UGANDA
Uganda, dubbed "The Pearl of Africa," stands as a dazzling gem in Africa's heart. Despite its compact size, this landlocked nation boasts attractions like Africa's largest freshwater lake, unique safaris featuring gorillas and chimpanzees, and 12% of the globe's bird species. Its varied landscapes range from rainforests and savannahs to volcanic mountains, all teeming with diverse wildlife.
The Basics
-
The currency of Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling, often represented by the symbol "UGX" or sometimes "USh".
-
June to September and December to February are the dry months, making them the most favourable for wildlife safaris and gorilla trekking. The lesser amount of rainfall means the roads and trekking paths are more passable, and the wildlife is easier to spot because animals tend to congregate around water sources.
Gorilla Trekking: While it's possible to track gorillas year-round, the dry seasons (as mentioned above) are preferable because the paths in the rainforests can be slippery and muddy during the rainy seasons.
Birdwatching: Uganda is a bird-lover's paradise. For birdwatching, the best time is from November to April when migrant species are present. However, birding is excellent year-round.
Hiking and Mountaineering: If you're interested in hiking, especially in the Rwenzori Mountains, the drier months (June to September and December to February) are ideal.
It's worth noting that the rainy seasons, which typically occur from March to May and October to November, have their own charm. The landscapes are lush and green, and there are fewer tourists, which means better rates and a more serene experience. However, some roads might be impassable due to mud and heavy rains, especially in remote areas.
-
English: English is the official language of Uganda and is used for government, education, and business purposes. It's taught in schools and is widely spoken in urban areas and among the educated populace.
Swahili: Swahili, though not native to Uganda, is also recognized as a second official language. It's spoken in some parts of the country, especially in areas near the border with Kenya and Tanzania.
Indigenous Languages: There are many indigenous languages spoken in Uganda.
Ugandan Group Safari’s
Links below are affiliate links with G Adventures. This means Safari & Me might earn a small commission if you book onto one of these trips. This is at no extra cost to you, and G Adventures is our preferred group tour providers and create incredible itineraries with unique experiences . Any commissions made help keep this website running. Thanks for your support!
Uganda Overland: Gorillas & Chimps
Seize the moment to discover Africa your way with this budget-friendly tour tailored for young explorers. Elevate your passion for wildlife during a nine-day journey through Uganda, spotting chimps in the Kalinzu Forest and accompanying seasoned trackers deep into its woodlands to witness the rare mountain gorillas in their native environment. With our Landos (overland adventure vehicles), you get both adventure and affordability, and camping in the wilderness ensures you're right at the heart of all the excitement.
9 days from USD $2,249 per person
Uganda to Rwanda: Gorilla Treks & Safari Drives
Both Uganda and Rwanda offer a treasure trove of adventures, particularly as travelers are starting to re-explore this area. We ensure this journey remains personal and close-knit to foster a profound bond with this enchanting territory. Beyond trekking in search of chimps and gorillas and venturing on wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park to observe elephants and hippos, we also pay a visit to the genocide museum, shedding light on the region's recent past. Rest assured, the experiences in Uganda and Rwanda will etch lasting impressions in your memory.
8 days from USD $3,639.00 per person
National Parks, Reserves & Conservancies of Uganda
-
![]()
Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park, located in northwest Uganda, is famed for its powerful waterfall where the Nile River is forced through a narrow gorge before cascading into the "Devil's Cauldron."
-
![]()
Kibale Forest National Park
Kibale Forest National Park in Uganda is renowned for its dense population of habituated chimpanzees and diverse range of other primates.
-
![]()
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda is a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its mountain gorilla populations and dense, mist-covered rainforests.
-
![]()
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda boasts diverse ecosystems, from savannahs to wetlands, and is home to tree-climbing lions, elephants, and a rich birdlife.
-
![]()
Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park in Uganda is a unique savannah haven, teeming with wildlife and the country's largest concentration of zebras.
Tailormade Ugandan Safari Itineraries
Best of Uganda - 13 nights
-
1 night Lake Victoria
3 nights Murchinsons Falls
2 nights Kibale Forest National Park
3 nights Queen Elizabeth NP
2 nights Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
2 nights Lake Mburo National Park
-
Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Boat safari to the Murchison Falls
Chimp tracking in Kibale NP
Game-viewing drives in Queen Elizabeth NP.
The ultimate Gorilla tracking in Bwindi NP Accommodation in intimate safari lodges
Luxury Primate - 9 nights
-
1 night in Lake Victoria
2 nights Kibale Forest National Park
3 nights in Queen Elizabeth NP
3 nights at Gorilla Forest Camp
-
Chimp Tracking in Kibale National Park
Game-viewing drives in Queen Elizabeth NP
Gorilla tracking in Bwindi NP
Accommodation in intimate safari lodges.
Safari & Me Favourite Camps & Lodges
-
![]()
Mahogany Springs
Mahogany Springs Lodge: a luxurious base atop Munyanga River for gorilla trekking, boasting 12 suites with panoramic views of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
-
![]()
Apoka Safari Lodge
Apoka Lodge, nestled in the heart of Uganda's serene Kidepo National Park, boasts 10 canvas-walled chalets with private verandas, offering far-reaching views and unique features like outdoor rock tubs and a carved swimming pool. As the only lodge inside the park, guests can enjoy immersive experiences with resident guides, game drives among giraffes and zebras, and uninterrupted encounters with Kidepo's wildlife in this fenceless haven.
-
![]()
Kyambura Gorge Lodge
Kyambura Gorge Lodge, a stunning transformation from a coffee store on the edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park, boasts panoramic views of savannas, mountains, and the deep Kyambura Gorge. With an afro-chic decor emphasizing local artifacts, guests can enjoy distinct vistas from each banda, and indulge in the lodge's deluxe amenities, including a spa and pool introduced in 2019
-
![]()
Ishasha Wilderness Camp
Ishasha Wilderness Camp, nestled in Queen Elizabeth National Park's Southern Ishasha sector by the Ntungwe river, offers an exclusive tented experience with top-tier service in this untouched park region. Renowned for its tree-climbing lions and diverse wildlife, guests might spot elephants bathing, buffalo grazing, and resident monkeys, all within or passing through the camp.
Journal
