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Top 20 Tourist Attractions in Uganda

Here is our selection of the top attractions and things to do in Uganda.

We will mention some attractions in the cities, countryside, protected areas and tours. We will also mention some travel bloggers who have visited these areas to give their own opinion.

Gorilla Watching in Bwindi National Park

A main reason to visit Uganda from a nature perspective is to enjoy incredible mountain gorilla trekking tours. The gorillas are only found in this region.

Mountain gorillas differ from their lowland cousins as their fur is thicker and adapted to the colder temperature at high altitude.

Gorillas live in groups of around 10 individuals and are led by the most powerful silverback with the rest of the group comprising females and younger males. The silverback makes important decisions for the group and protects them from danger.

To see these animals, you can enjoy gorilla tours from Kisoro, which is about 460 kilometres (290 mi) from the capital city of Kampala. Kisoro is located in a fantastic area of Uganda and is in the African Great Lakes region.

This is where the African continent is slowly splitting apart revealing the beautiful lake scenery. Because of the incredible landscape, many people refer to this part of the continent as the Switzerland of Africa.

From Kisoro, you have access to the incredible Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

There are comfortable lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which is one of the best places to see the gorillas and was named after the forest’s many stands of bamboo.

Bwindi contains many other animals as well as the gorillas and protects around 90 species of mammals, including 10 different primates. This is the richest area in for mammals in Uganda and there are many other species to see, such as the black and white colobus monkeys, green monkeys, Schmidt’s red-tailed monkeys, and duiker.

There are currently about 400 gorillas in Bwindi and the number has been increasing steadily over the years. Many researchers feel the slow growth of the population can be attributed mainly to visitors wanting to see the gorillas, which helps provide money and global attention for the remarkable animals. Your can learn more about Uganda’s gorillas here .

The gorillas are spread among 15 habituated groups, which you can visit on tour by purchasing a gorilla permit and booking a stay at one of the wonderful gorillas lodges.

One of the most accessible gorillas groups from Kisoro is the Nkuringo group, which you can visit on tours from the highly regarded Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge .

Positioned high on the Nteko Ridge, the Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge provides incredible views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and offers a comfortable base to explore the region.

Activities at the lodge include:

• Visiting Batwa pygmies
• Enjoying a guided village walk
• A guided multi-day trek to/from Kisoro via Lake Mutanda
• Walking through Bwindi Forest to the park headquarters at Buhoma
• Tracking the Nkuringo Gorilla family (assuming you have a tracking permit).
• Tracking the Nshongi Gorilla family at Rushaga (assuming you have a permit).
• Simply enjoy the amazing vistas of the gallery forests of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Virunga volcanoes

To contact the Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge, you can use the tour bubble below, which sends you request directly to the lodge to organize your Ugandan experience.

Enjoy a tailor-made experience depending on your budget, days available and choice of accommodation. Your tour can be extended to include Kibale Forest to see chimpanzees, Queen Elizabeth National Park for a wildlife safari and Lake Mburo, to name just a few options.

The Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge

Positioned on the Nteko Ridge overlooking the world famous Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, the award-winning Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge provides a fantastic ...

Bird Watching in Bwindi National Park

In addition to the gorillas in Bwindi, the birds here are also incredible and the forest ranks as one of East Africa’s best regions for birdlife and birdwatching.

From some of the Bwindi Lodges, such as the Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge or the Mahogany Springs Safari Lodge, you will have some fantastic birdwatching opportunities. Head out with your knowledgeable guide to spot many of the fascinating birds that call this forest home.

The favorite species to find in the forest include the Turner’s eremomela, Chapin’s flycatchers, Shelley’s crimson-wings, African green broadbills, bee-eaters, Grauer’s swamp warbler, and the abundance of butterflies

The drier months, which are June to August (most tourists) and December to February (less tourists) are the favored time to visit Bwindi, but birders may prefer the wetter months for a higher chance of seeing more bird activity. The wetter months are then from March to April and September to November.

The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest contains some fantastic habitat for a variety of birds and there are around 350 different birds recorded with 23 birds only found in this region. This means the forest is home to 90% of all Albertine Rift endemics.

Other favorites to find in the Bwindi area include the black billed turaco, black bee-eater, blue-headed sunbird, short-tailed warbler, bar-tailed blue trogon, and kivu ground thrush, yellow eyed black flycatcher, Garner’s warbler, Africa blue and white-tailed blue flycatchers and red-headed bluebill.

There are some different birding trails around the area, including the Ivy river trail, Kashasha river valley, Buhoma waterfall trails, and the Mubwindi swamp trail in Ruhija. Birders visiting the Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge who want to focus on endemics have especially enjoyed visiting a small pocket forest named Nombe.

There are a team of very enthusiastic birding guides at the Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge and you can organize some specific birding itineraries.

Hike from Kisoro to Nkuringo and Buhoma

Given the fantastic scenery of the region, there are many different hiking opportunities to see the area.

Local guides who know the region best will show you the most scenic hiking trails, such as between the hamlet of Buhoma on the north side of the Bwindi Forest National Park and the town of Kisoro in south western Uganda.

The classic and much loved walking trail is between Kisoro and Buhoma, which you can also combine with a gorilla trekking adventure. The usual amount of time to do the trek is over two days where you will enjoy fantastic views, including the incredible Virunga Volcanoes.

Spend a night on the shore of Lake Mutanda, which you will then cross in traditional dugout canoe to begin your trek. We will then follow village trails to see fantastic scenery to enjoy rainforest, mountains, the lake, and the form of the land.

While on the walk, you will enjoy some fantastic cultural experiences to see how people live in this part of Africa. In addition to this and the incredible scenery, there is a lot of wildlife to see enroute, such as many different interesting birds, monkeys, and if you choose, you can combine with a memorable gorilla trek to see these gentle giants of the forest.

There are many other trails in the region to make the most of the spectacular mountainous scenery, such as the walks to the different volcanoes of Mt. Margarita (5109m) Mt. Rwenzori, and the Elgon Wagagai Peak (4321m).

This tour can be arranged with the Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge .

See Chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park

Near Queen Elizabeth National Park in the west of Uganda you can find the Kibale Forest National Park.

Although these forests are connected and chimpanzees are found in the Queen Elizabeth National Park, we recommend seeing our closest relatives in the Kibale area, as it’s a little easier to find the chimpanzees.

In fact, the Kibale Forest is recommended as the best place in the whole of East Africa for seeing chimpanzees.

The most popular trail in the park is the walk from the Kanyanchu Visitor Center, which lasts about three hours to visit the chimps and to see a diversity of wildlife enroute. When we encounter the chimpanzee groups, visitors are allowed to spend a maximum of one hour observing the fascinating animals, as they play, feed, and relax in their group.

The 7-Day Primate Tour

Currently, TourTheTropics.com cannot help you book this experience. However, you can visit the tour operator's website for more information.

As with the gorilla treks, to visit the chimpanzees we recommend booking your chimpanzee visiting permit and tour in advance, as visits per day are tightly controlled for the chimpanzees’ welfare and they quickly book up.

In addition to the chimpanzees in Kibale, you will also encounter some of the other primates inhabiting the area, such as blue & red-tailed monkeys, red-colobus mangabeys, and the grey-cheeked mangabeys swinging in the forest’s canopy. Another of the favorite trails is the Kanyanchu Primate Walk to see some of the park’s thirteen species of primate.

To combine the chimpanzees in Kibale with the gorillas, enjoy the 10-day Primate Tour .

Savanna Wildlife Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park

The Queen Elizabeth National Park region is the most popular tourist destination in Uganda, which is linked to the area’s diversity. The protected area contains many different wildlife-filled habitats, such as forests, wetlands, savanna grasslands, and a number of lakes.

The Queen Elizabeth National Park sits in the western side of Uganda, which is a few hours drive southwest of the country’s capital and largest city, Kampala. There are a few different towns close to the protected area such as Kasese and Bushenyi.

The park contains a lot of wildlife, such as the iconic African safari animals, but is also fortunate to protect a population of our closest relatives, the chimpanzees. Towards the north and across Lake George, the park connects to the Kibale Forest National Park mentioned above.

You can enjoy game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park to search for the icons of the African plains, such as lions, elephants, antelopes, and buffaloes. There are over 200 km of game tracks throughout the park we can explore.

Being part of African Great Lakes region, there are some fantastic lakes to visit where you can enjoy cruises on the glistening waters to scout for a range of wildlife. There is also a fantastic channel to enjoy between Lake Edward and Lake George to see hippopotamus, Nile crocodiles and birdlife.

In addition to exploring the area on game drives, one of the most spectacular ways to experience these savanna environments is by hot air balloon, which you can book as an add-on experience.

Golden Monkey Trekking

The golden monkeys are a fantastic group of primates to see in the wild and can be encountered on guided treks through the forest. There are a couple of different areas to find the monkeys, but the best place to track the monkeys in Uganda is the Mgahinga National Park at the foot of the Virunga Mountains.

The monkeys enjoy hanging around the stands of bamboo forest within these protected areas and the monkeys are now used to people, which means they’re more easily observed. However, the monkeys move fast so make sure you’re using your fastest lens speed.

The golden monkeys make a fantastic add-on experience to enjoy with the gorillas or the chimpanzees. The trip provides an ideal short stay to experience the Virunga Mountains. This is where you find the monkeys, as there are only a few thousand individuals remaining. On tours to see these fascinating primates, you can visit the habituated groups for an hour at a time.

Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary protects Uganda’s only wild rhinos and is located just north of Kampala near the famous Murchison Falls.

In total, the sanctuary protects 15 rhinos and is also a fantastic place to see other wildlife.

Enjoy bird watching, nature walks, relaxing, and of course finding and watching the rhinos. The rangers of the sanctuary will guide you around the reserve to find the wildlife, including the rhinos themselves, crocodiles, hippos, antelopes and much more.

Birders often enjoy the reserve and spend time finding some of the 250 different species. You can find some fascinating birds within the sanctuary boundaries, including a number of rare species.

The sanctuary was founded by various wildlife and conservation organizations in an attempt to restore Uganda’s rhinoceros population.

The sanctuary protects rhinos while they breed and grow. They are then re-introduced into Uganda’s protected areas, such as Queen Elizabeth National Park. While awaiting their reintroduction, visitors can enjoy seeing these remarkable animals while helping to spread the importance of rhino conservation in the country.

A total of 80 rangers and guards watch over the sanctuary day and night to maintain the animals’ safety.

The sanctuary covers 7, 000 hectares, which you can explore with your highly trained ranger. You can enjoy different facilities and infrastructure, such as a tourist lodge, camping area, and budget guesthouses to accommodate all types of tourists.

Visit Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls is a fantastic natural attraction located in the aptly named Murchison Falls National Park, which with a few other protected areas create the Murchison National Park. The park has been visited by the likes of Winston Churchill, Ernest Hemingway, and various royals over the years.

The protected area is home to many different animals, including hippos, crocodiles, lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, antelopes, chimpanzees, and many different birds.

However, because of intense hunting in the 1900s, the wildlife is not as it once was. Animal populations have been recovering and you’re sure to see some examples, including some of Africa’s icons.

This is the largest national park in Uganda and the Murchison Falls sits as the jewel in the crown of the protected area. The falls was named after a president of the Royal Geographical Society and is the main attraction.

Visit Kampala

Kampala is Uganda’s capital city and makes a fascinating stop on your Ugandan adventure. This is a great place to spend a day or two experiencing the country’s most important city. Ugandans in general are very friendly and Kampala offers a more relaxed atmosphere than its neighbor of Nairobi across the Kenyan border.

The city is relatively calm and safe. So much so, Kampala has a stable expat community with many different NGOs running various humanitarian and conservation projects. The city has some modern areas with top of the line restaurants and bars, which is where expats and visitors enjoy spending their time.

You can enjoy many different markets selling a variety of produce, clothing, and crafts. There are also different attractions to see in the city itself, which will keep you entertained over a couple of days. These include temples, cathedrals, markets, galleries, areas of historical significance, and museums.

Despite being an old building in need of a little love, a popular attraction is the old Uganda National Museum. This shows the cultural heritage of the country, including exhibits on Uganda’s cultural and natural history. There are also a few different galleries you can enjoy that display paintings, photography, sculptures, and exhibits from local artists.

Visit the Ndere Center

The Ndere Center is a highly recommended attraction to experience the country’s traditional dance and music.

For a few days a week the center has a high energy show of Ugandan culture. Enjoy a dinner and theater performance and see dances from a variety of Uganda’s tribes. The show takes place in a 700-seat amphitheater on Sundays at 6pm, Wednesday at 7pm, and Fridays from 7pm.

The Ndere name is from the word for flute, which is the symbol of the troupe because of its diverse and beautiful sound, but also as it’s one of the only musical instruments found across all cultures and is a metaphor for unity.

The mission of the center and its dancers and musicians is to help rekindle a sense of pride for Ugandan culture while promoting it to the world. A team of dedicated Ugandans carefully research and respectfully present parts of all the cultures that make up the Ugandan people.

Historically, a repeated theme across sub-Saharan Africa is that information didn’t exist in written form. Instead, the information was passed between generations through performances, such as dance, storytelling, poetry, and music.

The Ndere Troupe are a definite must-see attraction in Uganda and the award-winning performers have been practicing their art for nearly 25 years.

See Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is the world’s largest freshwater tropical lake and sits as the jewel in the crown of Africa’s Great Lakes region.

Sitting across the borders of Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, this is where the Nile begins, which is one of the world’s most historically significant rivers.

The lake itself is home to some fascinating features, such as the different islands and reefs. Around 200 species of fish and over 350 different birds call the Lake Victoria region home, which you can spot on some fascinating lake tours.

The peninsulas and islands of Lake Victoria are home to some luxury lodges where you can relax near the glistening waters and take tours around the lake to see some of the unique features and wildlife.

A great place to experience the Lake Victoria region from Uganda is the town of Entebbe. From here, you can feel the breeze from the fantastic lake.

Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and the botanical gardens, which are visited by many different bird species. You can also meet one of the sources of the great Nile in Jinja to imagine where this river runs and the history linked to this incredible waterway.

The most popular Lake Victoria island to visit from Entebbe is Ngamba Island, which is home to a private chimpanzee sanctuary protecting orphaned chimpanzees.

The sanctuary was set up by the Chimpanzees Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust (CSWCT) and funded by a number of organizations, including the Born Free Foundation, the International Fund for Animal Welfare, and the Jane Goodall Institute.

See Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is located close to Kisoro and Kabale near the border with neighboring Rwanda.

This is one of the largest of Africa’s lakes by depth and contains 29 different islands. Not just a popular tourist attraction for international visitors, the lake is also a popular relaxation destination for locals. Around the lake, you can find the towns of Muko and Kyevu, and you can enjoy a range of lakeside accommodation.

There are few buildings on the islands, aside from some infrastructure for tourists and a couple of schools. The main community is the Bufuka Village, which is mainly composed of members of the Bakiga and Batwa tribes.

A popular attraction is to see the traditional dances of the Batwa. Another of the favorite things to do here is to take a cruise and go island hopping around Lake Bunyonyi.

The real spectacle of the lake, however, is the incredible scenery. For its beauty alone, the lake is regarded by many visitors as one of their favorite destinations.

Because of its proximity to Bwindi Forest for gorilla trekking, which is the main reason visitors venture to this corner of Africa, the lake makes a fantastic add-on experience to enjoy breathtaking scenery.

Visit Lake Mburo National Park

A relatively small protected area, Lake Mburo National Park is classed as a savanna area containing different wildlife.

You can spot antelopes, hyena, hippo, buffalo, zebra, and many different birds. There is also a lot of woodland because of the lack of elephants. Elephants are ecosystem engineers and usually tame savanna forests.

There are 13 other water bodies in the region, but the star lake is Lake Mburo. Mburo is part of the protected area”s wetland system, which is why it’s such a great place for birdlife. There around 350 different bird species to find and it’s a must-visit birder destination.

There are many different activities to enjoy both on and around Lake Mburo, such as boat cruises on the lake itself to see hippos, crocodiles, and a number of different birds. Around the lake, you can then enjoy game drives in the protected area to spot the different African wildlife. You will easily find zebra and impala, which are the stars of the park.

See the Kasubi Tombs

Another attraction in Kampala, to learn a little of the region’s cultural history we recommend a tour of the Kasubi Tombs. This is a Unesco World Heritage Listed Site and the burial ground of four Ugandan kings.

Originally built in 1882 as the palace of Kabaka Mutesa I, this was converted to his tomb after his death. The site later became the burial place of the three following kings.

The site gives a look at Buganda culture, and not only the care they took over their royalty, but other culturally important artifacts, such as the Buganda drums used to communicate important events over long distances.

The palace is composed of around 35 buildings and around 300 people live on the grounds themselves. A fireplace is in the middle of the area where the fire is kept lit to warm the spirits.

The Buganda Kingdom is the largest of Uganda’s four tribal kingdoms and has a high cultural importance for the country. On tours of the palace, you will learn about the various practices and rituals of the Buganda. A visit gives a fascinating insight into some of Uganda’s traditional ways of life.

See Lake Mutanda

A small and beautiful lake in the Kisoro District of south-west Uganda, Lake Mutanda is in an area affectionately known as Little Switzerland .

The lake can be visited from Kisoro and resides in the African Great Lakes area at the foot of the Virunga Mountains. The mountains are across the Ugandan border, which can be seen from the lake. From here, you can see Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabinyo and Mount Gahinga.

The lake contains different islands and is drained by the Rutshuru River. The forests around the lake provides home for a number of fascinating animals and plants, including habitat for the mountain gorillas.

The gorillas and a healthy population of golden monkeys live in a nearby protected area called the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Closer to the lake, you can then find other wildlife, such as many different birds

Enjoy spotting cranes, ibis, weaver birds, and different kingfishers. The forests are also home to different chameleons, monitors, and a variety of frogs. Enjoy tours over the lake to focus on scenery, relaxation, or birdwatching.

You can also enjoy a visit to Kyangushu Island and village trips to see how the locals live their lives. Visit the Mutanda Island, which is the largest of the inhabited islands where you can enjoy views of the Congo border, Bwindi National Park, and Lake Mulehe.

Visit the Ssesi Islands

The Ssese Islands are an archipelago in Lake Victoria that deserve their own mention. Positioned in the north-west corner of the lake, the largest of these islands is Bugala Island where you can find Kalangala town.

The Sesse Islands are home to the Bantu tribe and is a spiritual location for the local people.

Some of the 84 different islands are only 10,000 square metres (2.5 acres) in size. Bugala Island (the largest) is around 275 square kilometers (67,000 acres). Around half of the archipelago is inhabited. The ecnomoy here is focused on fishing for the Nile perch and tourism.

The islands are home a variety of animals and you can spot several different monkeys on guided tours. To relax, you can also visit the beautiful white-sand beaches.

Although not full of activities, the archipelago offers attractive scenery and makes an excellent relaxation spot for a few nights, as there are a number of accommodation options. There are also areas where you can hire a canoe and have a paddle around.

Visit a Local Market

Markets in Uganda offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of the local people and make an interesting experience for visitors.

There are a few different markets to visit in and around Kampala, such as the famed Owino and Nakasero markets. Owino is known for its hustle and bustle with chaotic looking stalls, whereas Nakasero is a little more relaxed and a preferred first choice.

Owino market is understandably chaotic, as this is one the largest in this area of Africa. The most abundant product sold is second hand clothing, but you can really find most things in the market, such as traditional medicine and electronics.

Stand at the Equator

A popular attraction is to visit the equator, which is one of the most famous landmarks in the country.

The mark represents the section of Earth that receives more sunlight than any other. Because of this, it’s where you find the world’s most wildlife-rich forests. Tropical rainforests cover just 7% of the world’s surface, but contain 50% of all the Earth’s animals and plants.

The equator passes straight through Uganda. The main equator landmark is about 70 km from Kampala towards the south west of the district. This takes about one hour to reach from the city. However, there are also markers in other areas. You can find other markers in the Queen Elizabeth National Park, which is Uganda’s largest national park.

See the Start of the Nile

While you’re in this region of Africa, it’s worth seeing the start of the Nile River. Imagine the important events in history and the countries this great river has touched before gushing into the Mediterranean Sea.

This all starts in this region and you can visit one of the Nile’s sources.

The Nile is one of the longest rivers in the world and ranks as the world’s largest alongside the Amazon River in South America. You can see one of the sources of this incredible waterway at Jinja, which is about a two hour drive from Kampala through the Mabira forest.

You can enjoy some boat trips around the lake and visit the hydroelectric power plant at Bujagali Falls. The area around Jinja is also known as the adventure capital of East Africa. You can enjoy mountain biking, horse riding, and other adrenaline activities. The town itself is also worth a visit to see some examples of colonial architecture.

While here, there are many different accommodation options to choose from to make your stay comfortable. The lodges can often arrange your tours and cruises in the region to help maximize your experience at the start of the Nile.

Try the Food

It’s always one of the best attractions to sample the local cuisine and Uganda is no exception to the rule. Enjoy a variety of tasty dishes to learn more about Ugandan culture.

Fish features prominently on the menu due to the number of lakes and rivers in the country, such as tilapia with a peanut sauce. In addition to fish, meat stews are a popular food. The influences for flavor include Arabian, Asian, and English dishes. Indian spices and food were popular in Uganda, which have been incorporated into a number of dishes.

Many of the different tribes in Uganda have their own traditional dishes. Traditional cuisine revolves around potatoes, vegetables, chicken, pork, fish, bananas, and yams. Peanuts and sesame seeds feature a lot in Ugandan cuisine and add a delicious flavor when combined with some of the other ingredients.

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

By: Author Bryan Haines

Posted on Last updated: September 24, 2021

Categories Uganda Travel

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 .

Table of Contents

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.

• About the Author
• Latest Posts

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 .

• Galapagos Sea Turtles: Visitors Guide to All 4 Species
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Tuesday 1st of March 2022

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

Saturday 16th of October 2021

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

Bawaali isah

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

Wednesday 6th of October 2021

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

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Top Attractions in Uganda. 20+ places to visit in Uganda in 2024

The wide array of tourist attractions in Uganda makes the country is one of Africa’s major travel destinations, welcoming visitors from all around the world. Tourists in Uganda enjoy classic wildlife safaris out on the savannah as well as close encounters with the great apes – chimpanzees and mountain gorillas.

The beauty and diversity of both nature and the people are what make Uganda unique and truly live up to its name, the pearl of Africa.

With warm and sunny days all year round, Uganda is a perfect destination for tourists from all around the world. Whatever the interests and budget, we know that Uganda will deliver on the promise of a spectacular and authentic African travel experience.

In this article, we’ll highlight some of the top attractions in Uganda that are worth visiting. Whether it is gorillas, wildlife, culture, or mountains that you want, there are several options for you.

We have linked to some of our safari packages and you can check them out for inspiration towards your own journey.

Best places to visit in Uganda in 2024

1. bwindi impenetrable national park.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a renowned home for endangered mountain gorillas. Although it is not the only place where these incredible animals can be observed, it is the most popular destination for gorilla trekking.

Visitors to Bwindi get to hike through dense forests and navigate steep slopes to reach their assigned gorilla family. The challenging hike is well worth the effort, as the experience of spending time with the gorillas is truly unforgettable. The hour you are allowed to spend with the gorillas will pass by in the blink of an eye. 

In addition to its famous residents, Bwindi is also home to a wide variety of other animals and birds, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. A visit to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is an unforgettable and rewarding experience.

Here is a standalone itinerary for gorilla tracking in Bwindi. Gorilla tracking Safari in Uganda (by road) – 4 Days

2. Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. The park is bisected by the Victoria Nile, which plunges 40 meters over the remnant rift valley wall, creating the dramatic Murchison Falls, the centerpiece of the park and the final event in an 80 km stretch of rapids.

A boat ride along the Nile River to the foot of Murchison Falls is a spectacular experience of seeing a lot of wildlife such as crocodiles, elephants, hippos, buffalos and many birds among others. A hike around the top of the falls brings the thump of the powerful fall below your feet, and right at the falls, the endless spray and ever present rainbow can only be described as remarkable.

Beyond the most powerful waterfall in the world – and the river Nile, Murchison falls is home to 70+ mammal species including giraffes, elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, and many other antelope species. Many of our wildlife trip include Murchison Falls because it offers a great experience that can’t be had anywhere else.

Here is a standalone safari to Murchison Falls to give you a great idea of what await you there. 3 Days Murchison Falls Wildlife Safari

3. Kibale National Park

Kibale National Park is regarded as the Primate capital of the world because it is home to 13 different species of primates. It is most popular as a home for chimpanzees.

It is the best place where you can see chimpanzees in their wild habitat. With around 5000 wild chimpanzees, tourists go to Kibale every day of the year to have their own encounter with our closest animal cousins – the chimps.

Besides the chimpanzees, you will see many other primates – even before entering the park, as well as many bird species that call the thick forests home.

Here is a popular safari package that includes Kibale as well as the other attractions in western Uganda. Group Adventure Holiday in Uganda – 7 Days

4. Kampala City

Kampala is Uganda’s biggest city and a melting pot of culture. From the Buganda Kingdom, Religious & cultural spots, and the fast paced nature of Kampala downtown. visiting and exploring Kampala is a great way of truly understanding what makes Uganda hard to describe.

Places like the Gadaffi Mosque, Uganda Martyrs Shrine, Bahai Temple, and Uganda Museum are full of history. As the biggest urban center, Kampala is also the place where one can witness the mix of many Ugandan and foreign cultures to make something that is truly beautiful.

5. Rwenzori Mountains.

While Uganda enjoys warm sunny days all year round, the highest altitude in Uganda is covered by permanent glaciers. The Rwenzori Mountains , also called the mountains of the moon are a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of their astounding beauty.

Whether you want to climb up to the summit at 5,109 meters above sea level, or you prefer a shorter climb, Rwenzori’s beauty is out of this world. Forests, ridges, glaciers, waterfalls, lakes, rivers, animals, birds and views like you have never seen before – it is all in the Rwenzori mountains.

Here is a safari program that perfectly combines climbing to the peak of Mount Rwenzori with gorillas and chimps. Gorilla & Rwenzori Expedition Safari in Uganda – 15 Days

6. Ssese Islands in Lake Victoria

The Ssese Islands are a group of more than 80 islands in lake Victoria, Uganda. The Islands are well-loved for their perfect beaches that call for an evening of relaxing and watching the sunset disappear in the distance.

While the islands are quite well known, they are still not very popular and do not have many crowds, which makes them ideal for a quiet beach getaway in Uganda. This could be a lone trip or the final part of a trip that goes to the other parts of Uganda.

If you’re looking for a convenient and exciting destination near the airport in Uganda, look no further than Entebbe . This historic town, located near the airport, offers a variety of attractions for travelers of all interests .

You can spend the day relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Lake Victoria, explore the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, or learn about Uganda’s unique wildlife at the Reptile Village and the Uganda Wildlife Education Center (Entebbe Zoo) .

Additionally, Entebbe is rich in history, with its origins as a colonial administration center still evident in the town’s architecture and landmarks . The various places in Entebbe are ideal for a quick visit especially if you have little time and would like to stay near the airport.

Related article: Top 5 places to visit in & around Entebbe in Uganda

8. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is found in western Uganda and still stands as Uganda’s most popular savannah park. From the tree-climbing lions to the schools of hippos along the Kazinga channel, QENP is a top attraction worth visiting for all the rich wildlife.

Animals like elephants, buffalos, and hippos can even be spotted easily while crossing on the Kasese-Mbarara Highway. It is deep in the park that you will see bigger herds of animals on game drives, as the Rwenzori mountains peak out from distant clouds to give you the perfect backdrop.

Another huge advantage to visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park is its proximity to other attractions like Rwenzori, Kibale, Semuliki, and Bwindi all of which are easy to drive to in a short amount of time.

Here is a safari package that combines a visit to Queen Elizabeth with other activities like rafting, tracking chimps & gorillas, and much more in an epic 2 weeks of adventure. Uganda Wildlife & Activity Holiday – 15 Days.

9. Mount Elgon National Park

Mount Elgon is the main physical feature of the Mount Elgon National Park and sits on the border that separates Uganda and Kenya. Rising to more than 4000 meters above sea level, Mount Elgon is full of astounding beauty in the various climate zones as you ascend up to the summit.

At the top of Mount Elgon, there is the biggest mountain caldera in the whole world, with hot springs, geysers, and generally an out-of-this-world feeling. In of June 2023, UNESCO designated Mount Elgon Biosphere Reserve (share between Uganda and Kenya) as a World Heritage Man And Biosphere Reserve.

For those interested in Mountain climbing, Mount Elgon is the easier alternative to the Rwenzori ranges which happen to be a tougher challenge than Kilimanjaro.

10. Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is often described as a compact little gem of wildlife. It is the closest, national park, to Kampala and can be reached in about 4 hours of driving along the Kampala – Mbarara Highway – just before reaching Mbarara.

Lake Mburo is more popularly known for its large population of zebras. The giraffes that were only introduced a few years ago are also thriving and can be seen on your visit.

Unlike the other savannah park, Lake Mburo doesn’t have dangerous predators and visitors can go on long guided walking safaris in the park to get close to the zebras, giraffes and kobs.

Lake Mburo is neighbored by private ranches of the Bahima and guests can learn about the Ankole traditions as well as try some experiences like milking the Ankole long-horned cows.

11. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the other national park in Uganda where mountain gorillas can be seen. The park is located in the southwestern corner of Uganda and directly borders the other parks in Rwanda and D.R. Congo where gorillas live.

Beyond the gorillas, Mgahinga is home to golden monkeys and the three volcanic mountains are worth climbing. One of the mountains, Sabinyo can be hiked and at the summit, you will be able to stand in 3 countries at once.

12. Sipi Falls, Kapchorwa

The Sipi Falls is a group of 3 waterfalls in Eastern Uganda, just outside the borders of the Mount Elgon National Park. They are probably the most popular waterfalls for Ugandans, because of the engaging hike through the local villages.

Beyond the waterfalls, the more adventurous visitor can engage in activities like rock climbing or abseiling down the waterfall. Sipi is in the coffee growing area and a coffee tour and tasting are something to not miss.

Related article: Things to do in Sipi Falls.

13. Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park is one of Africa’s purest Wildernesses. It is located in Uganda’s northeastern corner on the border with Kenya and South Sudan. It is quite far from all the other parks and tourist attractions and this has helped keep it different and untamed in the most beautiful way.

In Kidepo, you will be able to see elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, hippos, zebras, giraffes and so much more in animals, birds, and stunning landscapes.

Located 80 kilometers east of Kampala, Jinja is regarded as the adventure capital of East Africa because of all the things one can do and enjoy on a visit to Jinja. Besides the source of the Nile, jinja is popular for activities like rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, quad biking, and much more.

Jinja is a perfect place to visit on its own or as part of a longer safari that includes several other places around Uganda. The adventure side of Jinja makes it one of the top attractions in Uganda worth visiting.

15. Semuliki National Park

Semulki National Park is the only park in Uganda that perfectly combines the ecosystems of Eastern Africa with those of Central Africa. This makes it a home for animals from both sides of the continent.

Semuliki is also known for its hot springs (male & female), which are believed to have many healing powers for the locals. Semuliki is often visited for the great birding opportunities that come as a result of the blended ecosystem.

Here is a birding safari that goes to Semuliki for colorful birds. Uganda birding safari for Albertine Endemics – 20 Days

16. Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is located in Kabale, just close enough to the top Uganda tourist attractions of Bwindi and Mgahinga where mountain gorillas can be seen. Bunyonyi has positioned itself as a perfect relaxing spot for tourists, especially after their gorilla-tracking experiences in the rainforest.

It is Uganda’s deepest lake and has more than 20 small islands which can be explored by local wooden boats. The lake is free of any dangerous animals and completely safe for swimming.

Birding on the lake is a fun activity that can also extend to the neighboring local community for some cultural encounters with the Bakiga people who inhabit the area.

Related articles: Top places to visit in Uganda for a honeymoon

17. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

Because of instability during the 1970s, rhinos in Uganda became extinct due to poaching. In 2005, rhinos were reintroduced and given a new home – the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary . The number of rhinos has since increased steadily and they are able to live in the wild with many other animals that live in the sanctuary.

Many visitors to Ziwa love to observe the rhinos on foot and feel like one with the surrounding environment. Ziwa is a popular stopover for people continuing to Murchison Falls National Park.

18. Uganda Martyrs Shrine

This happened at Namungongo where the Uganda Martyrs are celebrated every year on June 3rd. If you are someone of Christian faith, you can also try to organize your safari around the start of June so that you can join in on the celebrations with all the Ugandan and international pilgrims.

Christian faithful might be aware of these martyrs of religion, but the story is inspiring to everyone regardless of the faith you practice. Because, instead of slowing down the spread of new religions and ideas, the Uganda Martyrs accelerated the growth of the faith.

19. Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is a community-driven local conservation project for preserving and protecting the Magombe swamp. Bigodi is located just outside of Kibale National Park where visitors get a chance to see chimps in the wild.

The swamp is home to more than 10 species of primates and hundreds of bird species which makes the Swamp walk interesting. Given that this is a local community project, a visit here directly gives back to the community and further conservation of the wetland.

20. Nyero Rock Paintings

The Nyeo rock paintings were first documented in 1913 and are believed to be older than 800 years. They are among the most important rock painting in Uganda and are believed to have a connection to the Batwa hunter-gatherers who might have lived in the area at the time.

Currently, the Batwa form a minority tribe that lives near the various forested areas along the border of Uganda and DR. Congo.

21. Mabamba Swamp

The Mabamba Swamp on the shores of lake Victoria is the best place to see the shoebill stork in Uganda. It is probably the best place in the whole of Africa and the world.

The shoebill is fascinating to both casual and avid birders and many tourists enjoy a birding experience in Mabamba where they see the shoebill among many other birds. Its close location makes it ideal as an activity at the end of a longer safari, or as a standalone birding experience for someone who is only in Uganda shortly for other business and can only spare a day.

Final Thoughts

It goes without mentioning that this list of top attractions in Uganda only scratches the surface, and serves to give you an idea of what most tourists love doing in any of the various places. Depending on your own interests, some places might be more appealing than others.

Most of our safari packages often include several of the above attractions but they are highly customizable to fit our guests’ preferences, schedules, and interests. Therefore, rather than overwhelm you, we hope this list of top attractions in Uganda inspires your next safari to Uganda.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to talk to us and we shall give you all the answers from our experience of living, working, and running tours in Uganda for years.

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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

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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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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.

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.

I'm a travel content creator, amateur photographer, apprentice field guide and nature & wildlife enthusiast with a background in social services as a People Manager at the Dutch government.I'm not only interested in the places we visit, but also inspired by the stories behind the people that call these places their home, and what we can learn from them - with a special love for the African continent.Apart from my love for traveling for the ourplanetinmylens.com platform, I also have a huge passion for music. I'm a singer; sometimes acoustic, but mostly together with my pop-rock band. Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions about traveling our planet, nature, and photography.We hope you're enjoying our free travel tips and photos taken on our planet. If so, please consider supporting our work by buying us a coffee through https://ko-fi.com/ourplanetinmylens

Home » Travel Guides » Uganda » 15 Best Places to Visit in Uganda

15 Best Places to Visit in Uganda

Marred in the minds of many a tourist by the ever-present threat of one Joseph Kony and his so-called Lord’s Resistance Army, the nation of Uganda is actually one of Africa’s up-and-coming gems. Yes, you’ll have to be careful, and there are warnings that need to be heeded about traveling to the contested and conflicted areas of the northern territories.

However, Uganda is, for the most part, a safe and enthralling place. It’s a land where hippos humph through the wetlands and lions laze in the acacias. It’s a land of rain-stained forests and misty  hills that house chimpanzees. It’s got the lapping waters of Lake Victoria, and the winding channels of the Victoria Nile to boot. Vistas of rock-ribbed mountains and standalone volcanos conquer the peripheries, shooting up to craggy summits where waterfalls and thunderstorms coalesce. Meanwhile, Kampala is a pulsating city, steeped in tribal ancestry and life. It’s an all-round top African adventure!

Lets explore the best places to visit in Uganda :

The ancestral capital of the Buganda kingdom is modern day Uganda’s capital too.

And for an African first city, it’s got real charm and panache.

You can still see some of the thatched relics of the former glory years at the Kasubi Tombs, or you can taste the frenetic energy of day-to-day Ugandan life between the sun-cracked streets of Central Kampala; a place of throbbing markets (the city’s Owino market is said to be the largest in Central-east Africa) and echoing mosque minarets (that soaring Gaddafi National Mosque is a must!). On the edge of town is the more straight-laced area of Nakasero Hill, where well-to-do villas house the country’s elite and expats chatter in the ramshackle bars.

2. Kibale National Park

Pierce into the dense jungles and wetland forests of the great Kibale National Park and you won’t be disappointed! What awaits is one of the world’s most awesome arrays of wild chimpanzee packs, and you can see these majestic simians of Central Africa trawling through the undergrowth and commanding the canopies on game drives and safari excursions of all different types.

There’s a kaleidoscope of other curious little monkeys to spot too, like the rare L’Hoest’s and the Ugandan red colobus.

It’s also possible to wonder up at ancient fig trees, and see some more recent efforts to create sustainable coffee plantations in the area.

3. Ssese Islands

A cocktail of golden sands worthy of Latin America, sun-kissed beaches and lapping waves, the archipelago of the Ssese Islands is Uganda’s answer to the tropical gems of the East African coast on the Indian Ocean.

Peppering the waters of Lake Victoria, they are considered the country’s premier rest and relaxation spot, with the popular Buggala Island and Bulago coming up top of the menu.

You can either kick-back in one of the lakeside resorts, or wax up the walking boots and make for the hills, where hippo-dotted swamps hide between the ridges.

Kayaks and other watersports are also available on Buggala.

4. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park really does live up to its name! A land of rocky peaks and endless green, it’s covered in some of Africa’s oldest primeval forestry.

The biodiversity – think geckos next to gorillas next to a multitude of curious insects – garnered the spot a UNESCO World Heritage tag, while most safari goers head this way in search of colobus monkeys and chimpanzees.

The breathtaking landscapes are typical of the Albertine Rift.

They rise and fall to untrodden valleys and summits, with quartzite massifs here and teak-shrouded riverways there.

It’s definitely one to write home about!

5. Murchison Falls National Park

Named for the roaring cataracts that carve right through their middle, the wilds of the Murchison Falls National Park are unquestionably some of the most amazing in north-western Uganda.

The protected area is actually the largest national park in the country, with a whopping count of nearly 4,000 square kilometers between its borders.

The biggest attraction is – of course – the point where the Victoria Nile crashes through a tight-knit gorge and over an escarpment of more than 40 meters in height.

However, travelers can also look forward to stalking lions and giraffes and elephants and more!

Entebbe, for most international visitors at least, will be the entrance point to Uganda.

It’s here that the nation’s Entebbe International Airport makes its home; its runways butting up against the waters of Lake Victoria.

Most will also leave promptly, on their way to Kampala or the country’s other far-flung safari destinations.

Those who linger can enjoy a laid-back place that still trundles to the tune of the old British Protectorate – for it’s here that the English colonists made their base in earlier decades.

One of the relics of that age is the beautiful National Botanical Gardens, while there are also charming churches, and the official residence of the president: the Ugandan State House.

7. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Handily named just QENP for short, this huge dash of wilderness that lies close to the banks of Lake Edward and the DRC border in the west is Uganda’s most famous national park.

It’s visited by thousands of tourists each year, who come in search of the lazy Congo lions and the swinging chimps that can be seen mingling between the Maramagambo Forest and the grassy savannah.

The whole area is also scarred by countless volcanic features, going from the awesome Katwe craters to great rifts in the earth, making it an interesting and eye-catching place to go on safari drives and game seeking journeys.

8. Mount Elgon National Park

The rock-ribbed, jungle-topped highlands of the Mount Elgon National Park are peppered with so many natural beauties it can be difficult to describe them all at once.

Cascading down from the extinct caldera of one of Africa’s oldest volcanos, there are waterfalls, dank cave systems, and rugged canyons aplenty.

Visitors can also feel the geothermal activity at a series of hot springs, or wonder upwards, to where African goshawks and elegant bush-shrikes flit through the skies.

Monkey wise, there are the likes of De Brazza’s and colobuses, along with blue monkeys and some other rare simian species.

One of the main transportation and administration hubs of eastern Uganda, tin-shack Mbale hosts its own regional government and a clutch of good hotels and guesthouses.

It’s particularly useful for those on their way to the heights of Mount Elgon and the famous summit of Wagagai – a 24-million-year-old volcano that is the seventeenth highest in all of Africa.

(For the best base of explorations around the hiking trails and glorious mountain’s that erupt around Mbale, be sure to hitch a local minibus out to Bududa.)

Back in the town itself and you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of day-to-day Ugandan life, along with plenty of shops and market stalls.

10. Lake Mburo National Park

Despite being one of the smallest national parks in Uganda, the swaying savannah grasses and riparian habitats of Lake Mburo certainly pack a punch.

They come spotted with buffalo herds and zebras, crossed by prancing reedbucks, and stalked with hyenas.

Today, much of the area is clad in young forestry, which springs up from the swamplands that dominate along the shores of the eponymous lake.

These make for great game viewing during the dry season, when the animals congregate at the watering holes.

What’s more, Lake Mburo National Park is one of the most accessible going, with easy access along the highway from Kampala, the capital.

11. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

You’ll have to go to the far southern depths of Uganda to find the great galumphing beasts of the highlands: mountain gorillas.

The appropriately-named Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the top places to find them too, with its indelibly green rainforests falling down from the windswept heights of cloud-shrouded volcanos.

The area buts up to the famous Virunga Range, and offers game sightings of rare mountain gorillas alongside other awesome creatures – think woodland elephants, golden monkeys, wild hogs and jackals.

Yep, you can see them in the DRC too, but things here just happen to be a little safer!

12. Kidepo Valley National Park

Hidden away in the northern reaches of Uganda (in one of the more dubious and unsafe parts of the country), the Kidepo Valley National Park is a great fly-in visit.

It’s sat a whopping 700 kilometers from the capital, and is known for its remoteness.

Totally undeveloped and untouched by mass safari tourism, the region is the old stomping ground of the Dodoth pastoralists.

These semi-nomads shared the landscapes of savannah and mud plain with oodles of buffalo, hippo, oryx and wild dogs, which can still be seen flitting between the grey-haired acacia groves and wetlands today.

It’s just a short drive along the highways east to the river town of Jinja, which juts out into the waters where the Victoria Nile emerges from its eponymous lake.

Sleepy, sun-cracked and relaxed, the place is the perfect antidote to the energy of life in the capital.

It’s got a clutch of great bars, but is most famed for the wealth of riparian resorts that line the banks.

You’re sure to be able to find something to suit, with everything from pool-peppered boutique hotels to more rustic ecolodges surrounded by monkeys to choose from.

And when you do want to get the blood flowing, be sure to head for the whitewater rapids on the river for some rafting!

14. Fort Portal

Still chuffing after the appearance of tarmacked roads in 2007, the regional town of Fort Portal has a truly enviable position beneath the serrated tips of the mighty Rwenzori National Park.

Chimps and gorillas tread the backcountry close by, giving the place a real feral feel.

However, the center is anything but wild, with human energy dominating the action.

There, it’s all about bustling markets and haggling for local farmer’s produce.

Fort Portal is also a fine base point for launching excursions to the aforementioned Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Lake Edward.

Lira is a little crossroads city in the midst of north-central Uganda.

While it’s actually the fourth-largest in the country, it still manages to retain that charming provincial vibe and sleepiness.

Travelers rarely come here too, adding a dash of off-the-beaten-track character and local authenticity.

Those who do make their way to Lira’s streets get to see a real Ugandan city in action, and even get to hear sobering and visceral stories of the ravaging civil wars of former years – this place was hit particularly badly by the onslaught of Joseph Kony and his private army.

15 Best Places to Visit in Uganda:

• Kibale National Park
• Ssese Islands
• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Murchison Falls National Park
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Mount Elgon National Park
• Lake Mburo National Park
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• Kidepo Valley National Park
• Fort Portal

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28 Brilliant Things To Do In Uganda

Uganda! A country of rolling green hills, misty valleys and craggy mountains. Where lions stalk their prey through grasslands, hippos soak lazily in the shallows, and mountain gorillas move purposefully though tangled forests. Where the calm waters of Lake Victoria transform into the thundering rapids of the River Nile as it makes its way across Africa.

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Less well-known, less-well travelled, but no less enchanting than its East African neighbours, Uganda is a country of surprises and highlights .  But you already know that, otherwise you wouldn’t be reading this blog. You’re here because you’re thinking of going – or perhaps you’ve already booked your trip – and you want to know what are the top things to do in Uganda . Well you’ve absolutely come to the right place.

If you follow this blog you’ll know I spent four months living and working in Uganda , so I got to know the country pretty well. During that time I took the opportunity to visit as many of the tourist attractions in Uganda as possible, and at the end of the trip I did a big two-week Uganda adventure , taking in all of the country’s main highlights.

And now I’ve compiled them all into a list. I’ve personally visited, experienced, blogged about and photographed every single one of these things , and written about some of them for Lonely Planet , so you can rest assured these recommendations are as real and honest as it gets.

So here, in no particular order, is my list of the 28 Best Things To Do In Uganda.

1/ Chimpanzee Trekking

If you’ve read other blogs about Uganda, you may already know that this is one of the last places in the world where you can see the critically endangered mountain gorillas. But far less well-known is the fact that you can also spend time and hanging out with our closest relatives: chimpanzees. These guys might not get as much of the glory as their larger neighbours, but visiting them is just as thrilling an experience, and costs a fraction of the price.

Several of Uganda’s parks and forests, including Kibale Forest and Queen Elizabeth National Park, have habituated chimpanzee families, which have been gently trained to tolerate the presence of humans. A chimpanzee tracking experience can be a half or full day, during which you’ll hike through the forest to find the group, before spending time observing them in the wild. If you’re lucky enough to get close to them, as I did, it’s truly breathtaking. It’s definitely one of the top things to do in Uganda.

Read More:  Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale

2/ Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

That’s not to say that you shouldn’t also visit the gorillas if you’re able to. There are only about 880 mountain gorillas left in the world, of which about half live in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. That means the chance to see them is extremely rare, and is the main reason why this is the number one tourist attraction in Uganda.

Like visiting the chimpanzees, gorilla trekking involves hiking through thick jungle to find your allocated gorilla family – one of just a handful which have been habituated to the presence of humans. Once you’ve found them, you’ll spend a magical hour observing these magnificent creatures in the wild.

The price tag may be eye-watering ($600 last time I updated this blog post) and the going can sometimes be a bit challenging, but when are you ever going to come back to Uganda or have the chance again?

Read More: Gorilla Trekking in Rainy Season

3/ Wildlife Safaris

Uganda may not have the cachet of Tanzania’s Serengeti or Kenya’s Masai Mara, but wildlife spotting is still one of the top tourist attractions in Uganda, and there are more than enough safari animals here to delight even the most discerning of connoisseurs. What’s more, because Uganda is less crowded, you’ll more than likely have the animals all to yourself – and it’s cheaper too!

Uganda has 10 national parks, which are collectively home to more than 350 different mammals, including lions, leopards, hippos, elephants, giraffes, zebras, hyenas and buffalos, as well as over 1000 species of birds . Safaris can be organised through one of Uganda’s many safari companies, or though a small group travel company like G Adventures .

Read more: 46 Amazing African Safari Animals – A Photo Guide

4/ Queen Elizabeth National Park

The largest and many would say the best of Uganda’s National Parks, Queen Elizabeth is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Uganda. Located on the western border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, and right on the equator, the park covers nearly 2000 square kilometres and is home to all of Uganda’s wildlife big-hitters. If you only have time to visit one park, make it this one.

You can easily fill a couple of days here with game drives: try an evening drive to spot elephants feeding or big cats on their way out to hunt, and then get up before dawn to enjoy the sunrise and see the hippos returning to the water after a night grazing. At night, sleep in a safari tent so you can hear the sounds of the park at night as you drift off, and if you’re lucky your camp might even receive a nocturnal visitor or two – a slightly terrifying but exhilarating experience.

Read More:  The Amazing Animals Of Uganda: A Photo Guide

5/ Kazinga Channel Boat Trip

While you’re in Queen Elizabeth National Park it would be a mistake not to do a boat trip on the Kazinga Channel, a 20-mile-long shallow river that flows between Lake George and Lake Edward. Animals of all shapes and sizes come down to the water’s edge to drink and bathe, so on any given day you’re guaranteed to see everything from elephants, hippos and buffalos, to – if you’re lucky – a pride of lions. 

The beauty of wildlife spotting by boat is that the animals don’t seem to be bothered by its presence, meaning you can get much closer than you might be able to by car. On a sunny day a lazy boat journey down any river is a wonderful thing, but when you add in more wildlife than you’ll have room for on your memory card, this particular journey becomes one the best tourist attractions in Uganda.

Kazinga Channel boat trips last two hours and cost around $30 per person. Top blog tip: if you can, sit on the left hand side, as that’s the one closer to the shore.

Read more:  A Boat Trip on the Kazinga Channel

6/ Great Rift Valley

As well as amazing wildlife, Uganda boasts some of the most stunning landscapes to be found anywhere in Africa. The country sits on the Great Rift Valley, a vast crack in the earth’s crust created as two tectonic plates move apart from one another, creating an enormous 4000-mile long trench that’s widening by a few centimetres every year. Over millions of years, as the continent slowly tears itself in two, these powerful forces have formed dramatic peaks and troughs, creating some of the highest mountains (including Uganda’s Rwenzori mountains), violent volcanoes, and some of the deepest lakes in Africa (Lake Victoria, for example).

You’ll glimpse the effects of the Great Rift as you travel throughout Western Uganda. From the many huge lakes, to the vast flat plain of the rift itself, to the peaks of the surrounding mountains, these are views you won’t forget in a hurry.

Read More:  19 Wildlife Photography Tips for Beginners

7/ Volcanic Craters

Thanks to all that volcanic activity , Uganda is home to some spectacular craters and crater lakes. Millions of years ago all this scenery would have been scorched and black, but today the fertile volcanic soil has given life to rolling green landscapes dotted with sparkling water holes. There’s something extra special about the perfectly round shape and sharp outline of a crater lake, and the way the water, unruffled by  currents and sheltered from the wind, reflects the sky as sharp as a mirror.

There are stunning craters and crater lakes all across Western Uganda, but the best ones are the Katwe Craters in Queen Elizabeth National Park – do a late afternoon crater drive to really see them at their sparkling best. Or, if your budget will stretch, try spending a night at either Crater Safari Lodge in Kibale, or at Kyaniga Lodge in Fort Portal: both are stunning luxury hotels perched right on the edge of crater lakes with views to die for.

8/ Tree-climbing Lions in Ishasha

Another thing that Queen Elizabeth National Park is well-known for is its tree-climbing lions. These are not a unique subspecies of lion – all lions can climb trees – but this particular park happens to have some very climbable trees, and the lions here aren’t slow to take advantage.

The wonderful thing about lions in trees is they’re much easier to spot and photograph. Hidden in tall, dry grasses at ground level, a lion is virtually invisible, but up in a tree he’s on full display, and likely to rest there for several hours. When one is spotted the rangers let each other know, so as long as he doesn’t wake up and head off to hunt before you get to his location, you’ll have a good chance of spotting him.

To see the tree-climbing lions, simply drive to the Ishasha sector of the park, ask every car you pass if they’ve seen a lion, and keep your eyes peeled!

Read more: Queen Elizabeth National Park Uganda: Is It Overhyped?

9/ Murchison Falls National Park

Located about five hours’ drive north of Kampala, Murchison Falls is Uganda’s largest national park: a massive 4000 square kilometres. Not only does it boast about 500 bird and 75 mammal species, it’s also home to the most powerful waterfall in the world. Murchison Falls is where the River Nile , the world’s longest river, squeezes its entire force through a tiny 6-metre crack and plunges over a 43-metre drop at 300 cubic metres per second. Which is pretty noisy and impressive to behold, and is what makes it another of the top tourist attractions in Uganda.

There are two ways to see Murchison Falls – and I highly recommend you do both. Take a boat trip along the Nile to see the Bottom of the Falls, front on, and then either hike up, or take the boat back and drive up to the Top of the Falls to see the churning, tumbling water close up. Later you can do a game drive in the park to spot giraffes, antelopes, hyenas or elephants, before relaxing in one of the area’s many safari lodges.

Read more:  What To Do In Murchison Falls National Park

10/ Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

If you’re heading from Kampala up to Murchison Falls, don’t miss Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary on your way through. Located just three hours from the capital (so it’s also doable in a weekend), Ziwa is the only place in Uganda to see rhinos in the wild – and not just see them, but get extremely close to them.

Because of poaching, rhinos became extinct in Uganda in 1983.  Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was set up 15 years later to reintroduce them.  They started with just six animals, but thanks to a successful breeding programme they now have 22, with more on the way.

You can see the rhinos by taking a guided walk with an armed ranger. These last about two hours and cost $45 per person for a non-Ugandan. If two hours isn’t enough for you, you can also stay overnight in the park.

Read more:  A Visit To Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

11/ Go Hiking In Sipi Falls

Situated at 1,775 m above sea level in the foothills of Mount Elgon in Eastern Uganda close to the border with Kenya, Sipi Falls is a relaxed hill town that makes a great location for a weekend break away from Kampala. Thanks to its fresh mountain air, rolling hills and craggy cliffs it’s popular with adventure enthusiasts, especially hikers, climbers, and hill runners.

The area gets its name from three pretty waterfalls – and a hike to see them, which takes the best part of a day, is the area’s main attraction. But there are plenty of other outdoor adventures to be had too, from tours of the local coffee plantations, to birdwatching walks, to hill running, to rock climbing on one of 14 bolted sport routes and even abseiling down the side of the main 100m waterfall – which I didn’t do because it sounds terrifying!

Read More: What To Do In Sipi Falls

12/ Kampala

Although most people come to Uganda for the wildlife and scenery, most trips will start or end in Kampala, and no guide to things to do would be complete without mentioning it.

Kampala has a reputation for being noisy, dirty and crowded, but it’s also the beating heart of the country: full of vibrancy, hustle and bustle, noise and colour. Originally built on seven hills, and now sprawling out over many more, Kampala can be confusing to navigate, but the centre is compact and well-organised, with plenty to see and do for a day or two.

Learn about Uganda’s history and the brutal regime of Idi Amin at Mengo Palace, also known as Kabaka Palace – where you can see Amin’s chilling former torture chambers – or check out the last resting place of the former Kings of Buganda at the Kasubi Tombs. Stroll along Parliament Avenue to take in some of the best colonial architecture, shop for souvenirs or African art in one of the many craft markets and art galleries, or avoid the traffic by hopping on the back of a boda-boda (moped taxi) and whizzing across the city (not for the faint-hearted, but an excellent and cheap way to get around).

Read More: Top Weekend Trips From Kampala

13/ Kampala Mosque

A popular thing to see in Kampala is the Old Kampala National Mosque . This stately yellow building with its cluster of copper domes is the 5 th largest mosque in Africa, with space for around 16,000 people all praying together. The huge prayer hall is decorated with stained glass from Italy, an enormous blue and red woven carpet, and intricate chandeliers from Egypt. If you’re feeling energetic, try climbing the 306 steps to the top of the minaret for stunning views of the city spread out in all directions – the  perfect way to get your bearings and take in the size of the city from a peaceful vantage point.

Read More:  A Video Producer in Kampala: The Story of Safi and Amir

14/ Kampala Bars and Restaurants

When you’ve had your fill of sightseeing, it’s time to enjoy Kampala’s main attraction: its nightlife. The city is known as the party capital of East Africa, so much so that visitors regularly come from Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda to party the weekend away.

Kampala is divided into districts, each with its own vibe. The main party area is along Acacia Avenue: here you’ll find popular local favourites including  Bubbles O’Leary’s Irish Pub , Big Mike’s bar and nightclub, Kurb bar which sometimes hosts live music, and a little further up the road is Cayenne , which has a restaurant, a poolside bar, and a dancefloor.

Outside the city centre, Kabalagala is known for being a slightly more seedy area, but it still has a few quirky options including Deuces, and Café Cheri. Or head up the road to Bugolobi for excellent cocktails at The Alchemist .

Kampala also has a reputation for excellent food, with dozens of restaurants to try. Here are some of my favourites: Di Vino for the best steak I had in Africa; try Bistro for excellent chicken or fish; Miso Garden for Korean/Asian fusion in a peaceful garden setting; or Mediterraneo for excellent pizza and pasta.

Read More:  A Perfect Day in Kampala

15/ Lake Bunyonyi

Located in the far west of Uganda close to the border with Rwanda, Lake Bunyonyi is a charming place to spend a day or two relaxing.  This stunningly pretty lake is dotted with dozens of islands, some of which have fascinating dark stories. Take a ride in a small dugout canoe to learn about some of them, from Punishment Island, where girls who got pregnant out of wedlock were abandoned to die, to Leprosy Island, which used to be a leper colony run by a Scottish missionary.

A great place to stay is Byoona Amargara , a peaceful island retreat run as a not-for profit enterprise that supports community development at Lake Bunyonyi. Choose between a budget cabin or one of their amazing open-sided ‘geo domes’ with views out over the lake. Fall asleep to the gentle sounds of nature, wake to birdsong, relax during the day with short walks or swimming in the lake, and stuff yourself silly with the restaurant’s amazing food.

Fun fact: even though it’s relatively small, Lake Bunyonyi is the second deepest lake in Africa and the fourth deepest lake in the world, at 900 m at its maximum depth.

16/ Visit the Batwa People

While you’re in Bwindi or Mgahinga National Parks, it’s worth taking time to visit one of the Batwa communities. The Batwa people are a hunter-gatherer tribe, who for thousands of years lived a nomadic lifestyle in the forests of Western Uganda.

But in 1991 the area they live in was turned into a national park, and the Batwa were forcibly evicted. Now they live in makeshift camps on the edges of the forest, where they survive by subsistence farming and offering cultural experiences to tourists.

Visits to the Batwa include the chance to learn about their traditional way of life and watch displays of music and dancing. It’s a great way to support this displaced and marginalised community who really need our help.

Tours can be organised through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or the Batwa Development Programme – but make sure you only do an official visit, as these are culturally sensitive and your ticket price goes back to support the community.

Read more: The Batwa People: How To Visit Uganda’s Displaced Community

17/ Stand On The Equator

Another easy and popular thing to do in Uganda is to visit the Equator. Uganda sits right on this magical line, providing a rare opportunity to stand with one foot in the Northern and one foot in the Southern Hemisphere – a slightly surreal but fun experience if you’ve never done it before. 

The points where the Equator crosses major roads are all marked with circular monuments, but the main place to see it is at Kayabwe, on the Masaka-Mbarara highway, about 45 miles from Kampala.

Here there are craft stalls and cafes, and you can watch a demonstration that proves that water does indeed circle down a plug hole in opposite directions on either side of the Equator. I’d heard this but I didn’t know if it was true or not, so it was fascinating to see it for myself!

18/ Lake Mburo National Park

About five hours’ drive west of Kampala, Lake Mburo National Park is the smallest of Uganda’s savannah national parks. It’s mostly home to herbivores like antelopes, zebras and buffalo, but there are no elephants or lions here. This means that it’s a much safer place to roam around than the other parks, making it the ideal spot for outdoor activities like horseback riding, mountain biking or bird-spotting walks, without running the risk of being trampled on or turned into a tasty meal for a big cat.

Lake Mburo is a great place to stop for night on your way back to Kampala from the west. If your budget will stretch, stay at the stunning Mihingo Lodge , one of the Uganda’s most spectacular lodges, which boasts luxury boutique log cabins with private verandas overlooking the park, and a swimming pool with one of the best views I’ve ever seen!

Read More:  Top Weekend Trips from Kampala

19/ Lake Victoria

Uganda may be landlocked, but what it lacks in sea views it makes up for with the mighty Lake Victoria. This huge body of water sits on the south side of the country, across the borders with Kenya and Tanzania, and at over 23,000 square miles is the largest lake in Africa.

The best departure point to see Lake Victoria is Entebbe (about which, more below).  Enjoy a sunset cruise to enjoy the calm waters, or take a trip out to some of the many islands. The main highlight is the Ssese Islands, an archipelago of 84 islands featuring blue waters, soft white sands, and thick forests – which make for a fantastic off-the-beaten-track tropical island experience. The main island,  Buggala Island is easily accessible by ferry from Entebbe, and is a popular weekend destination for Kampala residents, with a string of beachfront hotels and bars.

Read more:  Top 34 African Birds: A Safari Photo Guide

20/ Entebbe

If you’re travelling by plane, Entebbe is where your trip to Uganda will start and end. But the town is more than just a hub for the airport – it’s also a peaceful retreat right on the shores of Lake Victoria just an hour from Kampala, and it’s a great way to spend a day or two at the start or end of your holiday, or as a weekend away from the capital.

During the day, enjoy the peaceful greenery and bird life of the Botanical Gardens, parts of which are so perfectly lush and jungly they were used in the 1940s as a location for the original Tarzan movies. If snakes or crocodiles are your thing head for the Reptiles Village where you can see some of the many poisonous snakes carefully rescued when they show up uninvited in people’s homes across the country. Or visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre – about which, more below.

In the evening, wander along the shores of Lake Victoria and have a meal at a lakeside restaurant while enjoying the fresh air and maybe the sound of a local band.

Read More: Things To Do In Entebbe

21/ Uganda Wildlife Education Centre

One of the highlights of my trip to Uganda was my visit to Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (or Entebbe Zoo as it’s sometimes known) and the chance to come nose-to-nose with some of the planet’s most incredible creatures.

Far more than just a zoo, UWEC is a wildlife sanctuary where animals rescued from poachers or the illegal pet trade are brought to be cared for until they can be released back into the wild. Those that would be unable to fend for themselves – often because they were only babies when they were found – are kept permanently. These animals have been hand-raised by humans, and that means you can get close to them without fear. Do the Behind the Scenes tour for the chance to feed a giraffe, stroke a cheetah, or make friends with an elephant – at $75 it’s not cheap, but it’s worth it!

Read more: A Day At Uganda Wildlife Education Centre

Or why not watch the short video I made for a taste of the action!

22/ Source of the Nile

The River Nile is the longest river in the world – over 4000 miles long – and runs all the way from Uganda at its most southern end to the Mediterranean sea in the north.

In the 19th century, during the golden age of exploration, a small group of intrepid British adventurers was determined to find the source of this mighty waterway. After several years of searching, punctuated no doubt by run-ins with hostile locals and the occasional bout of one tropical disease or another, it was eventually – and controversially – claimed in 1858 by a man named John Hanning Speke at Jinja, about 80 km east of Kampala.

The historic discovery of the Source of the Nile (or one of them, at least) is commemorated at the Source of the Nile monument just outside Jinja. Take a guided boat ride upstream and onto Lake Victoria, where it’s said you can actually see the bubbles as the water rises out of the lake and begins its journey north.

23/ Whitewater Fun in Jinja

As well as being the place where the River Nile begins, Jinja is also Uganda’s whitewater adventure capital. The foaming waves and thundering rapids of the world’s longest river are a huge draw for adrenalin junkies, who come to enjoy the thrills of whitewater kayaking and rafting on rapids that reach Grade 5 in some areas. Head to the Nile River Explorers base for all the adventures you can eat – from extreme rafting to tandem and solo kayaking to quad biking.

For those of a more nervous disposition, NRE also offers more sedate activities like stand-up paddleboarding or horseback riding. With plenty of places to stay, eat, and drink, and a fun, relaxed vibe, it’s not surprising that Jinja is now the second top tourist attraction in Uganda after the gorillas.

A word of caution though: flowing water is fine, but avoid swimming in still water at the river’s edge as the area is known for carrying the waterborne parasite bilharzia – which won’t kill you but may well ruin several days of your holiday.

Read more: Jinja and the Nile River Kayak Festival

24/ Boutique Lodges

One of the top tourist attractions in Uganda is the chance to stay in one of the country’s many spectacular safari lodges. Far more than just a hotel, these places are experiences in themselves, often featuring sympathetically-designed wood cabins with private terraces overlooking stunning views, and offering delicious three-course meals all included in the price of your stay. While they’re not as cheap as a campsite or a less luxurious hotel, I definitely recommend you treat yourself to a night or two if you can stretch to it.

There are plenty to choose from, but here are a few that I can personally recommend: Kyaninga Lodge in Fort Portal, perched high over a stunning crater lake; Crater Safari Lodge in Kibale, which features luxury cabins with verandas looking out over another crater lake;  Mihingo Lodge with its spectacular vistas over Lake Mburo National Park; Bush Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you fall asleep to the sound of hippos grunting in the nearby river, or Bakiga Lodge , which clings to a hillside overlooking the misty treetops of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Read More:  An Afternoon in Kibale, Uganda

25/ Rolling Green Landscapes

As you travel round Uganda, one of the things you cannot fail to notice is how green the country is. If you’ve only ever seen Africa on the news you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s a dry, dusty continent, but that couldn’t be further than the truth.

Uganda is actually about as rainy as the famously damp United Kingdom, with over 1 metre of rainfall every year, so there’s no shortage of water to provide the necessary juice for things to grow. And – wow! – does stuff grow! Bananas, cassava, potatoes, corn, beans, coffee, cotton, tea, tobacco… these are just some of the things they produce, which means you won’t struggle to find delicious fresh fruit and veg with almost zero food miles.

Many people make a living from subsistence farming, each family owning a small plot of land where they grow crops to sell at the local market. As a result Uganda’s rolling landscape has become a patchwork of terraces and squares, each one a slightly different shade of green.

Look out for them particularly as you drive through Western Uganda’s volcanic region – you’ll definitely be stopping the car to hop out and take pictures – and it’s what makes the landscape another one of Uganda’s many tourist attractions.

Read More: Two Weeks In Uganda – A Suggested Itinerary

26/ Ugandan Music

Uganda has a vibrant music scene, which is influenced not only by local and African sounds, but also by the wider international music industry. Two of the most popular traditional genres are Kidandali, which features the use of typical Ugandan sounds and samples, and Kadongo Kamu, which means ‘one little guitar’ and is based around the acoustic guitar. In Kampala especially there are plenty of opportunities to hear live bands performing all kids of music – try Ndere Cultural Centre for local bands, or JazzVille in Bugolobi for really fun and accessible Jazz.

27/ Arts and Crafts

If Ugandan art is what you’re after, Kampala also has a colourful art scene with at least half a dozen galleries representing both local and internationally-known artists. AfriArt , AKA gallery and Nommo Gallery are probably the best-known, but there are several of others, all offering unique and stylish paintings and textiles that’ll look great on your wall back home.

For souvenirs and crafts you’ll find roadside stalls at every tourist destination , but for the best prices and the most choice save your shopping for Kampala. Here there are two main permanent markets: the  Exposure Africa market on Buganda road and the African Craft Village behind the National Theatre.

Everything from carved wooden figures and animals and leather to jewellery and textiles are on offer here – some are imported from Kenya but there are plenty of local items too. On Fridays there’s also a craft market in Nsambiya along Ggaba Road where you can buy items directly from the artisans who made them – and the prices are often better too.

If you prefer not to have to haggle, a great place to shop for unique local souvenirs is one of the three branches of Banana Boat . This carefully-curated store works directly with local artisans to source and sell unique products you won’t find anywhere else, so not only will you come home with something beautiful, you’ll also be helping to support local businesses.

28/ Meet the People

One of my favourite things about Uganda – that makes it such a joy to travel in – is its people. Rarely have I travelled anywhere where the locals are so warm, welcoming and helpful. As I travel I often stop people and ask for photos – sometimes I’m refused, sometimes they ask for money, but in Uganda almost everyone I met was happy to oblige and asked for nothing in return.

Wandering around by myself with my camera I never felt unsafe or threatened, and although a blonde white woman is often the subject of curiosity, people’s glances almost never felt aggressive or intrusive as they have done in other places I’ve visited. It also helps that English is one of the national languages, making Uganda a very easy and enjoyable country to travel in.

So there you have it – my top 28 things to do in Uganda!  Do you think I’ve missed something! Let me know in the comments, or contact me and I’ll add it in!

And if you’re going to Uganda – happy travels!

Read more about the amazing things to do in Uganda

If you enjoyed this, find out more about some of the beautiful places in Uganda here:

7 Best Weekend Trips from Kampala, Uganda

• A Perfect Day in Kampala
• What Happens On A Chimpanzee Trekking Safari In Uganda
• What To Do In Sipi Falls, Uganda
• The Rewards Of Visiting Uganda’s Batwa Tribe

Liked this post about Uganda tourist attractions? Why not Pin It for later?

Bella is a multi-award-winning travel writer, wildlife photographer and science and history documentary director from London. Among many awards and nominations she won Blogger of the Year at the British Guild of Travel Writers’ Awards 2023 and Best Photography at the Travel Media Awards 2020. Her work has been published by National Geographic, Wanderlust, and BBC Travel among others. Her films have been shown around the world including on the BBC, Discovery and PBS.

Further Reading...

The Batwa People: How To Visit This Unique Uganda Community

Entebbe Zoo: Visiting The Uganda Wildlife Sanctuary

2 Weeks In Morocco: A Perfect Morocco Itinerary With Photos

An unhelpful guide to the rockaways & new york.

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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 Ultimate Guide To The 10 Must-See Attractions In Uganda

Unveiling Uganda: Explore the 10 Must-See Attractions in this Enchanting Country!

Prepare to be amazed as you embark on an unforgettable journey through Uganda’s diverse landscapes and captivating culture. From thrilling wildlife encounters to adrenaline-pumping adventures, Uganda offers an array of experiences that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Discover the "10 must-see attractions in Uganda" as you explore this incredible country.

Key Takeaways

• Explore Uganda’s incredible attractions, from Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to thrilling adventure activities in Jinja.
• Discover unique cultural experiences and observe majestic wildlife at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and Murchison Falls National Park.
• Enjoy stunning landscapes & waterfalls and take part in coffee tours with a visit to Sipi Falls & Mount Elgon National Park.
• A Uganda safari holiday is and will be an journey of a life time.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Imagine trekking through dense rainforests and eyes peeled for a glimpse of the majestic and critically endangered mountain gorillas. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers just that – an extraordinary once-in-a-lifetime experience to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Due to high demand, it’s advisable to book your gorilla permit six months to a year in advance. The classic walking trail between Kisoro and Buhoma will take you deep into the heart of the park, where you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable encounters with Uganda’s gentle giants.

Beyond mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park houses a remarkable variety of wildlife, including:

• 90 species of mammals
• Ten different primates, such as black and white colobus monkeys, green monkeys, and Schmidt’s red-tailed monkeys
• A fascinating variety of birds, butterflies, and medicinal plants

Exploring the park’s trails, you’ll also discover a fascinating variety of birds, butterflies, and medicinal plants. Around Lake Mutunda, you can immerse yourself in the forest with guided nature walks while learning about the people who once called this forest home, just like in Lake Mburo National Park.

Before or after your gorilla trekking adventure, consider visiting Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for the following activities:

• The Batwa Trail Experience is a unique opportunity to learn about the Batwa people’s culture and traditions
• Bird watching
• Local interactions

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking to connect with Uganda’s rich heritage.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is not only a haven for mountain gorillas but also a birding paradise, with the wetter months of March to April and September to November offering prime bird activity. With nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population residing here, Bwindi is undoubtedly one of the top tourist attractions in Uganda.

Chimpanzee Encounters in Kibale National Park

Venture into the lush forests of Kibale National Park, known as Uganda’s primate capital and the best place to marvel at chimpanzees. Conveniently located near Queen Elizabeth National Park in western Uganda, Kibale Forest National Park offers visitors the chance to:

• Observe these fascinating primates up close
• Explore the diverse ecosystem of the park
• Take part in guided chimpanzee tracking tours
• Learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect these endangered species

As the most ideal place in East Africa for chimpanzee encounters, Kibale Forest is home to more than just chimpanzees. You’ll also find the Ugandan Red Colobus and rare L’Hoest monkeys, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

For a truly immersive experience, visitors can join an hour-long chimpanzee tracking adventure or a full day of chimpanzee habituation. Given the tightly controlled daily visits for the chimpanzees’ welfare, you should consider booking a visiting permit and tour well ahead of time.

Combine your chimpanzee encounters with a visit to the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. This is a community-driven local conservation project aimed at preserving the Magombe swamp. Here, you can:

• Marvel at more than ten species of primates
• Spot hundreds of bird species
• Support the Kibale Association for Rural and Environmental Development’s efforts to protect the swamp and empower the local community.

Wildlife Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Discover the diverse wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most visited national park. The park promises an array of unforgettable experiences, from observing unique tree-climbing lions to engaging in primate safaris and game drives, appealing to both nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Strategically located between Lake George and Lake Edward, Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to an astonishing variety of animals, including hippos, crocodiles, lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, and antelopes. For an unparalleled wildlife experience, embark on a thrilling boat trip on the Kazinga Channel, where you’ll witness Nile crocodiles, hippos, and an array of bird species.

In addition to its impressive wildlife, Queen Elizabeth National Park also boasts close proximity to other amazing attractions in western Uganda, such as:

With its diverse wildlife-filled habitats, including forests, wetlands, savanna grasslands, and stunning lakes, this national park is undoubtedly one of Uganda’s top tourist attractions and a prime example of the beauty found in national parks.

Murchison Falls National Park

Explore the awe-inspiring landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s oldest and largest wildlife reserve. Home to four of the Big Five game animals, the park offers visitors an incredible opportunity to witness:

• Many different birds in their natural habitat

The park's centrepiece is the powerful Murchison Falls, where the Nile River is forcefully squeezed through a narrow, 30-meter gorge, creating a breathtaking cascade. Embark on an unforgettable boat cruise to experience the falls up close, marvelling at the abundant wildlife that inhabits the surrounding area.

If you’re after a more vigorous adventure, consider the ‘Top of the Falls Hike’. This thrilling trek culminates in witnessing the mighty Nile River plunging an astonishing 34 meters through a rocky gap.

With its diverse wildlife, striking landscapes, and exhilarating activities, Murchison Falls National Park is a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast or adventure seeker visiting Uganda.

Exploring Lake Victoria

Set sail on the tranquil waters of Lake Victoria, the world’s largest tropical freshwater lake, and discover the breathtaking beauty of its islands, wildlife, and local culture. With boat tours and island-hopping adventures available, visitors can experience the stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage that make the lake such a popular tourist attraction.

Among the many islands dotting Lake Victoria, Ngamba Island stands out as a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Home to a private chimpanzee sanctuary dedicated to protecting orphaned chimpanzees, the island offers visitors:

• A unique opportunity to witness these fascinating primates up close
• Educational experiences about chimpanzee conservation
• Guided tours and feeding sessions with the chimpanzees
• The chance to support a worthy cause and contribute to the well-being of these endangered animals

Back on the mainland, the bustling town of Jinja, located at the source of the Nile River, offers a wide array of adventure activities. Some of the activities you can enjoy in Jinja include:

• White-water rafting
• Bungee jumping
• Tubing on the Nile

Jinja has earned its reputation as the adrenaline capital of Uganda.

Adventure Activities in Jinja

For thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies, Jinja is the perfect destination to get your heart racing. Known as the adrenaline capital of East Africa, Jinja offers a variety of exciting activities that cater to adventure enthusiasts of all levels.

Jinja is famed for its white-water rafting, with the mighty Nile River setting the stage for this thrilling activity. Navigate the rapids and enjoy the stunning scenery as you embark on an unforgettable adventure. For those seeking an even greater adrenaline rush, bungee jumping and kayaking are also available, allowing you to test your limits while enjoying the breathtaking surroundings.

Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or just in search of a fun, adrenaline-charged activity, Jinja provides a plethora of options that cater to your interests and abilities. From the thrilling rapids of the Nile River to the heart-stopping heights of bungee jumping, Jinja’s adventure activities are sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Located in western Uganda, the Rwenzori Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, presents hikers and adventure enthusiasts with a stunning landscape. Boasting challenging treks, unique flora and fauna, and awe-inspiring views, the Rwenzori Mountains provide an unforgettable experience for those who dare to explore its rugged terrain.

Embark on exciting short day hikes or challenge yourself with multi-day treks that will take you deep into the heart of the Rwenzori Mountains. Along the way, you’ll encounter an array of fascinating wildlife, including the remarkable Three-Horned Chameleons, which can only be found in this region.

For a truly immersive experience, consider climbing Africa’s fourth-highest peak, Mt Ngaliema, which stands at an impressive 5,109 meters. With its rugged beauty and exhilarating challenges, Rwenzori Mountains National Park is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Cultural Experiences in Kampala

Dive into the vibrant culture of Kampala, Uganda’s lively capital, where the convergence of history, art, and tradition crafts a distinctive and captivating experience. From historical sites to museums and art galleries, Kampala offers a wealth of cultural attractions to explore and enjoy.

Begin your cultural journey in Uganda with these must-visit attractions:

• Uganda National Museum: Explore exhibits that showcase the country’s rich cultural and natural history.
• Kasubi Tombs: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which serves as the burial ground for four Ugandan kings and offers a glimpse into Uganda’s regal past.
• Kabaka’s Palace: Discover the history of the Buganda Kingdom with a visit to the Kabaka’s Palace.
• Bulange Building: Learn more about the Buganda Kingdom at the Bulange Building.
• Tooro King’s Palace: Explore the palace of the Tooro King and delve into the history of the region.

Don’t miss the chance to experience traditional Ugandan dance and music performances at the Ndere Cultural Centre, where the renowned Ndere Troupe has been showcasing their artistry for over 25 years. With so much to discover and experience, Kampala is the perfect destination to connect with Uganda’s rich cultural heritage.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Experience the awe-striking power of nature firsthand at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, an initiative committed to the protection and propagation of endangered white rhinos in Uganda. With guided tours available, visitors have the unique opportunity to observe these magnificent animals up close and support the sanctuary’s mission to restore Uganda’s rhinoceros population. Additionally, the Uganda Wildlife Education Center plays a crucial role in promoting wildlife conservation and education in the country.

For just $45 per person, embark on a rhino trekking adventure that provides an unforgettable experience and a deeper understanding of the importance of conservation efforts. In addition to rhinos, the sanctuary is home to a variety of other wildlife, including:

• beautiful bird species

Your visit to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary not only promises an incredible encounter with these majestic creatures but also contributes to their ongoing protection and survival.

Sipi Falls and Mount Elgon National Park

Uncover the striking allure of Sipi Falls and Mount Elgon National Park, home to cascading waterfalls, verdant landscapes, and a host of exhilarating activities. Situated in Eastern Uganda, this breathtaking destination offers a variety of experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Sipi Falls, a group of three enchanting waterfalls, provides a picturesque backdrop for a range of exciting activities, including rock climbing, abseiling down the waterfall, and hiking to the top of Mount Elgon, the grandest mountain caldera in the world. Along the way, you’ll encounter the region’s renowned coffee-growing area, where you can enjoy guided coffee tours and tastings.

In addition to its natural wonders, Sipi Falls and Mount Elgon National Park offer numerous hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience, from leisurely strolls to challenging multi-day treks. For those seeking a different adventure, Kidepo Valley National Park is another option worth exploring. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Sipi Falls, Mount Elgon National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park are sure to leave a lasting impression.

From gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to white-water rafting in Jinja, Uganda offers a captivating mix of unforgettable experiences for travellers seeking adventure, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness these incredible attractions firsthand and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most toured place in uganda.

Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda is the most visited park in the country and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa.

What is the name of one tourist attraction in Uganda?

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda's most popular savannah park and a top tourist attraction. From the tree-climbing lions to the schools of hippos along the Kazinga channel, visitors can experience the rich wildlife of Uganda in this 400 kilometres (250 mi) by road south-west of Kampala located park.

What is Uganda best for?

Uganda is known for its awe-inspiring sights, boasting the largest freshwater lake in Africa, the source of the mighty Nile River, and the highest population of mountain gorillas worldwide.

What is the best time to visit Uganda for gorilla trekking?

Visiting Uganda between December and February or June to September is the best time for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.

Can I visit both mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in Uganda?

Yes, you can! You can visit mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and chimpanzees in Kibale National Park during your trip to Uganda.

• Departure ; Scheduled and tailor-made departure dates
• Duration ; 12 Days / 11 Nights
• Lodging ; Safari Lodges
• Group Size ; Minimum 2
• Note : Travel insurance is compulsory for all safaris

• Lodging ; Safari lodges

• Duration ; 4 Days / 3 Nights

• Duration ; 10 Days / 9 Nights

• Duration ; 8 Days / 7 Nights

• Boni National Reserve
• Kakamega Forest Reserve
• Nyungwe Forest National Park
• Volcanoes National Park
• National Parks
• Serengeti National Park
• Tarangire National Park
• Udzungwa National Park
• Game Reserves
• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Kibale Forest National Park
• Murchison Falls National Park
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Things to Do
• Sanctuaries
• African Safaris
• Safari Mate
• Travel Advice
• Travel Tips

Top 30 Tourist Attractions In Uganda

Uganda is among the top tourist destinations in Africa and the world at large. It is a landlocked country situated in East Africa. Uganda is found in the western region of Kenya, the northern region of Rwanda and Tanzania, the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and south of Sudan.

Uganda’s tourism sector is growing rapidly due to a number of reasons, including security, many tourist attractions, improved infrastructure, and proper marketing of Uganda’s potential, among others. Below are the 30 top tourist attractions in Uganda:

1. Mountain Gorillas

The chief tourist attraction in Uganda is none other than the Mountain Gorillas. They are some of the rarest species of Gorillas and offer impressive views in the astonishing destinations of Bwindi and the Virunga Crescent.

Daily gorilla trekking is done in southwestern Uganda, specifically in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (BINP) and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (MGNP), which is part of the Virunga region, together with Virunga National Park in the DRC and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

The rare mountain gorillas are only found in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, but the majority of them are found in Uganda. Based on the last census conducted in 2018, Uganda registered about 1,063 individual gorillas, and today, the number has increased.

2. Chimpanzees

If you miss seeing gorillas, at least visit chimpanzees in any of the five chimpanzee destinations. In Uganda, chimpanzees are found in Kibale National Park , Toro-Semuliki Game Reserve, Budongo Forest, Kyambura Gorge, and Kalinzu Forest.

Chimpanzees are amazing primates, and over 5,000 of them are found in Uganda, with 1,500 living in Kibale Forest. Kibale offers the most amazing trek, with two shifts every day. Chimpanzees live within distinct social structures, and seeing them is less strenuous compared to gorilla trekking .

3. Golden Monkeys

Golden monkeys are another beautiful primate found in Uganda. Compared to other monkey species, golden monkeys are gorgeous in appearance. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is found in the far southwestern part of Uganda and is known for hosting both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, so you can decide to see both amazing primates.

Golden monkey trekking is less strenuous compared to gorilla trekking because they are easily found based on their current feeding ground. Golden monkeys spend most of their time in their feeding ground, and in Mgahinga, they are mostly found in the bamboo section of the park. Compared to other monkeys, golden monkeys are gorgeous in appearance. Golden monkeys stay in large groups of about 100, led by an alpha male.

4. “The Big 5” animals

They include elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards, and buffaloes. While on a Uganda safari , explore the destinations to meet “The Big Five” animals. Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to trek rhinos, Queen Elizabeth National Park to encounter lions, Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park to see elephants.

Leopards are found in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Semuliki National Park, among others. Leopards are shy animals and are rarely found during the day. However, they can be found in other destinations not listed here. Buffaloes are found in all savannah parks but are popularly found in Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and so on.

5. Visit the Source of The Nile

Visiting the source of the Nile in Jinja, Uganda, is an awe-inspiring experience that allows you to witness the birth of one of the world’s most famous waterways. Located at the point where the Nile emerges from Lake Victoria, this iconic site holds both historical and geographical importance, attracting visitors from around the world.

Standing at the source, you can feel the wonder as the waters begin their remarkable journey northwards. Exploring the area offers various activities such as boat trips to witness the confluence with Lake Victoria, thrilling white-water rafting on the Nile’s rapids, and visiting the Speke Memorial, which provides insight into the historical significance of the Nile’s discovery.

A visit to the source of the Nile in Jinja immerses you in the wonders of nature and the incredible story of this legendary river.

The most popular birds not to miss in Uganda include Shoebills, Grey crowned crane, Marabou Stork, Green-breasted pitta, Shelley’s crimson wing, standard-winged nightjar, African Green Broadbill, Great Blue Turaco, white-crested turaco, among others.

Uganda is famously known as a birding paradise and haven, harboring over half of Africa’s bird species. It isn’t only the sheer number of bird species documented within Uganda’s boundaries that makes it a paradise for birders, but also the accessibility to numerous bird-rich territories that are often complicated to get to in other countries.

The popular birding spots in Uganda include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park , Kazinga Channel, Lake Bunyonyi, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Semuliki National Park, Mabamba Swamp, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Mabira Forest, and Mountain Elgon National Park, among others.

7. Mountain Rwenzori

It’s also known as the “Mountains of The Moon” and is the highest block mountain in Uganda with the third-highest peak in Africa (Margherita peak at 5,109m). The upper region of Mountain Rwenzori is permanently snowcapped and glaciated.

There are many attractions on Mountain Rwenzori, including birds, rivers, Rwenzori lakes, Rwenzori snow peaks, and glacial features, among others. Mountain Rwenzori was gazetted in 1991 and was recognized as a World Heritage site in 1994 and a Ramsar site in 2008.

8. Sipi Falls

Situated in Eastern Uganda at the foothills of Mount Elgon, just at the edge of Mount Elgon National Park near the Kenya-Uganda border, Sipi Falls comprises three waterfalls, each pouring at a different altitude.

The highest fall drops from an altitude of 100m and is referred to as the main fall since it is the last fall in the series. This fall is slightly bigger than the other two falls, but all give Uganda beautiful scenery. In fact, most people say that Sipi Falls is the ‘most romantic fall’ in Uganda, which is evidenced by the wonderful falls.

The area experiences a cool climate due to the mountainous nature of the region, and hiking in the rainy season can be hectic but worth undertaking. Other waterfalls in Uganda include Sezibwa Falls, Bujagali Falls, Murchison Falls, Aruu Falls, Kisizi Falls, and Mpanga Falls, among others.

9. Kampala city

It’s the capital city of Uganda, situated in the central region. Kampala city sits on seven hills and rises about 3,900 feet above sea level. The five divisions that make up Kampala include Kawempe, Nakawa, Rubaga, Makindye, and Central Division.

The origins of Kampala city go back to 1891 when the Kabaka of Buganda had his court on Rubaga and Mengo hills. The town that grew from a colonial and royal resting place achieved municipal status in 1950 and became a city in 1962.

Today, Kampala city provides magnificent evergreen trees, gently disrupted by red-tiled villas, green iron-roofed bungalows, as well as taller modern city profiles that give way to attractive views of the surrounding countryside and nearby Lake Victoria.

Kampala city has many tourist destinations like Kabaka’s Lake, Kabaka’s palace, Kasubi Tombs, Uganda Museum, fruit markets, art and craft shops, entertainment cinemas, theaters, and worshiping places, among others.

10. Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC)

Formerly called Entebbe Zoo, it’s a conservation center where all animals can be accessed. The center was opened in 1952 as a center for wildlife that were found casualties, injured, orphaned, sick, or confiscated from poachers or illegal trade.

In the 1960s, it changed its role into a zoo, and non-indigenous species like bears and tigers were introduced and kept as attractions. In 1994, wildlife management was restructured, and the zoo turned into the Uganda Wildlife Education Center trust.

The aim was to develop the zoo with an emphasis on conservation education. The center houses various animals, including rock pythons, cheetahs, leopards, lions, shoebill storks, tortoises, giraffes, chimpanzees, baby elephants, and rhinos

11. Kazinga Channel

It’s one of the popular tourist attractions in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Kazinga Channel is a water body that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. While in Queen Elizabeth National Park, don’t miss the boat launch to explore Kazinga Channel.

Expect to encounter water-loving mammals like hippos, crocodiles, monitor lizards, and other animals that regularly visit the channel to quench their thirsts, such as elephants, buffaloes, lions, antelopes, waterbucks, and many others. The Kazinga Channel is a wide, 32-kilometer (20 mi) long natural channel

12. Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

It’s another home for orphaned and rescued chimpanzees. The island can be accessed by water transport or air transport (plane). Surrounded by the peaceful waters of Lake Victoria, travelers to Ngamba Island enjoy a 26 km boat cruise from Waterfront Beach in Entebbe.

Ngamba Island covers 100 acres (40 ha), and the major tourist activities include chimpanzee viewing and birding, among others. To everybody willing to donate for the well-being of chimpanzees, you are welcome to be part of the conservation team at Ngamba Island. For more information, contact them via their official website: https://ngambaisland.org/.

13. Tree-climbing lions

It’s a rare species of lion found in Queen Elizabeth National Park and the Ishasha sector, a game reserve of QENP. The lions love climbing the common acacia and large sycamore-fig trees in the plains, especially during the dry seasons, as the entire pride spends their days on trees.

Unfortunately, the number of lions is decreasing due to poaching, increased human population, diseases, and other factors. There are arguments that tree-climbing lions climb trees to avoid biting insects, widen views for prey, avoid feeding competition, and regulate temperature, among other reasons.

14. Mountain Elgon

It’s the highest volcanic mountain in Uganda. Mountain Elgon is the oldest Ugandan physical feature and last erupted 24 million years ago. It was once the highest mountain in Africa, exceeding the current Kilimanjaro at 5,895m.

Due to continuous erosion, the height of the peak greatly reduced to 4,321m, relegating it to the fourth-highest peak in East Africa and eighth on the continent. It has the largest volcanic base called Wagagai, covering 4,000 square kilometers.

It’s home to the Bagisu “Bamasaba,” who practice the cultivation of coffee and banana plantations. Mountain Elgon National Park is home to over 300 species of birds, including the endangered Lammergeyer.

15. Ssese Islands

It’s an archipelago of 84 islands situated in the northwestern part of Lake Victoria in Uganda. Ssese Island is found in the Kalangala district in south-central Uganda. Bulaga Island is the largest in the archipelago of 84 islands and is home to many primate species, including colobus and vervet monkeys, sitatunga antelope, and several rare birds.

Among the 84 islands, Bugala is more developed for tourism, and the major activities done on the island include swimming, bicycle riding, quad biking, and boat cruises, among others. Other islands in the Ssese Island archipelago include Bukasa Island, Banda Island, Nkose Island, and Ngamba, among others.

16. Kabaka’s Lake

It’s a man-made lake in Kampala, Uganda. Kabaka’s Lake was dug by Kabaka’s men and is located 5 km from Kampala city center in the Ndeeba area, between the ring road and Nabunya road. It was dug in 1880 under the orders of Mwanga, with men and women from all 52 clans of Buganda being responsible for digging the lake.

The aim of digging Kabaka’s Lake was to connect it to Lake Victoria, act as an escape route, and connect Mulungu Hill, which was built by his father, Kabaka Mutesa, before his death.

17. Uganda Martyrs Shrine Namugongo

It’s situated in Kyaliwajjala Ward, Kira Municipality, Wakiso District, approximately 12 kilometers (7 mi) northeast of Uganda’s capital, Kampala. The township is bordered by Nsasa to the north, Sonde, and Bukeerere to the east, Bweyogerere to the southeast, Naalya and Kireka directly to the south, Kyaliwajjala to the southwest, central Kira to the west and northwest.

On 3 June 1886, 32 young men, pages of the court of King Mwanga II of Buganda, were burned to death at Namugongo for their refusal to renounce Christianity. They were Anglican and Catholic.

Every 3rd June, Christians from Uganda and other parts of the world congregate at Namugongo to commemorate the lives and religious beliefs of the Uganda Martyrs. Crowds have been estimated in the hundreds of thousands in some years.

18. Lake Bunyonyi

It’s one of the deepest lakes in Uganda, situated in West Africa. Moreover, it’s one of the safest lakes in Uganda, with no crocodiles, or hippos, and free from bilharzia. The lake is home to over 200 bird species and is one of the best birding destinations in Uganda.

Tourists planning to visit Lake Bunyonyi are encouraged to carry cameras to capture great moments. The lake is based in southwestern Uganda, sandwiched between Kabale (53 km away) and Kisoro (48 km away). While at Lake Bunyonyi, you can swim, go canoeing, birdwatching, ride bicycles, relax at the shores, and take community tours, among other activities.

19. Lake Victoria

It’s the largest freshwater lake in Uganda, with a surface area of 59,947 square kilometers. It’s the world’s largest tropical lake and the second-largest freshwater lake in terms of surface area. It’s shared by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

The lake is surrounded by many tourist attractions like beaches, islands, birds, hippos, crocodiles, and monitor lizards, among others. Lake Victoria drains many rivers like the Nile and others.

20. Game Drives

Uganda’s game drives in savannah parks offer a thrilling opportunity to explore the country’s abundant wildlife and natural beauty. Set in the vast savannah landscapes, parks like Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park are home to a diverse array of wildlife species.

During the game drives, visitors have the chance to spot iconic African animals such as elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalos, zebras, and various antelope species, among others. The drives are typically led by experienced guides who provide valuable insights about the animals and their habitats.

With the backdrop of stunning scenery and the soundtrack of nature, Uganda’s game drives offer an unforgettable adventure and an up-close encounter with the country’s remarkable wildlife.

21. Kasubi Tombs

It’s situated in the Kasubi Nabulagala area in Kampala city, serving as the burial ground for the former Kings (SseKabaka) of Buganda and other members of the royal family. As a result, the site remains an important spiritual and political site for the Ganda people, as well as an important example of traditional architecture.

It was ranked as a World Heritage site in 2001. In 2010, the Kasubi Tomb was destroyed by fire and was listed among the World Heritage sites in danger. Currently, four Kings (Kabakas) are buried in Kasubi Tombs, including Muteesa I (1835-1884), Mwanga II (1867-1903), Daudi Chwa II (1896-1939), and Sir Edward Muteesa II (1924-1969).

The reconstruction of the Tombs is underway and is about to be finished, according to the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga. We expect tourists to start visiting the tombs again in the near future.

22. Mengo Kabaka’s Palace

It’s the official home of the Kabaka of Buganda and one of the major tourist attractions in Uganda. Mengo Palace has been in existence since the reign of Kabaka Mwanga II, who succeeded his father Kabaka Muteesa II in 1814. Kabaka’s Palace, known as Twekobe, was constructed in 1922 during the reign of Kabaka Daudi Chwa, who succeeded King Daniel Mwanga II in 1887.

In 1887, King Daniel Mwanga II was exiled to the Seychelles Island, leaving the kingdom without a king. Therefore, when King Daudi Chwa turned 18 years old, he was helped by Sir Apollo Kagwa, Mugwanya Stanchions, and Zakaria Kisingiri to be crowned as the ruler of the kingdom of Buganda.

23. Nakayima Tree

The spiritual tree is found in Mubende Hill. It’s one of the oldest trees in Uganda today. It’s believed that the Nakayima tree was planted by Nakayima, the wife of Ndahura, a local ruler of the Bachwezi, over four hundred years ago. People visit the Nakayima tree to seek spiritual blessings.

Nakayima tree is one of the major tourist attractions in Mubende district and is believed to house the spirits of Ndahura (the god of smallpox). On the way to Kibale National Park, make a stopover at Mubende Hill to visit Nakayima Tree.

24. Lake Mutanda

It’s located in far southwestern Uganda, in the Kisoro district. It’s one of the popular crater lakes in Uganda. The lake’s fresh, clean water is dotted with at least 15 islands, lush trees, and shrubs. The lake is ringed by the beautiful scenery of sprawling highlands clad with green vegetation, plantations, and terraces of crops along the slopes.

This amazing scenery is set against a stunning backdrop of the cloudy peaks of the Virunga Mountain Volcanoes. The chain of volcanoes of the Virunga Mountain Range spans the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Uganda shares three of its prominent eight volcanoes: Mountain Muhavira, Mountain Gahinga, and Mountain Sabyinyo, which make up Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

25. Mountain Gahinga

It’s a dormant volcano situated in the Virunga region and shared by Rwanda and Uganda. It’s located between Volcano Sabyinyo and Muhabura. Gahinga is among the tall mountains, standing at 3,474m tall.

Mt. Gahinga offers a perfect base for Gorilla and Golden Monkey trekking in Uganda. It’s dominated by montane forests with bamboo. It’s a 6-hour round trip from Ntebeko. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers gorilla trekking, Golden Monkey trekking, birding, and mountaineering, among other activities.

26. Virunga region

It’s shared by Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The region is one of the most important tourist destinations in Africa and the world at large due to its hosting of rare mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, birds, and more. The Virunga region encompasses Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Virunga’s 7,800 square kilometers (3,000 square miles) stretch from the Virunga Massif in the south to the Rwenzori Mountains in the north.

27. Ndere Center

The Ndere Cultural Center is an African cultural hub that spans over 9 acres of well-maintained African flora and fauna. It is characterized by indigenous architecture giving a modern and fresh look. At the Cultural Centre, there are a variety of accommodation options for guests to choose from.

All of these are surrounded by an aura of flora and fauna, providing a picturesque view for our guests to wake up to. Breakfast is also provided with each accommodation package. Our range of accommodations provides the perfect getaway for couples, families, or groups, along with a safe environment for individual travelers.

28. Uganda Equator

It’s where a tourist can go and stand in the northern and southern hemispheres at the same time. It’s a landmark for tourists in Uganda, and a stopover is a must-do experience to take photos. The equator is defined as the imaginary line that separates the two hemispheres. The prominent equator monuments are along the Kampala-Masaka road, in Nabusanke village, 72 kilometers from Kampala city, a 2-hour drive. Other monuments are found in Queen Elizabeth and near Entebbe town.

29. Botanical Garden Entebbe

Situated in Entebbe, Wakiso district in Uganda, the gardens were established in 1898 near Entebbe Airport and the Equator line. They cover an area of 2 kilometers along Lake Victoria.

The botanical garden serves as an education center, for awareness creation, and scientific research purposes. At the botanical gardens, expect to study with a local guide about 120 plant species, birds, and more.

30. 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.

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Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Uganda – 2024

• February 10, 2024

There is a variety of tourist attractions in Uganda ranging from Wildlife safaris, Primate Safaris, Birdwatching, Cultural tours, etc. Uganda houses one of Africa’s most enchanting attractions, making it one of the best places to visit in Africa. So it doesn’t matter what your tourist preferences are; Uganda should be your destination in the next tour you will make to Africa.

In this tour blog, we share the top 10 spectacular tourist attractions in Uganda you must see on your next visit. It will be a long one covering some of the best tourist attractions that make Uganda a beautiful country. If you are planning your tour shortly, this guide is for you. Hang in here, and we will tour Uganda with you in just a few minutes.

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Uganda

Here are the top 10 tourist attractions and other famous places that make Uganda your next perfect destination. We’ve included a list of Game parks, waterfalls, forests, mountains, beaches, and fresh water lakes. These include:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the best tourist attractions in Uganda. It is located in southwestern Uganda, covering an area of 331 square kilometers. This Park is home to over half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Thus, an estimate of around 400 gorillas are living in this Uganda’s tourist destination.

You will have an opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitats and see other primates, such as chimpanzees and black and white colobus monkeys. In addition to gorilla trekking, the Park offers other activities, such as guided nature walks, birdwatching, and cultural tours to visit the Batwa people, who are indigenous forest-dwelling people and the original inhabitants of the forest.

The Park was established in 1991 and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. It is named after the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a dense forest that covers most of the Park and is home to over 120 mammal species. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is definitely one of those places you should visit when you come to Uganda.

2. Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is another perfect destination you should include on your list to Uganda. It is found in the northwestern part of Uganda and sits on an area of 3,893 square kilometers. The Park was established in 1952 and is Uganda’s most significant national Park, known for its spectacular Murchison Falls.

It is named after the majestic waterfalls that crash on the Nile River and is home to grasslands, savannahs, and riverine forests. This Park is called the “big five territory” because of Africa’s five most giant animals: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinoceros.

However, you can also have a chance to watch other species of mammals, including giraffes, buffaloes, and various antelope species such as kobs and waterbucks, chimpanzees, baboons, and several species of monkeys.

You will have a chance to take boat trips along the Nile River to view the falls up close and observe the diverse wildlife along the riverbanks. This place has a diversity of tourist attractions that make Uganda one of the best places to visit in Africa.

3. Kazinga Channel

The Kazinga Channel couldn’t miss on our list of the best places to visit in Uganda. It is a natural waterway that flows through Queen Elizabeth National Park in southwestern Uganda. The channel is approximately 32 kilometers long and connects Lake Edward to Lake George, two of the largest lakes in the region.

You will have a chance to take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel to observe hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants, and several species of birds, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, and pelicans. The boat cruises usually take around two hours and are led by knowledgeable guides who provide information about the wildlife and the surrounding landscape.

It is about 420km from Kampala City and has an estimated terrain of about 914m above sea level. It also has two parts which are North Kazinga and Kasenyi Plains. Both parts of Kazinga are excellent points for viewing the Kasenyi Plains and are ideal for lion tracking. So if you are planning your tour to Uganda, Kazinga Channel is a perfect destination to include on your list.

4. Sipi Falls

Sipi Falls is a stunning series of waterfalls located in eastern Uganda on the slopes of Mount Elgon. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions and destinations in Uganda, Africa, known for its natural beauty and the opportunity to engage in various outdoor activities.

Sipi Falls comprises three main waterfalls: Upper, Middle, and Lower. Each waterfall offers a unique and picturesque sight. The water cascades down the cliffs, surrounded by lush green vegetation, creating a mesmerizing and refreshing atmosphere.

Apart from enjoying the scenic beauty, you can also engage in various activities. Hiking is popular, with several trails leading to different viewpoints and the waterfalls themselves. Accommodation options are available in the nearby town of Sipi, ranging from basic guesthouses to more luxurious lodges, providing a comfortable stay for you and your tour colleagues.

5. Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is another renowned conservation project located on Ngamba Island in Lake Victoria, Uganda. Established in 1998, the sanctuary provides a haven for rescued and orphaned chimpanzees, aiming to rehabilitate them and promote their conservation.

The sanctuary spans approximately 100 acres, with about 95% of the island left as natural forest habitat for the chimpanzees. The island is a semi-wild environment where chimpanzees can live in conditions closely resembling their natural habitat.

The primary purpose of Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is to offer a home for chimpanzees that have been orphaned or confiscated from illegal wildlife trade or kept as pets. These chimpanzees undergo a process of rehabilitation to enable them to live in social groups and learn essential skills necessary for their survival.

To visit Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, you can take a boat ride from Entebbe or Kasenyi, with tours and activities typically organized through the sanctuary’s visitor center in Entebbe . I am sure your wouldn’t want to leave this tourist attraction out from your list of places to visit in Uganda.

6. Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest National Park covers an area of 795 square kilometers. It is one of the most biodiverse forests and tourist attractions in Uganda and Africa and is famous for its population of chimpanzees and other primate species. The Park is predominantly covered by moist evergreen rainforest, interspersed with grasslands and swamps. 

It is home to an estimated 13 species of primates, including the largest population of habituated chimpanzees in East Africa. You can participate in chimpanzee tracking and trekking experiences, observing these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat.

The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, located near the Park, is a community-managed reserve that offers guided swamp walks, allowing you to spot various bird species, monkeys, and other wildlife. 

You can visit the park through the daily domestic flights from Kajjansi Airfield and Murchison Falls National Park, which land at Fort Portal Airstrip. Accommodation options are available within and near the Park, ranging from tented camps, lodges, and campsites to guesthouses.

7. Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is located in western Uganda, along the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It encompasses the Rwenzori Mountain Range, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Uganda’s most spectacular mountain ranges and tourist destinations.

The Rwenzori Mountains are characterized by their dramatic peaks, glaciers, and alpine landscapes. They are home to the third highest mountain in Africa, Mount Stanley, which reaches an elevation of 5,109 meters (16,762 feet) at its highest point, Margherita Peak. The mountains are known for their challenging and technical climbing routes, attracting experienced mountaineers worldwide.

The Park’s diverse ecosystems include lush montane forests, bamboo forests, heathlands, and expansive alpine moorlands. The higher elevations are characterized by unique plant species, including giant lobelias and groundsels. In addition, the Park is known for its beautiful waterfalls, alpine lakes, and fast-flowing rivers.

You will enjoy activities like guided trekking and climbing expeditions. There are several trekking routes available, varying in difficulty and duration. The most popular trek is the Central Circuit, which takes around 7 to 9 days to complete and provides stunning views of the mountains, glaciers, and diverse landscapes.

8. Ssese Islands

The Ssese Islands are a group of 84 islands located in Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world. The islands are part of Uganda and situated in the lake’s northwestern part. The Ssese Islands are known for their natural beauty, sandy beaches, and lush vegetation, making them a popular tourist destination in Uganda.

The group’s largest and most developed island is Bugala Island, which serves as the gateway to the Ssese Islands. Bugala Island is known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. The island offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxurious resorts.

You will enjoy activities like swimming, sunbathing, relaxing on the beaches, and engaging in water sports such as kayaking, sailing, and sport fishing. The lake is known for its abundance of fish species, including Nile perch and tilapia, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.

9. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a perfect place for a safari located in southwestern Uganda, covering an area of 1,978 square kilometers. The Park was established in 1952 as Kazinga National Park but was renamed two years after Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom.

This Park is known for its diverse wildlife, including over 95 mammals and over 600 birds. Some notable mammals in the Park include elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, buffaloes, and various antelope species such as kobs and waterbucks. 

The Park is also home to several primate species, including chimpanzees, baboons, and several species of monkeys. For that reason, it has several attractions for visitors, including game drives, boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel, and guided nature walks. 

Visitors can also visit the Kyambura Gorge, a lush valley home to a population of habituated chimpanzees, and the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions.

Overall, Queen Elizabeth National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts visiting Uganda, offering a unique and unforgettable experience of African wildlife and landscapes.

10. Mount Elgon National Park

Mount Elgon National Park covers an area of 1,279 square kilometers and is named after Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano and the fourth-highest mountain in East Africa. The Park is known for its different ecosystems, including montane forest, bamboo forest, heath, and moorland. It is also known for its scenic beauty, stunning waterfalls, hot springs, and caves.

The most popular areas are the four explorable, vast caves where frequent night visitors, such as elephants and buffaloes, come to lick the natural salt found on the cave walls. Kitum cave, with overhanging crystalline walls, enters 200m into the side of Mt. Elgon.

The Park is also an excellent destination for birdwatchers, with over 300 bird species recorded in the Park, including several endemic species such as the Jackson’s Francolin, the Black-collared Apalis, and the Moorland Chat.

Final Remarks

With all these unique places above, you cannot fail to have an amazing tour to Uganda. We hope this tour guide has helped you to uncover the best places to visit in Uganda. We are a tour and book blog talking about the beauty of Uganda. We would love to see you visit and read about Uganda.

Frequently Asked Questions

One of the most visited places in Uganda is undoubtedly Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This park is famous for being home to almost half of the world’s population of endangered mountain gorillas, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and tourists interested in gorilla trekking experiences.

Uganda is often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa.” This nickname was popularized by Winston Churchill in his 1908 book “My African Journey,” in which he described Uganda as “the pearl of Africa” due to its natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich biodiversity.

If you’re interested in visiting Uganda to see gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, it’s important to note that gorilla trekking is possible year-round. However, June to August and December to February when hiking conditions are generally more favorable is the best time to visit Uganda to see gorillas.

One popular tourist attraction in Uganda is the Murchison Falls National Park. This national park is located in northwestern Uganda and is named after the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Victoria Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge, plunging about 43 meters (141 feet) down.

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• About Uganda

When Sir Winston Churchill dubbed Uganda the Pearl of Africa, eyebrows were raised about what exactly he was talking about. In brief, Churchill explained that he was simply referring to the uniqueness of the scenery, the vegetation, climate, people and the variety of wildlife found in this land. Uganda is the ideal perfect destination for travelers who want to relax, trek gorillas, adventure, do game drives, hike, cruise the waters and many more tour-related activities. The list of Uganda’s spectacular tourist activities below explains it all as to why the land is referred to as the pearl of Africa.

Game drives

Uganda has got up to 10 national parks, 12 wildlife reserves and 14 wildlife sanctuaries where a variety of game and primates be viewed. Game driving is the most popular activity in Uganda’s national parks and reserves. Some of the favorite parks for game drives in Uganda include Murchison Falls National Park in the Northwest, Queen Elizabeth National Park in the West and Kidepo Valley national park in the Northwest.

There is a variety of game within these parks to be viewed including a full list of all the African “big five” that features lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. Some of the species in the parks are so unique in nature for example the tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth national park. Other Ugandan parks where game can be viewed include Lake Mburo national park, Semuliki national park, Mount Rwenzori national park, Mount Elgon national park among others. Other game species that can be seen in these parks include hippos, crocks, antelopes, hartebeests, bushbucks, warthogs, zebras, giraffes and many more. Away from game drives, there are many other activities that you can embark on in these parks that include boat cruises, bird watching, water fall adventure in Murchison falls national park and at Sipi falls in Mount Elgon national park, among others.

Gorilla Trekking

Uganda is one of the only three countries which offer memorable gorilla watching safaris in the world. The other two countries include Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The experience of trekking mountain gorillas in the wild of Bwindi Impenetrable National park and Mgahinga gorilla national park in the Southwest of the country ranks on top of all other wildlife safaris. Today majority travellers in Uganda book for gorilla safaris as their favorite to track these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Today the estimated number of mountain gorillas in the world is about 1000 individuals and more than half of them are found in Uganda. Regardless of their uniqueness in behavior that tries to resemble that of humans, Mountain gorillas are considered to be highly endangered and everyone needs to visit and relate with them for a firsthand experience that cannot just be theoretically explained.

Chimpanzee Tracking

Chimpanzee trekking safaris are very incredible in Uganda with the country possessing thousands of chimps in her wild almost in all corners. The experience of tracking chimpanzees is close to that of trekking the gorillas. However, chimpanzees are much more in number compared to mountain gorillas that are limited. The best chimpanzee tracking spots in Uganda include Kibale forest national park, Kyambura gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu forest near Queen Elizabeth national park, Budongo forest and at Ngamba Island Chimpanzee sanctuary on lake Victoria. Visit these places and see hundreds of chimps and discover why they are called the closest apes to humans possessing up to 98% of our DNA.

Birding Safaris

Uganda is arguably the most ideal country in Africa for birding safaris. The country rewards her birding travelers with over 1075 bird species to explore. Some of these are endemic to Uganda for example the Fox weaver and the stuhlmann’s double-collared sunbird. Bird watching is best done in Uganda’s forests localized species that include Semuliki, Budongo, Kibale and Bwindi forests. The most common and eye-catching bird species of Uganda include the shoebill, woodpeckers, bulbuls, greenbuls, bush shrikes, warblers, flycatchers, kingfishers, sparrow hawks, weavers, cuckoos, pigeons, doves and many others.

Forest/Nature Walks

Uganda is blessed with tropical rainforests that form the beautiful green cover seen in almost every part of the country. The influence of the Equator crossing Uganda is such a significant one in terms of vegetation and climate. Uganda’s nature and forest walks are done in her magnificent forests including Mabira, Budongo, Busingiro Ecotourism site, Mpanga forest reserve, Kibale forest among others. In these forests, its not only nature walks but you are rewarded with marvelous views of birds, chimps, butterflies and many other varieties of wildlife species including several vegetation types.

Mountaineering Safaris

Uganda is a wonderful destination for mountain hikers especially with the presence of Mountain Rwenzori on the Western border with DRC. The snow-caped peak of Margherita in the glacial ranges of Rwenzori is not found lower than 5,109m above sea level and reaching it always the main goal and a dream come true of very ambitious hiker. Away from Rwenzori, the less ambitious hikers can try it out at Mount Elgon in the Eastern part of the country along the border with Kenya to ascend to its beautiful peak of Wagagai found at 4321m above sea level. Other hiking safaris are done in Uganda’s volcanoes of Gahinga and Muhabura in the Southwest.

Boat Cruises and Rafting

Enjoy breathtaking boat cruises on lake Victoria explore her beautiful Islands and beaches. Boat cruises and boat launches are fantastic on lake Victoria’s calm and fresh waters, you will come across numerous Islands. Explore the adventurous white water rafting at the source of the Nile at Jinja, the longest River in the world. Other areas where boat cruises are done include Lake Mburo national park which allows to view some of the wildlife species of the park like the hippos, Kazinga channel within Queen Elizabeth national park also gives you incredible views of hippos, buffaloes, elephants and thousands of birds that flock around the channel. Lake Bunyonyi in Southwest near Bwindi Impenetrable national park offers a wonderful boat cruises as a relaxation especially after the tiresome gorilla trekking in Bwindi jungles.

Community tours

Visit Uganda’s unique communities and discover their amazing way of life. Visit the wonderful community of the Batwa (pygmies) in the Southwest near Bwindi impenetrable national park, enjoy their music and dance plus a tour around their community to see their local activities and homesteads. The Karamajongs and the IK in the North east near Kidepo valley national park are the other two amazing communities that deserve a visit as you will find out a lot more unique aspects about them that you couldn’t believe. You shouldn’t also miss out on Uganda’s amazing historical sites that include the Kasubi tombs in Kampala where former kings of Buganda kingdom are buried. Other incredible sites include the Namugongo shrines where the Uganda Martyrs that were slained for their faith are buried.

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Top 10 Attractions in Uganda

The tourist attractions in Uganda are distinctive; the variety of its game stock and the raw untouched scenic beauty stand out.

The flora and fauna, the friendly climate – all year round, the variety of landscape and not forgetting the Ugandan people and their culture are outstandingly unrivaled and unique and therefore why Uganda has first become one of the hottest tourism destinations in the world.

Mountain Gorillas

The irresistible experience that could easily be top of Uganda’s tourist attractions is the Bwindi Impenetrable forest . It arguably possesses half of the world’s total mountain gorilla population – and that is for an endangered species by the way.

Track the gorillas and come face to face with these creatures that possess the closest relation to the human race. Bwindi will also offer you over 300 species of birds, over 200 species of butterflies, and tree species you will not find elsewhere.

Uganda’s Birds

Bird lovers/watchers will certainly love the sheer variety of bird species that Uganda has to offer. The collection is unique – some of the birds you will not find elsewhere.

Remember Uganda has more bird species than any other country in the world. 10.6% (1,061) of the world’s 10,000 bird species are found in Uganda – that is more than entire Europe (1,000). Uganda has 46.1% of bird species in Africa (2,300)

Nyero Rock Paintings

The originality of the Nyero Rock paintings in the eastern region cements the heritage of Uganda. These paintings date back to the Iron Age – believed to have been made by the light-skinned bushmen.

Gazetted as a world heritage site, these rocks are amazing tourist attractions and well worth a visit.

Uganda Martyrs Shrine, Namugongo

Back in Kampala, the Uganda Martyrs Shrine in Namugongo is one place to visit especially if you happen to be in the country by the start of June.

It is a venue for the annual pilgrimage every June 3 and Christians from all walks of life gathers here to celebrate spirituality and history – remembering the lives of the 32 young men who under the orders of King Mwanga II of Buganda kingdom, were burned to death for their refusal to denounce Christianity in 1886.

Unfortunately, it very much comes alive as a tourist attraction around about June 3 and this day is gazetted as one of the Ugandan public holidays

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Top 5 Must-See Tourist Attractions in Uganda

Known as the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda is a country of astounding natural beauty and abundant wildlife. From mist-covered mountain gorillas to roaring waterfalls, Uganda offers an array of unforgettable experiences for travelers.

If you’re planning a trip to this remarkable destination, these top 5 attractions should be at the top of your Uganda bucket list:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Home to half of the remaining world population of endangered mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of Uganda’s most famous protected areas. Located in southwestern Uganda, this UNESCO World Heritage Site spans 331 sq km of Afromontane Forest and is renowned for gorilla trekking.

Visiting the gorillas in Bwindi is a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. Trekking through dense jungle terrain, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Watching them play, forage for food, and interact is an incredibly moving encounter that will stay with you forever.

In addition to mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park provides a sanctuary for 120 species of mammals, 350 species of birds, 200 species of butterflies, and 160 species of trees. Even if you don’t see any gorillas, the biodiversity and verdant beauty of Bwindi will leave you in awe.

2. Murchison Falls National Park

For classic African safari adventures, look no further than Murchison Falls National Park. As Uganda’s largest national park, it spans 3,840 sq km and is home to 76 mammal species and over 450 bird species.

The park gets its name from the mighty Murchison Falls, where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow 8m gorge and plunges 43m with explosive force. Taking a boat cruise up the Nile to the base of the falls is an unforgettable way to experience the raw power of nature up close.

In addition to the falls, Murchison Falls National Park has excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, especially along the Nile River. Look for elephants, giraffes, lions, hartebeests, buffaloes, and hippos in their natural habitats. A safari drive in Murchison is an iconic Uganda travel experience.

3. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Straddling the equator, the sprawling Queen Elizabeth National Park covers 1,978 sq km and is known for its scenic vistas. The park has a picturesque mix of savanna, shrublands, lush wetlands, and sparkling lakes.

One of the top attractions in Queen Elizabeth is the Kazinga Channel, a natural canal connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. A boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel almost guarantees sightings of hippos, elephants, buffaloes, Ugandan kob, and waterbirds. You might even catch a glimpse of the resident Nile crocodiles.

Another highlight is seeing the tree-climbing lions that are unique to the Ishasha sector. Watching these lions lazily doze on tree branches is an incredible sight. The park also has leopards, hyenas, chimpanzees, and over 600 bird species. With this wealth of wildlife, Queen Elizabeth is one of East Africa’s most rewarding game-viewing spots.

4. Kibale Forest National Park

Home to the greatest variety and concentration of primates in Africa, Kibale Forest National Park is a tropical rainforest paradise. The lush park covers 766 sq km and provides prime habitat for 13 primate species, including humanity’s closest living relative – the endangered chimpanzee.

Kibale is best known as one of East Africa’s best places to track wild chimpanzees. An exhilarating chimp trek takes you into the heart of the forest as you follow these delightful apes swinging through the canopy, playing with each other, and calling to one another.

In addition to chimps, you can spot the black-and-white colobus monkey, red-tailed monkey, olive baboon, grey-cheeked mangabey, and more. Birders will be drawn to Kibale’s 325 recorded bird species.

5. Ssese Islands

If you’re looking to unwind on the shores of Lake Victoria, head to the Ssese Islands. Comprising of 84 islands scattered across Lake Victoria, the Ssese archipelago is a hidden gem off the beaten tourist track.

These tranquil islands have pristine beaches, stunning sunsets, and a slow pace of life. Activities include swimming, sunbathing, boat cruises, fishing, kayaking, and quad biking through villages. Many of the islands also make ideal spots for camping adventures.

The Bugala and Koome islands are the largest and most developed, with lodges, beach camps, and basic hotels. For a more rustic and remote island experience, consider Banda, Bufumira, or Bubeke Islands. The Ssese Islands provide a perfect taste of tropical island life in the heart of Africa.

Key Takeaways

No matter your interests, Uganda has an adventure for you. Its world-class national parks and wildlife encounters make it a safari-lovers paradise. The verdant forests and thundering waterfalls provide breathtaking backdrops around every corner. So head to the “Pearl of Africa” and let Uganda’s beauty blow you away!

Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, incredible wildlife encounters, or cultural immersion, Uganda promises an unforgettable adventure. Its natural wonders and warm hospitality continue to draw visitors from around the world. The country’s top national parks offer safari experiences that will exceed your wildest expectations. Start planning your Uganda getaway today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions travelers have about visiting Uganda’s top attractions:

Q. When is the best time to visit Uganda’s national parks?

A. The dry seasons from June to August and December to February are ideal for game viewing. Rates are also lower during the April and May wet season.

Q. Is it safe to visit Uganda?

A. Yes, Uganda is very safe to visit, especially the popular tourist areas. Standard safety precautions should be followed.

Q. How difficult are the gorilla and chimp treks?

A. The treks can be strenuous, involving hiking on rough terrain for 1-8 hours. But the encounters are incredibly rewarding. Permits and guides are arranged by the national parks.

Q. How much does it cost to see mountain gorillas?

A. A permit currently costs $700 per person. Permits must be booked well in advance.

Q. What vaccinations are required for Uganda?

A. Yellow fever and malaria prophylactics are recommended. Up-to-date routine vaccines are also a good idea.

Q. Are national park fees included in tour packages?

A. Most tour packages exclude park fees, which are paid separately. Current rates range from $30-$150 per day.

Q. What is the best way to get around Uganda’s parks?

A. Hiring a driver is the most convenient and safest option. You can self-drive but a 4×4 vehicle is essential in most parks.

Q. Where can I see tree-climbing lions?

A. Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park is the best place to spot Uganda’s famous tree-climbing lions.

Q. What languages are spoken in Uganda?

A. English and Swahili are the official languages. Local languages include Luganda, Runyankole, and more. Most people involved in tourism speak English.

Q. Are ATMs and credit cards widely accepted?

A. ATMs accepting foreign cards are available in major towns. But have some cash on hand, especially for rural areas. Credit card acceptance is limited.

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The top 20 tourist Attractions in Uganda

Posted on August 21, 2022

Below is the selection of the top tourist attractions in Uganda and the things to do in Uganda on your safari. Mentioned are some attractions in the cities, country side and the protected areas.

Gorilla trekking tops the list of tourist attractions in Uganda

The main reason as to why Uganda receives many gorilla trekking safaris . These primates are only found in Bwindi impenetrable National Park as well as Mgahinga National Park, these live in groups of around 10 individuals and are led by the most powerful silverback with the rest of the group comprising of females and the younger males. This silverback makes the decision in the group and also protects them from danger.

To view these animals, you can enjoy gorilla safaris from Kisoro which is about 460 km from the capital city of Kampala. Kisoro, is located in a area of Uganda and is in the African Great Lakes region. This is where the African continent is slowly splitting apart revealing the beautiful lake scenery.

Bird watching in Bwindi impenetrable National Park

More so, the birds are so great and the forest ranks as one of East Africa’s best regions for birdlife and bird watching. You can have bird watching in some of the lodges like Mahogany Springs safari Lodge as well Nkuringo Gorilla Camp. The guide will also be available to spot many of the fascinating birds that call this forest Home. The main bird species include; the Turner’s eremomela, Chapin’s flycatchers, Shelley’s crimson-wings, African green broadbills, bee-eaters, Grauer’s swamp warbler, and the abundance of butterflies .

The drier months, which are June to August and December to February, are favorable to visit Bwindi and the birders might like the wetter months for a higher chance of seeing more bird activity. You can find some birding trails in the area including; the Ivy river trail, Kashasha river valley, Buhoma waterfall trails, and the Mubwindi swamp trail in Ruhija. Birders visiting the Nkuringo Gorilla Camp who want to focus on endemics have especially enjoyed visiting a small pocket forest named Nombe.

Hiking from Kisoro to Nkuringo and Buhoma

Bwindi has got many different hiking opportunities to see in the area no wonders is the main tourist attractions in Uganda. The local guides will show you the most scenic hiking trails like between the hamlet of Buhoma on the north side of the Bwindi Forest National Park and the town of Kisoro in South western Uganda. There are walking trails between Kisoro and Buhoma that combine with gorilla trekking adventure. A night at Lake Mutanda and cross the next day with a dugout canoe to begin your trek, then follow the village trails to view Fantastic scenery of enjoying rain forest, mountains, lakes and the form of the Land.

One of the main tourist attractions in Uganda is Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park

The chimps are the closest relatives to humans and these are found in Kibale national Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Budongo forest near Murchison falls national Park. It’s easy to track the chimps in Kibale national park since it’s considered as the best place in the whole of East Africa for seeing the chimpanzees. The most popular trail in the park is the walk from Kanyacnchu Visitor centre, which starts about three hours to visit the chimps and view the wildlife enroute.

The savannah wildlife species in Queen Elizabeth national Park

This national park is the most popular tourist attractions in Uganda. It’s linked to areas of diversity. It contains many different wildlife filled habitants like the forests, savannah, wetlands, savannah grasslands and many lakes. The park is located in the western side of the country with lots of wildlife and the scenic Lake George and Edward. Enjoy game drives in Queen Elizabeth national park and see many animals including; the lions, elephants, antelopes and buffaloes. The boat cruise will expose you to many crocodiles, buffaloes, water birds and many more. The tree climbing lions are found in Ishasha sector.

For their beauty, Golden Monkeys are tourist attractions in Uganda

The golden monkeys are a great group of primates to see in the wild and these can be relatively encountered on the guided walks that are carried out in the forests. There are many different areas to find the monkeys, but the best place for tracking monkeys in Uganda is Mgahinga National Park at the foot of the Virunga Mountains. These monkeys enjoy running around the stands of bamboo forest in the protected areas. These make fantastic add on experiences to enjoy the gorillas and the chimpanzees. These are relatively small animals and are covered with long, golden hair. They are classified as an endangered species and are found in Virunga‘s bamboo forests.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

This sanctuary protects Uganda’s wild Rhinos and is situated north of Kampala near the famous Murchison falls; the main tourist attractions in Uganda. The sanctuary protects 15 Rhinos and is a great place to see other wildlife species including the birds. Get to enjoy bird watching, nature walks and relaxation. The rangers of the sanctuary will guide you around the reserve to find the wildlife, including the rhinos themselves but also crocodiles, hippos, and antelopes. Birders often enjoy the reserve and spend time finding some of the 250 different species.

The Murchison Falls, tops tourist attractions in Uganda

This is a great natural attraction that is located in Murchison falls national park. The park is home to many different animals including; the hippos, crocodiles, lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, antelopes, chimpanzees and many bird species. It’s the largest national park in Uganda and it’s more scenic with water violently crashing through the narrow, rocky gorge.

Kampala city

This is the capital city of Uganda and it makes a fascinating stop on your Ugandan adventure to enjoy for 1 to 2 days. Ugandan people are so friendly and the city of Kampala offers a more relaxed atmosphere than the nearby countries. The city is so calm and safe and has got stable expat community with many different NGO’s that run humanitarian and conservation projects. Get to enjoy many different markets selling variety of produce, clothing and crafts. View the temples, cathedrals, markets, galleries, areas of historical significance and the museums.

Ndere centre

The center is recommended Tourist attractions in Uganda to experience the country’s traditional dance and music. Get to enjoy a dinner and theatre performance at the center to see a high energy show of Ugandan culture. The dances are from different tribes and the show takes place in a 700 seat amphitheatre on Sundays at 6pm.The mission of the center and its dancers and musicians is to help rekindle a sense of pride for Ugandan culture while promoting it to the world. A team of dedicated Ugandans carefully research and respectfully present parts of all the cultures that make up the Ugandan people constantly updating the performances.

Do you know Lake Victoria is the main tourist attractions in Uganda?

This is where the Nile begins which was one of the world’s most historically significant rivers. This is the largest fresh water tropical lake and sits as the jewel in the crown of the African great Lake region. The lake is home to different features like island and reefs. There are 200 species of fish and over 350 different birds. The Islands of Lake Victoria are home to some luxury lodges where you can relax near the glistening waters and take safaris around to view some of these unique features and wildlife. The most common island on the lake is called Ngamba Island famous for chimpanzees.

Among the top tourist attractions in Uganda is Lake Bunyonyi

The lake is located close to Kisoro and Kabale and the near the border with nearby Rwanda. It’s one of the largest of Africa’s lakes by depth and has 29 different islands. This lake is popular for relaxation for the locals. Around the lake, there are towns of Muko and Kyevu where you can enjoy range of lake side accommodation. The main attractions here include; Batwa tribes, islands and the Bird species.

Lake Mburo National Park

Though in the list of tourist attractions in Uganda, this is a small protected area classed as a savannah area that contacting different wildlife like the antelopes, hyenas, hippos, buffaloes, zebras, and many different birds. There are 13 other water bodies in the region, but the star lake is Lake Mburo. Mburo is part of the protected areas wetland system, which is why it’s such a great place for birdlife. There around 350 different bird species to see in the area and it’s a must-visit destination for birders. The common activities to enjoy here include; boat cruises, game drives, guided nature walks and horse riding. The main wildlife species include; zebra, Impala, and many more.

It’s not enough to visit tourist attractions in Uganda without The Kasubi tombs

This attraction will help you learn a little about the recent traditional cultural history of the region. It’s considered as UNESCO World Heritage listed site and the burial grounds of four Ugandan kings and the royal family. It was built in 1882 as the palace of Kabaka Mutesa 1 and was converted to his tomb following his death. The sites offers information about Buganda culture about how work is done in the palace. The palace is composed of around 35 buildings and around 300 people live on the grounds themselves. A fireplace is in the middle of the area where the fire is kept lit to warm the king’s spirits.

Lake Mutanda

Tt’s a small beautiful lake in the Kisoro district of South western Uganda, which is an area known as little Switzerland, the lake can be visited from Kisoro and resides in the African Great Lakes area at the foot of the Virunga mountains. The lake has got different Islands and is drained by the Rutshuru River. The forests provides home for number of animals and plants including the mountain gorillas. The golden monkeys and the gorillas live in the nearby Mgahinga national park.

The forest here is also home to different chameleons, monitors and many frog species. You can enjoy a visit to Kyangushu Island and village trips to see how the locals live their lives. Visit the Mutanda Island, which is the largest of the inhabited islands where you can enjoy views of the Congo border, Bwindi National Park, and Lake Mulehe

Ssese Islands

The Islands are archipelago in Lake Victoria that deserves their own say. It’s located in the North West corner of Lake Victoria and it’s the largest island is Bugala Island where Kalangala town can be found. These islands are home to Bantu people and were a very spiritual location for the local people. The main activity here is fishing and tourism being the main economy. The common wildlife species here include; monkeys, birds, snakes and many more. The island offers attractive scenery and makes an excellent relaxation spot for a few nights as there some accommodation facilities.

The local Market are unique tourist attractions in Uganda in nature

The markets in Uganda give a glance into the lives of the local people and make for a great adventure experience for the visitors. There are many different markets to visit in and around Kampala like Owino and Nakasero Markets. Owino is known for its hustle and the activity with chaotic looking stalls while Nakasero is a little more relaxed and a preferred first choice. Get to buy many items like old clothes, fruits as well as food stuffs.

The Equator

This is a popular tourist attractions in Uganda which is one of the most famous land marks in the country. This mark shows the part of the earth that receives more sunlight than any other and it’s where you find the world’s most wildlife rich forests. Uganda is one of the world’s areas where the equator passes straight through the country. The main equator land mark is 70km from Kampala towards the southwest of the district and it takes about one hour to arrive in the city.

With the different equatorial landmarks, you can enjoy some great photographs to document the moment and to imagine where you actually are in the world. You can then buy a little souvenir to remember the area, enjoy internet facilities to send someone an email from the equator, and relax with a coffee thanks to the renovations made by the Duke of Edinburgh in 2007.

Apart from the above, there are many other tourists attractions in Uganda including; the source of the Nile, different types of food and many more.

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Uganda Tourist Attractions – Things to See In Uganda on Safari (What To See In Uganda?)

Uganda tourist attractions (tourist Attractions in Uganda) are the various things to see and unique places to visit in Uganda during several Uganda safaris.

The top Uganda tourist attractions include a fantastic diversity of landscapes, plant life, wildlife, birdlife, culture, and people. Roads are lined with mango, jackfruit, and banana trees. Rolling hills are home to tea and coffee plantations. Lakes and rivers are flanked by thickets and wetlands.

Wondering what to see in Uganda? This is Africa’s emerald Eden, where dense jungles are home to endangered Mountain Gorillas and Chimpanzees, - our close cousins. The iconic African Big Five, antelopes, zebras, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, cheetahs, hyenas, etc, can be seen on your Uganda wildlife safaris in the Uganda parks. Plus, Uganda boasts 1,076 of the 2,250 bird species in Africa!

No matter where your interest lies, there is always something for everyone on safari in Uganda. Winston Churchill coined the nickname “The Pearl of Africa” in 1908, to convey the beauty, variety, and natural wealth of Uganda. Since then, Uganda has grown into one of the most coveted African safari destinations.

Igongo Cultural Centre Mbarara, Igongo Culture Museum In Uganda Mbarara

Jinja city in uganda – jinja town – jinja tours things to do & see.

Lake Bunyonyi Location ∣ Lake Bunyonyi Uganda Tours, Attractions, Activities

THE SCENIC VIEWS OF LAKE MUTANDA

Best places to visit in uganda to see amazing uganda tourist attractions – things to see in uganda on safari.

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• Kibale National Park
• Murchison Falls National Park
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Lake Mburo National Park
• Kidepo Valley National Park
• Semuliki National Park
• Rwenzori Mountains National Park
• Mount Elgon National Park
• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
• Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
• Budongo Forest Reserve
• Jinja – Source of the River Nile

Major Tourism Attractions in Uganda – Top Things to See on A Uganda Safari (What To See In Uganda)

Uganda has a variety of attractions (things to see in Uganda ) that are diversely spread throughout the country.

The major Uganda Tourist Attractions to See on Your Uganda Tours Include: –

Mountain gorillas.

About 1063 mountain gorillas are left in the world and Uganda is home to more than half of this population. The rest of the mountain gorillas live in the neighboring countries of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo .

Uganda is a great place to visit in Africa if you want to see these gentle giants – the world’s largest primate, weighing in at up to 227kg – in their misty mountain homes. Staring into the liquid brown eyes of a giant Silverback is undoubtedly the highlight of almost all safaris in Uganda .

To go gorilla trekking in Uganda and see the unique see gorillas in Uganda , you’ll need to plan to undertake Uganda gorilla safaris or Uganda gorilla tours to the southwest in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park which is home to over 459 mountain gorillas and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park with around 80 mountain gorillas.

Chimpanzees

Several safari destinations in Uganda offer the amazing adventure of Chimpanzee trekking In Uganda , but Kibale National Park with more than wild chimpanzees is the prime area. Other Places to Visit In Uganda For Chimpanzee Safaris Include:-

• Kalinzu Forest , which has more than 300 chimpanzees
• Budongo Forest with about 800 chimpanzees
• Queen Elizabeth National Park with 256 chimpanzees
• Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary with about 52 chimpanzees

African Big Five & Other Savannah Animals

The term ‘Big Five’ was coined in the 19 th Century by big game hunters who listed the African Elephant, Buffalo, Lion, Leopard, and Rhinos as the 5 most dangerous creatures to hunt on foot in Africa.  Fortunately, all the Big 5 are now protected in parks and reserves. The term is now synonymous with photographic safaris.

On a wildlife safari in Uganda , you can see all the famous Big 5 in the wild. You will also see a variety of other amazing savannah animals of Uganda such as Cheetahs, Hippos, Crocs, Giraffes, Zebras, Hyenas, Warthogs, Antelopes, etc. These animals can be encountered on boat cruises, game drives, and game walks. The best places to visit in Uganda for Big Five/game viewing include: –

• Queen Elizabeth National Park with over 95 mammal species
• Murchison Falls National Park with 76 mammal species.
• Kidepo Valley National Park with 77 species of mammals
• Lake Mburo National Park with over 68 mammal species
• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary with about 33 wild white rhinos

Birds of Uganda

The country boasts some of Africa’s most sought-after birds such as the Shoebill, best spotted at Mabamba Swamp on the shores of Lake Victoria near Entebbe in Central Uganda. Uganda also has Africa’s number one birding spot in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest which hosts 23 Albertine rift endemic birds.

All 10 national parks of Uganda host a long list of local and migratory birds. You can do birding in Uganda (birdwatching in Uganda) on nature walks, game drives, boats, and canoe rides.

The Best Places to Visit for Uganda Birding Safaris  include: –

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with 351 bird species
• Queen Elizabeth National Park with more than 600 bird species
• Murchison Falls National Park with over 450 bird species.
• Budongo Forest with about 366 bird species
• Kibale National Park with 375 bird species
• Lake Mburo National Park with about 350 species
• Semuliki National Park with 442 bird species
• Mabamba Swamp with more than 300 bird species
• Mabira Forest, which has about 316 species of birds

A Variety of Monkeys in Uganda

One such monkey is the Golden Monkey which like the Mountain Gorillas is only found in mountains in the Albertine rift valley of Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. Golden monkey tracking is one of the top things to do in Uganda ’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Other amazing monkey species you will see on your Uganda wildlife safaris include the Olive Baboon, Patas monkey, Black-and-white Colobus, Red Colobus monkey, Red-Tailed monkey, and L’Hoest’s monkey. The best places to visit in Uganda for monkey viewing include:-

• Kibale National Park with 12 species of monkeys
• Bwindi National Park with 9 monkey species
• Semuliki National Park with 10 monkey species
• Budongo Forest with 8 species of monkeys
• Kalinzu Forest with 6 monkey species

Mountains In Uganda

Like many other parts of Africa, Uganda has over many millennia experienced extensive tectonic activity along the East African Rift Valley, which has left behind several sizable and beautiful mountains.

Many of these mountains are protected within national parks and are major tourist attractions in Uganda . They offer stunning areas for mountain trekking safaris in Uganda for both inexperienced hikers and experienced mountaineers. Here are the popular mountains to visit on your hiking safari in Uganda :-

i) The Rwenzori Mountains

• Mount Speke at 4,890m
• Mount Baker at 4843m
• Mount Emin at 4,798m
• Mount Gessi at 4,715m
• Mount Luigi da Savoia at 4,545m

ii) Virunga Mountains – Volcanoes

Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to 3 of the 8 ancient volcanic cones of the famous Virunga Mountains. These Volcanoes Parks offer stunning day hikes to visitors on Uganda hiking tours/trips , and they include:-

• Mount Muhabura at 4127m
• Mount Sabyinyo at 3669m
• Mount Gahinga at 3474m

iii) Mount Elgon

Mount Elgon in Mount Elgon National Park was one time Africa’s tallest mountain, far exceeding Kilimanjaro’s current 5,895m. But was gradually eroded at the peak reducing it to the current height of 4321m – 8 th in Africa. Elgon has the largest mountain caldera in the world, measuring about 48 km2 , and also has the largest volcanic base in the world at 3840 km2.

Lakes Of Uganda

In the mountainous west and southwest, several volcanic crater lakes that have been formed over 1000 years are a beauty to behold. The lakes are major Uganda tourist attractions and present limitless opportunities to explore the varied biodiversity: of birds, fish, and wild animals of Uganda.

The Best Activities You Can Do Around and On Lakes in Uganda Include: –

• Sunset boat cruise on Lake Victoria
• Canoeing and Island hopping on Lake Bunyonyi
• Fort Portal Crater Lake field hike
• Uganda Community culture tours around Katwe Salt Lake Mines in Queen Elizabeth NP
• Chimpanzee viewing & feeding at Ngamba Island in Lake Victoria
• Relaxation on the shores of Lake Bunyonyi & Lake Victoria
• Sportfishing in Uganda on Lake Victoria and Lake Mburo
• Birding at Lake Mburo

Rivers In Uganda

Uganda has several rivers that are great tourist attractions. River Nile , the longest river in the world and one of Africa’s seven natural wonders is found in Uganda.

As it flows across Uganda’s green countryside, the Nile creates numerous spectacular rapids and waterfalls and attracts lots of wildlife. On a Uganda tour , you’ll encounter the Nile River in two key places; Murchison Falls National Park in northwestern Uganda and Jinja City in eastern Uganda.

In Murchison, a one-day jinja boat cruise tour on the River Nile is the ultimate game viewing tour in Uganda for an array of animals and birds. In Jinja, the Nile offers a range of thrilling adventure activities. Other amazing rivers to explore on your Uganda trip include: –

• River Sezibwa
• River Sipi On Mount Elgon
• River Semuliki In Semuliki National Park

Source Of River Nile in Jinja

Jinja’s source of River Nile is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Uganda and Africa. It is the point at which the world’s longest river exits Africa’s largest lake to begin its epic 6,650km journey north to the Mediterranean Sea.

It has become a popular destination for several adventure activities in Uganda to the effect that Jinja town is now called East Africa’s Adventure Capital. You can visit the source of the Nile during your Jinja day tour or at the end of long Uganda safaris . The best things to do at the source of the Nile – Jinja include:-

• White water rafting
• Boat cruise to the Source of the Nile
• Bungee jumping
• Horse riding
• Quad biking and mountain biking
• Relaxation along the Nile

Spectacular Waterfalls in Uganda

Waterfalls are also among the major Uganda tourist attractions for picnics, sightseeing, and hiking or nature walks. Many of Uganda’s waterfalls appear in local legends and can be a great way to learn about the culture and storytelling during your Uganda safari trips . Here are the most amazing waterfalls you can visit in Uganda:-

i) MURCHISON FALLS

You not only take in the drama of the Falls, but you enjoy good game viewing from the comfort of the boat as you keep an eye out for hippos and crocodiles – plus amazing bird watching.

ii) Sipi Falls

Sipi Falls in eastern Uganda is a series of three stunning waterfalls: 85m, 75m, and 100m, created by the Sipi River as it cascades downstream from the top of Mt Elgon into the Kyoga Basin. Sipi Falls is the most beautiful waterfall in Uganda.

They offer amazing scenic day hikes and the starting point and endpoint of climbing tours in Mount Elgon National Park . Sipi is also a wonderful stopover to break down the long Uganda trip to the Kidepo National Park a premier Uganda safari destination that is located farther away in the remote northeastern corner of Uganda.

iii) SEZIBWA FALLS

Sezibwa is a relatively small but serene waterfall on the Sezibwa River that plunges over 17 meters high rocks into a large pool that is 13m deep. It is found 32km (40 minutes drive) east of Kampala and it is a cultural heritage site of the Baganda tribe. It is a beautiful spot for nature walks or cultural tours during one of the Uganda short safaris and tours/trips to eastern Uganda.

iv) ITANDA FALLS

Itanda Falls is a world-class whitewater rafting site on the Nile River in Jinja. It is one of the major tourist attractions in Uganda . Itanda has 9 rapids, 4 of which are grade 5. They were visited by Prince William of Great Britain.

Uganda’s Diverse Cultures

i) Baganda People

Baganda people belong to the Buganda Kingdom in Central Uganda. The Kingdom has a long colorful history that goes back 700 years, during which time the succession of kings has never been broken. Buganda is also the gateway to Uganda and Buganda gave Uganda her name.

When you fly into Uganda, you arrive through Buganda before continuing on your safari to Uganda . You can learn about the fascinating culture of Buganda on your Kampala city tour .

ii) Batwa People

Also known as the Keepers of the Forest, the Batwa people were removed from Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks when they were established to protect the critically endangered Mountain Gorillas. Batwa are one of Africa’s oldest surviving indigenous tribes and have a truly unique relationship with the Uganda rainforest.

You can encounter the Batwa People and learn about their ancient hunter-gatherer culture on a community tour around Bwindi or during the Batwa Trail Experience in Mgahinga before or after gorilla trekking in Uganda .

iii) Karamojong People

Karamajongs are renowned warrior nomadic pastoralists of northeastern Uganda and are very similar to the famous Masai of Kenya and Tanzania . Karamajongs are very passionate about their culture, heritage, and traditions. These can be encountered during your Uganda cultural tour around Kidepo National Park .

iv) Ik People

Ik people in the remote northeastern corner of Uganda are one of the most marginal communities on Earth and are close to extinction. They live on Mount Morungole having moved there to avoid a potential dispute with the other tribes who live in that region, the Karamojong, Dodoth, Iteso, and Jie. You can hike Mount Morungole and visit the Ik after your Uganda wildlife safari in Kidepo.

Cultural Sites In Uganda

Uganda has many cultural sites that are amazing tourist attractions and worth visiting on your cultural safaris in Uganda . Taking a tour of Uganda’s cultural sites is an educational experience on the pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial history of Uganda, giving you a lesson about the rich cultures of the black people.

i) Uganda National Museum

The National Museum is located in Kampala and can be easily accessed during the Kampala walking tour. The Museum contains historical artifacts that tell the origin of Uganda, information on the peoples and wildlife of Uganda, etc…

ii) Ndere Cultural Centre

Ndere Cultural Center in Kampala has the biggest and one of the oldest traditional dancing troops in Uganda that organizes performances of different traditional dances of the many tribes in Uganda.

iii) Kasubi Tombs

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kasubi Tombs in Kampala is the burial ground of the Buganda kings. It is a rich cultural attraction that harbors a rich history of the Buganda kings and several traditions about kingship.

iv) Bulange Building

Bulange Building in Kampala houses the Lukiiko which is the parliament of Buganda. In the compound of the Bulange building is a small souvenir shop that has been named the “cultural corner”. The cultural corner has an array of traditional items that were used back in the day before modernity in the day-to-day lives of the people such as Omweso (board game), Olubugo (Backcloth), https://www.primeugandasafaris.com/jinja-cityLocal Drums, etc.

v) Kabaka’s Palace

The Kabaka’s Palace was the official residence of the king of Buganda. The Palace gate is exactly 1 mile from the Bulange gate. It is well situated on Mengo Hill which commands 360-degree views over Kampala City.

vi) Tooro King’s Palace

Tooro King’s Palace is located in Western Uganda in the beautiful town of Fort Portal. The palace is the official residence of King Oyo of the Toro Kingdom, who ascended the throne in 1995 at the age of three. You can visit the palaces during your Uganda Chimpanzee trekking tour to Kibale National Park.

vii) Karambi Royal Tombs

The Karambi tombs also known as the royal tombs are situated south of Fort Portal town. This tomb belongs to the royal family of the Tooro kingdom. The tombs are a burial ground for three Toro kings. It is a perfect place to learn about the culture and history of the Toro Kingdom while on your tours in Uganda.

viii) Amabere Caves

Amabere Caves are located about 5km west of Fort Portal, near Kibale National Park, the famous home of chimpanzees. The caves are named after the live stalactite formation, Amabere Ga Nyinamwiru (literally, Breast of Nyinamwiru).

It is believed to be the birthplace of the founding King of the Bachwezi who ruled the Bunyonyoro Empire centuries ago. It is a perfect place for hiking in Uganda before or after a chimpanzee trekking safari in Kibale Forest .

Uganda Equator Line

If you have ever dreamt of being in the middle of the world, the Uganda Equator line will fulfill your dream. The best place to visit and explore the Equator in Uganda is in Kayabwe, Mpigi District, about 77km (2-hour drive) from Kampala.

It is the place where you can stand in the middle of the earth with one leg in the Northern hemisphere and the other in the Southern and pose for a photo. This is a unique Uganda safari experience and one of the fascinating Uganda tourist attractions . You can visit the Uganda Equator line Kayabwe on your Uganda gorilla tour or Uganda wildlife safari to southwestern Uganda.

Other Tourist Attractions in Uganda

Besides the major Uganda tourist attractions above, there are plenty of other amazing things to see in Uganda on your safari in Uganda tour :-

The Colourful Butterflies Of Uganda

Uganda boasts over 1,242 butterfly species, about 33% of the total Afro-tropical species. Being so colorful, butterflies are the most noticeable insects.

One of the most incredible things about butterflies is the way they change from crawling caterpillars into winged beauties. It seems like magic! There are 4 steps in becoming a butterfly: – egg, caterpillar, pupa, and adult. This process is called metamorphosis, which comes from the Latin words for “changing shape.

Butterflies feed primarily on nectar from flowers. Thus many butterfly species in Uganda are found in rainforests like Mabira Forest with 219 species, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest with over 200 species, Kibale National Park with about 250 recorded species, and Kalinzu Forest with 262 species, and Budongo Forest with 289 species of butterflies. Some special species to look for on a butterfly-watching tour in Uganda include:-

• African Giant Swallowtail – Papilio antimachus: Africa’s largest butterfly and one of the world’s largest butterflies.
• Giant Blue Swallowtail – Papilio Zalmoxis: The second-largest African swallowtail
• Green-Banded Swallowtail – Papilio nireus
• Tailed Green-Banded Swallowtail – Papilio charopus
• Broad-Bordered Grass Yellow – Eurema brigitta
• Eastern Purple Tip – Colotis hetaera
• African Golden Arab – Colotis aurigineus
• Vine-Leaf Vagrant – Eronia cleodora
• Diverse White/African Albatross – Appias epaphia

Reptiles In Uganda

Uganda has 142 species of reptiles. Reptiles are cold-blooded vertebrates with dry skin that derive their body heat directly from their environment. Uganda reptiles that are amazing Uganda tourist attractions include Nile Crocodiles, Snakes, Lizards, Tortoises, Terrapins, and Chameleons. Some of the most amazing reptiles to see on your Uganda wildlife safaris include:-

i) Nile Crocodiles

The Nile crocodile is Africa’s biggest freshwater predator, capable of taking down almost any animal within its range. One of Africa’s highest concentrations of Nile Crocodiles can be seen on the Nile launch cruise in Murchison Falls National Park.

ii) Nile Monitor

Also known as Africa’s longest lizard, the Nile Monitor lizard can reach a length of over 2 meters, of which more than half is tail. You can see the enormous Nile Monitor at Lake Victoria’s Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Kazinga Channel.

iii) Three-Horned Chameleon

Chameleons, including the three-horned chameleons, are known for their skin that changes color, swiveling eyes, an extendable tongue, and the head of a dinosaur.

No wonder these perfectly harmless lizards excite fear and superstition across rural Africa! This particular species, the legendary Three-Horned Chameleon lives up in trees. Its prehensile tail helps it keep a grip as it crawls from branch to branch.

It’s easy to tell a male three-horned chameleon from a female: only the males have horns. The male’s 3 horns make him look a little like a mini triceratops! The horns are used to defend the male’s territory. You can see three-horned chameleons in Rwenzori Mountains National Park on a Rwenzori Mountains trekking and at the Uganda Reptiles Village in Entebbe.

iv) African Rock Python

The African rock python is Africa’s largest serpent and one of the most fascinating creatures to meet on a wildlife tour in Uganda . You can see these big non-venomous snakes at Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) or Uganda Reptile Village in Entebbe in Central Uganda, and if you are lucky in Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Maramagambo Forest in southwestern Uganda.

Uganda Fish & Other Aquatic Animals

You can explore these fishing species on your Uganda fishing safaris on the River Nile in Murchison Falls National Park and Jinja, Lake Victoria in Entebbe and Ssese Islands, and Lake Mburo in Lake Mburo National Park. Other aquatic animals you can see in Uganda include :-

• Nile crocodiles
• Amphibians like frogs
• Waterbirds like herons, gees,

Religious Sites In Uganda

Religion is a very important part of daily life in Uganda. About 85% of the population is Christian, about 12% are Muslim, 1% follow traditional religions, and the remaining 2% are shared by the Baha’i faith and other non-Christian religions.

Uganda has several historic religious landmarks, which make it a great destination for pilgrims looking to renew their faith or visitors keen on exploring the fascinating religious history of Uganda. These include:

i) Bahai Temple

The beautiful Baha’i Temple in Uganda known as the Mother Temple of Africa is the only of its kind on the continent. The dorm-shaped structure stands majestically on top of Kikaya Hill in Kampala. Its grounds are beautiful with green all around possessing beautiful flowery plants, shrubs, and trees that host an array of birds.

ii) Gadaffi’s Mosque – Uganda National Mosque

The towering Gadhafi Mosque is found on old Kampala hill. It is mostly visited for its minaret which rewards with an incredible cityscape view. It is a perfect place if you want to capture a perfect aerial shot of Kampala’s city center without flying a drone. It is also a good place to learn about the history of Islam in Uganda.

iii) Namugongo Marty’s Shrine

Namugongo Martyrs’ Shrine in Kampala is the site where several converted Christian pages (helpers) in the Kings’ Palace were burnt alive. The pages had disobeyed the Buganda Kingdom king’s orders that were contradictory to their faiths and accepted to die for their beliefs when the king ordered their killing.

iv) Saint Pauls Cathedral – Namirembe

The history of Christianity in Uganda originated on Kampala’s Namirembe Hill, which today serves as the provincial seat of the Uganda Anglican Church. St. Paul’s Cathedral is the oldest Anglican Church in Uganda. Namirembe is a Luganda word meaning ‘mother of peace’, but the history of its foundation was not always so.

v) Saint Mary’s Cathedral – Rubaga

Rubaga Cathedral is located on Rubaga hill in Kampala. It is the seat of the Cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church in Uganda. The cathedral has a long history dating back to the heyday of the Buganda Kingdom.

Cities & Towns of Uganda

The vibrant cities and sprawling towns of Uganda are also among the amazing Uganda tourist attractions . Your Uganda safari vacation wouldn’t be complete without taking some time to explore its urban locations. Some of the main cities and towns of Uganda that are worth exploring include: –

Kampala is the capital city of Uganda, located in Central Uganda and north of Lake Victoria. It is best known for its vibrant nightlife, however, there is a lot more to do and see including several religious and historical landmarks, the biggest flea markets in the region, the epic chaos of public transportation, etc.

ii) Entebbe

Entebbe town in Central Uganda is home to Uganda’s only international airport. The small town serves as the country’s main entry and exit point. Many visitors spend a night here before and after their Uganda safaris. It is set on the shores of Lake Victoria, 40km (1-hour drive) from Kampala.

Jinja town is located in eastern Uganda, about 80km (2 hours’ drive) from Kampala. It is famous for the source of the River Nile, which offers several adventures to the effect that Jinja is now called East Africa’s adventure capital.

Tour activities in Jinja include a source of the Nile boat cruise, rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, horse riding, quad biking, etc

iv) Fort Portal

Situated about 320km (5 hours) drive west of Kampala, Fort Portal makes for an ideal base from which to begin discovering this side of Uganda. Queen Elizabeth, Kibale Forest, Semuliki, and the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains are all within easy striking distance, and with an altitude of 1480m, the evenings are cool.

Kabale Town is located in southwestern Uganda. It is a special area, surrounded by green, scenic, and cultivated hills. Kabale serves as a gateway to relaxing Lake Bunyonyi, gorgeous Lake Mutanda, and the thrilling gorilla trekking in Bwindi.

Set in the beautifully verdant hills of the southwestern corner of Uganda, Kisoro serves as a popular base for tourists, primarily for nearby Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, to track golden monkeys and gorillas, or climb volcanoes.

Forest In Uganda

Other than enjoying the sights and sounds of the jungles, immersing yourself in the forest nature walk, termed forest bathing has massive health benefits as it is said to enhance immunity. The best places for forest nature walks in Uganda include:-

• Mabira Forest with 316 birds, 219 butterflies, 35 mammals, and 312 trees species
• Budongo Forest with about 800 chimps, 366 bird species, 289 butterfly species, 465 plant species, and 24 mammal species
• Kalinzu Forest with over 300 chimpanzees, 6 monkey species, 378 bird species, 262 butterfly species, and 414 plant species
• Kibale Forest with 375 bird species, 351 tree species, 1500 chimpanzees, 12 monkey species, and 70 mammal species
• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest with 459 Mountain Gorillas, 350 bird species, 120 mammal species, 200 butterfly species, and 324 tree species.
• Semuliki National Park with over 440 birds, 53 mammals, 10 primate species

Pleasant Weather & Climate of Uganda

When planning your Safari to Uganda , you won’t have to worry about extreme cold and hot seasons because this evergreen country enjoys tropical weather, which is perfect all year round, with temperatures between 16-28°C for most of the year. Being crossed by the Equator, its climate is mitigated by an altitude of 900 to 1800m.

Natural Hotsprings Of Uganda

Hot Springs also form one of the most beautiful attractions in Uganda . A hot spring is produced by the emergence of geothermal-heated groundwater from the earth’s crust. In simple terms, it is formed when water meets the heated rock. The heated water is forced back up under pressure to bubble like a hot spring. The major hot springs in Uganda include:-

Sempaya Hot Springs: These are the icons of the Semuliki National Park . The springs boil at a temperature of 103 o C, which is enough heat to hard boil an egg in less than ten minutes.

Kitagata Hot Springs: This spring in the Sheema District has temperatures of 80 o C. Water from the hot springs is believed to have healing properties that relieve people of muscular and joint pains.

Food In Uganda

i) Local Ugandan Food

The main Ugandan foods include a stew of meat, fish, beans, or groundnuts served with posho (maize meal) and matooke (mashed green bananas).

Cassava, potatoes, yam, and are also common starches. Popular drinks are t ea and coffee – two of Uganda’s crops – as well as lager beer, banana, and millet beer.

Streetside snacks include things like Rolex and Samosas. R olex – has achieved some notoriety beyond Uganda, particularly after it appeared on CNN. And, in January 2022, Uganda’s huge Rolex set a Guinness world record. The world’s largest Rolex weighs 204.6kg and is 10ft long. If you’re struggling to imagine how that could fit on your wrist then forget the Swiss watch brand and think Ugandan street food.

Rolex – the snack – is a shortening of rolled eggs . The popular dish, found at roadside stalls throughout Uganda, is made from a vegetable omelet with added tomatoes wrapped up in chapati. The snack is regarded as Uganda’s favorite fast food.

ii) International Cuisine

You’ll find the usual international fare at tourist restaurants, hotels, and safari lodges in Uganda . Some restaurants serve Chinese food, Japanese food, Italian food, Turkish Mediterranean, French, Belgian, and Goan and so much more, there are also some American franchise restaurants like KFC. If you have any dietary requirements, be sure to notify your travel expert in advance of your stay.

Nightlife In Uganda – Nightclubs & Bars

If you’re looking forward to a rollicking best of Uganda nightlife, Kampala city is the best place to go. When the sun goes down, Kampala comes into its own. Known as the party capital of East Africa, the city is so celebrated for its buzzing nightlife that revelers come from as far away as Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda to dance the weekends away. The popular favorite bars and clubs in the city include:-

• Bubbles O’Learys Irish pub
• Big Mike’s bar and nightclub
• Ange Noir Discotheque

There are a lot of tourist attractions in Uganda (things to see in Uganda) . Each region of Uganda has its own hidden gems which make Uganda the best African safari destination. Whether you choose a grand tour of Uganda, or if you merely cherry-pick the destinations and attractions of your choice, Uganda welcomes you. Getting to Uganda is easier with most of the major airlines flying in the country.

You can get in touch with us, for affordable customized Uganda tours of all the best Uganda tourist attractions.

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