In this guide, we'll explore five of the best things to do in Uganda, where you can embark on unforgettable wildlife safaris, go mountain gorilla trekking, traverse serene lakes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of the Ugandan people. Uganda's diverse and captivating attractions promise a truly unique and enriching experience for every visitor.
Nestled in the heart of East Africa, Uganda is a country that boasts a wealth of natural beauty and cultural richness. There are plenty of incredible things to do in Uganda, from taking in the lush landscapes of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest while seeing the endangered gorillas in Africa to experiencing the unique local culture. A Ugandan safari offers a wide array of exciting adventures for travellers of all types.
Gorilla trekking tops the list of best things to do in Uganda. It is one of only three countries where you can see wild gorillas in Africa. The main place to do so is Bwindi Impenetrable Forest - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its dense, mist-shrouded forests, this pristine environment is home to nearly half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas.
The Uganda gorilla trekking experience, hiking through the thick undergrowth to encounter these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, is both exhilarating and profoundly moving. Physically demanding, gorilla trekking to witness these gentle giants up close and observing their intricate social dynamics and behaviours, you'll realize that the effort is more than worth it. Gorilla trekking in Uganda has been a conservation game changer, and this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity directly contributes to the protection of these incredible beings while making cherished memories.
Uganda is generally the most affordable place for gorilla trekking in Africa and one of the safest too (see places for safe and affordable gorilla trekking in Africa for more).
Visiting Murchison Falls and exploring the adjacent Budongo Forest is one of the most unforgettable, best things to do in Uganda - a spectacular journey both profound and delightful. Murchison Falls National Park is the largest national park in Uganda, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, elephants, giraffes, lions, antelope, waterbucks, buffaloes, hippos, and crocodiles, and over 450 birds including the endangered shoebill stork. The star of the show is the Murchison Falls. The Nile River, one of the world's most iconic waterways, thunders through a narrow gorge here before plunging over a 43-meter-high waterfall, creating a stunning spectacle.
Park entry fees to the Murchison Falls, include entrance into the Budongo Forest Reserve. Just a short drive from Murchison Falls, Budongo Forest, with almost 600 chimpanzees, is home to the largest population of chimpanzees in Uganda. This virgin forest is a biodiversity hot spot with giant mahogany trees, over 360 bird species, blue monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, olive baboons, colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and a menagerie of other insects and wildlife. This makes Budongo one of the best chimpanzee trekking destinations in East Africa, where you can observe these incredible creatures within this remarkable forest ecosystem.
Ugandans LOVE bananas. So much so that the average Ugandan eats about 3.5 kg of bananas a year. Given its popularity, it is no surprise that this versatile fruit has become a distinct feature of Ugandan culture (see more in Bananas in Uganda Culture). Sample Matooka, the beloved staple of Ugandan cuisine, and you'll find yourself savouring delicious flavours while immersing yourself in the country's rich culinary traditions.
Matooka, also known as matoke, is a dish made from green bananas that are typically peeled, boiled, and mashed. These bananas are simmered with a savoury blend of spices and often accompanied by groundnut sauce, a creamy and nutty condiment. Matooka is a dish found throughout the country, and the preparation methods can vary from region to region. Sharing a meal of Matooka with locals is one of the top things to do in Uganda. It is an excellent opportunity to connect with Ugandans, learn about their traditions, and appreciate the warmth of their hospitality. But don’t stop at Matooka, Ugandan’s grill, fry, and bake with bananas, leaving a whole world of culinary experiences to explore.
Kibale National Park is known as the “primate capital of the world”. An expedition to Kibale is an exceptional experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers and definitely one of the very best things to do in Uganda. This protected area is home to a vast array of fauna and flora. In addition to forest elephants, bushbucks, sitatungas, buffalos, and leopards, Kibale also boasts more than 370 bird species and over 250 butterflies that inhabit its network of forest trails and scenic swamps. The main attraction of Kibale is the density of primates. Here you'll discover it's not just gorillas in Africa that are worth seeing. While there are 5 habituated chimpanzee groups, Kibale has 13 other primate species including the rare red colobus and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Renowned for its abundant biodiversity, Kibale National Park is a must.
When it comes to the best things to do in Uganda, a wildlife safari is an absolute must, and Queen Elizabeth National Park is an exceptional safari destination. Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in the southwest, is a diverse and wildlife-rich haven. The park's varied ecosystems, including savannas, wetlands, and forests, provide a habitat for an astonishing range of animals, from massive herds of elephants and countless bird species to a rare pride of tree-climbing lions. The lions, instead of resting on the savanna floor, are often found lounging in the branches of trees. This unique behaviour, exhibited by a specific pride of lions in the park, is a rare and captivating spectacle, that makes visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park a highlight of any Uganda safari.
Discover more about Uganda and the best things to do in Uganda in our free Uganda safari guide.
Uganda's enchanting blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and extraordinary wildlife experiences make it an African destination like no other. From the awe-inspiring gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to the Budongo, Murchison Falls, and Queen Elizabeth National Park, this East African gem has something extraordinary to offer every traveller. If you are dreaming of seeing gorillas in Africa, then Uganda gorilla trekking is one of your best options, especially on a budget.
To start planning your Uganda safari check out The Best Time to Visit Uganda and How Much Does a Uganda Safari Cost?
For help from an experienced pro, chat with a friendly safari consultant, or browse our Uganda safaris and make your dreams of Africa come true.
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