Uganda | The pear of Africa
Coordinates
Uganda is located in East Africa and has approximate coordinates of 1.3733° N latitude and 32.2903° E longitude.
Average Rainfall
Uganda experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The average annual rainfall varies across the country. In the northern and eastern regions, it can be as low as 800 mm (31 inches), while in the western and central regions, it can range from 1,000 mm to 2,000 mm (39 to 79 inches) or more.
The southern and southwestern parts of the country generally receive higher rainfall, often exceeding 2,000 mm (79 inches) annually.
Average Temperatures
Uganda's temperatures are relatively consistent throughout the year due to its proximity to the equator. In the lowland areas, the average daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 29°C (77°F to 84°F), with little seasonal variation.
At lower elevations, like in the capital city, Kampala, temperatures tend to be milder, with averages ranging from 17°C to 27°C (63°F to 81°F). In mountainous regions, such as the Rwenzori Mountains, temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes to around 10°C.
Capital City
The capital city of Uganda is Kampala. It is the largest city in the country and serves as its political, economic, and cultural center.
Uganda covers a surface area of 241,038 km² / 93,000 square miles, with a population of 48,582,334, About 70% of Uganda is covered by forests, woodlands, and grasslands. About 8% (18,672sq km) of the territory of Uganda is protected in national parks(this is part of the 70%), national forests and game reserves. Rivers, lakes, and wetlands cover about 18 percent of Uganda's total surface, over half of the entire country lies within the Nile drainage basin.
An Unexplored Tourist Gem, often referred to as the "Pearl of Africa", is a magnificent country located in East Africa. It is a landlocked country, bordered by Kenya in the east, South Sudan in the north, Democratic Republic of Congo in the west, Rwanda in the southwest, and Tanzania in the south.
Despite being one of the smallest countries in Africa, Uganda is rich in diverse cultural heritage, breathtaking natural landscapes, and unique wildlife, making it an increasingly popular tourist destination.
Uganda has an equatorial climate with two dry and two rainy seasons, the months of june - september, december - march are relatively dry while the rest are fairly rainy, dry months are the most appropriate for tourism activities but wet months are proving to be even more befitting since they have less congestion and better activity rates; the country experiences moderate temperatures throughout the year, around 22.8°C, with average monthly temperatures ranging between 21.7°C (July) and 23.9°C (February).
The southwestern region Bwindi and Mgahinga forests has the lowest temperatures sometimes around 12 degrees while the highest temperatures have been recorded in the north eastern region.
Uganda's tourism landscape is uniquely diverse
Offering a range of experiences for the adventurous traveler. The country's rich biodiversity and contrasting landscapes are its main attractions. Uganda features ten national parks, including the renowned Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Murchison Falls National Park, showcasing a range of ecosystems from savannahs to tropical rainforests, and from snow-capped mountain ranges to wetlands.
Tourists flock to Uganda mainly for its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly the chance to encounter the endangered Mountain Gorillas in their natural habitat. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is home to more than half of the world's population of Mountain Gorillas, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
In addition to mountain gorillas, Uganda boasts a vast array of wildlife species, including African elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, chimpanzees, and over 1,000 species of birds. Uganda's natural beauty extends beyond its wildlife. The country is home to the source of the Nile, the world's longest river, providing thrilling white-water rafting experiences for adrenaline seekers.
The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon, present an exciting challenge for mountaineers, with their snowy peaks creating a stunning contrast to the equatorial jungle below.
Uganda's cultural richness is another drawcard for tourists. The country is home to over 60 distinct ethnic groups speaking over 40 different languages, each with its unique traditions, language, and cultural practices.
The Buganda Kingdom, one of the oldest in Africa, offers tourists insight into its rich history and traditions through cultural tours. Music, dance, and crafts are integral parts of Ugandan culture, offering an immersive experience for tourists.
The karamojong pastoralists in the northeast are some of the last remaining intact cultural groups in the world while the few pockets of batwa communities will take you back through evolution of man.
The potential for Uganda as a top tourist destination is immense. As global travel trends shift towards sustainable and experiential tourism, Uganda's unspoiled natural beauty and rich cultural heritage place it in a strong position to benefit from these trends.
Additionally, the Ugandan government has recognized the potential tourism has for the country's economic growth and is investing in infrastructure and marketing to attract more tourists.
Map of Uganda
Experiences exclusive to Uganda
Top safaris in Uganda
1 Days Akagera National Park Safari and Boat Cruise
This one-day tour takes you to Rwanda's only savanna national park for a true wildlife safari and an opportunity to spot the big five mammals. Akagera National Park is found in the Eastern province of Rwanda in a District called Kayonza which is located at the border with Tanzania.
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480Per person sharing
1 Days Gorilla tracking in Mgahinga gorilla national park
This gorilla tracking tour in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park helps you to encounter mountain gorillas in only one day. The tour starts and ends in Kisoro and can be customized to add in other activities if you like our services.
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1104Per person sharing
1 Days Gorilla tracking tour in Bwindi Impenetrable forest
This 1 day tour is one of the most affordable gorilla tracking tours to Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable forest National Park. The tour starts and ends in Kabale, and it is perfect for people close to Kabale town or Lake Bunyonyi who would like to add gorilla tracking to their safari adventure. We are ready to make this possible!
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1214Per person sharing
1 Days Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park Gorilla Tracking Tour
A day tour of Bwindi Impenetrable forest National Park helps travelers to encounter mountain gorillas and the Batwa people in only 12 hours, the tour starts and ends in Kabale and can be customized.
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1152Per person sharing
2 Days Rwanda and Uganda Tour Starting from Kigali
This safari is meant for nature and wildlife lovers who have limited time but are writing off countries, we will take you to Bwindi impenetrable forest national park in Uganda and Akagera national park in Rwanda, where you will try your luck to complete your African big six tour in only two days.
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1943Per person sharing
2 Days Gorilla trekking in Uganda
Are you in Rwanda and would wish to compare gorilla trekking on this side of Uganda? Do not worry, It only costs you a few extra dollars and a short distance.
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1446Per person sharing
2 Days Gorilla Trekking Uganda Air Transfer
This 2 day gorilla trekking safari is designed for the travelers who have a short time in Uganda and could be interested in tracking the mountain gorillas found nowhere else except Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo.
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2064Per person sharing
3 Days Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Lake Bunyonyi Budget Safari
The 3 day mid range tour covers Gorilla Trekking and Lake Bunyonyi relaxation. Bwindi impenetrable forest national park is the forest that houses the largest number of the world's remaining wild mountain gorillas.
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1740Per person sharing
3 Days Lake Mburo and Queen Elizabeth National Parks
This tour takes to the smallest Savannah National park Lake mburo national park with beautiful animals such as zebras and giraffes before you transfer to queen Elizabeth national park for a boat cruise and game drives through Uganda's second biggest national park where you are expected to see animals such as Uganda kobs, elephants and cats such as lions and leopards.
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1013Per person sharing
3 Days Uganda mid range tour
The typical 3 days safari is more suitable for those that are already in Kampala or arrive in the previous day's night, so that you will immediately be transferred to Murchison falls national park the next morning.
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1168Per person sharing
3 Days Double Gorilla Tracking in Mgahinga and Bwindi impenetrable forest national park
The tour starts and ends from Kigali/ Rwanda and takes you to Mgahinga gorilla national park where you will do the first tracking and then later transfer to Bwindi impenetrable forest national park where you will do the second tracking.
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2837Per person sharing
3 Days Gorilla Tracking and Lake Mutanda Adventure Tour
This 3 day Gorilla tracking and lake vacation will take you to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwestern Uganda. Arrival and departure will be through Kigali, Rwanda.
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1588Per person sharing
3 Days Uganda mid range tour
The typical 3 days safari is more suitable for those that are already in Kampala or arrive in the previous day's night, so that you will immediately be transferred to Murchison falls national park the next morning.
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1167Per person sharing
3 Days Mount Mgahinga Gorilla Trekking Mid Range Tour
Our 3 Day Mgahinga gorillas will take you to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in south western Uganda. Arrival and departure will be through Kigali, Rwanda. Mgahinga National Park is the only park in Uganda where mountain gorillas co-exist with golden monkeys
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1935Per person sharing
3 Days Murchison Falls National Park Wildlife Safari
This 3 day Murchison Falls safari tour itinerary includes game drives and a boat safari on the Nile with expectations of seeing many animals including lions, leopards, hippos, elephants among others
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960Per person sharing
4 Days Pian Upe, Sipi Falls and Jinja White Water Rafting
Explore Eastern Uganda on 4 Days Uganda Safari to Pian Upe Game Reserve, Sipi Falls and Jinja to the source of the River Nile. Expect to see unique wildlife on your game drive in Pian Upe Reserve
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1372Per person sharing
4 Days Golden Monkey Rwanda and Gorilla Tracking in Uganda
You will visit Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda for the endangered Golden Monkey Trekking Tour and proceed to Uganda for a gorilla trekking tour experience in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park to conclude with relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi.
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2013Per person sharing
4 Days Lake Mburo and Gorilla Tracking in Uganda
This short gorilla and wildlife trip highlights gorilla tracking, beautiful country side and safari, a stop over at the equator, safari at Lake Mburo national park, Uganda's smallest but richest savanna park you will be able to encounter animals like giraffes, zebras, topis, elands, impalas and warthogs.
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2195Per person sharing
4 Days shoebill tracking, White water rafting and Sipi Falls
This short tour takes you to the Mabamba swamp in search of the prehistoric shoe bill stork which is one of the critically endangered birds. From Mabamba you will head to Jinja for your days adventure while rafting on the Nile river.
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1384Per person sharing
4 Days Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park Budget Tour
The 4 day Budget Gorilla Trekking and Charitable Cultural Tour takes you to Lake Bunyonyi and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest national park. This is the forest that houses the largest number of the world's remaining wild mountain gorillas.
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1785Per person sharing
4 Days Golden Monkey Rwanda and Gorilla Tracking in Uganda
You will visit Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda for the endangered Golden Monkey Trekking Tour and proceed to Uganda for a gorilla trekking tour experience in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park to conclude with relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi.
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2013Per person sharing
6 Days Uganda Budget Big Five Tour with Chimpanzees
Encounter the big five on a budget safari, You will visit the most beautiful national parks of Uganda, meet the big five and visit the male and female hot springs not forgetting soaking in Uganda's rich and diverse culture plus chimpanzee trekking to make your tour unforgettable.
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1744Per person sharing
6 Days Uganda Wildlife And Gorilla Tracking Budget Tour
This 6 days tour has been designed with your comfort and sense of adventure in mind. From the moment you are picked up at the airport to the end, you will have a dedicated car and guide/driver at your disposal to take you to all the exciting places in the itinerary.
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2160Per person sharing
6 Days Sipi, Pian Upe and Kidepo Valley National Park
Explore Eastern and North Eastern Uganda on 6 Days Uganda Safari to Sipi falls, Pian Upe Game Reserve and Kidepo valley national park. The hike to the top of the three falls, coffee tour around the communities, sunset walk in Sipi falls is the start of your safari.
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1770Per person sharing
7 Days Africa Honey Moon Safari
Specifically designed for honeymooners, this seven days tour has been crafted in such a way that it goes very slow and tackles the most thrilling destinations in the country to meet the test of honeymooners, all lodges have been well selected and a complimentary bear or wine will be provided to each couple on the trip
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2673Per person sharing
7 Days Africa family safari
This 7 days Africa Family safari will expose you and your Family to Uganda's wildlife, Nature and culture, you will encounter most of Uganda's crater lakes in Fort Portal.
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2404Per person sharing
7 Days Gorilla Back Packing safari
This 7 days back packing safari will highlight and introduce clients to beautiful Uganda's wildlife, nature and people. This trip starts from and ends in Entebbe.
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2464Per person sharing
7 Days Wildlife and Gorilla Tracking Uganda Safari
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and chimpanzee tracking in Kibale forest national park, to give you the best experience tackling Uganda's most thought after treasures.
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3228Per person sharing
7 Days Gorilla tracking, Lake Bunyonyi and Queen Elizabeth National park
This safari is meant for those who would wish to spend a week away on safari and want to track mountain gorillas and participate in golden monkey tracking experience or golden monkey tracking, more wildlife in queen Elizabeth national park and then visit Lake Bunyonyi the deepest Lake in Uganda.
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2988Per person sharing
8 Days Africa Family Safari Package
You will be picked up from Kigali and transferred to Uganda though either Katuna border post or Chanika border post depending on the gorilla tracking station, after checking in at the border, through the hills of Kigezi you will head to Ruhija/Rushaga for gorilla tracking.
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3593Per person sharing
8 Days All Inclusive Custom Vacation Tour of Uganda
The tour Starts from Entebbe Airport or hotel, Transfer to Kibale Forest national park take on Bigodi Wetlands excursion and then head to Queen Elizabeth National Park and treat yourself to a big game drive safari, the Kazinga Channel boat.
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3240Per person sharing
10 Days Uganda Primates, Apes and Safari, Mid Range Tour
This tour takes our clients to popular National Parks in Uganda that include Lake Mburo National Park for game drives and boat cruises, to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park for gorilla trekking to Queen Elizabeth National park for game drives and a boat cruise on Kazinga channel, to Kibale Forest National park for chimpanzee trekking and wetland walk before you drive to Murchison Falls National park for game drives and a boat cruise to the bottom of the falls.
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4576Per person sharing
10 Days Chimpanzees and Wildlife Safari in Uganda
Ten days Gorilla, chimpanzees and wildlife Safari will take you to 4 national parks. On this customized primates and wildlife safari, you will visit Murchison falls national park, Kibale Forest National Park, queen Elizabeth national park or if you like add on Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and Lake Bunyonyi.
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4750Per person sharing
12 Days Uganda Wildlife Safari and Rwanda with Lake Kivu
This safari joins Uganda and Rwanda’s Lake Kivu. Uganda will expose you to the primate capital in Kibale national park as you look for the chimps. You will then enjoy the best queen Elizabeth national park
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5880Per person sharing
16 Days Uganda Primates, Apes and Safari Mid Range Tour
On this customized safari, you will visit Kidepo Valley National Park Africa's wildest, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Semuliki game reserve, Queen Elizabeth national park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Lake Bunyonyi and Lake Mburo national park.
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6880Per person sharing
21 Days Uganda and Rwanda, wildlife and primate safari
This safari will take you to Uganda and Rwanda, You will experience the most sough after activities like gorilla tracking, chimpanzee tracking, golden monkey tracking as well as wildlife viewing adventures in these countries
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12604Per person sharing
Toursit attractions in Uganda
Kampala city
Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, is a dynamic and rapidly growing urban center that offers a perfect blend of culture, history, adventure, and modernity. With its rolling hills, lush vegetation, and friendly people, Kampala welcomes visitors to experience the heart and soul of Uganda.
Explore parkKabale town
Kabale town is a charming destination that has earned the nickname "The Switzerland of Africa." This picturesque town, surrounded by lush green hills and cool, misty weather, offers travelers a perfect escape into nature, culture, and adventure.
Explore parkQueen Elizabeth national park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is understandably Uganda's most popular tourist destination. The park's diverse ecosystems, which include sprawling savanna, shady, humid woodland forests, sparkling lakes and fertile wetlands, make it the ideal habitat for classic big game, ten primate species including chimpanzees, mankeys, baboons and over 600 species of birds.
Explore parkKidepo valley national park
Kidepo Valley National Park lies in the rugged, semi-arid valleys between Uganda's borders with Sudan and Kenya, some 700kilometers from Kampala.
Explore parkMurchison falls national park
Murchison Falls National Park lies at the northern end of the Albertine Rift Valley, where the sweeping Bunyoro escarpment tumbles into vast, palm-dotted savanna. First gazetted as a game reserve in 1926, it is Uganda's largest and oldest conservation area, hosting 76 species of mammals and 451 birds.
Explore parkMount Elgon National Park
At 4,000km² Mount Elgon has the largest volcanic base in the world. Located on the Uganda - Kenya border it is also the oldest and largest solitary, volcanic mountain in East Africa. Its vast form, 80 kilometers in diameter, rises more than 3,000 meters above the surrounding plains.
Explore parkRwenzori mountains national park
Rwenzori Mountains National Park protects the highest parts of the 120km long and 65km wide Rwenzori mountain range. The national park hosts 70 mammals and 217 bird species including 19 Albertine Rift endemics, as well as some of the world's rarest vegetation.
Explore parkSemliki National Park
Semuliki National Park sprawls across the floor of the Semuliki Valley on the remote, western side of the Rwenzori. The park is dominated by the easternmost extension of the great Ituri Forest of the Congo Basin. This is one of Africa's most ancient and bio-diverse forests; one of the few to survive the last ice age, 12-18,000 years ago.
Explore parkZziwa Rhino Sanctuary
The Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a protected area located in Nakasongola district, Uganda. It was established in 2005 with the primary objective of reintroducing and conserving the endangered southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) in Uganda.
Explore parkPian Upe Game Reserve
Pian Upe Game Reserve is a highly desired tourist destination located in the Karamoja region of northeastern Uganda. This expansive reserve covers an area of approximately 2,788 square kilometers, making it the second-largest protected area in the country.
Explore parkBwindi impenetrable forest national park
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park lies in southwestern Uganda on the edge of the Rift Valley. Its mist-covered hillsides are blanketed by one of Uganda's oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests, which dates back over 25,000 years and contains almost 400 species of plants.
Explore parkKibale forest national park
Kibale Forest National Park contains one of the loveliest and most varied tracts of tropical forest in Uganda. Forest cover, interspersed with patches of grassland and swamp, dominates the northern and central parts of the park on an elevated plateau.
Explore parkLake Mburo national park
20% of the park's entrance fee is used to fund local community projects such as building clinics and schools. Lake Mburo National Park is a compact gem, located conveniently close to the highway that connects Kampala to the parks of western Uganda.
Explore parkMgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a protected area located in southwestern Uganda, on the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is one of the two national parks in Uganda that are home to the endangered mountain gorillas, the other being Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
Explore parkThe source of the Nile
The source of the Nile, alluded to hazily in the ancient writings of Ptolemy, stood as one of the great geographical mysteries of the Victorian Age. Closer to home, the Nile downriver from Jinja, Uganda, offers some superb white water rafting and game fishing.
Explore parkSempaya Hot springs
Sempaya Hot Springs, also known as Semuliki Hot Springs, is a natural wonder located in the Semuliki National Park in western Uganda. These hot springs are renowned for their unique geological features and therapeutic properties, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
Explore parkSipi falls
Sipi Falls is a stunning waterfall located in eastern Uganda, near the town of Kapchorwa. It is considered one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the country and draws tourists from all over the world. The falls are part of the Sipi River, which originates from Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano that straddles the border between Uganda and Kenya.
Explore parkEntebbe international airport
Entebbe International Airport is the main international airport serving Uganda. The airport is an important gateway to Uganda and the surrounding region.
Explore parkLake Mutanda
In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the wonders of Lake Mutanda, what makes it a must-visit destination, and how Musana Tours and Travel can help you curate an unforgettable adventure.
Explore parkKisoro town
Kisoro town should be on your must-visit list. At Musana Tours and Travel, we specialize in creating unforgettable experiences for travelers, and Kisoro promises just that—an unforgettable adventure filled with nature, wildlife, and authentic cultural experiences.
Explore parkLake Bunyonyi
Known as the “Place of many little birds,” Lake Bunyonyi is located in southwestern Uganda near the border of Rwanda. Its tranquil waters, stunning landscapes, and unique islands make it a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Explore parkJinja city
Jinja City, perched on the northern shores of Lake Victoria in eastern Uganda, is a true gem for travelers looking for adventure, nature, and a taste of Uganda’s rich culture
Explore parkEntebbe City
Entebbe, a vibrant city located along the shores of Lake Victoria, is one of Uganda’s most captivating destinations. Its scenic beauty, historical significance, and proximity to Uganda’s only international airport make it a key gateway to the rest of the country.
Explore parkMabamba Swamp
Mabamba Swamp stands out as a remarkable wetland, teeming with birdlife and other wildlife. Located along the northern shores of Lake Victoria, this swamp is one of Uganda’s most important bird-watching sites.
Explore parkLake Victoria
Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake, is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of the world. Spanning three countries, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, this vast body of water offers unparalleled beauty, cultural richness, and abundant wildlife.
Explore parkRiver Nile
The River Nile, the longest river in the world, holds a mystique that captivates explorers, travelers, and historians alike. Spanning over 6,600 kilometers, the Nile flows through 11 countries in northeastern Africa before emptying into the Mediterranean Sea.
Explore parkFort portal
Fort Portal, the tourism capital of Uganda, is a beautiful, serene city located in the western part of the country, lying at the base of the legendary Rwenzori Mountains.
Explore parkKaruma Falls
Karuma Falls is a stunning natural marvel renowned for its roaring rapids and awe-inspiring beauty. Located within the Karuma Wildlife Reserve, this site offers an immersive blend of scenic landscapes, adventure, and wildlife.
Explore parkNews and updates
The best month for the gorilla tracking experience
Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to meet the gentle giants of the jungle? If so, get ready to discover the perfect month for your gorilla tracking experience. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or simply seeking a one-of-a-kind encounter, gorilla tracking offers an awe-inspiring experience that will leave you in awe.
Mon Nov 18 2024
Delve into the cultural experiences of Uganda's national parks
Welcome to , a country brimming with awe-inspiring natural wonders and a vibrant tapestry of cultures! Step into the heartland of Africa and embark on a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and fascinating cultural encounters in Uganda's national parks.
Mon Nov 18 2024
Is it safe for LGBT to visit Uganda
Despite some negative press, Uganda is a safe country for gay and lesbian travelers. However, Uganda is a conservative country and we recommend discretion this applies to people who intend to reside in the country for quite a long time.
Mon Sep 09 2024