Uganda Safari Guide

Why Visit Uganda?

Widely known as the “Pearl of Africa”, Uganda is a stunning safari destination that offers gorilla trekking, big game, breathtaking verdant landscapes, and warm East African culture.

Most famous for the mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda offers some of the most accessible and affordable gorilla trekking in Africa.

While gorillas are the star attraction, beyond these gentle giants, visitors can trek to see chimpanzees in Kibale, spot diverse primate species - including rare golden monkeys - on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains.

For those looking for a classical safari twist, visit Queen Elizabeth National Park to encounter tree-climbing lions, and take a boat cruise along the Blue Nile to see the Murchison Falls. Go thoroughly off-the-beaten-path with a trip to the remote Kidepo valley.

If gorilla and chimpanzee trekking is not enough, visit East Africa’s adventure playground at Jinja, cruise along the wildlife-rich Kazinga Channel, or hike the infamous Mountains of the Moon.

Seamlessly woven into every Uganda safari are warm hospitality, fascinating culture, and unique Ugandan cuisine.

Uganda, a stand-alone destination, can easily be combined with trips to Zanzibar, Tanzania, and Kenya.

Gorilla Trekking, Chimpanzees, and Primate Safaris

Uganda boasts the highest density of primates anywhere in the world. From mountain gorillas and chimpanzees to golden and colobus monkeys, Uganda offers unmatched opportunities to observe these creatures in their natural environment.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offers accessible and affordable gorilla trekking to habituated family groups, while Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Uganda’s smallest protected area – offers a more remote experience that includes endemic golden monkeys.

Gorilla permits in Uganda cost a fraction of Rwanda’s hefty fees, making it a more affordable gorilla trekking option.

Read our Gorilla Trekking FAQs for all the information about gorilla trekking in East Africa.

Home to 13 unique primate species, Kibale Forest is the premier destination for chimpanzee tracking and boasts the densest chimpanzee population in the world. Other primates to keep an eye out for are golden, blue, colobus, L'Hoests, and owl-faced monkeys. In addition to Kibale Forest, there are chimpanzee populations in both Queen Elizabeth National Park and Budongo Forest in Murchison Falls National Park.

These gorgeous destinations make Uganda one of Africa’s best primate safari destinations.

Tree-climbing Lions at Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s best classical safari destination.

The park boasts rich biodiversity that includes hippos, elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, numerous antelope species, and over 600 birds. However, the highlight of any safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park is the chance to spot unusual- and iconic - tree-climbing lions.

Guests to Queen Elizabeth National Park can enjoy boat cruises through the game-rich Kazinga Channel, guided nature walks, 4x4 game drives, and Chimpanzee trekking in the lush Kyambura Gorge, adding a unique rainforest experience to complement savannah activities..

Accommodation choices range from comfortable lodges ideal for families to secluded tented camps.

Queen Elizabeth National Park connects easily with gorilla trekking safaris in Bwindi and Kibale.

Breathtaking Scenery

Winston Churchill, after visiting in 1907, described Uganda as the "Pearl of Africa", a tribute to the country's breathtaking scenery, rolling hills, mountains and verdant green forests.

Africa's tallest mountain range, the Rwenzori Mountains, are famed for glaciers, waterfalls, lakes, rivers, and lush forests.

The Virunga Mountains straddle the border between the Congo, Uganda, and Rwanda and are home to mountain gorillas, tropical-primordial forests, and stunning scenery.

River cruises on the Victoria Nile are a chance to explore this mighty river, and offer a unique perspective of the savannah and big game animals, as well as up up-close experience of the mighty Murchison Falls.

Jinja, Uganda’s adventure capital, sits at the confluence of the Nile and Lake Victoria – the second largest freshwater lake in the world. Visitors can explore the scenic shores of the lake, kayak and canoe on the river, or take advantage of horse riding, quad biking, and much more.

Unique Culture and Fantastic Food

Uganda’s stunning scenery is complemented by the vibrant people, rich culture, and excellent local cuisine.

Ugandans are famously warm, friendly and welcoming to tourists. There are 30 languages spoken in Uganda. One of these tribes is the Batwa, a forest-dwelling people. Batwa cultural experiences, particularly the Batwa trail in Magahinga National Park, are a fascinating way to learn about these remarkable people and deepen one's understanding of life beneath the canopy.

Food is a major cultural expression, and in Uganda, the art of cooking with bananas can be sampled wherever you go. From street food and restaurant offerings, and even banana beer, Uganda takes bananas to the next level.

Learn more about the banana culture on your Uganda safari.

Enjoy a Relaxed Adventure and Explore Popular East Africa Destinations

Compared to the safari hotspots in Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda offers a relaxed alternative with fewer crowds.

Relatively undiscovered, Uganda still feels like one of Africa’s best-kept secrets. Gorilla trekking and safaris are intimate affairs with personalised service.

Located in the heart of East Africa, it is easy to connect with popular destinations from Kampala. Combine gorilla trekking with a safari in the Serengeti or Masai Mara. Alternatively, explore neighbouring Rwanda and then unwind on one of Zanzibar’s pristine beaches.

Uganda is not only a fantastic stand-alone destination but also links seamlessly with the best safari destinations in East Africa, perfect for an exciting Africa adventure. 

Need Help Planning Your Uganda Safari?

African Budget Safaris offers expert advice that is tailored to your needs and your budget.

With first-hand East Africa safari experience, our team knows Uganda and can advise you on the best places to visit, hidden gems, and the must-see Uganda highlights.

Whether you want to go gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale, or game viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park, talk to one of our travel consultants today for personalised planning, great deals, and travel tips from experienced travellers.

When is the Best Time to Visit Uganda?

The best time to visit Uganda is from June to August or December to February during its two dry seasons.

While the rainforests of East Africa are by definition wet places, during these months, conditions for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking are at their best. Trails are dry, animals are easier to spot, and blue sky is the norm, rather than the exception.

For classic safaris in Uganda’s savannah parks, February to March, and September to October - both at the end of their respective dry seasons - offer the best conditions. Animals gather around permanent water making game viewing easier.

During the wet season, heavy rains make logistics challenging and trails muddy and slippery. Located along the equator, Uganda’s

While Uganda remains accessible year-round, visiting during rainy periods (March to May and November to early December) can complicate travel logistics and make forest trails slippery and challenging.

January & February in Uganda

January and February in Uganda are warm and dry. Conditions are perfect for gorilla trekking and chimpanzee adventures in Bwindi, Kibale, and Magahinga.

Daytime temperatures are comfortable conditions for exploring in the south, while the Kidepo Valley in the far north of Uganda are hot dry and dusty.

Uganda from March to May

March to May sees the onset of Uganda’s first rainy season. The landscape drips lush with rain, and dirt tracks become muddy, making logistics challenging.

While the southern parks are extremely wet, in the north, Uganda remains dry, and it is a perfect time for spotting newborn animals and enjoying Uganda’s vibrant birdlife.

April is Uganda’s wettest month. Though the country is quieter and discounted rates are appealing, the muddy conditions of the roads make travel challenging.

The rain continues through May, and few tourists visit Uganda.

Uganda from June to August

June to August is Uganda’s peak safari season.

Dry weather in the gorilla-trekking southern parks makes visiting at this time of year perfect. Skies are blue and the trails are dry, while generally speaking, road conditions make travel easier.

In addition to the excellent gorilla and chimpanzee trekking weather, wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls is excellent. Animals gather around scarce water sources, making them easier to spot.

Popular activities and destinations book out fast at this time of year, making booking gorilla trekking permits and accommodation in advance important to avoid disappointment.

Uganda from September to December

September to December is Uganda’s second rainy season.

These are unpredictable months when weather conditions vary. September and October see unpredictable rainfall, making safari conditions challenging. However, because of the unpredictable conditions, this time of year is popular for discounted rates on accommodation and gorilla permits.

November is extremely wet, and access to parks and trails is limited due to rain and mud.

The rains ease in December and conditions gradually improve as the month moves towards the January and February dry season. Wildlife and birdlife are excellent, making safaris at this time worthwhile.