Uganda Safaris

Where to Go on a Uganda Safari – Attractions and Destinations

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Kibale Forest National Park
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Lake Mburo National Park
• Murchison Falls National Park
• Kampala City
• Top Uganda Safari Experiences

Trekking Mountain Gorillas

Trek through the emerald impenetrable jungle of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for an encounter with the world’s largest living primates – the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Their sheer size and humanlike interactions will leave you spellbound.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Embark on a trek through the rainforests of Kibale Forest for the most dramatic encounters on the Africa with the playful and intelligent chimpanzees. Other incredible chimpanzee trekking destinations in Uganda include Budongo Forest and Kyambura Gorge.

Classic Game Drives

In the comfort of your 4×4 safari vehicle with large windows and open roofs custom – made for classic game viewing, Drive deep into the wilderness to watch some of Africa’s remarkable animals like the elephants, lions, buffaloes among others up close.

Boat Safaris

Explore the famous Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Victoria Nile in Murchison Falls National Park and Lake Victoria on a boat safari. On this experience you will come close to animals like hippos and Nile Crocodiles among others.

Guided Nature Walks

Abandon your safari vehicle and head into the savannah plains led by an armed ranger guide for close-up encounters with some of the small species and explore the parts of Uganda’s wilderness unreachable in a safari vehicle.

Cultural Encounters

On a Uganda safari you can experience beyond the gorillas and animals. Visit the local communities, interact with the hospital locals and take part in their daily life activities like cattle rearing, collecting honey and be entertained by local dances and drama among others.

Birding

For bird enthusiasts, Uganda offers some of the most accessible birding destinations, registering over 1000 bird species. Uganda’s top birding destinations include Queen Elizabeth National Park hosting over 600 species, Mabamba Swamp for the rare Shoebill. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for Albertine endemics and Budongo Forest for the Royal Mile Trail among others.

Accommodation Options on Your Uganda Safari

Uganda Safari Packages offer various accommodation options for different types of travelers. Luxury safari lodges provide private rooms, fine dining and exceptional service and budget lodges offer a more rustic experience with basic amenities and a closer connection to nature. When choosing your accommodation, consider its location and proximity to your destination – national park or reserve plus the level of luxury and your budget.

Some safari lodges in Uganda offer all-inclusive packages, while others charge separately for each service. Here is a list of our carefully curated list of lodges and camps to stay on your Uganda Safari.

• The Boma Hotel
• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
• Kampala Sheraton Hotel
• Turaco Treetops Lodge
• Paraa Safari Lodge
• Nile Safari Lodge
• Rwakobo Rock Lodge
• Mount Gahinga Lodge
• Buhoma Lodge

Essential Information

Uganda is a great safari destination is a relatively few tourist crowds compared to its neighbors – Kenya and Tanzania. Here group tours are small, and popular wildlife destinations are relatively unconstrained.

Uganda’s national parks and reserves are accessible to independent travelers, and off-te-beaten track gems like Ssense Islands, Katonga Wildlife Reserve, Sipi Falls, and Kasenda Crater Lakes are relatively affordable. Uganda has a reputation of being a safe destination, with low levels of crime against tourists. Independent travelers face minimal day –to-day hassle and the locals are warm, friendly, and relaxed hosts.

Here are some essential Uganda Safari information to help you understand navigating Uganda.

Phone and Internet Connection

Many phone networks in Uganda cover larger towns like Entebbe and Kampala and tourist areas, but signals may be inconsistent. Local SIM Cards are affordable, and international calling bundles make it easy to call home. It is best to unlock your mobile phone before arriving, it can also be done in Kampala or Entebbe but may delay your Uganda Wildlife Safari. Most of the safari lodges in Uganda’s destinations have free WiFi access. 

Health & Vaccines

When traveling to Uganda, it is important to have proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport or any crossing point. The Ministry of Health recommends Hepatitis A and B Vaccinations and those traveling to rural areas of Uganda, should also consider typhoid vaccine. Malaria is a risk in Uganda, so consult with your doctor ion antimalarial options. At the very least, sleep under a mosquito net at night and wear insect repellent during the day. Also, it is recommend to drink only bottled or filtered water.  

Safety

Generally, Uganda is a safe destination for tourists, but it is recommended not to wander alone at night, especially in urban areas. Ugandans are welcoming people but hold traditional beliefs, so public displays of affection are general frowned upon. LGBTQ+ travelers can travel through the country without any issue, as Uganda don’t discriminate based on race and sexuality. 

Money

It is recommended to pay any purchases of items at local shops and restaurants in Uganda Shillings. Large hotels and lodges as well as tour companies may accept U.S Dollars and credit cards. It is possible to withdraw local currency at ATMs or exchange dollars, euros, and pounds at the airport, forex branches, or local banks. Bills printed before 2006 are not accepted.  

Entry Visa

All international travelers must in possession of an entry visa, costing US$ 50 and can be obtained online at visas.immigration.go.ug. All applicants must submit a complete form, two passport – sized phots and at least three days before travel. You cannot get the Visa on arrival at Entebbe International Airport. Your passport must be valid for six months from the intended travel date and have at least one blank page.