Welcome to the Pearl of Africa

Uganda

Deep jungles, beautiful lakes, abundant wildlife reserves, and iconic waterfalls, Uganda is Africa at its most raw and diverse.

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  • Primate Encounters
  • Classic Safaris
  • Nile Adventures
  • Lakes & Landscapes

UGANDA

Welcome to the pearl of africa

Deep jungles, beautiful lakes, abundant wildlife reserves, and iconic waterfalls, Uganda is Africa at its most raw and diverse.

Male Chimpanzee walking in Kiblae Forest National Park Uganda

GORILLA TREKKING

Experience the magic of gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks, coming remarkably close to mountain gorillas in their forest home

MURCHISON FALLS

Witness the mighty Murchison Falls, where the Nile surges through a narrow gorge before thundering into the river below, surrounded by spectacular African wilderness

Queen Elizabeth NP

Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park, where sweeping savannahs, shimmering crater lakes and abundant wildlife create one of Uganda’s most spectacular and rewarding safari experiences

KIBALE NATIONAL PARK

Venture into Kibale National Park’s lush rainforest, where chimpanzee trekking offers thrilling encounters with our closest relatives amid an extraordinary world of primates and birds

SOURCE OF THE NILE RIVER

Experience the mighty Nile River in Jinja, where scenic cruises to the 'source", thrilling adventures and beautiful riverside landscapes reveal another unforgettable side of Uganda

an unforgettable african experience

Why Choose Uganda?

Warm, welcoming and refreshingly authentic, Uganda offers something wonderfully different. Uganda, famously dubbed the “Pearl of Africa” by Winston Churchill, is a land of staggering contrasts and immense natural beauty. Here, the open savannahs of East Africa meet dense equatorial forests, creating an extraordinary ecological crossroads rich in wildlife and dramatic landscapes. From the misty peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains, the legendary Mountains of the Moon, to the powerful Murchison Falls, where the Nile thunders through a narrow gorge, Uganda feels wonderfully wild at every turn. While Uganda is renowned for its unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences, its wildlife encounters extend far beyond the mountain forests. In Kibale Forest National Park, ancient rainforest provides the setting for exhilarating chimpanzee trekking, where you can follow troops through the forest and experience one of Africa’s most rewarding primate encounters. The adventure continues in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where classic safari landscapes of sprawling savannah, crater lakes and wetlands are home to elephants, buffalo, hippos and an impressive variety of wildlife. Game drives offer the chance to encounter Uganda’s famous tree-climbing lions, while boat safaris provide a completely different perspective on the park’s abundant animal and birdlife. Beyond its national parks, Uganda is home to the source of the Nile, spectacular lakes, vibrant communities and more than a thousand species of birds. Journeys through the country lead past bustling village markets, rolling tea plantations and deep into ancient forests alive with sound. It is a destination where primate trekking, traditional safari and extraordinary landscapes come together in one remarkable journey, creating an African adventure that stays with you long after you return home.

Ask Our Travel Concierge, Chobi!

Top Attractions and Activities

Where To Go?

Uganda is a land of remarkable natural beauty, where lush forests, open savannahs, shimmering lakes and powerful rivers create an incredibly diverse landscape. While gorilla trekking is undoubtedly one of its most iconic experiences, there is so much more waiting to be discovered. From chimpanzee trekking and wildlife-rich national parks to thundering waterfalls, tranquil lakes and adventures along the Nile, Uganda offers an extraordinary variety of experiences. Here are some of the top places to visit and things to do in Uganda when planning your journey.

EXPLORE THE Bwindi Impenatrable Forest

Forests & Trekking

Journey deep into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where tangled rainforest, mist-covered hills and ancient trees create the setting for one of Africa’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences. Trekking through this remarkable wilderness in search of mountain gorillas is an adventure in itself, but coming face-to-face with them in their natural habitat is truly extraordinary. Beyond gorilla trekking, Bwindi’s beautiful landscapes, rich birdlife and remote forest atmosphere make every moment here feel wonderfully wild and deeply rewarding.

EXPLORE Queen Elizabeth National Park

Wildlife & Wetlands

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a classic Ugandan safari experience. The park is known for its varied landscapes and diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, hippos and tree-climbing lions. Enjoy game drives through the park and a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, offering excellent opportunities to see wildlife and birdlife along the water.
EXPLORE Murchison Falls

Powerful Falls & Primates

Murchison Falls National Park, one of Uganda’s most popular safari destinations and home to a wide variety of wildlife. Enjoy game drives across its open landscapes, cruise along the Nile to spot animals along the riverbanks, and visit the impressive Murchison Falls, where the river rushes through a narrow gorge before continuing downstream.

Seasons & Temperatures

When To Visit

Uganda’s location on the equator gives the country a generally warm and pleasant climate throughout the year, making it a rewarding destination in almost any season. Rather than dramatic changes in temperature, the seasons are largely defined by rainfall. Drier months typically provide more comfortable conditions for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, game drives and other outdoor activities, while the wetter months transform the landscapes into lush, green scenery.

BEST SEASON.

Dry Seasons | June to August & December to February

The Dry Seasons are among the best times to visit Uganda. With generally lower rainfall, forest trails are firmer and easier to navigate, creating favourable conditions for gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga and chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park. These months are also excellent for traditional safaris in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks, where drier conditions and wildlife gathering around reliable water sources can make animals easier to spot.

June to August This is generally the cooler of Uganda’s dry seasons, with average daytime temperatures of around 27°C and mornings and evenings averaging around 16°C. Mountainous and forested areas can be noticeably cooler, particularly early in the morning and at night. December to February This dry season is slightly warmer, with average daytime temperatures of around 28°C and mornings averaging approximately 16°C. Temperatures vary across Uganda, with northern and lower-lying areas generally warmer than the highlands.

GOOD SEASON.

Wet Seasons | March to May & September to November

The Wet Seasons (March to May and September to November) bring more frequent rainfall, transforming Uganda’s forests, savannahs and countryside into beautifully green landscapes. While trekking trails can be wetter and more challenging, this can be a rewarding time to visit for travellers looking for fewer crowds and greater availability at lodges. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding during these months, with increased activity and migratory species adding to Uganda’s already impressive birdlife.

March to May This is Uganda’s main rainy season, with April typically one of the wettest months. Daytime temperatures generally remain warm at around 27°C to 28°C, with mornings and evenings averaging approximately 16°C to 18°C. Rainfall can be heavy, particularly in forested and mountainous regions, but sunshine often returns between showers. September to November The shorter rainy season brings generally warm conditions, with average daytime temperatures of around 27°C to 28°C and cooler mornings and evenings of approximately 16°C to 18°C. Rainfall is typically less prolonged than during the main March to May rains, while the countryside becomes particularly lush and green.

Planning your Uganda Tour

Before You Go

01

Choose Your Adventure

Think about what you would most like to experience in Uganda, from gorilla and chimpanzee trekking to classic game drives, boat safaris, birdwatching and cultural encounters. Your interests will help shape the perfect route.
02

Plan Your Journey

Choose the best time to travel, how long you would like to stay and which destinations suit your travel style. Book your accommodation, transport and primate trekking permits early, especially during the busier safari seasons.
03

Get Safari Ready

Check your passport, visa requirements, vaccinations and travel insurance well before departure. Pack comfortable clothing for warm days, cooler evenings and rainforest trekking, along with sturdy walking shoes, sun protection and a sense of adventure.
Uganda brings together an incredible variety of experiences in a relatively compact destination. Many journeys combine gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, traditional wildlife safaris, beautiful lakes, the Nile and time spent exploring the country’s diverse landscapes and communities. This makes it easy to experience several very different sides of Uganda within one memorable journey. No two journeys through Uganda need to look the same. You might picture yourself trekking through the forests of Bwindi in search of mountain gorillas, tracking chimpanzees beneath the canopy in Kibale, exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park on safari, or experiencing the Nile at Murchison Falls and Jinja. Uganda tours can bring together many different sides of this remarkable country, combining primate trekking, wildlife safaris, lakes, forests, adventure and cultural experiences. The beauty lies in creating a journey that reflects the way you want to experience Uganda, with the right balance of wildlife encounters, active adventures, beautiful scenery and time to simply enjoy your surroundings.
Most international travellers require a visa to visit Uganda. Tourist visas are generally obtained online before travel through Uganda’s official electronic visa system, while certain nationalities are visa-exempt. Travellers combining Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda may also be eligible for the East Africa Tourist Visa. Visa requirements can change, so we recommend checking the latest requirements for your nationality before travelling.

A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is an important entry requirement for Uganda and should be arranged well before departure. Uganda is also a malaria-risk destination, and travellers should speak with their doctor or travel clinic about malaria prevention and any other recommended vaccinations based on their itinerary and personal health.

Most international visitors arrive through Entebbe International Airport, located near Entebbe and approximately 40 kilometres from Kampala. From here, journeys continue by road or domestic flight to Uganda’s national parks and wilderness areas. Depending on your itinerary, Uganda can also be combined overland with neighbouring destinations such as Kenya and Rwanda.

Pack lightweight, comfortable clothing for warm days, along with long trousers, sturdy walking shoes and a lightweight waterproof jacket, particularly if gorilla or chimpanzee trekking is part of your journey. A warmer layer is useful for cool mornings and evenings, especially in higher-altitude areas. Sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, binoculars and a small daypack are also useful additions.
The official currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Cash remains useful for smaller purchases, tips and more remote areas, while major hotels, lodges and larger establishments may accept international credit or debit cards. US Dollars are also widely used within the tourism industry, particularly for certain safari-related expenses. It is advisable to carry a combination of local currency, some US Dollars and a major payment card when travelling through Uganda.
Male Chimpanzee staring from perch Kibale National Park Uganda
Giraffe standing in open savannah Queen Elizabeth National Park Uganda
Base of Murchison Falls on the Nile River Uganda

Find Your Journey

Ready to experience the wild heart of Uganda? From unforgettable primate encounters to thrilling safaris and spectacular landscapes, adventure is waiting. Browse our Uganda tours below and find the journey that feels right for you.
Mother and Baby Gorilla playing Bwindi National Park Uganda USD 6,300 / person sharing
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Duration 9 Days
Trip Type Private Guided

Trip Inspiration

Track mountain gorillas through the misty forests of Bwindi, sharing a rare moment with one of the world’s great apes. Cruise the Kazinga Channel past hippos, elephants and prolific birdlife, then explore Queen Elizabeth National Park’s wildlife-rich grasslands. Feel the power of the Nile at Murchison Falls, where the river surges through a narrow gorge. This is Uganda… wild, lush and unforgettable.

Visiting the Pearl of Africa

Before the mist has lifted off the Bwindi canopy, before the first chimpanzee call rolls through the valley below, I find myself sitting in the predawn light, in awe of where my recent African travels have brought me. Uganda was not on my bucket list, but only because I had the wrong impression about it. Right now, the Uganda safari is increasingly becoming one of the most sought-after African holiday experiences, not because it has been packaged and polished into something easy to sell, but precisely because it has not.
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From your first idea to the final detail, our team is here to craft a remarkable African adventure – shaped by expertise and inspired by Africa itself. Tell us about the experience you’re imagining, and one of our experts will reach out to turn it into a truly bespoke African journey.