Safaris in Uganda

The primate capital of Africa

Uganda is the only country where you can trek mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in the same week, and still see the Big Five: four of them at Murchison Falls, and lion, elephant and buffalo in Queen Elizabeth. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest alone holds close to half the world's remaining mountain gorillas.

It is a green, hilly, road-heavy country. Distances look short and take longer than you expect, so a Uganda itinerary is built around a loop rather than a hub. Ten days is comfortable for gorillas plus one savannah park; a week means choosing.

Things to do in Uganda

Uganda is more than gorillas. The country holds snow-capped mountains, open savannah, big lakes and the source of the Nile, so there is a lot to choose from.

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi

Trackers and guides lead you through dense, misty rainforest to a habituated mountain gorilla family. You watch them in their own forest, and your visit helps pay for their conservation. Start with Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, or see our gorilla trekking safaris.

Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale

Kibale is the best-known place in Uganda to find wild chimpanzees, and it shares the forest with many other primates. See Kibale National Park.

Boat safari on the Nile

A boat on the Nile in Murchison Falls National Park drifts past hippos on the banks, crocodiles sunning themselves and a long list of water birds. It is slow and quiet, and it shows you the park from the river rather than the road. More on Murchison Falls.

Meeting the Karamojong in Kidepo

In the remote landscapes of Kidepo Valley, you can spend time with the Karamojong, a nomadic pastoral people. Visits include traditional dances and an introduction to daily life.

Hot springs in Semuliki

Semuliki National Park sits in the far west, and its hot springs bubble up amid lush forest. It is a short, different stop on a western circuit.

Water, mountains and cities

Uganda is where the Nile starts, and Jinja offers white-water rafting at the source. You can also hike in the Rwenzori Mountains and on Mount Elgon. The islands of Lake Victoria, such as Ssese, make a peaceful retreat. Kampala, the capital, has a lively mix of restaurants, nightlife and cultural sites.

Best time to visit Uganda

Temperatures sit between about 21 and 25°C all year, so the choice is mostly about rain. The two wetter periods are March to May and September to November. The rest of the year is drier.

Drier months make forest trails easier, which matters most for gorilla and chimpanzee treks. Wet months bring greener scenery and lower rates, and the primates are still there. Savannah parks such as Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls give good game viewing across the year.

Uganda travel tips: health, money and what to pack

Most visitors need a visa, which you can apply for through the Uganda Electronic Visa/Permit Application System or, for some nationalities, on arrival. Check the current rules for your passport. A yellow fever certificate is commonly asked for at entry. Talk to a travel clinic about typhoid, hepatitis A and B, diphtheria and malaria tablets.

The currency is the Ugandan shilling (UGX). You can exchange money at banks, forex bureaus and some hotels, and ATMs are available in major cities and towns.

Pack light, breathable clothes for warm days, a rain jacket, long sleeves in neutral colours for trekking and safari, a hat, sunscreen and sturdy shoes. Drink bottled or boiled water, guard against mosquito bites and take travel insurance that covers medical evacuation. Our article on gorilla tracking safety explains what a trek involves.

More questions about Uganda

What makes Uganda special for wildlife?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi and chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, together with the wildlife of Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls. It suits travellers who want primates as well as a classic safari.

Which parks suit first-time primate visitors?

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorillas and Kibale National Park for chimpanzees. Most first itineraries are built around these two.

Can I bring children or older relatives?

Uganda has many family-friendly activities, but choose lodges and tours that fit every age and plan a pace the whole group can enjoy. Gorilla permits have a minimum age, so ask us first. Make sure everyone's vaccinations are up to date.

How does Uganda compare with Kenya and Tanzania?

Kenya and Tanzania are known for vast savannahs and the Great Migration. Uganda offers lush forests, mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, and more intimate safaris. Many guests pair it with Rwanda or add a savannah safari for contrast.