Uganda, a landlocked country in East Africa, offers a wealth of incredible sights and unique experiences. From thrilling wildlife encounters to immersive cultural experiences, Uganda has something for every traveler.
Explore Uganda with our comprehensive Escorted Tours, led by a tour director who handles all logistics. Alternatively, discover Uganda with our flexible Guided/Hosted Tours, offering local expertise and freedom. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, our Independent Vacations provide the freedom to experience Uganda on your terms.
G Adventures encourages stepping off the beaten path, immersing you in fascinating cultures, customs, and awe-inspiring wildlife. Intrepid offers over 1000 Small Group Travel Trips to Uganda and more than 100 countries, immersing you in specific interests. Gate1 Travel offers premium travel experiences in Uganda at an affordable price, with over 35 years of industry experience. Discover the wonders of Uganda with Abercrombie Kent, whose unparalleled journeys to over 100 countries combine singular service with authentic local expertise. Mayflower Tours is committed to providing exceptional travel experiences in Uganda that enrich the mind, body, and spirit, at a great price value.
Uganda Tours Highlights
- View the incredible sights that this amazing landlocked country has to offer.
- Indulge in some of the most unique food that you will find anywhere in the world.
- Take time to know and understand the painful past of the Ugandan people, and learn their histories and cultures.
- Enjoy incredible treks into the Impenetrable Forest to view gorillas in their natural habitat.
- Go on Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park where you will see lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo roaming through the wild.
- Try spotting and counting over 600 different species of birds that are all over this amazing country.
- Hike the incredible Rwenzori Mountains and marvel at the incredible views while you ascend.
- Enjoy the beach around Lake Victoria and take a moment to relax and take everything in.
- Visit Rhinos in the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and learn all about the endangered species and what is being done to preserve them.
Things To Do in Uganda
You’d need a lifetime to explore all Uganda has to offer, but our list of top things to do is a great place to start.
Straddle the Equator
When will you ever get the chance to say that you had your feet firmly planted in both hemispheres of the globe at the same time? While you are in Uganda, we suggest taking the time to do that and grabbing a picture for proof. In Kayabwe of the Mpigi District is where you will find a small cluster of souvenir shops and restaurants and an equator landmark in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
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Best Time To Visit
The park itself is a popular attraction, but regardless of the time that you visit, you shouldn't have to fight with any crowds at all.
Participate in a Ugandan Safari
If you do nothing else while you are in Uganda, then you need to at least go on a Ugandan Safari. How else are you going to get an in-depth look into the habitats of the various animals that call Uganda home? The safari guides know exactly where to take you depending on what animals you are hoping to see. You will have the chance to observe buffalos, elephants, giraffes, lions, antelopes, chimpanzees, and many other animals as well.
You Should Know
You will be outdoors for the entire Safari, and while you will be in a vehicle, we still suggest wearing long sleeves when you can. Be sure to bring water with you on safari and use the restroom prior to your departure.
See Where The Nile Begins
Many people know that the Nile River is the largest river in the world, but did you know that it originates in Uganda? While you are in Murchison Falls National Park, you will be close to a town called Jinja, where the Nile starts. While you are here, you can participate in some high adrenaline activities, as Jinja is considered the adrenaline capital of East Africa. Whether you want to try bungee jumping, mountain biking, kayaking, horseback riding, or even whitewater rafting in the Nile, they have it all.
You Should Know
Some of these activities are not for everyone, and at no point should you ever feel pressured to participate. Sometimes being the spectator can be just as rewarding.
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Participate in a Gorilla Trekking Tour
One of the items on many people's bucket lists who visit Uganda is to see the mountain gorillas, and we believe that should be on your list as well. The mountain gorillas are an endangered species, and while much is being done to preserve these magnificent creatures, we suggest seeing them while you can.
You Should Know
Wildlife authorities in Uganda enforce strict rules for Gorilla Trekking, and as such, you will need a permit before joining up with an established trekking company. You must be 15 years or older to track gorillas in Uganda. Gorilla tracking in Uganda begins early in the morning when trackers scout the forest for clues to the gorillas’ location. Your guide will then take you onto the mountain paths in the direction of where the troop was last seen. As you approach the gorillas’ location you may hear grunts or grumbles, or see movement in the trees ahead, but nothing quite prepares you for your first sight of the troop, sitting on the ground or climbing among the trees. You’ll get to spend an hour observing the gorillas as they munch on leaves, strip bark, groom each other, or cuddle infants.
Sitting in a hushed group observing the gorillas, you’ll be close enough to take photographs, witness the charismatic interactions between troop members, and discern the intelligence, delight, or concern on their faces. Infants cling to mother’s backs, silverbacks lord over the scene, and others chew on bamboo shoots as if unaware of the human presence. The forest is dense here and trousers will protect you from scratches and insect bites, while a pair of gloves are handy to help steady yourself on branches along the slippery mud trails.
Wear long trousers, good walking boots, and gloves when tracking gorillas in Uganda.Into the Wild: Ultimate Gorilla Trekking Guide for Uganda, Rwanda and Congo #wildlife #gorillatour
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Since you are already going to be here to straddle the equator, why not find a few more things to do while visiting? One thing that always has people talking are the tree-climbing lions that have made Queen Elizabeth National Park their home. However, it's not all about the lions. There are plenty of other wildlife species that you will come across while in this magnificent park. There are also various ways to view the park, including hot air balloon rides, boat cruises, and scenic drives.
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Best Time To Visit
The best time to see the lions is from 8 am to 6 pm when the lions are sleeping in the trees. They are generally nocturnal creatures, hunting at night and sleeping during the day.
Experience Traditional Culture
While in Uganda, you have to immerse yourself in their culture, and one way to do that is to expose yourself to the country's traditional dance and music. If you plan on taking it all in, we suggest visiting Nedere Centre in Kampala. Here you will find a 700-seat venue that will mesmerize you with the high-energy shows that they put on.
Best Time To Visit
If the Nedere Centre is on your must-see list, it is only open on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. Be sure to visit one of these days for an experience you will never forget.
Tour the Kasubi Tombs
If you're going to be in Kampala for the music and dancing, then you might as well take the time to learn about the Royal Kingdom of Uganda. The best way to do this is to tour the Kasubi Tombs, diving into the history of the royal family and the Buganda Kingdom, which was Uganda's largest tribal kingdom. The historic site features the remnants of a 35-building palace and the burial grounds of former Ugandan kings and their family members. With a guided tour, you can view artifacts, learn about the traditions and rituals, and see incredible architecture that was built with the local vegetation.
You Should Know
This area is a highly regarded historical site and is watched by guards. Staying with your tour group is highly advised.
Visit the Ssese Islands
If you love Lake Victoria, which everyone does, then you will absolutely want to visit the 84-island archipelago that is known as the Ssese Islands. These unspoiled islands are home to a wide variety of bird species and small forests that are home to chimpanzees. You can enjoy lounging around on the beautiful sandy beaches, or even go sailing, boating, or fishing while you are visiting the area.
You Should Know
The islands are unspoiled, and as such, they need to remain that way. You should be very careful about what you bring with you and ensure that you leave nothing behind.
Uganda Tour Packages
When choosing a time to visit Uganda, we suggest visiting between December and February, or between June and August. These are considered the dry seasons in Uganda and will give you many more opportunities to get out and explore. This is also the best time for any treks that will get you close to mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. These seasons also tend to be the best time for spotting game in the National Parks throughout Uganda. You will be amazed by the number of native species you will come in contact with during your time in this beautiful country.
Explore Uganda with our economical Budget tours, offering a cost-effective way to experience the country. Discover Uganda with our comfortable First Class tours, providing a well-rounded travel experience. Experience Uganda with our exclusive Luxury tours, offering unparalleled high-end travel. Embark on Adventure Tours in Uganda, connecting you with nature and culture. Explore Uganda with our intimate Small Groups Tours, offering personalized travel experiences.
Choosing the right starting point for your Uganda adventure is key. Many travelers begin in Entebbe, which serves as a major hub for numerous itineraries. For those looking to explore different areas, Kampala also offers a convenient gateway. To ensure the best selection and prices, it's wise to book your tour 3-4 months in advance, especially during peak seasons. Arriving at popular attractions early in the morning or later in the afternoon can also help you avoid the largest crowds.
Discovering the ideal trip duration for your adventure in Uganda is key to a truly fulfilling experience. Whether you envision a quick getaway or an in-depth exploration, finding the right number of days ensures you can comfortably see and do everything on your list without feeling rushed. Planning your travels within a comfortable budget is essential for an enjoyable and stress-free adventure in Uganda. We offer a wide range of options to suit every financial plan, from budget-friendly excursions to luxurious getaways.
A well-planned Uganda safari requires 8-15 days to explore the major parks and wildlife areas effectively. This timeframe allows visitors to spend 2-3 days each at key locations like Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest, and Bwindi while accounting for travel between destinations. For those with limited time, 3-4 day focused safaris covering one or two parks are possible. Properties like Paraa Safari Lodge and Gorilla Safari Lodge offer extended-stay options for a more relaxed pace.
The primary safari circuit in Uganda centers on four main parks. Murchison Falls draws visitors with its big game and namesake waterfall while Queen Elizabeth National Park is known for tree-climbing lions and Kazinga Channel boat tours. Kibale Forest specializes in chimpanzee encounters and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers mountain gorilla experiences. Lake Mburo National Park often rounds out itineraries with its zebra and impala populations. Accommodations like Pakuba Safari Lodge and Kikorongo Safari Lodge serve as comfortable bases for exploration.
Uganda's diverse ecosystems support an impressive array of wildlife including four of the "Big Five" - lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo. The parks offer distinct viewing opportunities from the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha to hippos and crocodiles along the Nile and Kazinga Channel. Kibale Forest houses chimpanzee populations while Bwindi is home to mountain gorillas. Various antelope species including Uganda kob and waterbuck roam the savannah. Lodges like Fort Murchison and Topis Lodge position guests for optimal wildlife viewing.
Safari days begin early with 6:00 AM game drives to catch wildlife at their most active. Midday brings lunch and rest at accommodations like Kibale Forest Camp or Silverback Lodge. Activities resume around 3:00 PM with afternoon game drives, boat safaris, or nature walks ending with dinner at the lodge. Some parks such as Lake Mburo offer night game drives for nocturnal wildlife viewing.
The accommodation spectrum in Uganda ranges from high-end lodges to budget-friendly camps. Luxury properties like Paraa Safari Lodge and Kikorongo Safari Lodge feature upscale amenities and prime locations. Mid-range options such as Pakuba Safari Lodge provide comfortable rooms with private facilities while budget accommodations like Red Chilli Rest Camp offer simple clean quarters. Most properties include three daily meals.
National park entrance fees typically cost between USD 40-150 daily and are usually included in safari packages. Specialized permits carry additional costs with gorilla tracking in Bwindi priced at USD 700 per person and chimpanzee permits in Kibale at USD 200. These fees support local conservation and community projects. Many properties like Pakuba Safari Lodge and Kibale Forest Camp build park fees into their rates.
Uganda Tours Travel Tips
- The tap water in Uganda should be boiled or purified before being consumed; however, bottled water is available everywhere and is fairly cheap.
- Seek medical advice on what vaccinations you should have prior to traveling through Uganda and other parts of Africa.
- We suggest wearing long sleeves as much as possible to avoid mosquito bites.
- Food is generally meat-based stews and sauce dishes, accompanied with Ugali (which is a thick dough paste).
- There is no minimum wage in Uganda, so many people are underpaid. We suggest a 10% tip in any restaurant and $10-15 per person per day to safari guides.
- Foreign women, particularly white women, attract a lot of attention, so be prepared for people to want to talk to you, touch your skin, and invite you to their homes.
- Be sure to exchange your currency to Ugandan Shillings prior to traveling.
- Enjoy the local markets and be sure to grab some incredible souvenirs during your stay.
English is the official language of Uganda and taught in all schools. However, most Ugandans speak English as a second language. The currency in Uganda is the Ugandan shilling (Ush or UGX). US dollars are also widely accepted. There are very few ATMs in Uganda and although credit cards are accepted at some of the major hotels, a 5-10% surcharge will usually be added. Hotels will accept payment for food, drinks, and tips in dollars or shillings.
In Uganda you should try luwombo, a local stew of beef, chicken, or fish, mixed with vegetables and steamed in a plantain leaf. Stews are served with one of four staples: rice, chapati, ugali (a stiff maize porridge), or matoke (a mash of steamed green bananas).
Why Book with Exoticca
- Best Price Guarantee: Unbeatable fares as standard.
- All-Inclusive Packages: Almost all of our vacation packages include flights, hotels, tours, and transfers.
- Expertly Curated Tours: Our expertly curated Uganda tours ensure you don’t have sleepless nights over planning your trips or looking for accommodations.
- Local Guides: Well-versed and courteous locals handle our Uganda guided tours.
Uganda is a welcome splash of green in a predominantly arid continent. Its dense forests give shelter to some of the last remaining mountain gorillas on Earth. People travel from far and wide to spend an hour in their presence, watching them graze, groom, sleep and play. We can arrange a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, giving you a chance to see the Big Five, including tree-climbing lion. On boat trips along the Ishasha River, you can look for water-dwelling birdlife, hippo pods and elephant herds lining the banks. These tours give you a starting point for what your holiday to Uganda could entail.
Tracking mountain gorilla in either Uganda or Rwanda is one of Africa's most memorable wildlife encounters. This area is characterised by rolling hills, vanilla plantations, pretty forests and of course the Crater Lakes. For some of the Crater Lakes, the views are actually best from the viewpoints, accessed by roads. You enter the forest and following signs and chimp calls your guide leads you to the chimpanzees. Chimpanzee sightings are not guaranteed, however the odds of encountering them have greatly increased in recent years, now standing at 90% or over.
From gorilla trekking to savannah safaris, a trip to Uganda offers endless experiences. Situated in East Africa, Uganda beckons with its diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes, offering travellers an extraordinary wilderness adventure. This country, bordered by five neighbours, is a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural experiences.
One of the most iconic attractions in Uganda is its wildlife. Uganda safari tours offers an unforgettable opportunity to encounter exotic animals in their natural habitat. Venture into the lush jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to witness the endangered mountain gorillas up close, a remarkable and humbling experience. Track lions, elephants, and buffaloes in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or embark on a boat safari along the Nile to see the mighty Murchison Falls and a variety of wildlife.
Uganda's landscapes are equally captivating, from the towering Ruwenzori Mountains with their glaciers and equatorial forests to the tranquil shores of Lake Victoria, offering a serene escape for fishing and boat safaris. For the adventurous at heart, the Nile's white-water rapids provide an adrenaline rush. The capital city, Kampala, pulsates with vibrant markets, lively music, and a burgeoning arts scene. Visit the source of the Nile in Jinja. Explore traditional kingdoms and local communities, and savour the diverse and flavorful Ugandan cuisine. Uganda's welcoming people and their rich cultural heritage make every visit a heartwarming experience.
Plan Your Trip
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Step 2. Once we receive your request, a dedicated travel consultant will reach out to guide you every step of the way; from picking the perfect tour to answering questions and helping you book with confidence.
Step 3. We work with top tour operators to secure unbeatable prices. If you find a better deal elsewhere, we’ll match it. That’s our low price promise.
Step 4. Your plans are in good hands.
Recent Reviews
- "I had the most unforgettable experience with Visit Uganda Tours and Travel! From the moment I arrived, everything was perfectly organized. The team was professional, friendly, and extremely knowledgeable. Our guide, Moses, went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable and saw the best of Uganda’s wildlife. The gorilla trekking in Bwindi was life-changing."
- "Visit Uganda Tours and Travel gave me a true taste of Uganda! From the bustling streets of Kampala to the serene beauty of Queen Elizabeth National Park, every part of the trip was well-planned. The cultural experiences, especially visiting local communities, were deeply meaningful. Our guide shared so much history and local insight. This wasn’t just a tour - it was an experience that touched my heart."
- "If you're looking for a reliable, affordable, and enriching way to explore Uganda, look no further than Visit Uganda Tours and Travel. I was impressed by how smoothly everything went - transportation, accommodation, meals, and activities were all top-notch. The itinerary was balanced with adventure and relaxation. Great value for money, and worth every dollar!"
Services Offered
- Vehicle Hire and Rentals / Airport Transfers: Diverse range of vehicles for both self-drive and hire with a driver options. Our fleet is well-maintained, ensuring the utmost safety and comfort for our clients during their journeys.
- Air Ticketing / Visa Requirements: We offer air tickets to clients traveling to various destinations around the world for business, conferences, vacations, medical reasons, and academic pursuits. With our extensive network of partnerships, we ensure convenient and hassle-free air travel arrangements.
- Hotel Booking and Reservations: Visit Uganda Tours and Travel facilitates hotel bookings and reservations to ensure that our clients have comfortable and secure accommodations during their travels.
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