A Magical Place Unlike Any Other.
Uganda has much to see and explore — mountain gorillas, the Big Five (lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos and buffaloes), chimpanzees, the source of the Nile, the Rwenzori Mountains, some of Africa's finest national parks and rich historical sites.
Uganda is also home to over 1,000 bird species, half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas, vast rivers and lakes, and some of the most welcoming and hospitable people on the continent.
Bird species
World’s mountain gorillas
National parks
UNESCO World Heritage sites
Top Destinations in Uganda.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
The most famous wildlife destination in Uganda, located in South Western Uganda and best known for amazing gorilla trekking safaris. Bwindi hosts over 400 mountain gorillas — half of the world's total population and the largest concentration found in one area. The forest is also home to about 350 species of birds including 23 Albertine Rift endemics. Gorilla trekking is conducted in four sectors: Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija and Rushaga.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
The most popular wildlife destination in Uganda, located in Western Uganda next to the Rwenzori Mountains. The park is home to four of the Big Five — elephants, lions, buffaloes and leopards — plus a huge population of birds including rare species. Queen Elizabeth is famously known for its tree-climbing lions, found in only two places in Africa. The park encompasses the Kazinga Channel, Mweya Peninsula, Maramagambo Forest, Kyambura Gorge and the Ishasha sector.
Murchison Falls National Park
The largest and oldest national park in Uganda, gazetted as a game reserve in 1926, lying at the northern end of the Albertine Rift Valley in northwest Uganda. The park is named after Murchison Falls — the world's most powerful waterfall — where the River Nile squeezes through an 8-metre wide gorge and plunges with a thunderous roar into the Devil's Cauldron, creating a trademark rainbow. The park hosts 76 species of mammals and 451 species of birds including giraffes, lions, leopards, buffaloes, elephants, hippos and Uganda kobs.
Kibale Forest National Park
Known as the Primate Capital of the World, Kibale hosts the largest population of chimpanzees in Uganda, 13 primate species and 300 bird species. Located in western Uganda in the heart of Tooro Kingdom in Fort Portal district, Kibale is the best place in Uganda and Africa to encounter chimpanzees — our closest relatives. Other primates include black and white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, L'Hoest monkeys, vervet monkeys, olive baboons, blue monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys.
Jinja
East Africa's adrenaline capital, situated a few kilometres east of Kampala at the source of the Nile — one of the world's longest rivers. Visitors can enjoy white water rafting on the Nile rapids and kayaking through Grade 3 and Grade 5 rapids. Other thrilling activities include bungee jumping and quad biking along the Nile banks.
Kampala City
The vibrant capital of Uganda with an estimated population of over 1.5 million people. Major attractions include Kasubi Tombs, Mengo Palace, Gaddafi Mosque, the Martyrs Shrine in Namugongo, the Bahá'í Temple, the Independence Monument and the National Museum. Kampala is located just 30 minutes from Entebbe International Airport — the main gateway to Uganda.
Popular Uganda Safari Activities.
Gorilla Trekking
One of the prime Uganda safari experiences — a face-to-face encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. A gorilla permit costs USD 800 per person per trek.
White Water Rafting
Rafting on the Nile is one of the best adventures in Africa, moving through Grade 3 and Grade 5 rapids at Jinja — East Africa's adrenaline capital. Available as a full or half-day experience.
Chimpanzee Trekking
Done in Kibale Forest National Park — home to the world's largest population of wild chimpanzees. Other locations include the Budongo Royal Mile and Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park. A chimpanzee permit is required.
Wildlife Viewing
Game drives are the best way to see Uganda's spectacular wildlife in its national parks and reserves. Highlights include lions, leopards, hyenas, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, rhinos and warthogs. Early morning drives offer the best sightings.
Birding
With over 1,000 species, Uganda is one of the best birding destinations in Africa. Top spots include the Kazinga Channel, Bwindi Forest, Kibale Forest, Mabamba Swamp, Lake Bunyonyi and Lake Mburo National Park.
Cultural Visits
Uganda's many tribes — Bakiga, Batooro, Baganda, Karamojong and more — offer rich and unique cultural experiences. Highlights include the Batwa Cultural Experience in Bwindi, the Ndere Experience in Kampala, and visits to the Karamojong and Ik people.
Ready to Experience the Pearl of Africa?
Talk to our travel experts today and let us craft your perfect Uganda safari — tailored to your interests, budget and travel dates.