Best Uganda Holidays - Where to Go, Packages & More
Wondering whether Uganda holidays are worth taking? The short answer is YES. The long answer is what we’ll explore in this guide. Uganda is undeniably gifted by nature. It boasts tropical rainforests and jungles, snow-capped mountains, gorgeous crater lakes, rolling savannahs, and winding rivers. Amid these habitats are diverse wildlife and vibrant tribal peoples that have learned to co-exist.
This diverse country promises a wealth of adventure and memories to last a lifetime. And you get to choose the memories you want to make. From Mountain gorilla trekking to watching the thundering Murchison Falls or spotting tree-climbing lions every corner of Uganda unfolds a new chapter of nature’s wonder. Let’s explore some of the activities you can enjoy on your Uganda holidays.
Book Your Uganda Safari With Us
To enjoy the best of Uganda, we invite you to contact us via phone or WhatsApp at +254-704-532-105. You can also connect with us via email at safarioffers@kenyaluxurysafari.co.uk or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com.
Our Senior Consultant, James Gatheru, is on hand to answer all the queries you may have and help you put together your safari itinerary. Our company also offers safari packages in neighbouring Kenya and Tanzania.
Best Uganda Holidays - Photos by Our Clients
Discovering Uganda's National Parks
With diverse national parks, each offering unique wildlife experiences, Uganda is a treasure trove for nature lovers. Picture yourself clearing trails in Bwindi National Park to track our closest relatives the mountain gorillas and finally locking eyes with one in a fleeting second. How about observing a tree-climbing lion in Queen Elizabeth National Park or enjoying a relaxing boat cruise in Murchison Falls National Park?
Let’s check out some of the best destinations to spend your Uganda holidays at:
Mountain Gorilla Encounters at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Nestled in South Western Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers a fine opportunity for tracking mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The Ugandan wildlife authorities have made considerable effort to habituate these mountain gorillas—getting them accustomed to seeing humans in close range. This makes it easier for visitors to observe (for one hour) and take pictures of them.
Gorilla trekking requires a permit that you’ll need to obtain well in advance since gorilla trekking tours are exceedingly popular with tourists. It’s worth noting that Bwindi National Park is part of the tropical rainforest ecosystem which means it can rain any time even in the dry season.
Another remarkable destination for wildlife enthusiasts is Kibale Forest National Park, known for its diverse species and breathtaking landscapes. Kibale National Park is home to chimpanzees and several other primates including the grey-cheeked mangabey, red-tailed monkeys, and black & white colobus.
Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park is less challenging than gorilla tracking since Chimpanzees live at relatively lower altitudes making it easier to find. Plus, the trails in Kibale Forest National Park are flatter than those in Bwindi National Park.
The Majesty of Murchison Falls In Murchison Falls National Park
The Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest protected area, is one the most popular destinations in Uganda. It offers rich wilderness experiences that include
Morning or late afternoon boat trips to Murchison Falls to witness the Nile River powerfully cascade through a narrow gorge creating a ground-shaking splash, mists of water and a rainbow. On your boat trip, you will spot hippos, crocodiles, aquatic birds, and wildlife drinking by the river bank.
Game drives across the northern section of the park. Murchison Falls National Park hosts more than 70 mammal species including elephants, giraffes, buffalos, lions, leopards, and hyenas. As you traverse the open savannah grasslands you’ll have opportunities to see these animals and over 450 birds.
Hiking and chimp trekking experiences. You can hike to the top of Murchison Falls to witness the dramatic falls or go on a nature walk in Kaniyo Pabidi or Rabongo forest following the designated trails. As you track chimpanzees you might come across olive baboons, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, as well as the white and black colobus monkeys.
Royal Safaris at Queen Elizabeth National Park
Stepping into Queen Elizabeth National Park reminds you of the Masai Mara in Kenya or the Serengeti in Tanzania – thanks to its vast grasslands and woodlands. But there’s more to this park than the usual experiences you’ll have in either Kenya or Tanzania. The ecosystem of Queen Elizabeth National Park also includes rivers, fresh water and saline lakes as well as a tropical forest meaning you can enjoy more activities here. These activities include
- Early morning or late afternoon game drives across the park’s savannahs to see the big cats, an elephant dosing away, grumpy buffalos encrusting themselves in mud or antelopes grazing. Notably missing at this park are giraffes, cheetahs, rhinos, and zebras.
- Boat trips across the Kazinga channel. It offers a different perspective of the park and opportunities to watch hippos dunking themselves in the water, crocs lazing by the banks, and aquatic birds. Better yet, watch the animals’ reaction to your presence.
- Chimp trekking at Kyambura Gorge where steep gorges and dense forests provide a natural habitat for primates, particularly chimpanzees. Birds also find Kyambura Gorge attractive, making it a fine place for birding.
- Exploring Maramagambo Forest. This forest is ideal for nature walks, birding, primate tracking, and discovering nearby crater lakes and a bat cave that hosts a massive number of bats. We would caution you from going too near to the cave since big serpents lurk there waiting for a bat or several that fall off their perches.
Kidepo Valley National Park
Diverse is the best way to describe Kidepo Valley National Park. At this park, Acacias mix with savannah woodlands, grasslands, shrub steppes, bushlands, and forests that go up the mountains.
You’ll also see Borassus palms lining up the sandy riverbeds making for stunning scenery. The very reason that Kidepo Valley isn’t the most visited national park in the country, means you can enjoy off-the-beaten-path experiences here.
Game drives to Narus Valley and Kidepo Valley may help you spot various wildlife including lions, cheetahs, leopards, wild dogs, bat-eared foxes, elephants, and zebra. The Kanangorok Hot Springs are beautiful to look at and a hike up Mount Morugule is rewarding. You will have spectacular views of your surroundings and spend some time with the IK tribe who’ve long called this region home.
Semliki Wildlife Reserve
As far as Uganda’s old reserve wildlife reserves go, the Semliki Wildlife Reserve is one of those. This gorgeous reserve is a mix of dry savannah grasslands, rainforests, lush wetlands, and riparian woodlands. From here you enjoy magnificent views of the Rwenzori Mountains, the rift valley escarpment and the Blue Mountains of DR Congo.
Semliki is a habitat for various animals and birds including the Uganda kob, waterbucks, buffaloes, elephants, pygmy hippos, warthogs, leopards, and crocs. Bush babies are hard to miss because they are so noisy.
Some popular activities include day and night game drives, boat trips through Lake Albert Delta and guided chimp walks. The chimps aren’t as habituated as those you’ll find in Kibale Forest National Park or Budongo Forest so you may need to keep your distance.
Adventure Beyond Wildlife: Activities in Uganda
While Uganda’s wildlife is indeed mesmerizing, the country offers so much more. On your tour of the country, you can discover a side of Uganda that goes beyond its national parks. You can submerge yourself in its rich culture, learn about its history at well-known sites, or satisfy your thrill-seeking side with adventure activities.
Cultural Immersion
Set foot in Uganda, and you will be welcomed by a wealth of cultural experiences. From traditional villages and cultural festivals to rich heritage sites, every encounter is an opportunity to learn about Uganda’s diverse communities. Some of the most popular tribes include:
- The Batooro people. They are well-known for their hospitality, vibrant traditional dances and unique attire. When you spend time with this tribe you’ll have the chance to taste their traditional dishes, participate in traditional dances and even learn traditional fishing techniques.
- The Batwa tribe. No Uganda safari is complete without a visit to meet the Batwa tribe. This pygmy tribe of Uganda is fondly referred to as “keepers of the forest”. Interacting with them will let you in on their traditional hunting and gathering skills and how they use forest resources for their needs aka, building shelters, medicine, and lighting fires.
Touring Historical Sites on Africa Safari to Uganda
Uganda’s rich cultural history along with the unfortunate effect of civil unrest bore several historical sites worth visiting. Sites in Uganda include archaeological sites, natural sites, traditional sites, and political and memorial monuments.
Nsongezi rock Shelter, Amabeere ga Nyinamwiru, Rukarango Tilting Rock, Jinja (source of the Nile), Kasubi Tombs, Kabamba Monument, Independence Monument are worth visiting.
Adrenaline-Packed Adventures
Are you an adrenaline junkie? Uganda has got you covered! From hurtling down the rapids on a white-water rafting expedition to bungee jumping over the Nile, the country is teeming with adrenaline-pumping activities. Some of the thrilling activities you can try include:
- White-water rafting
- Bungee jumping
- Horseback safaris
- Riverboarding
Uganda’s Culinary Journey
Your Uganda tour isn’t complete without a taste of its culinary delights. Ugandan cuisine, with its distinct fusion of traditional and contemporary influences, offers a sensory feast. Some staple dishes include:
- Matooke: steamed mashed bananas
- Cassava
- Sweet potatoes
- Beans
Just as Uganda’s landscapes are a blend of traditional and modern, so is its cuisine. The influence of English, Arab, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines has given rise to a vibrant food scene. From trendy cafes serving global dishes to unique fusion restaurants, modern Ugandan food is a culinary journey worth taking. Street food, such as Rolex (a rolled chapatti filled with egg and vegetables), is a must-try for anyone seeking to taste authentic Ugandan flavours.
Planning Your Trip: When to Visit and Travel Tips
Now that you’re intrigued by all that Uganda has to offer, it’s time to plan your holiday safari. In this section, we’ll guide you through the seasonal highlights and weather patterns, and provide tips to help you navigate Uganda.
Seasonal Highlights and Weather Patterns
Uganda’s tropical climate makes it a great destination all year round. However, the dry seasons from June to September and December to February are ideal for wildlife viewing. Gorilla trekking and indeed trekking to sort the other primates is a bit of a mixed bag.
The dry season means there is less to eat and the primates go deeper into the jungle to find. This translates to longer hours spent trying to track them down. With the wet seasons of March to May and October to November, food is plentiful and finding the primates is easier. You will however deal with trecherously slipper terrain. The wet season is also ideal for bird-watching.
Navigating Uganda: Travel Advice
Planning a trip to a new country can sometimes be overwhelming, so here are some tips to keep in mind when travelling to Uganda:
- Make sure your passport is valid
- Carry your yellow fever vaccination certificate
- Book your reservations in advance – especially if you’re interested in Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Pack waterproof clothes (long-sleeved shirts, jackets and pants)and comfortable hiking shoes for your treks. For game drives, neutral lightweight clothes will do.
- Bring along insect repellent, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect you from the elements
- Carry some spare change to tip your guides
Accommodation Options Across Uganda
When it comes to accommodation, Uganda offers a wide array of options. Whether you prefer to stay in the heart of nature, experience urban comforts, or relax by a picturesque lake, there’s something for every traveller.
Some of the best lodges across parks include Chobe Safari Lodge, Crater Safari Lodge, Papaya Lake Lodge, Apoka Safari Lodge, Kyaninga Lodge, and Ihumba Residence.
Summary
In conclusion, Uganda has diverse landscapes, rich culture, and abundant wildlife. From the majestic mountain gorillas of Bwindi to the roaring Murchison Falls, each corner of Uganda is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, thrill-seeker, or culture buff, Uganda offers an adventure for every traveller. So why wait? Start planning your unforgettable Uganda holiday today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Next, we answer the most common questions we get about holidays in Uganda.
What Is the Best Month To Visit Uganda?
The best month to visit Uganda is between December and February or June and August when conditions are ideal for trekking and game spotting in national parks.
How Much Time Do You Need in Uganda?
For a quick trip to Uganda, 5 days should be enough to track mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and explore Queen Elizabeth National Park. To enjoy the country’s extensive offerings so you can enjoy its wonders, we recommend a 10-day stay.
What Are Some Must-See Wildlife Spots in Uganda?
Head to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking, Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park for the Big Five, and Lake Mburo National Park for bird watching – all amazing wildlife spots in Uganda you must see!