a guide, and transportation. Most tours also include one night of accommodation and food. It’s best to book as far in advance as possible as permits are limited. Permits frequently sell out. Particularly during the busy season.

It is possible to save some money if you just show up and organize the tour when you are there. There are often last-minute deals available. You can save about $400 this way. The Uganda mountain gorilla trekking permit costs $600. The whole gorilla trekking tour should cost $900-$1000 if you book directly with a guide.

It’s important to note that permits are in high demand. There is a chance that tours are fully booked out if you don’t book in advance. There is a possibility that you miss out.

3. Visit Sipi Falls

Sipi Falls is a series of three waterfalls located in the foothills of Mount Elgon in eastern Uganda, near the Kenyan border. The highest waterfall has a drop of around 100 meters. There are also two smaller waterfalls nearby.

Sipi Falls is located within walking distance of the town of Sipi, Uganda. Sipi is a small mountain tourist town with several restaurants, hotels, and campgrounds. In order to view the falls, you must pass through a lodge and pay a small fee of around $1.

The surrounding area is full of lush, green hills which are excellent for hiking. A number of hikes are available in the region. The main hike to see the falls is a loop hike around 7 km long. It takes 3-4 hours to complete. This hike will take you along a river, through farmland, and local communities. You’ll see all three falls. A guide is not necessary for the hike but is recommended.

There are a number of other activities you can do while visiting the falls. If you’re looking for an adventure, it’s possible to repel down the cliff face next to the highest waterfall. You can go rock climbing or hill running in the region. There are also some local coffee plantations that you can tour. The area also offers some excellent birdwatching. It’s also possible to go swimming in a pool at the base of one of the falls. One day is enough to see the falls. There is plenty to keep you busy for a few days.

Sipi Falls is located 170 miles north of Kampala. You can easily reach the falls in half a day with public transportation. Sipi sits in the mountains at an elevation of 1775 meters. It’s a great place to go for some fresh mountain air. A visit to Sipi Falls makes for a great weekend trip from Kampala.

For more info, check out my article: How to Visit Sipi Falls Independently and on a Budget.  Here, I outline how to travel to Sipi Falls from Kampala.

4. Hike Mount Elgon

If you’re looking for a more intense hike while you’re in the Sipi Falls region, consider climbing Mount Elgon. This 4321-meter-tall mountain sits on the Uganda-Kenya border. The summit is on the Uganda side. Hiking up Mount Elgon is often considered to be one of the best hikes in Africa.

Summiting Mount Elgon usually takes around 4 days. You’ll spend 3 nights camping on the mountain. Most travelers spend a night in a guesthouse at the start and end of the hike. Before or after the hike, you can visit nearby Sipi Falls.

The hike up Mount Elgon is a bit shorter and less strenuous than Kilimanjaro. It is still challenging. You will need some good hiking equipment including sturdy shoes, warm clothes, and a warm sleeping bag. It gets chilly at elevation.

There is a park fee of $75 for tourists. This includes park entry, a guide, and ranger fees. You will also need to factor in the cost of food, accommodation, equipment rental, tips, and a porter if you need one.

5. Hang out in Kampala, Uganda’s Capital City

While visiting Uganda, chances are, you’ll end up in Kampala at some point. It’s well worth spending a couple of days exploring Uganda’s exciting capital city. Kampala is the heart of Uganda. It’s a crowded, bustling, and colorful city.

Kampala is a pleasant place to hang out and shouldn’t be missed if you are traveling in Uganda. It’s probably one of the most tourist-friendly capitals in all of Africa. Kampala is affordable, has incredibly friendly locals, and is even fairly walkable. Decent street food is also available.

I spent 5 months living in Kampala and really enjoyed it. Check out my video about living in Kampala to hear about my experience.

Some of the best things to do in Kampala include:

• Experience the nightlife- Kampala is one of Africa’s best cities for nightlife. Ugandans love a good party. There are plenty of bars and clubs to explore. Head to the Kololo neighborhoods. Most of the city’s best bars and clubs are located here. You’ll be sure to make some friends with locals, expats, and backpackers when you go out in Kampala.
• Go on a tour of the city- Hire a boda boda or taxi for a couple of hours and have the driver give you a tour of the city. Most drivers will be happy to show you around. Make sure to haggle hard as they will surely try to overcharge. This is a good way to get the lay of the land.
• Visit the Uganda National Mosque- This impressive mosque was completed in 2006 and can hold 15,000 people. It was originally called Gadaffi National Mosque then was renamed in 2013.
• Visit Uganda National Museum- This is a nice place to go to learn a bit about Uganda. The museum includes exhibits about natural history, archeology, and the culture of Uganda. 
• Visit Mengo Palace (Kabaka Palace)- This is the compound of the king of Buganda. Here, you can learn some history about Uganda and the regime of Idi Amin.
• Visit Central Kampala- Central Kampala is surprisingly compact. Take a walk around and explore the local markets or grab a bite to eat .
• Visit the Kasubi Tombs- This is the burial site for four Buganda kings. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Take a Walk Along Parliament Avenue- This is a great place to view some interesting colonial architecture.
• Visit the Ndere Cultural Center- If you’re looking for a fun night out, attend a dinner show at the Ndere Cultural Center. While you enjoy your meal, you can watch the performers do traditional dances, play traditional drum music, and sing traditional songs. It’s a unique cultural experience.

You probably won’t want to spend too much time in Kampala. It is a crowded city. It’s also not the easiest place to get around. The city is kind of confusing to navigate. Traffic is a mess. There are also plenty of scammers, hustlers, and pickpockets that you have to look out for. It is worth visiting for 2-3 days if you have time in your itinerary.

6. Sample the Local Food

There are a few local Ugandan dishes that are worth a try. Probably the most famous Ugandan dish is the rolex. A rolex an omelet with tomato, onion, and salt wrapped in a chapatti. They are sold in markets and roadside stands all over Uganda for around 40-70 cents apiece. You can choose the number of eggs and chapatis you want based on how hungry you are. Fancier rolex with other ingredients are also available in restaurants. These are cheap, fast, and tasty snacks. They are also great for a quick meal.

There are also some staple foods that you should try. One of the most popular foods in the country is matoke. This is a type of green plantain that is steamed or boiled until its soft. Sometimes it’s mashed and sometimes it’s served whole. Matoke is usually served with a soup, stew, or sauce made from ground peanuts, vegetables, or meat.

Another common staple food is posho or ugali. This is a type of corn meal made from ground corn. It is mixed with hot water until it becomes a dough-like consistency. Posho is usually served with a sauce or meat.

Another street food to try is muchomo. These are roasted skewers of meat. They are commonly sold on the roadside. Beef, pork, goat, and chicken are available.

Fish is another food to try in Uganda. Particularly around the lakes. The fish is fresh and delicious. For some of the best fish, try visiting Lake Victoria. The local fishermen will be able to provide you with a variety of freshly caught fish.

Also, be sure to take advantage of the abundant fresh tropical fruits and veggies while visiting Uganda. I ate the best-tasting avocado that I have ever eaten in Kampala. The pineapple, mango, and papaya are also excellent. Really, all of the produce is great. Uganda is an extremely fertile country. Everything grows there.

Kampala also has some pretty good restaurants to try. You can find local cuisine as well as Italian, Indian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern cuisine. There are dozens of excellent restaurants to try. A few of the highest-rated restaurants in Kampala include Cantine DiVino, Asian Fusion, The Bistro, The Lawns, Cafe Javas, Mediterraneo, and Tamarai.

7. Visit the Source of the White Nile in Jinja

The mighty Nile River starts in Uganda. The White Nile River originates in Lake Victoria and flows north into Sudan, where it meets up with the Blue Nile. The river continues all the way through Egypt and flows into the Mediterranean Sea. The Nile is the world’s longest river at over 4000 miles.

The Nile’s origin has captivated explorers for centuries. Its source remained a mystery until it was discovered by British explorer John Hanning Speke in 1858. This expedition took several years. During their search, the party had several run-ins with hostile locals and suffered a range of tropical diseases. The source of the Nile is located just outside the town of Jinja, around 80 km east of Kampala.

To view the source of the Nile, you’ll start in the town of Jinja , which is situated on the northern shores of Lake Victoria. The best way to view the source of the Nile is by taking a boat tour from Jinja. As you glide along the river, you’ll see the spot where the calm waters of Lake Victoria funnel into the Nile. The boat tour offers an up-close encounter with this natural phenomenon and gives you a unique perspective of the area’s lush landscapes. You can also simply view the source of the Nile from a lookout point on the shore.

A visit to the source of the Nile is a must-do while in Jinja. On the shore, you’ll find a monument commemorating Speke’s discovery and the source of the Nile. This provides an insight into the historical significance of this location. You do have to pay a small fee to view the monument from land.

8. Go to Jinja for Whitewater Rafting and Other Adventure Activities

Uganda is a great destination for adventure activities. The town of Jinja is known as the adventure capital of East Africa. Jinja is a laid-back town located on the shore of Lake Victoria. It sits in southeast Uganda, about 50 miles (81 km) East of Kampala. Jinja is a nice little town that is worth spending a day or two exploring.

The most popular adventure activity in Jinja is whitewater rafting and kayaking. The town is famous for it. Adrenaline junkies travel here to experience the thrilling rapids, which reach grade 5 in areas.

Unfortunately, the Isimba Dam flooded a number of the most well-known rapids in Uganda. The whitewater rafting is still good but it’s not the same as it once was. Luckily, the dam didn’t effect the rapids as much as originally expected.

A number of other adventure activities are also available in Jinja including bungee jumping, whitewater kayaking, quad biking, horseback riding, mountain biking, zip-lining, and tubing. 

Jinja is also worth visiting if you’re not into adventure activities. There are plenty of more laid back activities to enjoy. Jinja and the surrounding area is a really bea utiful part of Uganda. The town has some great colonial architecture to view. Jinja is also located on the shore of the beautiful Lake Victoria. The lake shore is a great place to take a stroll or just relax by the lake. You can also go for a boat ride. Sportfishing safaris are available. There is also some great birdwatching near Jinja.

Jinja is a very touristy city so prices are slightly higher there than in the rest of Uganda. Because it is such a popular tourist destination, you can also find some more upscale restaurants and hotels in town if that is what you are looking for. Jinja is a cool city to visit. It’s definitely worth spending a day or two there during your trip.

9. Go Chimpanzee Trekking

Another one of the most popular activities in Uganda is chimpanzee trekking. Chimpanzee trekking is an excellent alternative to gorilla trekking if the gorilla permit is outside of your budget. Some travelers argue that the experience is even better due to the uncanny valley nature of man’s closest living relative, the Chimpanzee. These fascinating creatures share 98.7% of our DNA, after all. 

The best place to go Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda is Kabale National Forrest. You can also go chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forrest and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

On your tour, you’ll usually trek with a guide for 1-3 hours to find the Chimpanzees. When you find them, you’ll spend about an hour with them before returning to camp.

If you’re lucky, you’ll get to view the chimpanzees up close. Sometimes they are up in the trees. In this case, your view might not be as good.

The chimpanzee trekking tour costs around $250-$300. The permit costs $120-$150 depending on the season. There are half-day and full-day treks available.  The chimpanzees that you’ll visit have been carefully trained to tolerate human presence.

For a more up close and personal experience, you can also opt for a chimpanzee habituation tour. This type of tour is designed to slowly introduce chimpanzees to humans so they become more comfortable being near humans. The chimpanzee habituation process usually takes around two years.

This tour usually lasts a full day. You’ll start early in the morning and spend the day watching the chimps in their natural habitat. They spend much of their days in the trees.

10. Go on a Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Located in Western Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most visited national park in the country. Some would say it’s the best. Queen Elizabeth National Park is also one of the largest national parks in Uganda at over 2000 square kilometers. You could easily spend 2-3 days here and still not see it all. If you only have time to visit one park in Uganda, this would be a good choice.

In Queen Elizabeth National Park, you can find 95 different species of mammals including 4 of the big 5 . You’ll see lions, elephants, crocodiles, and buffalo. Around 500 species of birds can also be found in the park. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot the famous tree climbing lions.

The density of wildlife isn’t as great as some of the other national parks in Africa but there are still lots of animals to see. For some of the best wildlife spotting in Queen Elizabeth National Park, take a boat tour of the Kazinga Channel. This is a 20-mile-long natural channel linking Lake Edward and Lake George. Along the shores, you can spot an abundance of animals. Animals come to the shallow river to drink and bathe. You can get closer to the animals in the boat than you can in a vehicle.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its rare tree climbing lions. It’s one of only two places in the world where they exist. The tree climbing lions are the most common in the Ishasha part of the park. You also have an excellent chance of spotting the African Bush Elephant. If you’re looking for wildlife viewing, this is one of the best places in the world.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is also known for its spectacular natural beauty. The region contains many unique volcanic features. You’ll see craters, cones, and beautiful crater lakes.  It’s the best and most scenic place to go for a safari in Uganda.

A number of different types of safaris are available in Queen Elizabeth National Park. You can take a standard safari in a vehicle. You can go on sunrise, evening, and night safaris. Walking safaris are also available. As mentioned earlier, you can also take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. It’s also possible to tent camp in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This is a great opportunity to star gaze, listen to the sounds of the park, and possibly spot some nocturnal species.

It’s important to note that Queen Elizabeth National Park occasionally suffers from security issues as it is located along the border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Before you visit, check travel advisories. A few years ago, a woman was kidnapped in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The national park is generally safe to visit and the guides take security seriously.

11. Stand on the Equator

One of Uganda’s most famous attractions is the equator. Uganda is one of a handful of countries that straddles the equator. Standing on the equator is an interesting activity to check off of your travel bucket list.

On the equator, you’ll find a small monument and a couple of signs as well as a few craft shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can take a photo at the monument and stand in the Northern and Southern hemispheres at the same time. It’s super touristy but kind of fun.

Around the monument, you’ll meet some guys demonstrating how the flow of water changes direction as you cross the equator. This is just a trick that these guys do to earn a bit of money from tourists. It’s not a real physical phenomenon. The Coriolis force is not strong enough to change the flow of water over such short distances. It’s basically a scam.

There are a number of places to visit the equator in Uganda. Pretty much every highway that crosses the equator has a sign. The most popular place to visit the equator is Kayabwe, on the Masaka-Mbarara highway. This is about 45 miles southwest of Kampala. You’ll pass right by here if you’re traveling to Lake Bunyonyi or if you’re going to Rwanda. It’s worth stopping for some photos if you have time.

12. Go On a Safari in Murchison Falls National Park and View the Waterfall

Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest national park at 4,000 square kilometers. The ark is located in the northwestern part of Uganda. Established in 1952, Murchison Falls National Park is also Uganda’s first national park. It is named after a large waterfall in the national park on the Victoria Nile River.

A visit to Murchison Falls National Park wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the falls themselves. Also known as Kabalega Falls, Murchison Falls is a spectacular waterfall on the Victoria Nile River. At this impressive waterfall, the water forces itself through a small 8 meter (23 foot) gap in the rocks and drops 43 meters (141 feet) before flowing into Lake Albert. An incredible 300 cubic meters of water flows through the falls per second. This makes Murchison Falls the world’s most powerful waterfall. It is incredibly loud and impressive. The area at the bottom of the falls is called Devil’s Cauldron.

There are a couple of different ways to view the falls. You can take a boat cruise on the Nile River to the bottom of the falls. You can also hike or drive to the falls to view them from the top. The hike takes around 45 minutes from the trailhead.

After viewing the falls, y ou can take a game drive. In the park, you can find 76 species of mammals including lions, hippos, Rothchile’s giraffes, elephants, crocodiles, leopards, buffalos, hippos, hyenas, antelope, waterbucks, and more. In addition, there are over 450 species of birds living in the park including the famous Shoebill Stork and Uganda’s national bird, the Grey Crowned Crane.

You can stay the night in the national park if you choose. There are a range of accommodation options in the park including camping and luxury lodges.

13. Visit Lake Victoria

At 26,000 square miles, Lake Victoria is the largest African Great Lake by surface area and the second largest freshwater lake in the world.Uganda controls 45% of the coastline of Lake Victoria . The rest of the lake is shared with Kenya and Tanzania.

Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or a culture explorer, Lake Victoria caters to all tastes and interests. On this spectacular lake, you can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities including hiking, birdwatching, picnics, kayaking, canoeing, boat tours, swimming, fishing, mountain biking, and more. If you’re lucky, you may spot some wildlife native to the area such as crocodiles, turtles, and hippos.

One of the best ways to appreciate Lake Victoria’s grandeur is by taking a boat tour. As you cruise along, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, spot various bird species, and visit the numerous islands scattered across the lake. Boat tours also offer a chance to view the local fishing communities in action.

Fishing is another popular activity on Lake Victoria. Try your hand at catching Tilapia or Nile Perch, two of the lake’s most prevalent fish species. Local guides are often available to provide a memorable and authentic fishing experience.

Bird watching is another popular activity. The lake’s wetlands and surrounding areas also provide refuge for various animal species, making it a fascinating spot for wildlife observation.

After a day of exploration, unwind at one of the many lakeside resorts. Watch the sun set over the vast expanse of water and enjoy some fresh fish for dinner.

One thing you may not want to do in Lake Victoria is swim. The lake contains Bilharzia (also known as schistosomiasis ) . This is a tropical disease caused by a type of parasitic worm that is transmitted by infected snails. It is commonly found in Rift Valley lakes. Luckily, the disease is treatable if you do happen to catch it. To avoid Bilharzia, it’s best not to swim in Lake Victoria or any other lake in Uganda.

14. Visit the Ssese Islands

While visiting Lake Victoria, consider taking a ferry ride out to the Ssese Islands. This stunning archipelago, comprised of 84 islands, is nestled within the expansive waters of Lake Victoria. This tropical paradise offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural experiences.

The Ssese Islands offer a number of activities for visitors. While visiting the islands, you can enjoy leisurely walks along the beaches, marvel at the brilliant sunsets, go for a boat ride, fish, hike, or rent a bicycle and explore. For wildlife enthusiasts, the islands’ forests are home to an array of fauna, including various monkey species and a diverse range of birds. Visiting the Ssese Islands is also a great opportunity to meet the local Bantu people who inhabit the islands.

The heart of tourism in the Ssese Islands is Kalangala on the largest island, Bugala. Easily accessible by ferry from Entebbe, Bugala Island is a haven of lush forests, white sandy beaches, and an inviting local community. The ferry ride itself is a scenic introduction to the archipelago, offering captivating views of Lake Victoria. If you prefer, you can also access the island by plane from Entebbe.

For travelers with a sense of adventure, island-hopping through the Ssese Islands via local lake taxis is a must. These water taxis offer an excellent opportunity to explore the diverse islands. You can hike through the dense forests looking for monkeys on Bugala Island, view vibrant birdlife on Bukasa Island, or enjoy the peaceful seclusion of the smaller islands.

One of the most rewarding experiences on the Ssese Islands is meeting the locals. Known for their warm hospitality, the inhabitants of these islands offer visitors a glimpse into their customs and traditions. The islands don’t receive many foreign tourists so the local culture is mostly intact. Engaging with the local community offers a deeper understanding of the island life.

15. Visit Entebbe

Entebbe is a charming little lakeside town located on the shore of Lake Victoria, about 40 km south of Kampala. Its location makes it a perfect stopover destination for travelers flying in or out of Uganda. The international airport is located in Entebbe. Beyond its role as a transit point, Entebbe offers a wealth of attractions and activities that make it worth a visit in its own right.

One of the town’s highlights is the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. This lush paradise is a haven for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking tranquility.

If you’re intrigued by the reptilian world, a visit to the Reptiles Village will be an informative experience, where you can encounter a variety of native reptile species.

Animal enthusiasts will also appreciate the Wildlife Conservation Education Centre, which works towards conserving Uganda’s rich biodiversity.

Another animal sanctuary that deserves a visit is the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary located in Lake Victoria. Here, you can observe rescued and orphaned chimpanzees in a semi-natural habitat, contributing to their care and conservation.

Another interesting natural area to visit near Entebbe is Mbamba Swamp. This is a great place to see Shoebills. These large and strange-looking storks live in freshwater marshes throughout East Africa.

Entebbe is also a great spot for those looking for adventure activities. You can explore the area’s scenic trails on a mountain bike or on horseback. You can also engage in thrilling water activities such as boating and fishing on Lake Victoria. Entebbe is also a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lake’s serene shoreline.

In the evening, you can unwind in one of the town’s many restaurants, where you can fresh fish from Lake Victoria. A variety of accommodations options are available in Entebbe, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury lakeside resorts to convenient airport hotels.

16. Go Hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains

Tucked away in western Uganda, you’ll find the beautiful Rwenzori Mountains. Also known as the “Mountains of the Moon”, the Rwenzoris are a breathtaking range. Its highest peak, Mount Stanley, reaches an altitude of 5,109 meters, making it the 3rd tallest mountain in Africa. This majestic range straddles the Uganda-Democratic Republic of Congo border, providing a unique blend of diverse landscapes, wildlife, and cultural experiences.

Hiking is the highlight of any visit to the Rwenzori Mountains. Options range from day hikes to multi-day treks. The trails are usually pretty quiet as this range is fairly remote and not too well known among travelers. The pinnacle of the Rwenzori experience is a multi-day trek to the summit of Mount Stanley, locally known as Mount Ngaliema.

A trek to the peak of Mount Stanley typically takes around 8-9 days, starting from Kilembe. This expedition takes you through a range of diverse landscapes. There are plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting and breathtaking photography along the way.

This is a fairly demanding trek that requires good physical fitness. Along the trail, you’ll find a range of accommodations, from basic huts to campsites. It’s advisable to arrange your trek through a reputable tour company that provides experienced guides, porters, and necessary gear.

17. Visit the Volcanic Craters and Crater Lakes of Western Uganda

Western Uganda has some really beautiful volcanic craters and crater lakes. These craters were formed through intense volcanic activity thousands of years ago. They dot the landscape, creating a unique terrain that’s as picturesque as it is geologically fascinating.

One of the most beautiful lakes is Lake Nkuruba, which is located near the charming town of Fort Portal. Lake Nkuruba sits nestled within a lush tropical forest. Hiking around Lake Nkuruba is a delightful experience, with trails offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscapes. The area is also rich in biodiversity. It’s not uncommon to spot monkeys and various bird species during your hike.

Another place to marvel at Uganda’s volcanic past is Queen Elizabeth National Park. This area is home to a cluster of stunning volcanic craters. The most noteworthy are the Katwe Craters. Interestingly, some of these craters are filled with saltwater lakes. Some have turned into lush grasslands. The best way to view these craters is by taking a scenic drive or joining a guided tour. Be sure to check out Lake Katwe. Here, you can visit a salt mine

Visiting the craters in the early morning or late evening is highly recommended as these times offer the most breathtaking views. The play of light and shadow over the water makes for an unforgettable experience. For the best experience, consider staying in one of the many lodges within or near the craters. These lodges offer stunning views of the craters and the surrounding landscapes, allowing you to soak in the beauty at your leisure.

18. Go Shopping for Arts and Crafts

if you’re looking for artwork or souvenirs, Uganda has a vibrant art scene. Kampala serves as the hub of Uganda’s art, housing various galleries such as Afriart Gallery, Nommo Gallery, Umoja Art Gallery, and AKA gallery. At these galleries, you can marvel at a diverse range of artworks, from contemporary paintings to traditional sculptures.

Beyond the galleries, an integral part of the Ugandan shopping experience is exploring the bustling local markets and roadside stands. These are the perfect places to shop for authentic souvenirs and handicrafts made by local artisans.

Among these markets, Owino Market in Kampala stands out as one of the largest and most popular, offering an endless array of local products. Owino Market is the biggest and best market in Kampala. The market is at its largest and busiest on Sundays. Here, you can buy almost anything including food, electronics, clothes, handicrafts, art, and more. Also, check out the Exposure Africa Market and the African Craft Village.

The vast selection of arts and crafts available in Uganda is impressive. You can find intricate wood carvings depicting local wildlife, vibrant textiles, beautifully woven baskets, handmade jewelry, paintings, and much more.

Even if you’re not interested in buying anything, it’s well worth your time to visit a local market. It’s a cultural experience. You’ll see the locals going about their day-to-day lives buying and selling. You’ll also get to see the types of products that are available. It’s really interesting looking through the foods, clothing, and other items that are for sale.

When shopping at local markets, it’s important to haggle. Prices quoted to tourists are much higher than the local price. It’s part of the shopping culture to negotiate, so don’t be shy to bargain for a better price. Haggling isn’t just about getting a better price. It’s also a way to engage in friendly interaction with the vendors. It’s part of the experience.

19. See the White Rhinos at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers one of the best wildlife viewing experiences in Uganda. Situated near Murchison Falls National Park, this sanctuary plays a vital role in the restoration of Uganda’s rhino population. Poaching led to the extinction of wild White rhinos in Uganda, with the last white rhino reported in 1983.

Today, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the proud home of around 22 white rhinos, with a goal to reintroduce these majestic creatures back into Uganda’s national parks in the near future. The sanctuary was started in 2005. It sits on 7000 hectares of land. The rhinos roam freely throughout the sanctuary.

While visiting Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, you can embark on a 2-hour guided walk with a knowledgeable ranger, getting you up close with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. The guides maintain a safe distance, but these walks often allow for incredibly close encounters with the rhinos, providing fantastic photo opportunities. During your visit, you’ll also get a chance to learn more about rhinos including their behaviors, feeding habits, and conservation needs. The tour currently cost $45 for foreigners. The proceeds go toward the rhino breeding program.

If you wish to spend more time with the rhinos, consider an overnight stay. The sanctuary offers accommodation options, allowing guests to wake up to the sounds of nature and the chance to spot rhinos in the cool early morning or late evening. There’s also a restaurant on-site, serving a variety of meals to suit different tastes. You can actually view the rhinos from the accommodation and restaurant.

You can read more about the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary on their website here .

20. Visit Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park is located in the remote northeastern corner of Uganda, on the border with South Sudan. This stunning national park is less frequented by tourists compared to other parks in Uganda due to its isolated location. Those who make the journey to Kidepo Valley National Park will be rewarded with an unforgettable wildlife and cultural experience. Kidepo National Park is a great destination for those who want to venture off the beaten path.

One of the park’s main draws is its exceptional wildlife viewing. Kidepo is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including one of Africa’s most endangered giraffe species, the Rothschild’s giraffe. Other animal inhabitants include buffalo, elephants, zebras, leopards, and over 450 species of birds. The relative tranquility of the national park allows for intimate wildlife encounters, offering an authentic and memorable safari experience.

The landscapes of Kidepo Valley National Park are also diverse. The terrain varies from rugged savannah and mountainous regions to expansive grasslands, dotted with acacia and Borassus palm trees. The park also features the seasonal Kidepo River, which is often a gathering spot for various wildlife, particularly during the dry season. The Kanangorok Hot Springs and Mount Morungule are other notable features that enhance the park’s unique appeal.

A visit to Kidepo National Park is also an opportunity to connect with the rich cultural heritage of the region. The area is home to the Karamojong people, known for their unique traditions and customs. Many visitors find interacting with local communities to be a rewarding experience that deepens their understanding of the Ugandan way of life.

21. Visit Mabira Forest

Mabira Forest is located just a short drive from Uganda’s capital, Kampala. It’s a great place to visit on your way to Jinja. This tropical rainforest offers a number of activities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Hiking is one of the main attractions in Mabira Forest. The forest’s network of trails meanders through tall trees. Along the way, you’ll come across various tree species and possibly encounter some of the forest’s resident monkeys, butterflies, and other small wildlife.

Thrill-seekers can zip-line through the forest canopy on the Mabira Forest Canopy Super Skyway. This gives you a bird’s-eye view of the forest and the River Musamya.

Mabira Forest is also a haven for birdwatchers. It boasts over 300 bird species, including several that are endemic to Uganda.

22. Visit Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is a bit of a hidden gem. It is located in Western Uganda, conveniently situated en route between Entebbe and Bwindi Impenetrable national park. Although smaller than other Ugandan national parks, Lake Mburo national park packs a punch with its rich biodiversity. It’s a great stopover on the way to or from Bwindi Impenetrable Forrest.

Unique among Ugandan national parks, Lake Mburo allows for guided walking safaris and bike safaris. This provides a rare opportunity to connect with Africa’s wilderness on a more personal level. You can also take standard driving safaris.

Safari-goers can expect to see a variety of animals, including zebras, impalas, buffalos, elands, and the elusive leopard. The park’s wetland habitats are also home to several bird species, making it an excellent destination for birdwatchers.

The park’s game drives are a great way to explore its savannah landscape, dotted with acacia trees and interspersed with wetlands. Though you can visit Lake Mburo national park at any time of the day, morning game drives are often most rewarding when wildlife is most active, and temperatures are cooler. However, an evening game drive can also be a fascinating experience, offering a chance to spot nocturnal creatures and experience the tranquility of the park as the sun sets.

23. Meet The Ugandan People

Ugandans are friendly and welcoming people. Whether you’re exploring the bustling capital city of Kampala or venturing into the rural landscapes, the Ugandan people will be a highlight of your trip, greeting you with a smile, a wave, and often a friendly chat.

Despite the diversity of cultures and languages in Uganda, English is widely spoken throughout the country, thanks to its status as the official language. This makes it easy for tourists to engage with locals. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with the people you meet. Ugandans are genuinely interested in getting to know visitors.

Ugandans are also willing to help. If you’re lost or need assistance, you can ask almost anyone. People will go out of their way to ensure you reach your destination safely.

However, as is the case in any travel destination, there can occasionally be instances where individuals might ask for money. But rest assured, the Ugandan people are respectful and will not bother you if you decline. Their courtesy and understanding make the interactions comfortable and enjoyable.

24. Visit Semuliki National Park and Sempaya Hotsprings

Semuliki National Park is located in the remote, western corner of Uganda. This unique conservation area, sitting in the Albertine Rift Valley, offers visitors a unique blend of Central African jungle atmosphere and East African safari experience. Known for its distinctive hot springs, sprawling wetlands, and the winding Semuliki River, the park is an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and adventure seekers.

Among the park’s standout features are the Sempaya hot springs. The springs are categorized into two main areas, known locally as the ‘male’ and ‘female’ hot springs. The male spring, also known as ‘Bintente’, gushes up from a broad, steaming pool. the female spring, known as ‘Nyansimbi’, meaning ‘the female ancestors’, is a boiling geyser that shoots steam up to two meters high. It’s a fascinating spectacle of nature’s geothermal power. Water temperatures reach as high as 100 degrees Celsius.

An approximately 30-minute hike through the forest connects the two springs. This short hike offers a chance to explore the park’s rich flora and fauna. This trail is a treasure trove for birdwatchers, as the park is home to over 400 bird species, including several that are endemic to the region.

Additionally, Semuliki National Park is a great place to view Old World monkeys. 11 different species of monkeys call the park home. A visit here offers the opportunity to spot rare primate species such as the pygmy antelope and flying squirrel. An encounter with the park’s troop of habituated chimpanzees is a highlight for many visitors.

25. Visit the Batwa Pygmy People

Discover Uganda’s rich culture and diversity by visiting the Batwa Pygmy people, an indigenous group with a fascinating history and unique way of life. Once the forest-dwelling hunter-gatherers of the Great Lakes region of Central Africa, the Batwa, also known as the ‘Keepers of the Forest,’ now reside on the edges of Uganda’s national parks.

For centuries, the Batwa thrived by hunting small game and gathering fruits and herbs from the forest. Unfortunately, their way of life was uprooted in the 1990s when their ancestral lands were designated as national parks to protect the endangered mountain gorillas. Forced to vacate their homes with no compensation or adequate alternative housing, the Batwa now live as subsistence farmers. They also make money by offering cultural experiences for tourists.

Despite these challenges, the Batwa have preserved their unique culture and traditions, which they share with visitors as part of community-based tourism initiatives. When you visit a Batwa community, you’ll be welcomed with music and dance. You’ll also learn about their traditional hunting and gathering techniques, medicinal plants, and how they crafted their homes and tools.

It’s important to ensure that your visit benefits the Batwa community. Therefore, it’s best to arrange your visit through official channels like the Uganda Wildlife Authority or the Batwa Development Programme. These organizations ensure that tourism revenues go directly to the Batwa, providing them with essential income and helping preserve their unique culture and traditions.

My Recommended Uganda Itinerary

Uganda is a relatively small country. Y ou can easily pair several of the above activities to save travel time. It’s possible to travel to most of these destinations by bus and public transport. There are also tours available to most of the destinations on this list.

If you’re starting in Kampala, you could start by making your way to Sipi Falls. On your way back to Kampala, you can break up the trip by stopping for a couple of days in Jinja.

After spending a few days exploring Kampala, you could go mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After the trek, you could make your way to Kabale and visit Lake Bunyonyi .

Next, you could head to Queen Elizabeth National Park for a safari. During your visit, you could go on a Chimpanzee trek. From there, you could head to Murchison Falls National Park and go on another safari and view the falls. You could then return to Kampala.

From Kampala, you can visit Entebbe and spend Lake Victoria and spend some time exploring the city before flying out of Entebbe international airport.

If you travel to Uganda from Kenya by bus , it would make sense to make your way to Sipi Falls first, then Jinja. Next, you would continue on to Kampala. From there, you can easily travel to Kigali, Rwanda by bus.

How I spent my Time in Uganda

On my first trip to Uganda, I traveled from Kenya by bus. Once I reached Kampala, I made the trip to Sipi Falls and visited Jinja on my way back to Kampala. After exploring Kampala, I made my way to Kabale and Lake Bunyonyi before continuing on to Rwanda by Bus. This worked out pretty well and was fairly efficient.

On my second trip to Uganda, I based myself in Kampala for 5 months. I took some day trips and weekend trips to various parts of the country to visit some of the national parks. From Kampala, it’s pretty easy to visit all of the sites on this list. Kampala is Uganda’s main transportation hub.

Chances are, you will pass through Kampala multiple times when you travel to Uganda. Consider leaving some of your luggage in a hotel so that you don’t have to drag all of your gear around. Most likely, you will be staying in the same place when you pass through Kampala so you can easily lighten your load to make travel easier. It is a hassle traveling on minibusses with a lot of gear. Leaving your bag in Kampala makes travel days a lot less stressful.

If you are traveling in East Africa, Uganda shouldn’t be missed. It is one of the most diverse places on earth in terms of natural landscapes and wildlife. You’ll see rainforests, lakes, mountains, savannahs, and hundreds of species of plants, animals, and birds. It’s an incredible country for those who love spending time in the outdoors.

The country is also fairly compact, making it easy to get around. From Kampala, you can travel pretty much anywhere in the country within a day. Even with slow and unreliable African transportation, you could probably see a good chunk of the country in a week or two.

Maybe the best thing about Uganda is the people. Everywhere I went, I met friendly locals who were more than willing to help me out or stop for a chat. In fact, According to the BBC , Uganda is the most friendly place for expats. This is one of my favorite countries. I can’t wait to return. 

Have you visited Uganda? Share your favorite things to do in Uganda in the comments below. 

More Africa Guides from Where The Road Forks

• How to Plan a Cairo to Cape Town Trip
• Living in Uganda as an Expat: Pros and Cons
• Is Travel in Africa Safe? Avoiding Crime, Disease, Injury, and Scams in Africa
• How to Visit Beautiful Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda
• The Ultimate African Bus Guide
• Why Nairobi is My Favorite African City
• The Travelers Guide to Malaria Prevention, Treatment, and Tablets in Africa

Zachary Friedman is an accomplished travel writer and professional blogger. Since 2011, he has traveled to 66 countries and 6 continents. He founded ‘Where The Road Forks’ in 2017 to provide readers with information and insights based on his travel and outdoor recreation experience and expertise. Zachary is also an avid cyclist and hiker. Living as a digital nomad, Zachary balances his professional life with his passions for hiking, camping, cycling, and worldwide exploration. For a deeper dive into his journey and background, visit the About page. For inquiries and collaborations, please reach out through the Contact page. You can also follow him on Facebook.

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Ryan K Biddulph

Wednesday 23rd of October 2019

Absolutely awesome. The rolex looks delicious and I need to visit Uganda because of all those nature shows I saw as a kid. Long been on my list. Wonderful post.

wheretheroadforks

Thank you! Nature documentaries definitely played a role in inspiring my travels in Africa. Uganda is great.

Last Updated on September 5, 2022

Home » Travel » Top 25 the most beautiful places to visit in Uganda

Top 25 the most beautiful places to visit in Uganda

Tourists will find a plethora of reasons to travel to Uganda. Uganda is a landlocked country in the East-Central African region filled with lush forests and an amazing variety of wildlife. It is an ideal holiday destination for people who are seeking adventure and wildlife. If you are a rare bird enthusiast. You will be pleased to know that Uganda is frequented by many unique species of birds that can’t be seen anywhere else on the planet. We advise you to step out and venture into this beautiful African country instead of reading some Trip Advisor reviews. This article will list 25 of the most beautiful places to visit in Uganda with your significant other.

1. Entebbe Botanical Gardens

The city of Entebbe is situated just 23 miles away from Kampala, which is the capital city of Uganda.

Entebbe International Airport is a hotbed of foreign tourists who fly into the country through this airport.

The Botanical Gardens are a perfect away for getting rid of your jet lag while you stretch your legs and relax.

This destination is among the most common places to visit in Entebbe, and for a good reason.

The entire garden is filled with different species of birds and trees, all unique to the Central African region.

You can even feed some curious-looking monkeys while you casually stroll through the gardens.

If you are fascinated by trees try to visit beautiful places in Uganda.

You will be pleased to know that you can spot hundreds of different types of trees on this location.

The calm and serene atmosphere will help you to relax your mind.

You have the option of hiring a tour guide to venture through this botanical garden.

Although a self-guided tour can be equally fun and thrilling.

It is truly one of a kind place.

And a destination you must visit if you decide to come to this wonderful country.

2. Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Uganda.

You can access this location with a safari tour or a boat cruise along the Victoria Nile.

The river cruise is more scenic although you have a greater chance of spotting wildlife in your safari tour.

The site of the waterfall is epic.

And the enormous depth will stun you as the water gushes from the falls and onto the ground.

The area around the falls is protected under the law.

And so you can witness some amazing variety of wild animals on your journey.

If you are a fan of the mighty African lion, then this is the place to be!

You can also see elephants, buffalo, giraffes as well as other animals in the Murchison Falls Conservative Area.

Make sure to pack a good camera along your trip as you are bound to capture some truly breathtaking scenery.

3. Ssese Islands

Ssese Islands one of the beautiful places to visit in Uganda is another hotly contested destination that is known to have sandy beaches and calm waters.

The place will make you feel like you are in Latin America.

The weather will give you tropical vibes.

And the golden beaches will make you feel like you are resting your feet in paradise.

This island is situated on the East African coast and meets the Indian Ocean.

The Ssese Islands are Uganda’s most frequently visited beaches, and people love to relax on its shores.

There are plenty of five-star hotel options dotted around the beach.

And the bars and night clubs will help you party into the night when the sunsets.

Buggala Island is the place to be when you visit this destination, where you can find a wide range of water sporting activities.

Or if you are a trekking enthusiast, you can climb up the many hills around the island.

4. Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is where the great Nile River originates from.

They say if you want to know about the roots of a country, you need to visit its rivers.

Lake Victoria is quintessentially the heartbeat of Uganda, and it is the thing that sustains the people of this country.

The total surface area of this lake covers a large chunk of Uganda.

And it is the largest freshwater lake in Africa.

What’s more?

Lake Victoria is incidentally the largest tropical lake in the entire world.

It supports a huge ecosystem of fish and other animals.

Most of the lake is undisturbed and is home to an immense amount of natural beauty.

You can go fishing in this lake or enjoy the wildlife by taking a boat cruise along the banks of this river.

There are also plenty of beaches surrounding this lake where you can kick back and relax with your loved ones.

5. Kampala Craft Shops

Do you want to experience the unique culture of Africa?

There is no better way to do so than to visit the Kampala Craft Shops.

Where you can find traditional Ugandan attire along with gift items and souvenirs of all kinds.

If you want to create new memories of your adventures.

You can simply visit a local craft shop in the city of Kampala .

And witness African art and craftsmanship in its finest.

These are one of the best places to visit in Uganda Kampala.

You can buy some wonderful items and take back with you to your home.

Kampala is home to 5 such villages where all the people are associated with craftsmanship.

So, if you are looking to buy something unique.

Or a gift for your friends and family, these shops present an ideal opportunity for you.

Each item has a unique story, and you will feel blessed to be a part of this.

6. Ngamba Island

Ngamba Island is a place where all the endangered and rescued chimpanzees find a sanctuary.

And, many chimpanzees are trafficked in the illegal wildlife trade in Africa.

And the ones that are lucky enough to be rescued by the authorities end up finding refuge on this island.

This place is very close to Entebbe town.

And so if you are ever close to this area, you should come to visit this special place.

If you love chimpanzees, you should consider visiting this destination as it is home to a lot of researches.

Who have dedicated their lives studying about chimpanzee behaviour and their IQ.

So if you want to find more about these intelligent animals and their complex emotions.

Ngamba Island presents the perfect opportunity for you.

The clear skies mean that you can spot some amazing views of the Milky Way galaxy during nighttime.

7. Ndeere Centre

Are you a fan of African culture?

Ndeere Centre is one of the biggest convention centres in the city of Kampala.

And it is where you can experience several African dances as well as the finest of Ugandan culture.

This is a cultural centre where you can find a lot of information on the tribes that make up the population of Uganda.

It is among the best picnic places in Kampala where you can watch traditional dances and sit back and relax with your mates.

It is a place where you can gain a lot of exposure to the unique culture of Uganda.

And get to meet like-minded people who share the same values as you.

The dance programs are amazing to witness.

And you will get a taste of the true side of Africa when you visit the Ndeere Centre in the heart of Kampala.

8. Kampala Markets

Kampala is home to two amazing markets that you must have to visit before leaving the city.

One of the markets is called Owino market.

Which is home to second-hand clothes as well as off-brand shoes, among other fashion accessories.

The other happening market is called the Nakasero market, which is renowned for selling fresh fruits and vegetables.

If you want to experience the life of a common man in Uganda, then you should visit these markets.

And you will also have the opportunity to go thrift shopping and buy some great items at bargain prices.

These markets are filled with cheap and fresh goods.

And you can save a lot of money if you decide to go shopping in these markets.

9. Ssezibwa Falls

The world is filled with iconic waterfalls such as the Niagara Falls.

Where millions of people throng to visit these stunning locations.

They are renowned for their scenic charms and natural beauty.

And each place has its unique storyline that people can feel connected to.

Ssezibwa Falls is one such location where you will fall in love with nature and reconnect with the planet on a whole new level.

This location can be described as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Uganda.

Due to its scenic charms and a thrilling backstory that you need to discover when you go exploring near these falls.

The community around this location is very friendly to tourists.

And people from many different countries regularly frequent this place due to the amazing hospitality of the local people.

10. Mabira Forest

Uganda is losing forests at an alarming rate.

This is why the government has taken the initiative to save large chunks of forest land by declaring them as national parks and conservation areas.

This initiative will not only preserve the forest like the beautiful places to visit in Uganda.

But also attract many tourists each year which will rejuvenate the local economy.

Thus, the government needs a lot of money for these efforts.

And one such way they are raising funds is by hosting various adventure sporting activities on the Mabira forest such as zip-lining as well as guided walks through the forest.

If you decide to visit this place.

You should know that the money you spend on your forest expedition will go towards saving the forests and wildlife of Uganda.

You can even do mountain biking on the premises of the forest.

So it presents a unique opportunity for you, especially if you are an adventure geek.

The government initially made plans to destroy part of the forest and make room for sugar plantations.

Still, due to the uproar from the local community, the government backtracked from its initial plan.

And now this place sees an increasing number of tourists each year which is spurring the local economy and creating many jobs for the youths living near the forest area.

This forest has a unique vibe, and you will instantly fall in love with the aroma of this wonderful place.

11. Jinja Town

The Jinja town is renowned for hosting various activities for thrill-seekers.

There are lush green forests all around the area.

And an amazing array of biodiversity that will make you instantly fall in love with this place.

Are you a fan of Bungee jumping?

Jinja town is the place to be at.

Are you into white water rafting?

You will get your fix when you visit this place.

Think about any adventure sport such as horse riding or quad biking and chances are that you can do it in this place.

This place is huge, so you may need a week or two to cover all the fun activities at this place.

It is an ideal place to visit with your friends as you can stay preoccupied with some amazing activities throughout the day.

12. Sipi Falls

Uganda is filled with hilly areas where people can go trekking with their friends and family.

The most common places where people go hiking usually lack biodiversity and wildlife, which means that people don’t get to experience the true nature of Uganda on these common hiking trails.

Sipi Falls is opposite of that, and it is filled with lush greenery and a wide range of wildlife.

Hiking was not popular in Uganda before, but this activity is quickly gaining popularity as one of the go-to activities for many tourists who throng to this country, and Sipi Falls is one of the top hiking destinations because of its amazing biodiversity and scenic charms.

You will have once in a lifetime experience when you decide to go hiking in this destination.

The local community is also vibrant, and you can do a lot more things besides hiking.

Many people recommend visiting this place due to its natural beauty, and it is for this reason why you need to put this location into your itinerary plans.

13. Pian Upe Game Reserve

Are you sick and tired of visiting too many touristy destinations?

Some people like to visit undisturbed locations that are not popular enough for regular tourists but still present some breathtaking sights and sounds.

The Pian Upe Game Reserve is one such place, and there is little doubt why people call it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Uganda.

It is a hidden gem as many people don’t know about this place, and if you are visiting the Sipi Falls, then you should visit this place as it is near to the falls.

If you are lucky enough, you can even spot some antelopes on your journey.

14. Kasubi Tombs

Kasubi Tombs is located in the capital city of Uganda.

When you are roaming around the streets of Kampala, you can pay a visit to the Kasubi Tombs as it will make your stay in Kampala even more enjoyable.

It is a very important site that holds historical significance for Ugandans, and the tombs consist of Ugandan kings as well as having burials of other royal family members.

There are a total of 35 buildings on the entire site, and you can sport some interesting artefacts when you are in this location.

If you want to experience a taste of Uganda’s history, this is the place to be at.

15. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is another one of the most beautiful places to visit in Uganda, and it represents a slice of the African experience.

You can find some amazing wildlife on the park grounds.

Go on a guided safari tour of the national park and get up close and personal with the mighty African lions, or feed the monkeys that may be hovering over your heads.

The diverse habitat means that you can spot some unique animals that can’t be seen anywhere else.

There are plenty of wetlands lush forests dotted around the national park where you can see elephants roaming about.

The best way to experience this park is to take a hot air balloon that will take you thousands of feet up in the air where you will have a bird’s eye view of the entire Queen Elizabeth National Park.

16. Lake Katwe Explosion Crater Drive

The Explosion Crater Drive is famous for having one of the best and scenic drives in Uganda.

If you are visiting the Queen Elizabeth National Park, then you can go a quick detour of this amazing location as it is just a stone’s throw away from the national park grounds.

The entire drive takes about 2 and a half hours, but it is well worth your valuable time.

You can witness the stunning sights of the lake where buffalos and other animals roam about or drive beside the Mountains of the Moon while you are taking your significant other on a long drive that both of you will remember for ages!

17. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

The Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to only one family of gorillas.

Although that may be the case, you can go on some stunning trekking trips once you visit this destination.

You can witness golden monkeys while you trek through the forest, and the striking backdrop of the Virunga Mountains and bamboo forests will give you an experience of a lifetime!

You can even spot some volcanos when you visit this park, so there are plenty of good reasons why you need to include this location in your itinerary plans.

18. Lake Mutanda

Lake Mutanda is one of the crown jewels of Uganda.

It is situated near the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and the entire region is filled with lush islands.

You can take a boat cruise along the lake where you will have the Virunga Mountains on one side and clear blue skies on the other end.

Holding an immense amount of natural beauty, this lake is the perfect place for you to go fishing or canoeing.

You have the option of meeting the Batwa people, which is the indigenous tribe living near the lake.

You can also go trekking or biking near Lake Mutanda.

This is truly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Uganda where you can witness jaw-dropping sights and sounds of nature.

19. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Are you a fan of rhinos?

The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the only place in Uganda where you can see wild rhinos roaming freely.

It is a pristine habitat filled with lots of greenery and a healthy population of rhinos.

The country faces a problem of illegal wildlife poaching which has decimated the population of wild rhinos in the country, and that is why the government has declared this habitat as a rhino sanctuary where these mighty animals can roam freely.

It isn’t the only attraction to this place.

You can experience nature walks as well as canoe cruises while you are visiting this beautiful place.

There are plenty of crocodiles and hippos dotted around this sanctuary, so if you ever get bored with rhinos, you should know that there are also crocodiles lurking near you!

20. The Equator

Uganda is a unique country where you can be on two sides of the Equator.

It is one of the only countries where both the hemispheres cross a specific line, which is known as the Equator of the Earth.

So, you have the opportunity of standing in the exact middle of the planet if you visit one of the Equator landmarks in this country.

The most popular landmark is the Kampala-Masaka road.

Once you reach this destination, you can relax and unwind in some restaurants dotted around the area or visit a souvenir shop and commemorate your memorable achievement of visiting the Equator!

21. The Rwenzori Mountains National Park

The Rwenzori Mountains National Park is another amazing destination that is a must for all the nature lovers out there.

The entire national park is completely undisturbed, and you can come to this place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city life.

It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds a lot of significance for many Ugandans.

You can find many waterfalls and rivers in this park as well as rare species of birds who frequently flock to this place.

There are plenty of exciting things that you can do in this national park, such as hiking up the mountains or going biking near the forest trails.

You can also meet the hospitable and kind of village people who will treat you to some amazing local cuisine.

22. Rubaga Cathedral

The Rubaga Cathedral has a unique architectural design and is a hundred years old building that is still standing strong to this day.

This cathedral sits atop a mountain from where you can catch some stunning views of the Kampala city.

You can take a guided tour which is free of charge, where you can learn all about the history of this building and how it came about.

It also houses two tombs where the bishops are buried.

23. Mount Elgon National Park

Uganda is home to some stunning national parks, and the Mount Elgon National Park is another beautiful park filled with exciting activities and a diverse set of landscapes.

The name of this park comes from an ancient volcano that is situated within Mount Elgon.

The bamboo forests present an ideal hiking spot, and you can witness some breathtaking waterfalls inside this park.

The wildlife is unique, and you can find some rare species of birds that are native to this area.

You can also spot some hyenas or African leopards if you are lucky enough.

24. Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is a place where people come to relax and unwind.

The scenery you will find you will make you feel like you have stepped onto a parcel of paradise.

There are 29 small islands dotted around this lake, and you can find hills with lush forests when you visit this beautiful place.

You will find a lot of peace and serenity here, and if you are into bird watching, this lake presents an ideal spot for such activities.

You can also experience various water sports such as jet skiing and canoeing here.

25. Lubiri Palace

Lubiri Palace is truly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Uganda.

It is home to the former king of Buganda.

The palace is located on top of a hillside overlooking the city of Kampala.

RELATED: Best Places to Visit in Africa

If you want to escape the noisy sounds of the capital city, this location presents a great location for a peaceful escape from city life.

Experience the finest of Uganda’s culture and history when you walk through the palace grounds and breathe in the unique story of this

This might also interest you

• Best Places to Visit in Africa
• Tourist Attractions in Uganda
• TRAVEL TO KENYA: 5 BEST DESTINATIONS YOU MUST SEE
• Oguta Lake – A peaceful, serene and tranquil sight to behold
• TOP 20 RICHEST COMPANIES IN UGANDA

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THE 10 BEST Uganda City Tours

City tours in uganda.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Private Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Kampala’s Best Experience walking tour

2. Complete Kampala Tour Experience

3. Walking Tour in Kampala

4. Kampala Walking Tour (3 Hours) with Optional Gaddafi Mosque Visit

5. 13-Day Wildlife Adventure Trip to the Pearl of Africa

6. 3-Day Gorillas trekking and Batwa Experience

7. 1 Day Kampala City Motor Bike Tours

8. 15-Day Gorilla and chimps Trekking, Big 5 and Nature Sighting Safari

9. 14 Day Rwanda-Uganda-Big 5 Adventure.

10. 7-Day Murchison Falls, Chimps & Gorilla Trekking

11. Kampala city tour

12. 4-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safari

13. Kampala City Tour

14. Kampala City Walking Food Tour

15. 4 Day Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkeys

16. 8-Day Murchison Falls, Chimp and Epic Gorilla Trekking

17. 11-Day Uganda Wildlife Adventure Safari

18. 10-Day Wildlife Big 5, Murchison Falls and Gorilla Safari

19. 3-Days Murchison Falls Vacation Including Big 5 Sighting!

20. Murchison Falls National Park - 3 Days

21. Kampala City Walking Tour

22. Full-Day Kampala City Tour by Car with lunch

23. 12-Day Pearl of Africa Wildlife and Adventure Highlights

24. Kampala Urban Adventure - Walking Tour

25. 7-Day Wildlife Adventure Safari

26. 6-Day Gorilla Trekking and Kampala City Tours

27. long day kampala city tour we travel by car and walk in some poits

28. 12 Day Affordable Safari-Gorilla and Primate Track Uganda

29. Day and Night City Tours in Kampala

30. 1 Day Kampala City Tour Uganda

What travelers are saying.