Uganda, which is known by many as the Pearl of Africa, has an impressive mix of wildlife, tropical forests, mountains, rivers, and cultural experiences. If you are wondering what to do in Uganda, you can track mountain gorillas in ancient rainforests, watch elephants and lions on game drives, enjoy beach and waterlife, or even explore the source of the Nile.
At Rwanda Eco Company & Safaris, we help travellers combine these experiences into well planned Uganda safaris, with private transport, knowledgeable driver guides, and accommodation suited to their travel preferences.
1. Primate Tracking: Gorillas and Chimpanzees
Primate tracking is one of the main reasons travellers visit Uganda. The country offers opportunities to encounter mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Bwindi protects a significant population of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Accompanied by experienced guides and trackers, you can hike through the rainforest in search of a gorilla family and spend one hour observing them once located.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park: Kibale is renowned for its rich primate diversity and chimpanzee population. During a guided forest walk, you can watch chimpanzees moving through the trees, feeding, grooming, and communicating with one another.
Check Out our Uganda Safari Travel Guide for advice on best times at each location, Uganda Safari Travel Guide:
2. Big Game Safaris in Uganda’s National Parks
Visiting Uganda’s savannah parks are an excellent opportunities to see African wildlife against a backdrop of open grasslands, wetlands, and woodland.
Murchison Falls National Park: The park has both classic game drives and beautiful river scenery. You can look for elephants, lions, giraffes, and other wildlife before taking a boat trip along the Nile towards the base, and then hiking to the top of the falls of the powerful Murchison Falls.
Queen Elizabeth National Park: This park is known for its wildlife, crater lakes, and scenic landscapes. A boat safari along the Kazinga Channel is an excellent opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and numerous bird species.
Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha: In the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, you can search for lions resting in the branches of large fig trees. Although sightings are not guaranteed, finding these unusual cats is a memorable highlight of a Uganda safari.
3. Adventure Activities Along the Nile
For travellers seeking outdoor adventures, Jinja offers some of Uganda’s best-known activities along the Nile.
White Water Rafting: You can experience the Nile’s rapids on a guided rafting trip, with different options depending on your preferred level of adventure and the available conditions.
Hiking to Sipi Falls: On the slopes of Mount Elgon, Sipi Falls rewards visitors with views of three waterfalls, green hills, and surrounding coffee plantations. Guided hikes provide an opportunity to explore the landscape and learn about local coffee-growing traditions.
See: How to Survive Your First White Water Rafting Experience
4. Cultural Experiences and Conservation
Uganda’s cultural heritage and conservation initiatives offer further opportunities to understand the country beyond its wildlife.
Ndere Cultural Centre: Located in Kampala, the centre hosts performances featuring traditional Ugandan music, drumming, dance, and storytelling. It is an engaging introduction to the country’s diverse cultural traditions.
Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: You can join trained guides on a walking experience to observe southern white rhinos in a protected conservation area. The sanctuary plays an important role in Uganda’s efforts to restore its rhino population.
Also See: Visiting the Batwa Cultural People in Uganda
Plan Your Uganda Safari
Knowing what to do in Uganda is the first step towards planning a safari that suits your interests and available time. You can combine gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, wildlife drives, boat trips, and cultural visits into one itinerary, depending on your preferred destinations and pace of travel.
At Rwanda Eco Company & Safaris, we help you organise permits, accommodation, transport, and activities for a seamless Uganda safari. Contact our team to plan your journey through the Pearl of Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Uganda safe for international travellers? +
Many travellers visit Uganda successfully each year. As with any destination, you should check current travel advice, follow local guidance, and use reputable tour operators and guides.
Is gorilla trekking cheaper in Uganda than in Rwanda? +
Uganda generally offers lower-priced gorilla trekking permits than Rwanda. The overall cost of your safari will also depend on accommodation, transport, and the number of days you travel.
What is the best way to travel around Uganda? +
A private 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional driver-guide is a practical option for travelling between national parks. Distances can be considerable, and journey times vary with road conditions and stops along the way.