Why visit Uganda? You may wonder.
The reasons why you should visit Uganda are many. From its beautiful green scenery and its rivers and lakes to the endangered mountain gorillas. There's beauty in the country everywhere you look. No wonder it was named the Pearl of Africa.
Uganda is a gem of a tourist destination, packed with natural wonders that have captivated travellers for decades. This East African country is truly one of the best places to vacation.
Not convinced yet? We get it, and that’s why today we’ll share 10 things to do while visiting Uganda for an experience of a lifetime!
10 Things to Do in Uganda
Let's look at all the wonderful places and sights you can find in Uganda.
1. Pay homage to the mountain gorillas in Bwindi
Other than Rwanda, Uganda is the other best country for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the mountain gorillas. You won't find them inside zoos but out in the wild, among the trees. Gorilla trekking Uganda tours are a special treat for visitors. In Bwindi, an ancient and diversity-rich forest where half of the world's population of mountain gorillas live, you'll walk through thick undergrowth for a chance to meet the gentle giants of the forest during your gorilla safaris Uganda tour.
2. Track chimpanzees in Kibale
Did you know Uganda has the most chimpanzees in East Africa? Kibale Forest National Park has beautiful tropical forests covering its hills and valleys, which is a feast for your eyes all on its own, but that's not all. It's also home to many of Uganda's chimpanzees. Just like the mountain gorillas, you'll meet these chimpanzees out in their natural habitats. As you trek through the park, you'll hear their iconic screeches before you even see the animals. It's a game viewing experience like no other.
3. Visit the national parks of Uganda
Some of the reasons why you should visit Uganda are the nation's national parks.
Murchison Falls National Park
This park is found near Lake Albert and is bisected by the White Nile. It is the biggest national park in Uganda and home to the largest population of Nile crocodiles. In the park, you can spot four of the big five and 450 bird species inside safari vehicles.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Named after the late Queen Elizabeth II, this park is a must-see during your Uganda tour. The park boasts of amazing and varied landscapes of volcanic cones and craters, savannahs, lowland forests, and wetlands.
The park is also home to elephants, hippos, leopards, and tree-climbing lions (with black manes) lying on fig trees. For bird-watchers, this park is an amazing reason why you should visit Uganda to watch its over 500 bird species.
Mount Elgon National Park
While the Kenya-Uganda border bisects Mount Elgon national park, the majority of the park lies in Uganda. Mount Elgon is a dream destination for those who love mountain climbing. As mountaineers hike up, they’ll pass waterfalls, hot springs, caves, gorges, moorland, and more.
Rwenzori Mountains National Park
This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to the Rwenzori Mountains. The snowcapped mountain range will treat mountain climbers to sights of waterfalls, lakes, ice glaciers, and snowfields at the top of the mountains.
4. Raft at the source of the Nile
Nile River is one of the most fun places for white water rafting in the world. Thrill seekers come to the scenic town of Jinja on the shore of Lake Victoria and the source of the river Nile to have adrenaline-pumping fun.
Adventure activities include rafting in the fast-moving waters and bungee jumping. It's not just the Nile, Zambezi river is another great point for white water rafting, thanks to its deep channels.
5. Cruise the Kazinga channel
Kazinga channel, found in Queen Elizabeth National Park, is a 32-kilometer-long channel connecting two lakes—Lake Edward and Lake George. The channel has African elephants and one of the highest concentrations of hippos in the world.
Enjoy an intriguing the park's wildlife as it quenches its thirst at the channel. Expect to see elephants bathing and lions drinking water as you float down the channel.
6. Swim in lake victoria
Lake Victoria, which is a freshwater lake, is the biggest lake in Africa. Its islands are a major tourist attraction. The Ssese Islands will provide you with relaxing spots and plenty of activities to occupy your time. The sandy beaches found on the islands are perfect for sunbathing after a swim in the lake.
7. Hike and trek in Uganda
For the hikers wondering why visit Uganda, this one is for you. Uganda has so many great spots to go hiking, it’s literally a hiker’s heaven. Uganda trekking tours on famous mountains like Mount Elgon and Rwenzori mountains are such a delight for mountaineers, but they're not the only options. Visit the Virunga mountains, hike the beautiful Mount Kadam, or trek up Mount Moroto.
8. Wine and dine with the Karamojong
The local people in Uganda are known for being welcoming and friendly to visitors. Don't hesitate to take the time to speak to the people, you'll learn a lot about their fascinating culture. Visit the warrior pastoralists Karamojong in their manyattas for a rich cultural experience. Eat their traditional meals and learn about their history and heritage.
9. Indulge in authentic local dishes
Food is a pretty big deal in Uganda, it’s literary Africa’s bread basket. Each tribe has its own staple food, and sometimes preparation for meals can start the previous day. Once you arrive in the country, be on the lookout for delicious organic food. Sample matoke, katogo, muchomo, and posho. Yummy! Doubt you’ll remember the names? Ask your tour operators for recommendations.
10. Go bird-watching
Uganda is home to 11% of the world's bird population, making it the ultimate bird-watching destination. You'll find over 1000 bird species in the country. Even if you aren't an avid bird watcher, you’ll still be delighted by the sight of the feathered creatures. Be on the lookout for the crested crane, the national bird in Uganda. Don't know what it looks like? Check the country's flag and crest; you’ll see it.
Interesting Facts About Uganda
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18% of its land surface is covered in wetlands, lakes and rivers.
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There are over 30 languages spoken in the country.
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Uganda has the highest concentration of primates in Africa.
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Uganda is the second largest producer of bananas in the world.
Best Time to Visit Uganda
The best time to visit Uganda is during the months of June to August and December to February. Why visit Uganda during those months? That's when the dry seasons occur and the conditions are suitable for trekking and game viewing.
Uganda is an underrated tourist destination that has so much to offer. The beauty of the country is awe-inspiring, the wildlife is rich in diversity, and the mountains and wetlands that cover the land give you incredible sights to see. With the help of your tour operator, you'll be able to have a magical trip to the Pearl of Africa.
Go on and book a trip to Uganda and have an adventure of a lifetime with our safari company today!