Uganda Safari Guide – Best overall value in quality gorilla trekking experience.

Dubbed ‘the pearl of Africa’, Uganda is a real treat when it comes to classic safari. Although often overlooked, this East African nation offers some of Africa’s bucket-list experiences including the big five, gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking. It hosts the highest concentration and diversity of primates in Africa, making it a premier destination for primate tracking.

While Uganda is famous for gorilla trekking, nature lovers can also explore an unparalleled array of wildlife, dramatic landscapes with snow-capped mountain peaks, the western rift valley, shimmering lakes and powerful waterfalls and rich cultural diversity with traditional kingdoms, historical sites, culinary experiences, and authentic community experiences.

Uganda is a growing tourist destination yet planning the perfect Uganda safari vacation requires careful preparation. With this comprehensive Uganda safari guide, you can fully enjoy and appreciate everything this beautiful, rich and varied country has to offer.

Uganda is located in East Africa across the equator and borders Kenya to the east, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, South Sudan to the north, Tanzania to the south, and Rwanda to the southwest.

It is part of the African Great Lakes region, and shares a portion of Lake Victoria, Africa’s biggest and the world’s second-largest freshwater lake with Kenya and Tanzania.

Although landlocked, Uganda is endowed with an unparalleled array of wildlife including the popular Big Five and over a thousand species of birds in pristine and unspoiled parks, making it one of Africa’s bucket-list destinations for wildlife viewing.

Uganda’s diverse landscape features lush swamplands, open savannahs and tropical rainforests, merging with Congo-style rainforests that teem with primates including mountain gorillas, chimpanzees and black-and-white colobus, red-tailed, L’Hoest’s and golden monkeys.

The legendary snow-capped Mount Rwenzori, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” rises majestically in the west; its glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine lakes are presumed to be sources of the Nile River (specifically the White Nile). Other features include a plateau with fertile, wooded hills, volcanic formations like Mount Elgon, and numerous lakes including Lake Victoria.

Nature—diverse and resplendent—looms large in this world of unbeatable natural splendour. Whatever your preferences and interests are, Uganda is one of the best places in Africa to experience authentic and unforgettable safaris.

• Off the beaten track

Uganda, along with neighbouring Rwanda, is popular for gorilla and chimpanzee tracking. Both countries share the unique responsibility of conserving populations of these critically endangered species in their natural habitats.

Visitors can now embark on exclusive Uganda gorilla trekking safaris in Bwindi and Mgahinga, or combine them with other parks for a classic African safari experience.

Uganda’s climate is largely tropical with two rainy seasons, from March to May and September to November. Temperatures range from 25 to 29 °C (77 to 84 °F).

Mountainous areas, including gorilla parks with altitudes above 1,300 m (4,265 ft) are much cooler with the top of Mt. Rwenzori often snow shrouded. In contrast, the north is warmer with only one rainy season, from March to October.

The dry season is from December to February and from June to August when evenings can feel chilly after the heat of the day, when temperatures drop to around 17 °C and 18 °C (63 °F and 64 °F).

January and February are the hottest months with the average daytime temperature ranging between 24 °C and 33 °C (75 °F and 91 °F) peaking up to 40 °C/104 °F in the far north.

The best time to visit Uganda for a classic safari is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to August, which also coincide with the peak safari seasons. These times are relatively dry, sunny with clear skies, and the trails are less muddy, which offer excellent conditions for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. Wildlife is also easier to spot when they are concentrated around the remaining water sources.

The wet seasons from March to May and October to November are the best times for bird-watching, as resident birds are nesting and the park can experience an influx of migratory species. The vegetation is lush and green and excellent for photography. Visitors can also expect fewer crowds and lower prices.

However, they are associated with heavy rainfall and hiking trails can get muddy making it difficult to navigate. Animals are also harder to find because they are more spread out due to the availability of pasture and water.

Generally, Uganda remains a year-round wildlife viewing destination, with each season offering unique experiences depending on your preferences.

Bwindi is Uganda’s tourism flagship and, more famously, home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. It is comprised of an ancient rainforest spread over steep ridges and valleys that form a protective habitat for these endangered species. You’ll be led into this majestic forest by naturalist guides and trackers to experience a face-to-face encounter with a habituated family of gorillas.

Dubbed the world’s primate capital, Kibale is without doubt a bucket-list destination for primate tracking. The park’s popular primate walk offers the opportunity to observe a family of habituated chimpanzees up-close in their natural habitat. You’ll also observe dozens of other primate species, over 375 bird species, and a further 120 mammal species on guided treks.

Famous for being home to one of Africa’s most powerful waterfalls, Murchison Falls National Park is one of Uganda’s premier destinations and a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the dramatic waterfall, spectacular landscapes, enthralling range of habitats, excellent biodiversity, and a range of premier safari activities like hiking to the top of the falls, boat cruises on the bottom of the falls, and game drives.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most popular wildlife viewing destination and famous for its tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha sector. As one of the most accessible savannah reserves, it is perfect for family safaris offering well-packaged experiences like game drives and boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel.

While Lake Mburo is Uganda’s smallest savannah park spanning 260 km², it hosts a diversity of natural wonders including acacia woodlands, grasslands, lakes and wetlands and diverse wildlife like zebras, impalas, and over 300 species of birds, making it a compact but biodiverse safari destination. It is a short drive from Kampala, making it the closest savannah park to the capital.

Arguably the most popular, sought-after and profound wildlife encounter on earth, gorilla trekking tops the list of experiences on a Uganda safari. Trekking these endangered species and seeing them up-close in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that never leaves you the same. It also brings you closer to man’s closest relatives in the animal kingdom.

It’s likely that after encountering mountain gorillas, you will want to observe the fascinating chimpanzees in Kibale Forest. These restless apes are close to us not just in DNA but also in their distinct social structures. You will delve into the forest for a transformative chimpanzee tracking experience.

Another awe-inspiring experience is tracking golden monkeys in their natural habitat. Known for their playful nature and speed, it’s fascinating how these cute endangered primates live alongside their counterparts, mountain gorillas in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Uganda boasts a varied range of wildlife roaming its plains, offering nature lovers incredible opportunities to explore on game drives. The Big Five and plains game are the favourites for wildlife viewing and are concentrated in savannah parks and reserves. Rhinos can be sighted at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

Boat safaris offer a smooth-paced alternative to traditional game drives to get you arm’s-length close to aquatic life—both animals and birds. From the comforts of a houseboat, you will observe one of Africa’s highest concentrations of hippos alongside enormous Nile crocodiles, plains game by the banks, and prolific bird life, particularly in Queen Elizabeth’s Kazinga Channel and Murchison Falls National Park.

While wildlife is not Uganda’s only attraction, cultural safaris through visits to remote communities allow you to immerse yourself in the diverse cultures and traditions of the country. You will witness traditional dances, taste local cuisine, and interact with local people, creating a unique bond with the country’s rich cultural heritage. This is what graces your entire Uganda safari experience.

Most international flights to Uganda typically land at Entebbe International Airport (EBB), the country’s main entry point, located about 40 kilometres (25 miles) from the capital, Kampala.

Road travel within the country is usually by vehicle but may be slow. However, with the availability of domestic flights, safari operators usually include one or more flights to your itinerary to connect to parks. Self-drive is possible but always look for a reputable company.

It is also possible to fly to Kigali, Rwanda or Nairobi, Kenya and then drive to Uganda. Your tour operator will pick you up from the airport or hotel, and transfer you as per your safari package.

A typical Uganda safari package costs between $200 (USD) and $700 (USD) per person per day, depending on your travel style, whether budget, mid-range, or luxury. It includes transport, meals, and guide fees, but excludes permit fees. Though overlooked, Uganda is one of Africa’s most ecologically diverse yet affordable safari destinations.

Budget Uganda safaris cost around $200 USD, mid-range $400–$600 USD and luxury over $700 USD per person per day. Below is a breakdown of the cost of a safari in Uganda.

• Rates are guidelines only and exclude international flights, tips and personal items.
• Additional costs include gorilla trekking permits and chimpanzee permits at $800 and $250 respectively. The final price is usually determined by choice of accommodation, transport, and the duration of the safari.

*Contact your African Safari Specialist at Exploits to request a quote with the best, most current rates available.

From luxury retreats tucked away in breathtaking landscapes to eco-friendly sanctuaries that blend seamlessly with nature offering a more rustic experience, take a look at our handpicked selection of truly exceptional accommodations that will ensure an unforgettable Uganda safari experience.

Surrounded by a lush, tropical garden, in a leafy suburb just a few minutes away from Entebbe International Airport, this exclusive boutique hotel effortlessly blends local tradition, modern comforts and the charm of a 1940’s colonial home.

Perched on a peninsula within the heart of the Queen Elizabeth National Park, this luxury hotel offers an intimate wildlife experience with breathtaking panoramic views of the magical Rwenzori Mountains. Its prime location provides quick access to launch trips along the hippo-inhabited Kazinga Channel.

Established in 1954, Paraa Safari Lodge is one of the oldest luxury safari lodges in Uganda and offers a unique blend of comfort, relaxation and adventure. It is set on a ridge on the northern bank of the Victoria Nile, within Murchison Falls National Park, offering spectacular views of the Nile River, one of nature’s best-kept secrets.

This traditional style eco-lodge is just a five-minute walk from the chimpanzee trekking start point at the Kanyanchu Visitors’ Centre, making it the perfect place to stay for your trekking excursion. It immerses you in the midst of unrivaled nature, scenery and tranquility of one of the world’s last remaining lowland and Afromontane rainforests.

Explore our top-rated luxury Uganda safaris and package itineraries. They are meant to give you a clue as to how different destinations and experiences work together and help you plan your dream vacation.

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