Uganda is a small  landlocked country found in East Africa covering an area of 241,038 Square Kilometers. 200,523 square kilometers is land and 41015 square kilometers is water, largely consisting of lakes such as Lake Victoria, Lake Albert, Lake Kyoga , Lake George and Lake Edward.

Its boarded by Kenya in the East, Tanzania in the South, South Sudan in the North, Democratic Republic of Congo in the West, Rwanda and Burundi in the South West.

Uganda  fondly known as The Pearl Of Africa is a country gifted by nature due to its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife and rich cultural heritage.

Whether you are an adventure seeker, wildlife or cultural enthusiast, Uganda offers a special and memorable experience to everyone. Here is why you should make Uganda your next travel destination.

Iconic Wildlife Experiences in Uganda

Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Uganda is one of the three counties in the world where you can see the Mountain Gorillas in the wild. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park a UNESCO World Heritage site is home to half of the world’s remaining population of the Mountain Gorillas which offers the best opportunities to come face to face with these gentle giants.

A trek through the dense forest and rugged terrain of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to observe the Mountain gorillas in the wild for a maximum of 1 hour with them is a once in a lifetime experience for travelers from the whole world. A gorilla permit costs USD 800 per person.

The best time for Gorilla Tracking safaris in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is June to September and December to February during the dry season in Uganda. Mountain Gorillas are fully habituated and  are not aggressive to human presence.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park

Kibale forest popularly known as the primate capital of the world with over 13 primate species and 1,500 chimpanzees. Chimpanzee tracking is the major tourist Activities in Kibale National Park.

Spending a maximum of 1 hour in Kibale forest watching the Chimpanzees playful behavior up close while you are guide by expert trackers who share the insights about chimpanzees and the forest is a rewarding safari experience. We share 98% of our genes with the chimpanzees so meeting and learning about these gentle giants like the complex communication, use of tools, social life give a you a reflection on people.

The Big Five Safari Experience

Murchison Falls National Park:  is Uganda’s largest covering an area of 3893 square Kilometers and oldest National Park in Uganda with 76 mammal species, 451 bird species. Its famous for mighty Murchison falls- the world’s strongest waterfalls. You can view wild animals like elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopards, hyenas, giraffes  on a game drive, water birds, hippos, Nile crocodiles on the boat cruise, chimpanzee tracking in Budongo Forest. Murchison falls should be your must visit destination in Uganda in addition to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary with Southern White Rhinos.

Queen Elizabeth National Park: Famous for the tree climbing lions of Ishasha sector. Its home to 96 mammal species and over 610 bird species which makes it the best birding destination for bird watchers especially the migratory bird like the Flamingos. Lions, leopard, hyenas, elephants, antelopes can be spotted on a game drive while water birds like African Fish Eagles, Pelicans , Nile crocodiles, Hippos can be viewed on Boat cruise along Kazinga Channel.

A Pro Tip: Combine a Gorilla tracking, Chimpanzee tracking and big five safari in one itinerary for unforgettable Uganda safari experience

Adventure Activities You Cant Miss

Jinja source of the Nile is a Must visit travel destination for travelers seeking adventure and adrenalin activities.

Whitewater Rafting on River Nile

Uganda offers a world class water rafting in Jinja along River Nile. With various options for different grades 3-5 offer you family friendly water rafting experience.

You can do other additional activities like kayaking,quad biking, bungee jumping for adrenalin junkies while in Jinja

Hiking and Mountaineering

Mountain Rwenzori: Embark on the mystical challenge of hiking the third highest mountain in Africa with the Margarita Peak at an elevation of 5109 feet above see level with glaciers and unique alpine flora.

Mount Elgon: ideal for less strenuous trekking while exploring waterfalls and caves. Summit to Wagagai peak and view the world’s largest Caldera.

Uganda’s Rich Cultural Encounters

Uganda has over 56 cultures and culture which make it a diverse country in terms of culture. Visitors can visit Uganda on Cultural Tours to learn about the diverse cultures.

The Cultural Tours in Uganda

Batwa Experience: You can visit the Batwa people and learn about their history, hunter , food gatherer and forest dwelling lifestyle in Batwa Trail in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi areas . learn about how they are coping up with modern life after they were evicted from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to protect the endangered Mountain Gorillas.

Karamojong Culture: visit north eastern region to learn about the nomadic lifestyle of Karamojongs. Their culture is unique and experiential from the dances, food, social, political, economic aspects worth visiting. It is one of the preserved and untamed culture in Uganda.

Cultural Land marks

Kasubi Tombs: UNESCO World Heritage Site. It serves as the burial kinds for Buganda Kings.

Ndere cultural center: Enjoy the music, dance and drama for different ethnic groups in Uganda. You can enjoy the diversity in your comfort.

Paradise for Birdwatchers

Uganda is home to over 1056 bird species which make is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. It has some iconic bird species like savannah, forest, water birds hence the best birding destination for birding safaris.

Mabamba Swamp: This is an ideal destination for searching the iconic shoebil stork and other water birds. You can embark on this journey on the small boats to Mabamba swamp

Lake Bunyonyi: Popularly known as the place of small birds is one of the best birding destinations in Uganda. It has stunning landscapes with over 40 islands on the lake.

Fun fact : Uganda accounts for 50% of Africa’s Bird Species and 11% of the World’s bird species

Semliki National Park- True birder’s haven: It is home to some Congo basin bird species that are rarely seen elsewhere in East Africa.

Travel tips for Travelers

Let your travel to Uganda be made simple by following the simple travel tips for your Uganda Gorilla Safari.

Visa requirements: You can apply for Uganda Tourist Visa Online before traveling to Uganda. Purchase East African Tourist Visa if you plan to Visit Rwanda and Kenya

Health preparations:

Yellow fever Vaccination is mandatory

Curry your anti malaria tablets.

Currency: Uganda shillings(Ugx). Credit cards are accepted in major cities and some hotels but cash is essential

What to pack? Light weight clothes, good pair of  hiking shoes, insect repellents and A waterproof jacket or Poncho.

Travel  to Uganda with Exclusive Gorilla Vacations

At Exclusive Gorilla Vacations, we specialize in creating personalized travel experiences across Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi. Our services includes:

• Tailored Gorilla tracking safari Packages that combine adventure and relaxation.
• Birding safari led by expert guides.
• Chimpanzee tracking packages
• Wildlife safaris
• Big Five African safaris
• Fully organized itineraries with reliable ground handling

When you book with us , you’re not just exploring Uganda- you’re giving back. For every safari package sold, $10 is used to support the education of the underprivileged children.

Uganda offers unmatched experiences that connect you with nature, culture and adventure. Let Exclsuive gorilla Vacations  make your dream trip a reality.