This Uganda travel guide offers a comprehensive coverage of what Uganda has to offer to those who intend to visit her.
Uganda, a landlocked country in East Africa, in the heart of Africa, situated on the Equator, has an estimated population of 49 million in the recent 2024 population census and spans around 241,556.96 square kilometers.
Over 18% of its surface area comprises lakes, rivers, and wetlands. The country is home to five of East Africa’s great lakes: Victoria, Kyoga, Albert, George, and Edward.
Lake Victoria, the world’s second-largest freshwater lake at 68,000 square kilometers, is the source of the Nile, the world’s longest river at 6,695 kilometers (4,184 miles).
Known as the “Pearl of Africa” for its diverse natural beauty as described by Winston Churchill, Uganda has a rich cultural diversity with over 66 tribes, languages, and dialects.
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According to a UN report, Uganda is the happiest country in East Africa and the friendliest globally, as noted in a BBC survey of expatriates.
The country enjoys a tropical climate with wet conditions in the center and cool temperatures in the mountains, experiencing two dry and two wet seasons. The northeast has a semi-arid climate.
Uganda boasts 12 national parks, three game reserves, 10 wildlife sanctuaries, five community wildlife management areas, and 529,595 hectares of forest reserves, each with unique attributes.
As the primate capital of the world, Uganda has the largest mountain gorilla population, with 53% (about 459) of the global total.
Fewer than 900 mountain gorillas remain worldwide. Uganda also has over 5,000 chimpanzees, with more than 1,000 residing in Kibale Forest alone.
Additionally, Uganda is home to the world’s largest populations of monkeys, baboons, rare colobus, nocturnal bush babies, and pottos in pristine environments.
The country boasts over 1,083 bird species, which account for about 50% of Africa’s bird species and 10% of the world’s.
Prominent birding spots include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (over 400 species), voted Africa’s number one birding site by the African Bird Club (2012), and Queen Elizabeth National Park (over 605 species).
Why Consider Visiting Uganda
Uganda is an excellent destination for viewing wildlife in both forests and savannahs.
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable or Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks is a must, while chimpanzees can be easily spotted in Kibale National Park and other locations.
Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks provide fantastic savannah safaris with great wildlife viewing, as does the more remote Kidepo Valley National Park.
Uganda provides the perfect balance between wildlife and nature. You’ll marvel at the vast array of birdlife and unforgettable scenic views.
Uganda is also home to the world’s most powerful waterfalls at Murchison Falls National Park — Uganda’s oldest and largest park, stretching an area of approximately 3,840 square kilometers.
The park is bisected by the roaring Nile River, which forms a series of impressive cascades, culminating in the iconic Murchison Falls.
These Falls, often referred to as the “Devil’s Cauldron”, create a breathtaking spectacle as the rushing water squeezes through a narrow seven-meter gap, plunging a 45-meter drop over rocky cliffs.
The resulting spray and mist give the falls a mystical ambiance, attracting visitors from far and wide.
Murchison is also renowned for appearing in the 1951 Humphrey Bogart starred film “The African Queen” and having a long list of notable visitors: Winston Churchill, Theodore Roosevelt, Ernest Hemingway, and several British Royals.
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Travel Guide: Uganda’s Vast Wildlife
Elephants, hippos, buffalo, and zebras are abundant in Uganda.
Lions, giraffes, and white rhinos are more localized but can be easily seen in specific areas. Leopards are less predictable as they are very elusive.
Birdwatching is a major highlight with over 1000 recorded species.
Tracking primates, especially gorillas and chimpanzees, is also a key attraction, though many other species are worth observing.
The Ugandan Kob, an antelope found in most savannah reserves, is a favorite prey of lions.
Uganda is particularly rich in primates. Some of the notable species include the pastas monkey, red-tailed monkey, L’Hoest’s monkey, golden monkey, Ugandan red colobus, and Uganda mangabey.
The black-and-white colobus is widespread throughout the country.
Uganda’s Weather and Climate
Situated on the equator, Uganda experiences minimal year-round temperature fluctuations.
The hottest months are January and February, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 24°C to 33°C (75°F to 91°F) and peaks reaching up to 40°C (104°F) in the far north.
The southern region has two wet seasons from mid-September to November and from March to May, though rain can occur at any time.
The northern region has a continuous wet season from March to November and a distinct dry season from December to February.
Generally, the southern region of Uganda shares the same tropical climate as Kampala, which enjoys a slightly milder climate due to its proximity to Lake Victoria.
The southern parks are typically warmer during the day and cooler at night. High-altitude areas, including the gorilla parks, experience significantly colder temperatures.
Dry seasons in Uganda
June to August and December to February
During these months, average afternoon temperatures reach about 27°C (81°F), while mornings average around 16°C (61°F).
Higher altitudes above 1,300m (4,265ft), such as the gorilla parks, experience cooler temperatures.
June, July, and August
These months are typically the driest in the southern regions, although there may still be occasional rainfall. Conversely, they mark the wet season in the north.
The far northern areas, like Kidepo Valley, are semi-arid and may occasionally face drought conditions.
December, January, and February
The southern parts of Uganda receive less rainfall compared to the wetter months of June and July, but showers are still possible.
Meanwhile, the northern regions experience a pronounced dry season with minimal precipitation.
Wet seasons in Uganda
March to May and September to November
During these periods, daytime temperatures average around 28°C (82°F), with morning temperatures around 16°C (61°F).
Higher altitudes such as the gorilla parks, experience cooler temperatures, while the north tends to be warmer.
March, April and May
These months typically see increased rainfall across Uganda, with April marking a peak in the south.
Despite the rain, most days still have some sunshine. Travel may be more challenging due to wet conditions.
September, October, and November
Similar to March, April, and May, these months also experience increased rainfall, although on average, there tends to be slightly less rain.
Want to experience Uganda’s equatorial tropical climate? Our Weitz Safaris Uganda-savvy tour team would be delighted to discuss your wish list and design the perfect safari fully customized to suit your dates, interests and budget.
Uganda’s Premier Parks and Reserves
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Best Park and a must-visit)
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as Uganda’s premier destination for tracking mountain gorillas.
This park is home to half of the world’s mountain gorillas – roughly 459 in total. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park sits in the Southwestern part of Uganda along the Albertine Rift Valley and on the border with DRC.
It has a hilly terrain covered with tropical rainforest, which along with this park’s closeness to the equator, causes it to have a wet climate throughout the year as it receives lots of rain, although it tends to rain less in June and July.
It’s therefore advisable to come with waterproof clothes and hiking boots to track gorillas in Bwindi.
Apart from mountain gorillas, the park also hosts other primates, such as chimpanzees and baboons, and several mammals, which include forest elephants and duikers. Different bird species and butterflies also reside in this forest.
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Gorilla Trekking Sectors In Bwindi
Bwindi has four sectors for tracking mountain gorillas: Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhiji, and Nkuringo.
Buhoma
Buhoma was the most popular destination for gorilla trekking before the activity was introduced in the other sectors, but now, it’s a preference for tourists who desire top-notch luxury accommodation as the area is the most developed of the four destinations.
Rushaga
Rushaga is currently the best sector for gorilla tracking because it has the highest number of gorilla families to track, which are 5.
A factor that contributes to the sector having the highest number of gorilla permits issued (40 per day) in the country, and this makes it easier for tourists to get permits since there are many.
Rushaga is also the only place in Bwindi where gorilla habituation is allowed.
Ruhiji
For those who are both primate lovers and birders, Ruhiji should be your destination.
Apart from having gorillas, this sector has the Mubwindi swamp – a birder’s paradise with plenty of bird species.
This area was known for only birding before the gorillas were introduced there, so you can kill two birds with one stone — see the gorillas and also go bird watching.
Nkuringo
Nkuringo is the most beautiful sector in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park as it comprises rolling hills its name means in the local language, and also offers scenic views of the Virunga Mountains in the DRC from atop the Nkuringo hill.
Moreover, tourists attest that the gorillas in this sector are the most interesting to trek.
However, you need to bear in mind that they’re also the most strenuous family to trek, therefore, your fitness levels should be above par for you to opt for this sector.
Activities To Do In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Gorilla Tracking
Tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi’s rainforest is an exciting lifetime adventure that can have you trudging up and down hilly terrains and across streams to find the endangered primates.
This expedition may take an hour if you’re lucky or even last up to 8 hours, depending on where the gorillas are camping.
But the long trek can be worthwhile because having the opportunity to watch the silverbacks in their habitat as they feed, play, and interact amongst themselves is a phenomenal experience to remember.
Because gorilla tracking in Bwindi is quite popular and its permits get snatched up fast, you need to book the permits for the activity in advance, like 3-6 months earlier to get to trek in the sector of your liking.
Gorilla Habituation
With gorilla habituation, you can spend 4 hours with the families getting trained by researchers to become accustomed to human visits.
To experience this, you need to obtain a separate permit from the gorilla trekking one to be part of the four people per group allowed to observe the habituation process.
Nature Walks
You can take nature walks in whichever sector you choose to track gorillas in as there are clear trails for this.
These guided walks enable you to bask in the rich biodiversity of the Bwindi Forest, which is said to have the best flora and fauna in East Africa.
And you will also end up visiting the waterfalls in the sectors that have them. Buhoma has the 3 Munyaga waterfalls, Rushanga has the Bayenda waterfalls, which are around 30 minutes away from the Rushaga headquarters while Nkuringo has the Suma Falls.
Birding
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a popular birding spot as it has one of the most enchanting bird walks in the Ruhija sector.
The park boasts over 350 birds, with 23 species endemic to the Albertine Rift, and you can tick 20 of these species off your list while on the Ruhija birding safari.
Some endemic birds you may see include the African broadbill, Black Bee-eater, Rwenzori Apalis, Black-faced Warbler, and Black-faced Rufous Warbler.
Other common birds include Grey-throated Barbet, White-starred Robin, Mountain Illadopsis, Grey Cuckoo-shrike, Grey-green Bush-shrike Strange Weaver, Equatorial Akalat, and Yellow-streaked Green bull.
Community Visits
Bwindi neighbors the villages of the Batwa and Bakiga tribes, whom you can pay a visit to learn about their culture.
You can get a feel of how they live, enjoy their cultural dances (that you can participate in), and take photos with them.
You can also visit the women’s craft center and buy souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones.
Canoeing
Canoeing takes place on Lake Mutanda near the Rushaga sector. You can sail along the lake in tree-dugout canoes to explore its several islands while enjoying the beautiful sceneries of the towering Virunga Mountains in the backdrop.
Bwindi Weather and Climate
Rain is a constant presence at Bwindi, with the heaviest downpours occurring from March to May and October to November. Be sure to pack plenty of wet-weather gear to handle the drizzle.
The forest’s mild climate is more enjoyable during the drier months from June to August and December to February
Best Time to Visit Bwindi
Tracking gorillas is best when Bwindi’s trails are less muddy and there is more sunshine, typically from June to August and December to February.
During the wetter months, slippery trails and occasional mist make wildlife watching more challenging.
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Murchison Falls National Park (Great Park Worth A Detour)
Murchison Falls National Park is the largest and oldest park in Uganda, gazetted in 1952.
The park lies in the northern part of the country covers over 3,840 square kilometers of land, and offers excellent wildlife viewing.
It consists of two sections – the northern and southern, which are divided by the Victoria Nile whose banks are host to plenty of wildlife, such as crocodiles, elephants, hippos, and Shoebill.
Boat trips to the spectacular Murchison Falls are a highlight especially if you hike to the top of the falls where the immense power of the rapids is best appreciated.
Savanna grasslands, acacia trees, Borassus palms, and riverine woodlands cover the entire northern part of Murchison whereas, the southern part comprises forest patches and woodland.
The park has a tropical and hot climate, with temperatures rising to 31°C/88°F during the day and cooling down to 18°C/64°F.
The breathtaking Murchison Falls, which plunges 45m over rocky cliffs, and the famous big five – lions, elephants, leopards, hippos, and rhinos are the biggest draw to this park.
Rhinos do not exist inside the park, but you can see them en route to it at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
Want to experience Murchison Falls? Our Weitz Safaris Uganda-savvy tour team would be delighted to discuss your wish list and design the perfect safari adventure fully customized to suit your dates, interests and budget.
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Activities to Do
Day Game Drives
Morning and afternoon game drives take place in the northern part of the national park where you can find most animals.
You’ll see an impressive number of elephants, lions, Rothschild giraffes, antelopes, buffalos, warthogs, and other wildlife as you drive through open savannah grasslands.
The ranger guide will stop near the animals to allow you to enjoy an extensive view of them and even take memorable photos.
Night Game Drives
These start at about 7 pm and allow you to see the nocturnal animals and other wildlife that may have eluded you during the day game drives.
An armed ranger will escort you on this drive, and the wildlife you will encounter includes leopards, bush babies, hyenas, lions, civets, and genets.
And to see these animals clearly in the dark, the ranger will flash a spotlight torch on them.
Boat Cruise to the Bottom of the Falls
Along the way to see the magnificent Murchison Falls, the world’s most powerful waterfall from the bottom, you will cruise past crocodiles, aquatic birdlife, and mammals lazing on the river banks.
A thunderous sound from afar will tip you off that the waterfalls are close, and upon reaching them, marvel at their breathtaking look.
Hiking
There’s a walking trail near the bottom of the Murchison Falls that you can hike to view the falls from the top.
It’s a bit of a steep climb through scattered trees and bushes, but worth embarking on because the view of the waterfalls with the rainbow painted across as it tumbles through narrow gorges down cliffs is captivating.
Birding
Murchison Falls National Park is home to over 451 bird species that can be sighted in Budongo Forest, Kaniyo Pabidi, and Rabongo Forest.
Some of the birds you’ll see include the Yellow-footed flycatcher that lives on ironwood trees found only in this park.
White-crested turaco, Forest Francolin, Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo, Yellow and Grey Longbills, Yellow-spotted Barbet, Red-tailed Antthrush, Yellow-billed Barbet, African Pied Hornbill, Banded Snake-eagle, Brown-backed Scrub-robin, Black-capped Apalis, Red-winged Grey Warbler, Crowned Eagle, Yellow-footed Flycatcher, and African Dwarf Kingfisher.
Sport Fishing
The activity is carried out on the river banks of the Nile below the Murchison Falls, and the common fish you’re likely to catch is the Nile Perch.
This fish tends to grow so big that you may get fortunate enough to hook one over 108kg. You can fish while standing on the rocks along the river banks or in a boat.
Community Visits
Murchison Falls is surrounded by several communities that you can visit in their villages and experience their way of living.
You can enjoy cultural dances from them and even buy their traditional arts and crafts.
Murchison Falls Weather and Climate
The climate in Murchison Falls National Park is characterized as tropical and hot, with relatively consistent temperatures year-round.
Daytime temperatures typically reach around 31°C (88°F), cooling to approximately 18°C (64°F) at night.
The wet season spans from March to November, with a drier interlude from June to July. Rainfall is minimal during the dry season from December to February.
Best time for wildlife viewing at Murchison Falls
Murchison Falls National Park welcomes visitors year-round, but optimal wildlife viewing occurs during the dry season, particularly from December to February when animals gather around the Victoria Nile and other dependable water sources.
Game-viewing in the wild with no fences puts you in an amazing animal world. Our Weitz Safaris Uganda-savvy tour team would be delighted to discuss your wish list and design the perfect safari adventure fully customized to suit your dates, interests and budget.
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Queen Elizabeth National Park (Great Park Worth A Detour)
Queen Elizabeth National Park, the second largest park in Uganda is the most popular tourist destination in the country.
It has the widest variety of wildlife inhabiting a diverse ecosystem with open savannah grasslands, tropical forests, lakes, and wetlands.
It’s famous for having tree-climbing lions and is the best site for tracking lions in the country, as they are easier to spot here.
Lots of elephants and buffalo can be found in the savannah, and many hippos and birds along the Kazinga channel whereas different primates, such as chimpanzees inhabit its forests.
Queen Elizabeth lies in Western Uganda with the stunning snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains in the background and several craters carved into its rolling hills.
With it spanning the equator line, the area tends to have a warm temperature yearlong and has two wet seasons from March to May and August to December, characterized by heavy rainfall.
Want to marvel at the tree-climbing lions at Queen Elizabeth? Our Weitz Safaris Uganda-savvy tour team would be delighted to discuss your wish list and design the perfect safari adventure fully customized to suit your dates, interests and budget.
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Activities to Do
Game Drives
Game drives in Queen Elizabeth take place in the Ishasha sector where you can see the incredible tree-climbing lions, and in the Kasenyi plains where you can view a range of wildlife, such as elephants, the Uganda kobs, warthogs, and buffalos.
Chimp Tracking
Chimpanzee tracking in Queen occurs in the Kyambura gorge where you can go on an exciting trek through a thick forest, crossing rivers and streams into the valley in search of the chimpanzees in this “Valley of Apes.”
Though there is a 50-50 chance of you seeing chimps in the gorge, the beauty of the gorge makes up for you tracking the chimpanzees in vain.
Besides, you can combine visiting the gorge with tracking chimps in the nearby Kalinzu forest to ensure you see these primates while on a safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Tracking chimps in this forest is nearly similar to doing so in the Kibale forest as it is easier to find them.
Plus, people ages 12 and above can get a chance to track chimps in this forest, an age requirement that’s different from other places that require tourists to be 15 years and above.
Boat Cruises along the Kazinga Channel
You get to sail on this scenic water body between Lake Edward and Lake George while viewing hippos, buffalos, elephants, waterbucks, and a variety of birds like the saddle-billed stork and pink-backed pelicans that inhabit the channel.
Birding
With over 600 birds, Queen Elizabeth is a prime destination for birders in Uganda.
Though birding can be done throughout the entire park, particular areas are best suited for it, like the riparian forest in Ishasha where you can see many unusual bird species, and the Mweya where you can spot a myriad of water birds along the Kazinga Channel.
Common birds include the Shoebill stork, black bee-eater, African skimmer, Blue-breasted Bee-eater, Red-necked Falcon, African Pygmy-goose, White-headed Barbet, Kingfishers, and flamingoes.
Nature Walks
Guided nature walks can be taken in the Maramagambo forest on different trails, such as the waterfall trail and river trail where you can see L’hoest’s monkeys, Vervet monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and a variety of birds along the way.
You can also walk through the Mweya peninsula and the Ishasha sector along its river to get close to the various animals and bird species.
Community Visits
These tours can involve visiting the Bakonzo, Banyabindi, and Basongora tribes to enjoy their traditional dances, music, and storytelling.
You can also attend the Kikorongo African arts and crafts workshops and learn how to weave baskets from natural fibers or go on a tour of the Katwe Salt Lake to see how locals mine salt.
Queen Elizabeth Weather and Climate
Queen Elizabeth National Park experiences a warm climate with consistent temperatures throughout the year.
Daytime temperatures reach approximately 29°C (84°F) and decrease gradually to around 17°C (63°F) at night.
The park does not have a distinct dry season, so rain is possible year-round.
However, rainfall is less frequent from mid-December through February, with June and July being the driest months.
Best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park remains accessible throughout the year, but optimal wildlife viewing occurs during the dry seasons, particularly from January to February and June to July.
However, the park showcases its most picturesque landscapes during the wet seasons from March to May and August to December.
April, May, October, and November are notably rainy months, and during this period, rainfall may impact safari activities.
Watching animals at such close range is an awesome experience at Queen Elizabeth. Our Weitz Safaris Uganda-savvy tour team would be delighted to discuss your wish list and design the perfect safari adventure fully customized to suit your dates, interests and budget.
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Kibale National Park (Great Park Worth A Detour)
Kibale National Park is the ultimate destination for chimpanzee tracking in Uganda because it has the highest number of these primates at 1,500, which are also easier to locate.
On top of seeing chimps, you can encounter other primates like the red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, and diurnal monkeys as well as plenty of birds.
The park is situated in Western Uganda within a tropical forest. It has five habituated groups you can track and observe in their natural habitat, with the Kanyanchu chimpanzee group being the most popular one to trail in the Kibale forest.
Kibale National Park Wildlife
The chimpanzee community in Kibale, visited by trackers, is the best habituated in Uganda, offering excellent sightings.
The park boasts one of the highest diversities of primates in Africa, with 13 species identified.
Regularly spotted species include the black-and-white colobus, red-tailed monkey, and blue monkey.
Several nocturnal species, such as the potto and eastern needle-clawed bush baby, are also present.
The park is home to the world’s largest population of the endangered red colobus monkey and serves as an important refuge for the Uganda mangabey, a rare species endemic to the country.
In addition to primates, Kibale hosts many mammal species, though they are seldom seen.
Elephants and buffaloes roam the forest, and other resident species include the giant forest hog, warthog, bushpig, bushbuck, and blue, red, and Peter’s duiker.
Activities to Do
Chimpanzee Tracking
Tracking chimps in Kibale can take about 3-4 hours, and after finding them, you can spend an hour observing them as they interact and play with each other.
This activity takes place every day, and you can choose to go on a guided tracking walk at 8 am or opt for the afternoon one at 2 pm.
These apes are quite interesting to watch as they use startling sounds to communicate with each other.
It’s advisable not to mimic the chimpanzees as you may end up making a sound that puts your safety at risk.
Other primates you may see on the trek include the rare L’Hoest’s monkey, baboons, black and white colobus monkeys, grey-checked mangabey, and bush babies.
Chimpanzee Habituation
The chimpanzee habituation experience is suitable for those interested in spending more time with the primates to take lots of photos or even conduct research.
Here you can spend half a day observing the chimps in their habitat while the habituation research team works on getting them used to human visits.
Birding
Kibale is host to over 375 birds, such as the green-breasted pitta, Nahan’s francolin, and Black bee-eater that can be found all over the forest, but the Bigodi swamp sanctuary is the best place for birding in this park.
The variety of birds you can see there include the Black-billed turaco, Blue-breasted Kingfisher, Blue-headed Coucal, and White-spotted crake.
This preserve is also home to plenty of butterflies you can enjoy watching as they fly around.
Nature Walks
The forest is lined with several walking trails that you can take along with a ranger guide to immerse yourself in nature and discover the other mammals in the park.
You may be able to see the duikers, forest elephants, bush pigs, and buffaloes as well as different reptiles and amphibians.
And on night walks, you can get to see the nocturnal animals, such as the bush babies, potto, hyraxes, civets, and the serval cat.
Besides, Kibale has over 250 tree species that your guide can point out to you hike through the forest.
Crater Lakes Tour
There are numerous beautiful crater lakes at the edge of Kibale Park, popularly known as the Ndalii Kasenda craters that you can explore.
These lakes are dotted in between the rolling hills in the area, and you can enjoy a wide range of flora and fauna as well as spectacular views of the Kibale forest and the Rwenzori Mountains as you hike to the different craters.
The area around these lakes is also suitable for camping so, if you’re outdoorsy, you can bask in the wilderness experience.
Kibale Weather and Climate
The climate in Kibale National Park is moist and temperate, with consistent temperatures throughout the year.
Daytime temperatures average around 27°C (81°F), dropping to about 15°C (59°F) at night.
Kibale does not have a distinct dry season; rain can occur at any time. However, the months of December to February and June to July are generally drier.
The park experiences two wet seasons; March to May and August to November. Waterproof clothing is recommended.
The Best Time To Visit Kibale National Park
Kibale is open for chimpanzee trekking year-round. The driest months, December to February and June to July, are the best times for this activity.
During these periods, the trails are easier to navigate, making the overall experience more enjoyable.
At Kibale, the primates are very prolific and varied and unconcerned by our presence — so you enjoy close sightings and photo moments. Our Weitz Safaris Uganda-savvy tour team would be delighted to discuss your wish list and design the perfect safari adventure fully customized to suit your dates, interests and budget.
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Pro Tip:
These are the premier park destinations in Uganda for tourism as ranked by the Weitz Safaris Uganda-savvy tour managers.
These destinations provide you with a once-in-a-lifetime experience unique to Uganda and constitute the major tourism highlights including gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, game viewing, birding, camping, hiking, and much more.
The other six remaining parks are also great parks and worthy of a detour and they are usually complimentary to the premier parks discussed above — as you get to visit them along the way to the premier park destinations depending on your length of stay in Uganda.
The remaining great destinations you may consider visiting are:
- Kidepo Valley National Park
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Mountain Elgon National Park
- Lake Mburo National Park
- Rwenzori Mountain National Park
- The Nile River
- Semuliki National Park
- Katonga Wildlife Reserve
For a complete and all-around Uganda tour, start talking to one of our friendly Uganda-savvy tour managers now to embark on your dream safari to Uganda.
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Best Time to Visit Uganda
The ideal time to visit Uganda is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February, when wildlife viewing is at its best.
Primate walks in the forest are a major highlight of any Ugandan safari. While rainforests are naturally wet and rain is unavoidable, heavy showers are often followed by bright sunshine.
Dry Seasons — June to August and December to February
- This is the best time for gorilla trekking due to drier conditions
- In the savannah parks, less vegetation and animals gathering around water sources make wildlife easier to spot.
- Parks don’t feel crowded, even during the high season.
- Clear skies, less rain, and more sunshine.
- Gorilla permits need to be booked well in advance.
Contact our tour-savvy manager to book your gorilla permit today.
Wet Seasons — March to May and September to November
- The scenery in the savannah parks is greener, it’s the low season, leading to lower rates.
- While wildlife spotting is easier in the dry season, you’ll see plenty of animals during this season as well.
- Many newborn animals can be seen.
- Some roads become difficult to navigate, and forest trails can be slippery and challenging.
- Gorilla permits are non-refundable if it rains heavily — treks proceed as scheduled regardless of weather conditions.
Want To Visit Uganda? Book with Weitz Safaris today and be rest assured of an amazing experience. Our Weitz Safaris Uganda-savvy tour team would be delighted to discuss your wish list and design the perfect safari adventure fully customized to suit your dates, interests and budget.
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Getting To Uganda
Entebbe International Airport (EBB) serves as Uganda’s primary gateway for flights, situated close to Entebbe town and approximately 46 km (29 miles) from Kampala, the capital.
Uganda, being compact in size, primarily relies on motor vehicle transportation within the country, although high-end safaris now often incorporate flights. Contact us for in-country flight inquiries.
Upon arrival, Weitz Safaris typically arranges airport and hotel transfers, with all transportation needs included in your safari package.
Flights and Airlines to Uganda
There are several flights to Uganda by several airlines. Uganda has re-established Uganda Airlines, which now operates direct flights to several destinations including Dubai, the United Kingdom, South Africa, China, etc. Depending on your location, please check the links below to see which airline to use and the cost of a ticket to Uganda.
Domestic Flights Within Uganda
Aerolink and Fly Uganda operate regular domestic flights to various parks or nearby gateway towns. Alternatively, charter flights can be arranged by Weitz Safaris at competitive prices.
Passport, Visa, and Entry requirements
- All foreign visitors to Uganda must possess a passport valid for at least six months. Passports should have an empty visa page for endorsement.
- It’s recommended to obtain visas in advance via an official online portal or through your local Ugandan embassy or high commission. Visas on arrival are currently available alongside online applications.
- A valid yellow fever certificate is mandatory for all visitors entering Uganda, required during visa application and possibly at the entry point.
- Tourist visas are available in Uganda and East Africa (including Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo).
For more information related to entry requirements including post-COVID (if any), please refer to your local Uganda embassy or high commission and or the government travel advisories below:
Want To Visit Uganda? Book with Weitz Safaris today and be rest assured of an amazing experience. Our Weitz Safaris Uganda-savvy tour team would be delighted to discuss your wish list and design the perfect safari adventure fully customized to suit your dates, interests and budget.
Safety And Security While In Uganda
Uganda is typically a safe destination for visitors. The local people are known for their warmth and hospitality towards tourists.
While some governments advise against travel to certain remote regions, a reputable tour operator like Weitz Safaris only guides visitors to areas deemed safe.
Like in many countries, urban areas may experience some crime, but adhering to standard safety measures can prevent most issues.
Uganda attracts numerous tourists annually, and the vast majority of visits occur without incident.
Here are some tips for ensuring safety while in Uganda:
Wildlife Viewing Safety Measures
Observing wildlife is generally considered safe. Your safety is ensured by experienced guides.
Incidents are extremely rare but in the event of unlikely occurrences, below are important safety guidelines and tips:
- Always adhere to your guide’s instructions and follow park rules.
- Maintain a quiet demeanor when near animals.
- On walking safaris, stay close to your guide and move in a single file.
- Avoid running or jogging, which may attract predators.
- Maintain a respectful distance from animals.
- Remain inside the vehicle during game drives, except at designated spots.
- Avoid standing up, leaning out of windows, or sitting on the vehicle’s roof.
- Never position yourself between a hippo and water, it could provoke a charge.
- Keep food secured to prevent attracting wildlife into your tent.
- Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated.
- Bring warm clothing for early morning game drives in open vehicles.
- Avoid bright clothing and strong perfumes, especially on walking safaris.
- Wear protective clothing in the evening and use insect repellent for mosquitoes.
For more information related to safety and security in Uganda, please refer to your local Uganda embassy or high commission and or the government travel advisories below:
Want To Visit Uganda? Book with Weitz Safaris today and be rest assured of an amazing experience. Our Weitz Safaris Uganda-savvy tour team would be delighted to discuss your wish list and design the perfect safari adventure fully customized to suit your dates, interests and budget.
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Seeking Professional Travel Help
If you are new to Uganda, you can benefit from talking to professional and experienced tour and travel enthusiasts like Weitz Safaris who understand the intricacies of Uganda’s beauty, wildlife, birds, nature and the global tourist expectations to weave incredible safari experiences.
Working with Uganda-savvy tour managers is essential for harnessing the full potential of your safari destination and deriving a great experience effectively. Fortunately, you have found the right place.
Weitz Safaris possesses in-depth knowledge, love and understanding of the region to create exciting customized and packaged tours at great prices that offer a lifetime experience to all our clients.
With our intuitive understanding of Uganda as a destination and your unique needs, we can create detailed itineraries guided by your wishes and give you a once-in-a-lifetime safari vacation.
You can consider reaching us online at any moment if traditional in-office engagements are uncomfortable for you.
While online, we can discuss your safari wish-list from the comfort of your home or anywhere with an internet connection.
Our tour specialists are professional and you can communicate with us in a way that’s most comfortable for you, whether by phone, email, WhatsApp, live chat, Instagram, Facebook or a combination of these methods.
Consider booking with Weitz Safaris as your premier safaris operator and let us help you spend an incredible vacation in Uganda.
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