The Pearl of Africa
Uganda is best known for its captivating gorilla and chimpanzee trekking adventures, boasting the world’s highest concentration of these primates within its borders. However, a Ugandan safari has much more to offer, including the chance to encounter tree-climbing lions, witness massive elephant herds, and spot over 1,000 bird species.
Additionally, Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes feature rushing rivers, tranquil lakes, misty mountains, and expansive savanna plains, creating a truly enchanting environment.
Some 60 protected areas, including ten national parks, are home to a vast number of species, most famously mountain gorillas in the lush rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga. Chimpanzees can be seen in Kibale and the spectacular Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, itself home to lions, elephants, leopards, hippos and more. While its neighbours to the east might offer a better safari, Uganda can still be the setting of a real African adventure.
Attractions
A World Heritage Site of Breathtaking Beauty
Rwenzori Mountains
The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon, are a stunning range of snow-capped peaks and lush forests on the border of Uganda and Congo. They are home to many rare animals and plants, as well as the third highest point in Africa. You can explore this magical landscape by hiking, mountaineering, or visiting the local Bakonzo people who live in harmony with nature.
The True Birders’ Haven
Semuliki
Semuliki National Park is a biodiverse region in western Uganda, home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. The park is dominated by the easternmost extension of the Ituri Forest of the Congo Basin, one of Africa’s most ancient and diverse forests. It is home to over 435 species of birds, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics. The park also provides habitat for a variety of mammals, including elephants, chimpanzees, and baboons. Other notable species include hippos, crocodiles, butterflies, and moths. Semuliki National Park is a unique and valuable ecosystem that offers visitors the opportunity to experience the best of Central Africa without leaving Uganda.
The World’s Most Powerful Waterfall
Murchison Falls
Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s oldest and largest conservation area, covering over 3,800km² of savanna, forest, and wetland. It is famous for its spectacular waterfall, where the Victoria Nile plunges 45m into a narrow gorge. The park hosts a rich variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, and over 550 species of birds. It is also a place of historical and cultural significance, having been visited by many prominent figures such as Winston Churchill and Theodore Roosevelt. Murchison Falls is a must-see destination for anyone who loves nature and adventure.
A Medley of Wonders
Queen Elizabeth
Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most popular tourist destination due to its diverse ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and fascinating cultural history. The park is home to a classic big game, ten primate species including chimpanzees, and over 600 species of birds. Visitors can enjoy stunning vistas of the Rwenzori Mountains, the Kazinga Channel, and the Ishasha plains. The park also has a fascinating cultural history, with many opportunities for visitors to meet the local communities
True African Wilderness
Kidepo Valley and Forest
Kidepo Valley National Park is a remote and beautiful park in the north-east of Uganda, bordering South Sudan and Kenya. It has a rich diversity of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, lions, giraffes, and over 470 species of birds. The park is famous for its stunning savannah scenery, surrounded by mountains and dotted with wetlands and pools. Kidepo Valley National Park is a true wilderness, where you can enjoy the best of Africa’s nature and culture.
World’s Largest Mountain Caldera
Mount Elgon
Mt Elgon is an ancient volcanic mountain that straddles the border of Uganda and Kenya. It was once the highest mountain in Africa, but now it is the fourth highest in East Africa and the eighth highest in Africa. It has a huge base of 4,000km² and a caldera of 40km². It is home to many birds, animals and plants, some of which are endemic to the mountain. It is also a cultural and spiritual site for the Bagisu and the Sabiny people, who live on its slopes. Mt Elgon is a great place to enjoy nature and adventure without the crowds.
Whispers Of The Wild
Lake Mburo
Lake Mburo National Park is a small but beautiful park near the main road to western Uganda. It has ancient rocks, wetlands, forests and savannas that host many animals and birds. You can see zebras, impalas, elands, leopards, hippos and more. You can also enjoy the rich birdlife, including rare species like the southern ground hornbill and the black-throated barbet. Lake Mburo is a perfect place to experience the natural wonders of Uganda.
The Ultimate Gorilla Experience
Bwindi Impenetrable
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a stunning rain forest in southwestern Uganda, where you can find half of the world’s mountain gorillas. You can track these gentle giants and see them up close in their natural habitat. You can also enjoy the amazing diversity of plants, animals, and birds, including many endemic species. You can also explore the culture and crafts of the local people, who live in harmony with the forest. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a place of wonder and adventure, where you can experience the best of Uganda’s nature and culture.
Where Gold Meets Silver
Mgahinga Gorilla
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a high-altitude park in Uganda that protects mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and the Batwa pygmies. You can track the gorillas and learn about their behavior, or join a Batwa guide and discover the secrets of the forest. You can also admire the stunning scenery of the three extinct volcanoes that form part of the Virunga Range. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a place of wildlife, culture, and adventure.
The primate capital of the World
Kibale
Kibale National Park is a great place to see chimpanzees and other primates in Uganda. You can join a guided walk at Kanyanchu Visitor Centre and track the habituated chimps in their natural habitat. You will have a high chance of finding them and observing their behavior for one hour. You can also enjoy the diversity of birds, mammals, and plants in the forest. Kibale National Park is a must-visit for anyone who loves wildlife and nature.