If you’re looking for an African adventure, this Uganda travel guide will help you discover the pearl of Africa. Uganda is the perfect destination. This landlocked country is home to some of the continent’s most iconic animals, including gorillas, chimpanzees, and lions. Uganda also boasts stunning scenery, from verdant rainforests to snow-capped mountains. And thanks to its relatively stable political situation, this East African nation is one of the safest countries in Africa to visit.
Whether you’re interested in wildlife watching, hiking, or cultural exploration; Uganda has something for everyone.
Table of Contents
What Do I Need to Know About Travel to Uganda?
Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa. Kenya borders it to the east, Tanzania to the south, Rwanda to the southwest, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to the west, and South Sudan to the north. It’s about the size of Great Britain. The best way to get around is by plane. You can fly between the major cities of Kampala, Entebbe and Jinja. A few domestic airlines operate within Uganda, making it easy to reach even the country’s most remote corners.
You can also take buses between cities on a tight budget. However, bus travel in Uganda can be slow and uncomfortable, so it’s not recommended if you’re short on time. Another important aspect of Uganda travel guide is its population which totals 50,607,500. The capital city is Kampala. The official languages are English and Swahili. The currency of Uganda is the Ugandan shilling (UGX).
It’s a tropical country with a hot and humid climate. There are two rainy seasons: March to May and October to November. Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, and meningococcal vaccinations are important.
What is the Best Month to Visit Uganda?
The best month to visit Uganda depends on what you’re interested in seeing and doing. That’s a huge play factor in the Uganda travel guide. The country has two main seasons: the wet season (March-May and October-November) and the dry season (June-September). If you’re hoping to see wildlife, the dry season is the best time to visit Uganda. This is when animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.
However, keep in mind that temperatures can be very hot during this time of year. The wet season is a better option if you’re more interested in hiking and mountain climbing. This is when Uganda’s mountains are covered in lush green vegetation, making for some stunning scenery. However, be prepared for rain and mud during your trek.
Is Uganda Good for Tourists?
Uganda is a great destination for tourists. It offers a variety of activities and attractions, including wildlife watching, hiking, and canoeing. The country also has several beautiful landscapes and friendly people. If you’re planning to visit Uganda’s national parks, you will need to purchase a Ugandan Wildlife Authority permit. You can purchase these costs USD 30 for foreigners and at the park gate. Ugandan citizens do not need a permit. A gorilla trekking permit costs around US$600; in some seasons, like April, May and Nov, it can be available for $450.
Do I Need a Visa to go to Uganda?
All visitors to Uganda need a visa, which can be obtained from the Uganda embassy or consulate. Single-entry visas cost USD 50, while multiple-entry visas cost USD 100. You will also need to provide a passport photo and proof of onward travel.
Uganda Travel Guide
Nature lovers can explore the country’s national parks and see elephants, lions, and gorillas in their natural habitats. Adventure seekers can go hiking or mountain climbing in the Rwenzori Mountains. Culture buffs can visit the capital city of Kampala to learn about the country’s rich history and heritage. Here is a comprehensive Uganda travel guide.
1. Chimpanzee Tracking
Chimpanzees inhabit several of Uganda’s protected forests. The most popular is Kibale, which shelters about 13 primate species, including some 1,500 chimps. You can also track chimps in Budongo forest, where they are best seen from February to September. Another great place for chimp tracking is the stunning “underground” forest of Kyambura, set in a deep, mist-filled gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park. If you’re a primates lover, add this to your bucket list as this comprehensive Uganda travel guide rolls out.
2. Mount Elgon
At 4,321 metres, Mount Elgon is Uganda’s second-highest mountain. The views from the summit are stunning, and there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping and birdwatching in the park.
3. Lake Mburo
Lake Mburo is a beautiful freshwater lake located in southwestern Uganda. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, with over 350 species recorded in the park. There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing, canoeing and horse riding which is a unique activity in the Uganda travel guide.
4. Gorilla Tracking
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the best places in Uganda for gorilla tracking. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching, with over 350 species recorded in the park. Bwindi is located just south of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Gorillas are the backbone of Uganda travel guide. It is a two to six-hour trek up the steep slopes of the Rift Valley, culminating in an eye-to-eye encounter with mountain gorillas.
5. Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the best places in Uganda for wildlife watching. It’s home to a huge variety of animals, including lions, elephants, and leopards. our Uganda travel guide highly recommends the park because it is a great spot for birdwatching, with over 600 species recorded.
6. Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park is one of the best places in Uganda for wildlife watching. It’s home to a huge variety of animals, including lions, elephants, leopards, and chimpanzees. The park is also a great spot for birdwatching, with over 400 species recorded which is why it appears on the Uganda travel guide.
7. Kampala
Kampala is a great place to base yourself on exploring the country as far as the Uganda travel guide is concerned. There are plenty of hotels, restaurants, and bars, as well as a wide range of tourist attractions. Kampala is also a good place to pick up souvenirs and gifts.
8. White Water Rafting
One of the most popular activities in Uganda is white water rafting down the Nile. The river is located in northwestern Uganda and flows through Murchison Falls National Park. Several tour operators offer trips, and it’s a great way to see the wildlife up close.
9. Ssese Islands
The Ssese Islands are a group of 84 islands located in Lake Victoria. They’re a popular spot for fishing, swimming and relaxing on the beach. There are several hotels and resorts on the islands and plenty of restaurants and bars. Ssese is unique in many aspects that add more flavour to Uganda travel guide.
10. Game Drives
Many safari-goers visit Uganda for the gorillas but there is a lot more that the Ugandan savannah offers. For example, Queen Elizabeth National Park has stunning sights of lions that climb trees. Their balancing act is mindblowing.