uganda tourism places

26 Beautiful Places to Visit in Uganda: Nature, Culture, Wildlife

Looking for the  best places to visit in Uganda ? In this huge guide, you’ll learn about 26 of the most beautiful and most interesting attractions in Uganda.

Often called the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda is a country jam-packed with breathtaking scenery, natural wonders, exotic wildlife and fascinating culture. Learn more with these 22 facts about Uganda .

26 Beautiful Places to Visit in Uganda

If you are traveling to Uganda for the first time, you may be hard-pressed to decide which places are best to explore. To settle your dilemma, we have compiled a list of the most beautiful places to visit in Uganda.

1. Murchison Falls

Whether you visit by boat cruise on the Victoria Nile or a safari tour, you don’t want to miss Murchison Falls in northwest Uganda.

Here, you can witness enormous waters bursting through a narrow gorge before crashing in powerful, roaring cascades.

While you are visiting this breathtaking sight, you may also want to explore the surrounding protected area that makes up Murchison Falls Conservative Area to spot some of Africa’s icons such as African lions , elephants , leopards , giraffes , buffalo and more.

Looking to stay in the Murchison Falls region? Here are some accommodation options .

Check out our Guide to Murchison Falls: 16 Things to Know

Check out our Travelers Guide to Uganda’s 10 National Parks (and 4 Wildlife Game Reserves)

2. Lake Victoria

If you really want to experience the heart of Uganda, the story begins with Lake Victoria , which is the birthplace of the Nile River.

Not only is it Africa’s largest lake and the world’s largest tropical lake, but Lake Victoria also boasts one of the world’s largest ecosystems.

There is so much natural beauty and wildlife to see here – from scenic mountain views to islands, beaches, fishing boats, and various bird and animal species.

More reading: How to Choose the Best Portable Water Filter

3. Jinja, Start of the Nile River

While you are touring Lake Victoria, you may want to check out Jinja, the colonial town that is positioned at the start of the Nile River.

Here are some hotel options in Jinja, Uganda .

The town is regarded as East Africa’s adrenaline capital, so not only can you view where the world’s longest and most historic river begins, but you can also get your blood pumping with activities like whitewater rafting, mountain-biking, quad-biking, and kayaking.

4. Ssese Islands

A major tourist attraction in Uganda, the Ssese Islands are a group of about 84 islands dotted along the northwestern shores of Lake Victoria. Each island differs in size, shape, and exotic flora and fauna.

Here, you can relax amid beautiful scenery, see chimpanzees, walk on white-sand beaches, enjoy horseback riding and windsurfing, as well as interact with the Bantu people and learn about their culture.

5. Kampala, Capital of Uganda

When visiting places in Uganda, you don’t want to miss checking out the country’s capital city, Kampala. This city is home to a steady expat community and offers plenty of things to see and do .

You can tour beautiful temples, cathedrals, art galleries and museums that include the popular Uganda National Museum. You can also browse various markets for clothing, foods, and crafts.

Kampala also offers a good range of restaurants and bars.

Check out our Uganda Food Guide (16 Must-Try Dishes for Your Visit)

6. Kasubi Tombs

While in Kampala, a visit to the Kasubi Tombs is well worth your time. A palace consisting of 35 buildings, this important historic site is the burial place of four former Ugandan kings and other royal family members.

A tour allows you to see interesting artifacts and learn about the rituals and traditions of Uganda’s largest tribal kingdom, the Buganda Kingdom.

7. Ndere Centre

Also in Kampala, the Ndere Centre is a great place to experience the colorful dance and music that is traditional to Uganda.

Opened Sunday, Wednesday and Friday evenings, the Centre offers a 700-seat amphitheater where you can enjoy dinner along with a spectacular performance of colorful, high-energy dancing and music that displays the lively culture of the Ugandan tribes.

8. Owino Market

One of the largest markets in the region, the Owino Market is a must-do experience when visiting Uganda.

Located in the capital city, Kampala, this busy market is full of color and character from its wide array of produce, clothing, electronics, and crafts to its lively vendors and customers.

More reading: Is Uganda Safe? Guide to Water, Crime, Disease, Sun

9. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Breathtaking mountain views, lush landscapes and an abundance of African wildlife are just a few reasons Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the top places to visit in Uganda. Moreover, it is home to some of the world’s last mountain gorillas .

There are many gorilla trekking tours you can join here to suit your level of skill or preference that will allow you to experience the sheer beauty of this place and to see mountain gorillas up close in their natural habitat.

Find a lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park region.

10. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is like a sample platter of Africa. You can try a little of everything African here with diverse habitats and exotic wildlife.

Wetlands, forests and savanna grasslands offer ample opportunities to see the likes of elephants, leopards, hippos , chimpanzees, giraffes, and the tree-climbing lion. There are various safaris, lake cruises, and even hot air balloon tours available here for you to explore this amazing area.

Here’s your Complete African Safari Packing List

Learn more: Uganda Currency: 12 Things to Know

Don’t forget about the equatorial sun! Here’s how to choose the best sun protection hat for Africa .

11. Lake Katwe Explosion Crater Drive

If already in Queen Elizabeth National Park, you should consider reserving space on your itinerary for one of Uganda’s most scenic drives, the Explosion Crater Drive.

It takes about 2 ½ hours, but it is well worth the time. Not only will you have the chance to see wildlife like buffalo and elephants, but also magnificent views of natural landmarks like Mountains of the Moon, Crater Lake, the Blue Mountains of the Congo, and Lake Edward.

12. Kazinga Channel

Taking a boat cruise on the scenic Kazinga Channel is another way to see amazing wildlife and gorgeous scenery if you are in Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park.

With the boat hugging the banks of the channel, you may see African Cape buffalo , hippos, Nile crocodiles , elephants, and numerous bird species.

13. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Although there is only one family of gorillas living here, the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers great trekking tours for you to experience striking vistas of the Virunga Mountains, bamboo forests, volcanoes, and the endangered golden monkey .

14. Lake Mutanda

Found nearby the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in the African Great Lakes region, Lake Mutanda is one of Uganda’s jewels. Surrounded by the Virunga Mountains and dotted with lush islands, this lake is a beauty to behold.

A visit here offers wildlife sightings, birdwatching, canoeing, fishing, hiking, biking and trekking with the Batwa People, the native people of the nearby forest.

More reading:  Is Hippo Milk Really Pink?

15. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Located north of Kampala in Nakasongola, this sanctuary is home to Uganda’s only population of wild rhinos, but that is not all it offers.

Scenic nature walks, canoe cruises, and guided trekking tours award you with sights of hippos, crocodiles, large antelopes , and more than 250 different bird species.

Learn more about the white rhino (northern and southern) . 

16. The Equator

A visit to Uganda offers you the unique opportunity to stand on the equator and be in two hemispheres at once. Uganda is one of the few countries in the world where the equator crosses through it.

The best equator landmark in Uganda is found on the Kampala-Masaka Road, where you will find a few restaurants and craft/souvenir shops as well.

Other equator markers in Uganda are found in Queen Elizabeth National Park and near Entebbe.

17. Entebbe Botanical Gardens

The locals say that the original Tarzan movies were filmed here, but whether that is true or not, the Entebbe Botanical Gardens is a wonderful place of beauty and discovery where you will find numerous trees, flowers, butterflies, monkeys, squirrels, and birds.

Located near Lake Victoria, this 40-hectare (98 acres) garden complex is a breath of fresh air where you can picnic, walk through a rainforest or just enjoy birdwatching.

Find a great hotel in Entebbe .

18. The Rwenzori Mountains National Park

If you want to experience Uganda’s most extraordinary natural beauty, a visit to the Rwenzori Mountains National Park is a must-do .

Home to the “Mountains of the Moon,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning scenery consisting of waterfalls, lakes, rivers, glaciers, and forests that shelter many bird species and chameleons.

Hiking, mountain climbing and culture visits with the Village of Ruboni are just a few of the exciting things you can do here.

19. Rubaga Cathedral

If architectural beauty is your thing, the Rubaga Cathedral in Kampala is well worth a visit. Built in 1914, this historic cathedral sits on a hill overlooking the capital city.

A free, guided tour gives you the chance to see the attractive interior, impressive stained-glass windows, and artifacts. There are also two tombs here that contain the remains of the first African Archbishop of Kampala Diocese and the first African Catholic Bishop.

20. Mount Elgon National Park

Home to the extinct volcano it is named after, Mount Elgon National Park offers diverse landscapes, wildlife, and activities.

You can amble through heath or hike through dense evergreen and bamboo forests to view magnificent waterfalls, stunning peaks, interesting plants, fascinating birds, and primates like the blue monkey and colobus monkey.

If you are lucky, you might glimpse a hyena , buffalo or even an elusive leopard.

21. Sipi Falls

Named after the wild banana plant that grows nearby, Sipi Falls is a popular site located in eastern Uganda on the border of Mount Elgon National Park.

This series of three waterfalls offers spectacular views no matter how you look at them, whether you hike to the top or the bottom. Nearby, you can also check out the coffee farms, explore caves or enjoy a nature walk.

22. Semuliki National Park

It may be one of Uganda’s newest and smallest national parks, but the Semuliki National Park packs awe-inspiring beauty and plenty of attractions that include its most famous, the Sempaya Hot Springs.

After watching the boiling hot springs blast off into a steamy spray, you can hike through the forest to catch glimpses of its many bird species and exotic animals such as flying squirrels, red-tailed monkeys, pygmy antelope , and the endangered shoebill stork .

23. Ssezibwa Falls

The Ssezibwa Falls site is more than just magnificent waterfalls. It is part of an incredibly beautiful oasis just outside of Kampala that is steeped in legend, history, and culture.

The Buganda people can tell you how a woman gave birth hundreds of years ago to the two rivers that flow around a serene island here. Others will tell you how the Ssezibwa Falls area is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the capital city.

24. Lake Bunyonyi

The locals call it “place of many birds,” but many tourists call it paradise. With its 29 islands, terraced hillsides, charming shore towns, and attractive resorts, it is no wonder that Lake Bunyonyi allures people from all over the world.

Many safari tourists choose Lake Bunyonyi as a base because the lovely setting is relaxing and peaceful. Additionally, the lake offers water sports and birdwatching while the nearby towns provide colorful markets and cultural experiences with the local villagers.

Learn more about the 18 largest cities in Uganda .

25. Lubiri Palace

Lovers of history and architecture may appreciate a visit to the Lubiri Palace, home of the former king of Buganda. Situated on a hill overlooking Kampala, this domed, colonial-style building was involved in the Battle of Mengo in 1966.

Today, you can take a guided tour to see the torture chambers and learn more about Uganda’s history and culture.

26. Nyero Rock Paintings

It is not every day that you get the opportunity to see prehistoric rock paintings, so if you are in Uganda, a trip to Kumi town to see the Nyero Rock Paintings is more than worth the effort.

Found in three separate rock shelters, these beautiful, well-preserved paintings portray concentric circles, animals, and canoes.

The hike to the site is relatively easy, and you just may see monkeys, lizards, and birds along the way.

Here’s our guide to airports in Uganda .

Here are 15 things to do in Uganda – including culture, nature, culinary and adventure.

And there you have it – 26 beautiful and interesting places to visit in Uganda .

Which places are on your bucket list? Let me know in the comments.

Hi, I'm Bryan Haines . And I'm a co-founder of Storyteller.Travel . I'm a traveler and photographer.

I also blog about photography on Storyteller Tech .

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36 Comments

Uganda is really a beautiful country to visit ,spend your vacation, honeymoon,picnics I love the tourism destinations there

Indeed Uganda , the pearl of Africa is enriched with natural beauty that one couldn’t imagine them..I love my motherland.

Am a Ugandan by ,There some tourist places which have been not mentioned above we Bahai Temple in Kawempe Division, kibuli mosque, Old Kampala Hill mosque, lake kyoga,Lake Albert,Mabira forest,Bwenri National Park,

What about kiyira fall kalagala

I love my beautiful country Uganda, the Pearl of Africa!

Ugandan is one of the best country in the world with beautiful nature

I like the Way mother gorilla looks at her beautiful baby. Thank you for sharing.

Great stuff bwana Bryan!

Thanks for compiling and sharing this nice piece of info about Uganda.

Will share this with my friends abroad.

Cheers Bryan!!!😊

Thank you William!

All in all, thanks for marketing UG.

Karimojong culture, and it’s kidepo valley national G.P known for its wilderness, different kinds of cats, 456 bird species or more, mountain hiking on mount moroto where you find the indegenious tribes of the Tepeth as well as the Ik of Kaabong would have been in the list….and by the way the Ugandan museum

This is Good I know the list is endless if we were to add. very good work so far guz.at 49 I don’t know if I can visit all these. One day..

There is also the kitagata hot springs which are know for their magical healings in Bushenyi kitagata town.

Thank you for the info but u forgot to include the beautiful Tooro kingdom palace,the beautiful crater lakes found in fort portal,Amabere gayina mwiru caves in fort portal,Kibale National park for Chimps and Mahoma Falls.

Thank you Dorcas for these great additions to the list!

Wanale falls and caves in mbale Sipi falls in Kapchwora Kisizi falls in Rukingiri Kilembe mines and lake katwe (salt lake) Bahai temple in Kampala Kabaka’s Lake (man made lake) The list is endless

Thanks for loving our country

Thanks for these great additions!

Thanks for compiling this information about Uganda. You forgot about karamoja, the culture and magnificent Kidepo national park

Really u miss to include kidepo national Park and mt Kenya, mt elgon national Park and mt elgon lake bunyonyi, mt rwenzori mt hiking are more touristic than owino and rubaga church.u need to revisit this publication.

Hi Timothy, thanks for the additions to the list. I agree – there are many more beautiful places than on this list.

We’ve covered Rwenzori Mountains and the 10 national parks in Uganda .

We’ll add these other ones to the list for future topics.

It’s absolutely very true friends,take your time and visit the pearl of Africa.however,the story teller didn’t give it all like the culture , there’s one called Acholi traditional dances it’s beating out the Zulu of south africa,am telling you friends as the true born of the land

Am a Ugandan but what I have to assure those wishing to discover the natural buity of the world visit the Pearl its a mazing and u will never regret

If it was not intationally to discrimination ISLAMIC PLACE GADAFI MOSQUE how can you be remembering to put LUBAGA CATHEDRAL and you forgotten GADAF MOSQUE (YET YOU KNOW VERY WELL WHO WAS GADAF TO AFRICA AND THE WHOLE WORLD, I MEAN HE WAS VERY FAMOUS THAN AND HIS PLACES ARE MORE ATTRACTIVE TO THE TOURISTS THAN LIKE 18 PLACES YOU’VE OUTLINED.

NOTE: YOUR NOT AT ALL A GOOD MARKETIER IF YOU STILL HAVE THOSE BACKWARDS DISCREMINATION IDEOLOGIES.

Thanks for your additions to the list. We included the Uganda National Mosque (Gaddafi Mosque) – in this post about 14 Kampala attractions .

It’s interesting that you missed to to mention Gadaffi Mosque!!!

We included it here – in this post about Kampala attractions .

Thank you for this brilliant article . Also 1. Amabere ga nyina mwiru caves and crater lakes in Fortportal. 2. Lake bunyonyi

Thanks for the additions!

I would refer to this as Uganda at the finger tips, this is awesome.

@Ben,there are more interesting places to talk about than Owino, Rubaga,Kampala city…..mabira forest should have been in the list too

wow, this is the entire information one needs to know if they intend to travel to Uganda on a safari .

Hello! I will like to know if June it’s a good time to travel to Uganda and Ruanda to see the gorillas

Yes, either January / February or June to September (the two dry seasons) are good times to go gorilla trekking.

@Bryan Haines, Am humbled by this presentation . I will visit half of these sites by end of 2022

@Bryan Haines, Thanks though you forgot to add the Westnile regions evenings with a cool lingala music, the culture of the people in westnile most notable the aringa people,katwa people where the former president of Uganda Field Mershall Iddi Amin Dada originated from and also some places to visit like mountain kei, liru etc

Thanks Samad – these are some great additions!

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Home » Travel Guides » Uganda » 15 Best Places to Visit in Uganda

15 Best Places to Visit in Uganda

Marred in the minds of many a tourist by the ever-present threat of one Joseph Kony and his so-called Lord’s Resistance Army, the nation of Uganda is actually one of Africa’s up-and-coming gems. Yes, you’ll have to be careful, and there are warnings that need to be heeded about traveling to the contested and conflicted areas of the northern territories.

However, Uganda is, for the most part, a safe and enthralling place. It’s a land where hippos humph through the wetlands and lions laze in the acacias. It’s a land of rain-stained forests and misty  hills that house chimpanzees. It’s got the lapping waters of Lake Victoria, and the winding channels of the Victoria Nile to boot. Vistas of rock-ribbed mountains and standalone volcanos conquer the peripheries, shooting up to craggy summits where waterfalls and thunderstorms coalesce. Meanwhile, Kampala is a pulsating city, steeped in tribal ancestry and life. It’s an all-round top African adventure!

Lets explore the best places to visit in Uganda :

The ancestral capital of the Buganda kingdom is modern day Uganda’s capital too.

And for an African first city, it’s got real charm and panache.

You can still see some of the thatched relics of the former glory years at the Kasubi Tombs, or you can taste the frenetic energy of day-to-day Ugandan life between the sun-cracked streets of Central Kampala; a place of throbbing markets (the city’s Owino market is said to be the largest in Central-east Africa) and echoing mosque minarets (that soaring Gaddafi National Mosque is a must!). On the edge of town is the more straight-laced area of Nakasero Hill, where well-to-do villas house the country’s elite and expats chatter in the ramshackle bars.

2. Kibale National Park

Pierce into the dense jungles and wetland forests of the great Kibale National Park and you won’t be disappointed! What awaits is one of the world’s most awesome arrays of wild chimpanzee packs, and you can see these majestic simians of Central Africa trawling through the undergrowth and commanding the canopies on game drives and safari excursions of all different types.

There’s a kaleidoscope of other curious little monkeys to spot too, like the rare L’Hoest’s and the Ugandan red colobus.

It’s also possible to wonder up at ancient fig trees, and see some more recent efforts to create sustainable coffee plantations in the area.

3. Ssese Islands

A cocktail of golden sands worthy of Latin America, sun-kissed beaches and lapping waves, the archipelago of the Ssese Islands is Uganda’s answer to the tropical gems of the East African coast on the Indian Ocean.

Peppering the waters of Lake Victoria, they are considered the country’s premier rest and relaxation spot, with the popular Buggala Island and Bulago coming up top of the menu.

You can either kick-back in one of the lakeside resorts, or wax up the walking boots and make for the hills, where hippo-dotted swamps hide between the ridges.

Kayaks and other watersports are also available on Buggala.

4. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park really does live up to its name! A land of rocky peaks and endless green, it’s covered in some of Africa’s oldest primeval forestry.

The biodiversity – think geckos next to gorillas next to a multitude of curious insects – garnered the spot a UNESCO World Heritage tag, while most safari goers head this way in search of colobus monkeys and chimpanzees.

The breathtaking landscapes are typical of the Albertine Rift.

They rise and fall to untrodden valleys and summits, with quartzite massifs here and teak-shrouded riverways there.

It’s definitely one to write home about!

5. Murchison Falls National Park

Named for the roaring cataracts that carve right through their middle, the wilds of the Murchison Falls National Park are unquestionably some of the most amazing in north-western Uganda.

The protected area is actually the largest national park in the country, with a whopping count of nearly 4,000 square kilometers between its borders.

The biggest attraction is – of course – the point where the Victoria Nile crashes through a tight-knit gorge and over an escarpment of more than 40 meters in height.

However, travelers can also look forward to stalking lions and giraffes and elephants and more!

Entebbe, for most international visitors at least, will be the entrance point to Uganda.

It’s here that the nation’s Entebbe International Airport makes its home; its runways butting up against the waters of Lake Victoria.

Most will also leave promptly, on their way to Kampala or the country’s other far-flung safari destinations.

Those who linger can enjoy a laid-back place that still trundles to the tune of the old British Protectorate – for it’s here that the English colonists made their base in earlier decades.

One of the relics of that age is the beautiful National Botanical Gardens, while there are also charming churches, and the official residence of the president: the Ugandan State House.

7. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Handily named just QENP for short, this huge dash of wilderness that lies close to the banks of Lake Edward and the DRC border in the west is Uganda’s most famous national park.

It’s visited by thousands of tourists each year, who come in search of the lazy Congo lions and the swinging chimps that can be seen mingling between the Maramagambo Forest and the grassy savannah.

The whole area is also scarred by countless volcanic features, going from the awesome Katwe craters to great rifts in the earth, making it an interesting and eye-catching place to go on safari drives and game seeking journeys.

8. Mount Elgon National Park

The rock-ribbed, jungle-topped highlands of the Mount Elgon National Park are peppered with so many natural beauties it can be difficult to describe them all at once.

Cascading down from the extinct caldera of one of Africa’s oldest volcanos, there are waterfalls, dank cave systems, and rugged canyons aplenty.

Visitors can also feel the geothermal activity at a series of hot springs, or wonder upwards, to where African goshawks and elegant bush-shrikes flit through the skies.

Monkey wise, there are the likes of De Brazza’s and colobuses, along with blue monkeys and some other rare simian species.

One of the main transportation and administration hubs of eastern Uganda, tin-shack Mbale hosts its own regional government and a clutch of good hotels and guesthouses.

It’s particularly useful for those on their way to the heights of Mount Elgon and the famous summit of Wagagai – a 24-million-year-old volcano that is the seventeenth highest in all of Africa.

(For the best base of explorations around the hiking trails and glorious mountain’s that erupt around Mbale, be sure to hitch a local minibus out to Bududa.)

Back in the town itself and you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of day-to-day Ugandan life, along with plenty of shops and market stalls.

10. Lake Mburo National Park

Despite being one of the smallest national parks in Uganda, the swaying savannah grasses and riparian habitats of Lake Mburo certainly pack a punch.

They come spotted with buffalo herds and zebras, crossed by prancing reedbucks, and stalked with hyenas.

Today, much of the area is clad in young forestry, which springs up from the swamplands that dominate along the shores of the eponymous lake.

These make for great game viewing during the dry season, when the animals congregate at the watering holes.

What’s more, Lake Mburo National Park is one of the most accessible going, with easy access along the highway from Kampala, the capital.

11. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

You’ll have to go to the far southern depths of Uganda to find the great galumphing beasts of the highlands: mountain gorillas.

The appropriately-named Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the top places to find them too, with its indelibly green rainforests falling down from the windswept heights of cloud-shrouded volcanos.

The area buts up to the famous Virunga Range, and offers game sightings of rare mountain gorillas alongside other awesome creatures – think woodland elephants, golden monkeys, wild hogs and jackals.

Yep, you can see them in the DRC too, but things here just happen to be a little safer!

12. Kidepo Valley National Park

Hidden away in the northern reaches of Uganda (in one of the more dubious and unsafe parts of the country), the Kidepo Valley National Park is a great fly-in visit.

It’s sat a whopping 700 kilometers from the capital, and is known for its remoteness.

Totally undeveloped and untouched by mass safari tourism, the region is the old stomping ground of the Dodoth pastoralists.

These semi-nomads shared the landscapes of savannah and mud plain with oodles of buffalo, hippo, oryx and wild dogs, which can still be seen flitting between the grey-haired acacia groves and wetlands today.

It’s just a short drive along the highways east to the river town of Jinja, which juts out into the waters where the Victoria Nile emerges from its eponymous lake.

Sleepy, sun-cracked and relaxed, the place is the perfect antidote to the energy of life in the capital.

It’s got a clutch of great bars, but is most famed for the wealth of riparian resorts that line the banks.

You’re sure to be able to find something to suit, with everything from pool-peppered boutique hotels to more rustic ecolodges surrounded by monkeys to choose from.

And when you do want to get the blood flowing, be sure to head for the whitewater rapids on the river for some rafting!

14. Fort Portal

Still chuffing after the appearance of tarmacked roads in 2007, the regional town of Fort Portal has a truly enviable position beneath the serrated tips of the mighty Rwenzori National Park.

Chimps and gorillas tread the backcountry close by, giving the place a real feral feel.

However, the center is anything but wild, with human energy dominating the action.

There, it’s all about bustling markets and haggling for local farmer’s produce.

Fort Portal is also a fine base point for launching excursions to the aforementioned Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Lake Edward.

Lira is a little crossroads city in the midst of north-central Uganda.

While it’s actually the fourth-largest in the country, it still manages to retain that charming provincial vibe and sleepiness.

Travelers rarely come here too, adding a dash of off-the-beaten-track character and local authenticity.

Those who do make their way to Lira’s streets get to see a real Ugandan city in action, and even get to hear sobering and visceral stories of the ravaging civil wars of former years – this place was hit particularly badly by the onslaught of Joseph Kony and his private army.

15 Best Places to Visit in Uganda:

• Kibale National Park
• Ssese Islands
• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Murchison Falls National Park
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Mount Elgon National Park
• Lake Mburo National Park
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• Kidepo Valley National Park
• Fort Portal

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Hi, I'm Ash, your tour advisor. I hope you find this post helpful. If you want my help deciding on an experience, send me an message .

Top 20 Tourist Attractions in Uganda

Here is our selection of the top attractions and things to do in Uganda.

We will mention some attractions in the cities, countryside, protected areas and tours. We will also mention some travel bloggers who have visited these areas to give their own opinion.

Gorilla Watching in Bwindi National Park

A main reason to visit Uganda from a nature perspective is to enjoy incredible mountain gorilla trekking tours. The gorillas are only found in this region.

Mountain gorillas differ from their lowland cousins as their fur is thicker and adapted to the colder temperature at high altitude.

Gorillas live in groups of around 10 individuals and are led by the most powerful silverback with the rest of the group comprising females and younger males. The silverback makes important decisions for the group and protects them from danger.

To see these animals, you can enjoy gorilla tours from Kisoro, which is about 460 kilometres (290 mi) from the capital city of Kampala. Kisoro is located in a fantastic area of Uganda and is in the African Great Lakes region.

This is where the African continent is slowly splitting apart revealing the beautiful lake scenery. Because of the incredible landscape, many people refer to this part of the continent as the Switzerland of Africa.

From Kisoro, you have access to the incredible Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

There are comfortable lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which is one of the best places to see the gorillas and was named after the forest’s many stands of bamboo.

Bwindi contains many other animals as well as the gorillas and protects around 90 species of mammals, including 10 different primates. This is the richest area in for mammals in Uganda and there are many other species to see, such as the black and white colobus monkeys, green monkeys, Schmidt’s red-tailed monkeys, and duiker.

There are currently about 400 gorillas in Bwindi and the number has been increasing steadily over the years. Many researchers feel the slow growth of the population can be attributed mainly to visitors wanting to see the gorillas, which helps provide money and global attention for the remarkable animals. Your can learn more about Uganda’s gorillas here .

The gorillas are spread among 15 habituated groups, which you can visit on tour by purchasing a gorilla permit and booking a stay at one of the wonderful gorillas lodges.

One of the most accessible gorillas groups from Kisoro is the Nkuringo group, which you can visit on tours from the highly regarded Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge .

Positioned high on the Nteko Ridge, the Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge provides incredible views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and offers a comfortable base to explore the region.

Activities at the lodge include:

• Visiting Batwa pygmies
• Enjoying a guided village walk
• A guided multi-day trek to/from Kisoro via Lake Mutanda
• Walking through Bwindi Forest to the park headquarters at Buhoma
• Tracking the Nkuringo Gorilla family (assuming you have a tracking permit).
• Tracking the Nshongi Gorilla family at Rushaga (assuming you have a permit).
• Simply enjoy the amazing vistas of the gallery forests of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Virunga volcanoes

To contact the Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge, you can use the tour bubble below, which sends you request directly to the lodge to organize your Ugandan experience.

Enjoy a tailor-made experience depending on your budget, days available and choice of accommodation. Your tour can be extended to include Kibale Forest to see chimpanzees, Queen Elizabeth National Park for a wildlife safari and Lake Mburo, to name just a few options.

The Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge

Positioned on the Nteko Ridge overlooking the world famous Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, the award-winning Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge provides a fantastic ...

Bird Watching in Bwindi National Park

In addition to the gorillas in Bwindi, the birds here are also incredible and the forest ranks as one of East Africa’s best regions for birdlife and birdwatching.

From some of the Bwindi Lodges, such as the Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge or the Mahogany Springs Safari Lodge, you will have some fantastic birdwatching opportunities. Head out with your knowledgeable guide to spot many of the fascinating birds that call this forest home.

The favorite species to find in the forest include the Turner’s eremomela, Chapin’s flycatchers, Shelley’s crimson-wings, African green broadbills, bee-eaters, Grauer’s swamp warbler, and the abundance of butterflies

The drier months, which are June to August (most tourists) and December to February (less tourists) are the favored time to visit Bwindi, but birders may prefer the wetter months for a higher chance of seeing more bird activity. The wetter months are then from March to April and September to November.

The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest contains some fantastic habitat for a variety of birds and there are around 350 different birds recorded with 23 birds only found in this region. This means the forest is home to 90% of all Albertine Rift endemics.

Other favorites to find in the Bwindi area include the black billed turaco, black bee-eater, blue-headed sunbird, short-tailed warbler, bar-tailed blue trogon, and kivu ground thrush, yellow eyed black flycatcher, Garner’s warbler, Africa blue and white-tailed blue flycatchers and red-headed bluebill.

There are some different birding trails around the area, including the Ivy river trail, Kashasha river valley, Buhoma waterfall trails, and the Mubwindi swamp trail in Ruhija. Birders visiting the Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge who want to focus on endemics have especially enjoyed visiting a small pocket forest named Nombe.

There are a team of very enthusiastic birding guides at the Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge and you can organize some specific birding itineraries.

Hike from Kisoro to Nkuringo and Buhoma

Given the fantastic scenery of the region, there are many different hiking opportunities to see the area.

Local guides who know the region best will show you the most scenic hiking trails, such as between the hamlet of Buhoma on the north side of the Bwindi Forest National Park and the town of Kisoro in south western Uganda.

The classic and much loved walking trail is between Kisoro and Buhoma, which you can also combine with a gorilla trekking adventure. The usual amount of time to do the trek is over two days where you will enjoy fantastic views, including the incredible Virunga Volcanoes.

Spend a night on the shore of Lake Mutanda, which you will then cross in traditional dugout canoe to begin your trek. We will then follow village trails to see fantastic scenery to enjoy rainforest, mountains, the lake, and the form of the land.

While on the walk, you will enjoy some fantastic cultural experiences to see how people live in this part of Africa. In addition to this and the incredible scenery, there is a lot of wildlife to see enroute, such as many different interesting birds, monkeys, and if you choose, you can combine with a memorable gorilla trek to see these gentle giants of the forest.

There are many other trails in the region to make the most of the spectacular mountainous scenery, such as the walks to the different volcanoes of Mt. Margarita (5109m) Mt. Rwenzori, and the Elgon Wagagai Peak (4321m).

This tour can be arranged with the Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge .

See Chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park

Near Queen Elizabeth National Park in the west of Uganda you can find the Kibale Forest National Park.

Although these forests are connected and chimpanzees are found in the Queen Elizabeth National Park, we recommend seeing our closest relatives in the Kibale area, as it’s a little easier to find the chimpanzees.

In fact, the Kibale Forest is recommended as the best place in the whole of East Africa for seeing chimpanzees.

The most popular trail in the park is the walk from the Kanyanchu Visitor Center, which lasts about three hours to visit the chimps and to see a diversity of wildlife enroute. When we encounter the chimpanzee groups, visitors are allowed to spend a maximum of one hour observing the fascinating animals, as they play, feed, and relax in their group.

The 7-Day Primate Tour

Currently, TourTheTropics.com cannot help you book this experience. However, you can visit the tour operator's website for more information.

As with the gorilla treks, to visit the chimpanzees we recommend booking your chimpanzee visiting permit and tour in advance, as visits per day are tightly controlled for the chimpanzees’ welfare and they quickly book up.

In addition to the chimpanzees in Kibale, you will also encounter some of the other primates inhabiting the area, such as blue & red-tailed monkeys, red-colobus mangabeys, and the grey-cheeked mangabeys swinging in the forest’s canopy. Another of the favorite trails is the Kanyanchu Primate Walk to see some of the park’s thirteen species of primate.

To combine the chimpanzees in Kibale with the gorillas, enjoy the 10-day Primate Tour .

Savanna Wildlife Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park

The Queen Elizabeth National Park region is the most popular tourist destination in Uganda, which is linked to the area’s diversity. The protected area contains many different wildlife-filled habitats, such as forests, wetlands, savanna grasslands, and a number of lakes.

The Queen Elizabeth National Park sits in the western side of Uganda, which is a few hours drive southwest of the country’s capital and largest city, Kampala. There are a few different towns close to the protected area such as Kasese and Bushenyi.

The park contains a lot of wildlife, such as the iconic African safari animals, but is also fortunate to protect a population of our closest relatives, the chimpanzees. Towards the north and across Lake George, the park connects to the Kibale Forest National Park mentioned above.

You can enjoy game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park to search for the icons of the African plains, such as lions, elephants, antelopes, and buffaloes. There are over 200 km of game tracks throughout the park we can explore.

Being part of African Great Lakes region, there are some fantastic lakes to visit where you can enjoy cruises on the glistening waters to scout for a range of wildlife. There is also a fantastic channel to enjoy between Lake Edward and Lake George to see hippopotamus, Nile crocodiles and birdlife.

In addition to exploring the area on game drives, one of the most spectacular ways to experience these savanna environments is by hot air balloon, which you can book as an add-on experience.

Golden Monkey Trekking

The golden monkeys are a fantastic group of primates to see in the wild and can be encountered on guided treks through the forest. There are a couple of different areas to find the monkeys, but the best place to track the monkeys in Uganda is the Mgahinga National Park at the foot of the Virunga Mountains.

The monkeys enjoy hanging around the stands of bamboo forest within these protected areas and the monkeys are now used to people, which means they’re more easily observed. However, the monkeys move fast so make sure you’re using your fastest lens speed.

The golden monkeys make a fantastic add-on experience to enjoy with the gorillas or the chimpanzees. The trip provides an ideal short stay to experience the Virunga Mountains. This is where you find the monkeys, as there are only a few thousand individuals remaining. On tours to see these fascinating primates, you can visit the habituated groups for an hour at a time.

Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary protects Uganda’s only wild rhinos and is located just north of Kampala near the famous Murchison Falls.

In total, the sanctuary protects 15 rhinos and is also a fantastic place to see other wildlife.

Enjoy bird watching, nature walks, relaxing, and of course finding and watching the rhinos. The rangers of the sanctuary will guide you around the reserve to find the wildlife, including the rhinos themselves, crocodiles, hippos, antelopes and much more.

Birders often enjoy the reserve and spend time finding some of the 250 different species. You can find some fascinating birds within the sanctuary boundaries, including a number of rare species.

The sanctuary was founded by various wildlife and conservation organizations in an attempt to restore Uganda’s rhinoceros population.

The sanctuary protects rhinos while they breed and grow. They are then re-introduced into Uganda’s protected areas, such as Queen Elizabeth National Park. While awaiting their reintroduction, visitors can enjoy seeing these remarkable animals while helping to spread the importance of rhino conservation in the country.

A total of 80 rangers and guards watch over the sanctuary day and night to maintain the animals’ safety.

The sanctuary covers 7, 000 hectares, which you can explore with your highly trained ranger. You can enjoy different facilities and infrastructure, such as a tourist lodge, camping area, and budget guesthouses to accommodate all types of tourists.

Visit Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls is a fantastic natural attraction located in the aptly named Murchison Falls National Park, which with a few other protected areas create the Murchison National Park. The park has been visited by the likes of Winston Churchill, Ernest Hemingway, and various royals over the years.

The protected area is home to many different animals, including hippos, crocodiles, lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, antelopes, chimpanzees, and many different birds.

However, because of intense hunting in the 1900s, the wildlife is not as it once was. Animal populations have been recovering and you’re sure to see some examples, including some of Africa’s icons.

This is the largest national park in Uganda and the Murchison Falls sits as the jewel in the crown of the protected area. The falls was named after a president of the Royal Geographical Society and is the main attraction.

Visit Kampala

Kampala is Uganda’s capital city and makes a fascinating stop on your Ugandan adventure. This is a great place to spend a day or two experiencing the country’s most important city. Ugandans in general are very friendly and Kampala offers a more relaxed atmosphere than its neighbor of Nairobi across the Kenyan border.

The city is relatively calm and safe. So much so, Kampala has a stable expat community with many different NGOs running various humanitarian and conservation projects. The city has some modern areas with top of the line restaurants and bars, which is where expats and visitors enjoy spending their time.

You can enjoy many different markets selling a variety of produce, clothing, and crafts. There are also different attractions to see in the city itself, which will keep you entertained over a couple of days. These include temples, cathedrals, markets, galleries, areas of historical significance, and museums.

Despite being an old building in need of a little love, a popular attraction is the old Uganda National Museum. This shows the cultural heritage of the country, including exhibits on Uganda’s cultural and natural history. There are also a few different galleries you can enjoy that display paintings, photography, sculptures, and exhibits from local artists.

Visit the Ndere Center

The Ndere Center is a highly recommended attraction to experience the country’s traditional dance and music.

For a few days a week the center has a high energy show of Ugandan culture. Enjoy a dinner and theater performance and see dances from a variety of Uganda’s tribes. The show takes place in a 700-seat amphitheater on Sundays at 6pm, Wednesday at 7pm, and Fridays from 7pm.

The Ndere name is from the word for flute, which is the symbol of the troupe because of its diverse and beautiful sound, but also as it’s one of the only musical instruments found across all cultures and is a metaphor for unity.

The mission of the center and its dancers and musicians is to help rekindle a sense of pride for Ugandan culture while promoting it to the world. A team of dedicated Ugandans carefully research and respectfully present parts of all the cultures that make up the Ugandan people.

Historically, a repeated theme across sub-Saharan Africa is that information didn’t exist in written form. Instead, the information was passed between generations through performances, such as dance, storytelling, poetry, and music.

The Ndere Troupe are a definite must-see attraction in Uganda and the award-winning performers have been practicing their art for nearly 25 years.

See Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is the world’s largest freshwater tropical lake and sits as the jewel in the crown of Africa’s Great Lakes region.

Sitting across the borders of Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, this is where the Nile begins, which is one of the world’s most historically significant rivers.

The lake itself is home to some fascinating features, such as the different islands and reefs. Around 200 species of fish and over 350 different birds call the Lake Victoria region home, which you can spot on some fascinating lake tours.

The peninsulas and islands of Lake Victoria are home to some luxury lodges where you can relax near the glistening waters and take tours around the lake to see some of the unique features and wildlife.

A great place to experience the Lake Victoria region from Uganda is the town of Entebbe. From here, you can feel the breeze from the fantastic lake.

Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and the botanical gardens, which are visited by many different bird species. You can also meet one of the sources of the great Nile in Jinja to imagine where this river runs and the history linked to this incredible waterway.

The most popular Lake Victoria island to visit from Entebbe is Ngamba Island, which is home to a private chimpanzee sanctuary protecting orphaned chimpanzees.

The sanctuary was set up by the Chimpanzees Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust (CSWCT) and funded by a number of organizations, including the Born Free Foundation, the International Fund for Animal Welfare, and the Jane Goodall Institute.

See Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is located close to Kisoro and Kabale near the border with neighboring Rwanda.

This is one of the largest of Africa’s lakes by depth and contains 29 different islands. Not just a popular tourist attraction for international visitors, the lake is also a popular relaxation destination for locals. Around the lake, you can find the towns of Muko and Kyevu, and you can enjoy a range of lakeside accommodation.

There are few buildings on the islands, aside from some infrastructure for tourists and a couple of schools. The main community is the Bufuka Village, which is mainly composed of members of the Bakiga and Batwa tribes.

A popular attraction is to see the traditional dances of the Batwa. Another of the favorite things to do here is to take a cruise and go island hopping around Lake Bunyonyi.

The real spectacle of the lake, however, is the incredible scenery. For its beauty alone, the lake is regarded by many visitors as one of their favorite destinations.

Because of its proximity to Bwindi Forest for gorilla trekking, which is the main reason visitors venture to this corner of Africa, the lake makes a fantastic add-on experience to enjoy breathtaking scenery.

Visit Lake Mburo National Park

A relatively small protected area, Lake Mburo National Park is classed as a savanna area containing different wildlife.

You can spot antelopes, hyena, hippo, buffalo, zebra, and many different birds. There is also a lot of woodland because of the lack of elephants. Elephants are ecosystem engineers and usually tame savanna forests.

There are 13 other water bodies in the region, but the star lake is Lake Mburo. Mburo is part of the protected area”s wetland system, which is why it’s such a great place for birdlife. There around 350 different bird species to find and it’s a must-visit birder destination.

There are many different activities to enjoy both on and around Lake Mburo, such as boat cruises on the lake itself to see hippos, crocodiles, and a number of different birds. Around the lake, you can then enjoy game drives in the protected area to spot the different African wildlife. You will easily find zebra and impala, which are the stars of the park.

See the Kasubi Tombs

Another attraction in Kampala, to learn a little of the region’s cultural history we recommend a tour of the Kasubi Tombs. This is a Unesco World Heritage Listed Site and the burial ground of four Ugandan kings.

Originally built in 1882 as the palace of Kabaka Mutesa I, this was converted to his tomb after his death. The site later became the burial place of the three following kings.

The site gives a look at Buganda culture, and not only the care they took over their royalty, but other culturally important artifacts, such as the Buganda drums used to communicate important events over long distances.

The palace is composed of around 35 buildings and around 300 people live on the grounds themselves. A fireplace is in the middle of the area where the fire is kept lit to warm the spirits.

The Buganda Kingdom is the largest of Uganda’s four tribal kingdoms and has a high cultural importance for the country. On tours of the palace, you will learn about the various practices and rituals of the Buganda. A visit gives a fascinating insight into some of Uganda’s traditional ways of life.

See Lake Mutanda

A small and beautiful lake in the Kisoro District of south-west Uganda, Lake Mutanda is in an area affectionately known as Little Switzerland .

The lake can be visited from Kisoro and resides in the African Great Lakes area at the foot of the Virunga Mountains. The mountains are across the Ugandan border, which can be seen from the lake. From here, you can see Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabinyo and Mount Gahinga.

The lake contains different islands and is drained by the Rutshuru River. The forests around the lake provides home for a number of fascinating animals and plants, including habitat for the mountain gorillas.

The gorillas and a healthy population of golden monkeys live in a nearby protected area called the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Closer to the lake, you can then find other wildlife, such as many different birds

Enjoy spotting cranes, ibis, weaver birds, and different kingfishers. The forests are also home to different chameleons, monitors, and a variety of frogs. Enjoy tours over the lake to focus on scenery, relaxation, or birdwatching.

You can also enjoy a visit to Kyangushu Island and village trips to see how the locals live their lives. Visit the Mutanda Island, which is the largest of the inhabited islands where you can enjoy views of the Congo border, Bwindi National Park, and Lake Mulehe.

Visit the Ssesi Islands

The Ssese Islands are an archipelago in Lake Victoria that deserve their own mention. Positioned in the north-west corner of the lake, the largest of these islands is Bugala Island where you can find Kalangala town.

The Sesse Islands are home to the Bantu tribe and is a spiritual location for the local people.

Some of the 84 different islands are only 10,000 square metres (2.5 acres) in size. Bugala Island (the largest) is around 275 square kilometers (67,000 acres). Around half of the archipelago is inhabited. The ecnomoy here is focused on fishing for the Nile perch and tourism.

The islands are home a variety of animals and you can spot several different monkeys on guided tours. To relax, you can also visit the beautiful white-sand beaches.

Although not full of activities, the archipelago offers attractive scenery and makes an excellent relaxation spot for a few nights, as there are a number of accommodation options. There are also areas where you can hire a canoe and have a paddle around.

Visit a Local Market

Markets in Uganda offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of the local people and make an interesting experience for visitors.

There are a few different markets to visit in and around Kampala, such as the famed Owino and Nakasero markets. Owino is known for its hustle and bustle with chaotic looking stalls, whereas Nakasero is a little more relaxed and a preferred first choice.

Owino market is understandably chaotic, as this is one the largest in this area of Africa. The most abundant product sold is second hand clothing, but you can really find most things in the market, such as traditional medicine and electronics.

Stand at the Equator

A popular attraction is to visit the equator, which is one of the most famous landmarks in the country.

The mark represents the section of Earth that receives more sunlight than any other. Because of this, it’s where you find the world’s most wildlife-rich forests. Tropical rainforests cover just 7% of the world’s surface, but contain 50% of all the Earth’s animals and plants.

The equator passes straight through Uganda. The main equator landmark is about 70 km from Kampala towards the south west of the district. This takes about one hour to reach from the city. However, there are also markers in other areas. You can find other markers in the Queen Elizabeth National Park, which is Uganda’s largest national park.

See the Start of the Nile

While you’re in this region of Africa, it’s worth seeing the start of the Nile River. Imagine the important events in history and the countries this great river has touched before gushing into the Mediterranean Sea.

This all starts in this region and you can visit one of the Nile’s sources.

The Nile is one of the longest rivers in the world and ranks as the world’s largest alongside the Amazon River in South America. You can see one of the sources of this incredible waterway at Jinja, which is about a two hour drive from Kampala through the Mabira forest.

You can enjoy some boat trips around the lake and visit the hydroelectric power plant at Bujagali Falls. The area around Jinja is also known as the adventure capital of East Africa. You can enjoy mountain biking, horse riding, and other adrenaline activities. The town itself is also worth a visit to see some examples of colonial architecture.

While here, there are many different accommodation options to choose from to make your stay comfortable. The lodges can often arrange your tours and cruises in the region to help maximize your experience at the start of the Nile.

Try the Food

It’s always one of the best attractions to sample the local cuisine and Uganda is no exception to the rule. Enjoy a variety of tasty dishes to learn more about Ugandan culture.

Fish features prominently on the menu due to the number of lakes and rivers in the country, such as tilapia with a peanut sauce. In addition to fish, meat stews are a popular food. The influences for flavor include Arabian, Asian, and English dishes. Indian spices and food were popular in Uganda, which have been incorporated into a number of dishes.

Many of the different tribes in Uganda have their own traditional dishes. Traditional cuisine revolves around potatoes, vegetables, chicken, pork, fish, bananas, and yams. Peanuts and sesame seeds feature a lot in Ugandan cuisine and add a delicious flavor when combined with some of the other ingredients.

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15 Best Places to Visit in Uganda: 2024 Uganda Travel Tips

Thinking of going on safari in Uganda and looking for some Uganda travel tips to make the most out of your trip to the Pearl of Africa ? I made a list of the 15 best places to visit in Uganda that should be part of your itinerary. As a photographer and travel marketer, I spend more than 3 months in Uganda and I also host Uganda Group Trips. Therefore, I'm able to give you the best possible advice.

The green Uganda offers a serene beauty with wonderful natural tourist destinations and is popular for its breathtaking landscapes, biodiversity, and abundant birdlife and wildlife including the endangered mountain gorillas and chimpanzees.

Find the 15 most beautiful places to visit in Uganda , full of interesting travel tips, that deserve a spot on your Uganda itinerary:

1. Jinja and Lake Victoria: The Source of The Nile

Jinja is a popular tourist destination, famous because of the historic source of the (White) Nile. It is the starting point of the world’s longest river that flows from Lake Victoria to the Mediterranean Sea through central and northern Uganda, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt.

After Entebbe, Jinja is a great starting point for your Uganda trip, especially if you are in for adrenaline-based activities. Bungee jumping, rafting, kayaking, and other water activities are some of the many active tourist attractions in Jinja.

If you prefer a more relaxing way to experience Jinja, you may want to book a (private) boat tour on Lake Victoria to see the Speke monument at the 'source of the Nile'. A boat tour to the source of the Nile   is one of the highlights in Uganda and a great way to spot birds that live near the river, like kingfishers, fish eagles, storks, and ibises. When you reach the actual source of the Nile River , you can jump off the boat and walk over a wooden deck towards the source of the Nile sign to make a quick photo. Do know this is a small touristic spot with overrated boat trip prices that is not everyone's cup of tea. However, it's the only way to visit the ' source of the Nile '.

2. Sipi Falls: a Hiker's Paradise

Sipi Falls is a hiker's paradise! It’s a series of three impressive waterfalls located in a spectacular, unharmed, and green landscape near the border of Kenya . It’s one of the most beautiful places in Uganda and a perfect place to unwind. The hike to all three falls takes 7-8 km. The waterfalls are only accessible by foot.

A local guide will accompany you on the walk and tells you about the historical and geographical background of the area and share some interesting facts like the medical purposes of the surrounding plants. Taking part in guided hiking activities like these is a perfect way to support the local Ugandan community and a spectacular way to enjoy and learn about the beautiful green surroundings of Sipi.

Sipi Falls is also known for its many local coffee plantations . Coffee is Uganda's leading export crop, but because of financial difficulties, it’s hard for small local farmers to keep their heads above water. Visiting a rural coffee plantation in Uganda is a great way to support the farmers. They are extremely hospitable and are happy to show you the whole coffee process; from picking to shelling, grinding, and roasting. Obviously, you finish by consuming a delicious strong Ugandan  coffee  (Arabica), straight from the source.

3. Kidepo National Park: The Serengeti of Uganda

When it comes to game viewing, Kidepo Valley National Park is one of the best places to visit in Uganda. It’s the most isolated park and unknown to many tourists, but it offers an abundance of wildlife and spectacular Savannah landscapes.

Kidepo National Park is located in Northern Uganda, at the border with Southern Sudan. It takes some effort to reach the park, but the variety of wildlife and beautiful views are worth it.

My Uganda Travel Tip for you: when you are in for an adventurous safari, add off-the-beaten-path Kidepo National Park to your Uganda safari itinerary; a true gem and one of the most beautiful places in Uganda known as Uganda's own Serengeti . Make sure you have enough fuel to get to Kidepo (and for your planned game drives ) as there's no gas station in Kidepo. Kaabong and Kitgum are the nearest places to stock up on fuel.

4. Murchison Falls National Park

Being Uganda’s oldest and largest wildlife reserve, Murchison Falls National Park is one of the most visited places in Uganda . It’s home to four of the Big five game animals, rhinos excluded. Even if you have limited time, your chances of spotting animals are high. We saw lots of animals including a leopard, lions , elephants, giraffes, hippos, crocs, many birds, and antelopes.

One of the best things to do in Uganda is to visit the actual Murchison waterfall. I would highly recommend booking a half-day tour to explore the falls, including a boat trip to the bottom of the falls.

On the Murchison Falls boat trip , it used to be possible to get off the boat and hike to the top of the falls where the water of the river Nile clashes with the borders of a narrow rocky gap and drops down 34 meters.

Because of the flooding, it's no longer possible as part of the boat trip but you can still do the ' Top of the Falls Hike ' from a different starting point. If you are not able or don’t want to hike to the top, an alternative to see the actual Murchison Falls is to get there by car. As the most visited National Park in Uganda , it's definitely worth it to add this amazing place to your Uganda trip itinerary.

  RELATED: find the 9 best things to do in Murchison Falls National Park

5. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

We all know that rhinos are critically endangered because of poaching. The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary located near Murchison Falls National Park is the only place in Uganda to see rhinos roaming around in the wild. It’s a rhino re-introduction project for white rhinos. You can trek them on foot, accompanied by a ranger . The rhino trekking will last about 1.5 to 2.5 hours and costs about $45 per person.

The rhinos are heavily protected but can roam free in an area that covers 7000 hectares of land. The walk is not heavy, but it’s an open space, so it can be very hot in the sun.

While visiting the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, you have the opportunity to do more activities like a Shoebill trek, night walk, or canoe ride. You can also stay overnight in a lodge or tent. When staying overnight, you’ll have the highest chance of seeing the prehistoric Shoebill .

6. Kibale National Park: The Primate Capital of Africa

Kibale Forest National Park is known as Uganda's primate capital of the world and the best place to visit in Uganda to see the chimpanzee. Booking a chimpanzee trekking   is the only way to see the chimps in Kibale. You will hike through the lush tropical rainforest looking for the chimpanzees and you’re allowed to stay with them for one hour at the moment you've found them.

If you want to spend more time with chimpanzees and learn even more about their daily routine, it’s recommended to book the chimpanzee habituation experience . It’s a bit more expensive than a chimp trekking, but you will spend a whole day with the chimpanzees to watch their daily activities like de-nesting, foraging for food, grooming, playing, and making nests for the night.

It’s an exhausting day full of movement, but an experience of a lifetime. To me, one of the highlights of my Uganda trip.

While trekking in Kibale Forest you can also find monkey species, like the Ugandan Red Colobus and the rare L'Hoest .

  RELATED: Read my detailed blog about the differences between a chimpanzee trekking and chimpanzee habituation experience in Kibale National Park Uganda.

7. Kasendra Crater Lakes Region

The area around Kibale offers some of the most beautiful places to visit in Uganda, like the stunning crater lakes in the Kabarole district , tea plantations, and the Rwenzori Mountains . Especially, hikers should explore more of the region. There’s a recommended three-hour hike that includes three crater lakes, local villages, tea plantations, and a great view from ‘ the top of the world ’ overlooking all 3 crater lakes and the Rwenzori Mountains. Definitely one of the coolest places to visit in Uganda.

8. Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary: a Birdwatcher's Paradise

Near Kibale National Park, you can find the small Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary which is home to many other primate species and 200 different bird species (like the great blue turaco).  It’s a birdwatchers' paradise. This place is run by the Kibale Association for Rural and Environmental Development (KAFRED) and protects the Magombe swamp . All the profits are used to fund community projects around Bigodi, like supporting local schools.

I really enjoyed the swamp walking tour and visiting the local community, where we learned about traditional weaving techniques by the Bigodi Women Group .

9. Queen Elizabeth National Park: Spot Tree-Climbing Lions

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most popular national park, located in western Uganda, and named after the royal Queen Elizabeth II of England. This park is home to numerous mammal species and birds and offers stunning diverse landscapes and views of the beautiful Rwenzori Mountains in the back.

Besides the typical African Savannah, you will also find volcanic cones, beautiful salt crater lakes, and volcanic cones. From October to April, you might even be lucky to see flamingos at Lake Munyanyange . Large herds of buffaloes are also often found around the salt crater lakes in Queen Elizabeth NP.

To get the best out of your visit to Queen Elizabeth NP, you need to take time for several safari game drives.

Boat Tour Kazinga Channel

One of the most popular Uganda activities amongst tourists in Queen Elizabeth National Park is a peaceful boat trip to Kazinga Channel . This activity takes about 3 hours and offers great opportunities for wildlife viewing. This channel connects Lake Edward and Lake George and is home to large concentrations of water buffaloes, hippos, Nile crocodiles, and exotic birds. Sometimes you can even see elephants near or in the water. For the best views of the animals in the Kazinga Channel, you have to make sure to get a seat on the left side of the boat.

Tree-climbing Lions in the Ishasha Sector

Have you ever heard about the famous tree-climbing lions ? The Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the few places in Africa where you can see tree-climbing lions. This area is located in the Southern part of Queen Elizabeth NP, but it’s a must-visit place in Uganda . If you are heading to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to visit the mountain gorillas, I would highly recommend staying in Ishasha for one night; definitely one of the coolest places to visit in Uganda.

During the hottest parts of the day, you have the highest chance to spot tree-climbing lions. It is supposed that lions climb these huge fig trees as a way of protecting themselves against the numerous biting tsetse flies on ground level and to view their potential prey grazing on the open plains. I was lucky enough to capture tree-climbing lions. It was one of my favorite sightings at Queen Elizabeth National Park. 

10. Equator Sign Kayabwe: a Fun Photo Stop

Uganda is one of the countries that is crossed by the equator that cuts mother earth into the Northern and Southern hemispheres. The most iconic equator crossing spot is in Kayabwe , located about 70 kilometers from Kampala and a fun place to visit in Uganda.

This widely-known landmark is often visited by tourists on the way to the national parks in Southwestern Uganda like Lake Mburo, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queen Elizabeth NP, and Mgahinga. Not the most beautiful place to visit in Uganda, but the  equator landmark is a fun photo stop to capture yourself standing with one leg in the Northern Hemisphere and the other leg in the Southern Hemisphere.

11. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Home of The Uganda Gorillas

Visiting the critically endangered mountain gorillas should be on every traveler's bucket list when traveling to Uganda. Gorilla trekking in Uganda is done in two national parks of which Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is Uganda’s main gorilla trekking destination .

It’s declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its ecological uniqueness and is home to roughly half of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park is an expensive activity, but an experience of a lifetime, and definitely one of the coolest and best things to do in Uganda . You need to be in good health for the Gorilla hike because you will be walking uphill and downhill through dense tropical rainforest. At times, the hike can be exhausting, but it's definitely worth the money and effort. To me, my favorite Uganda experience.

  RELATED: Read my Guide to Gorilla trekking in Uganda featuring everything you need to know to plan your gorilla safari .

I also wrote an article about my Gorilla Trekking Experience in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi and 9 things to do in the Nkuringo sector of Bwindi National Park (including visiting the Nkuringo Batwa Tribe).

Visit the Batwa Tribe

While you’re at Bwindi, I would highly recommend visiting the Batwa Tribe . Learning more about the Batwa is one of the cultural things to do in Uganda . These original inhabitants of the jungle of Bwindi are known as the ‘keepers of the forest’. They lived in harmony with Uganda's rainforest for years and survived by hunting small game using bows and arrows.

Sadly, they lost their traditional way of living. Nowadays, these impressive people share their stories, history, and cultural habits like traditional songs and dances with tourists. Seeing the Batwa Tribe is a great way of learning about their way of life and the history of Uganda.

12. Lake Bunyonyi; Africa's Switzerland

As you might know, Uganda offers a great diversity of landscapes. One of the most tranquil and beautiful places in Uganda is Lake Bunyonyi . This lake is located near the border of Rwanda in the South West of Uganda, a 2 to 3-hour drive from Bwindi. Lake Bunyonyi is believed to be the second-deepest lake in Africa (44 m-90 m).

The lake is known as the ‘ Switzerland of Africa ’ because of the surrounding green terraces, hills, and valleys. The lake contains at least 29 islands and is 25 kilometers long and 7 kilometers wide.

One of the most well-known islands with a notorious history is Akampene island, known as ‘ Punishment Island '. Unmarried pregnant girls were sent there to starve to death in the past. During our stay, we met the only living survivor, Ms. Mauda Kyitaragabirwe, who shared her story with us. She was only twelve years old when she was abandoned by her family.

Visiting several islands by boat is highly recommended. There are no hippos or crocodiles, and it’s bilharzia free, so it’s safe to swim in the lake. Besides relaxing or swimming, you can also choose to go canoeing in a dugout canoe or hiking through the hills and villages. For the best view of Lake Bunyonyi , you should go to Arcadia Lodge for a drink on their huge terrace.

13. Lake Mburo National Park: Best Uganda Sunset Views

Out of the 10 National Parks in Uganda, Lake Mburo is the smallest and the closest to the main towns of Kampala and Entebbe. This park offers endless views of wide-open Savannah landscapes with rolling hills and idyllic lake shores. It’s home to 350 bird species as well as more than 68 mammal species including buffalo, leopard, hyena, and jackal.

It’s also the only place in southern Uganda to see many Burchell zebras and the only park in the country with impalas. There are no lions and elephants in the park, but because of that, Lake Mburo is the best place for walking safaris and horse safaris in Uganda .

Visiting Lake Mburo is the perfect place to break up a long journey from the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Lake Bunyonyi to Kampala or Entebbe. In my opinion, this Ugandan National Park park is a bit underrated. I really loved the iconic sunset views over Lake Mburo .

14. Kampala: Uganda's City of 7 Hills

Kampala is the heart and soul of Uganda and must-visit when you travel to Uganda . Kampala is surrounded by many rolling hills ad borders Lake Victoria, which is known as the largest freshwater lake in Africa. The capital city of Uganda offers a variety of things to do and places to see, including the Uganda National Mosque that offers a panoramic view over the city after climbing 300 steps to the top of the minaret.

Other interesting tourist attractions in Kampala are the UNESCO Kasubi Tombs and Idi Amin's Torture Chambers on the grounds of Kabaka's Palace. Also don't miss out on the vibrant Owino Market and the Nakasero Food Market to taste the flavors of the Ugandan cuisine, including the famous 'Rolex'. You can cover most top sights on a one-day Walking Tour in Kampala or a sightseeing bus tour.

Want to learn more about Kampala, the city that never sleeps? I wrote the best things to do in Kampala with lots of Uganda Travel Tips , including fun activities, must-visit tourist attractions, and Kampala's lively nightlife scene.

15. Mabamba Swamp: Best Place to See The Shoebill in Uganda

Mabamba Swamp in Entebbe is a birdwatcher's paradise, known as one of the  best place to see the Shoebill in Uganda . Home to over 300 different bird species, the Mabamba Wetland offers a captivating ecosystem that draws bird lovers, nature enthusiasts, and wildlife photographers from around the globe to go on a Uganda safari to see the Shoebill Stork .

  RELATED: Read everything you need to know about Shoebill watching in Mabamba Swamp Uganda.

Uganda Safari Tours

Here are examples of safari trips to Uganda from 3-day Gorilla trekking tours to a complete 3-week Uganda itinerary showcasing the best places to see in Uganda:

Conclusion: The 15 Best Places to visit in Uganda

Here's the shortlist of the 15 best places to visit in Uganda :

• Jinja and Lake Victoria
• Kidepo Valley National Park
• Murchison Falls National Park
• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
• Kibale Forest National Park
• Crater Lake Area
• Bigodi Wetland Reserve
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Equator sign Kayabwe
• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Lake Bunyonyi
• Lake Mburo National Park
• Mabamba Swamp

If you want to include all these 15 places to your Uganda itinerary, you need a minimum of 3 weeks to explore Uganda. Do you only have 2 weeks for a safari in Uganda ? With only 2 weeks, I would opt for top tourist attractions in Uganda that include Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest for Chimpanzee Trekking, Queen Elizabeth for the Tree Climbing Lions, and Bwindi National Park for Gorilla Trekking, and via a lunch stop at Lake Bunyonyi to Lake Mburo. Depending on the departure of your flight from Entebbe Airport, it's possible to do an early morning boat tour in Mabamba Swamp to see the Shoebill.

Hopefully, this list of the 15 best places to visit in Uganda inspires you to create your Uganda itinerary. Feel free to reach out if you have any suggestions to add to this list, or if you have any questions about traveling to Uganda; the Pearl of Africa .

Curious about the best time to travel to Uganda? Read my articles about the best time to visit Uganda and Uganda weather by month .

If this article was helpful to you, you could help me in return by sharing this Uganda blog on your social channels or pinning this article with the best places to visit in Uganda for later use.

Must-see attractions in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Southwestern Uganda

Home to almost half the world’s surviving mountain gorillas, the World Heritage–listed Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of East Africa’s most…

Top of the Falls

Once described as the most spectacular thing to happen to the Nile along its 6700km length, the 50m wide Victoria Nile is squeezed here through a 6m gap…

Igongo Cultural Centre

Located 12km from Mbarara on the road to Kampala, this cultural village features the best museum displays in Uganda. Set on the grounds of a former palace…

Murchison Falls National Park

Uganda’s largest national park is one of its very best; animals are in plentiful supply and the raging Murchison Falls, where the Victoria Nile crashes…

Kidepo Valley National Park

Offering some of the most stunning scenery of any protected area in Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park is hidden away in a lost valley in the extreme…

Mengo Palace

Built in 1922, this small palace is the former home of the king of Buganda, though it has remained empty since 1966 when Prime Minister Milton Obote…

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

This sanctuary in Lake Victoria is home to around 50 orphaned chimps that have been rescued from elsewhere in Uganda and are being rehabilitated as much…

Eastern Uganda

Located 23km southeast of Entebbe in Lake Victoria, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, or 'Chimp Island', is home to over 40 orphaned or rescued…

Queen Elizabeth National Park

This fabulous national park is on nearly all itineraries, and while you'll never be far from other safari groups, you're guaranteed to see a large range…

Uganda Wildlife Education Centre

While it functions primarily as a zoo, this centre is actually a world-class animal refuge that has benefited from international assistance in recent…

Budongo Forest Reserve

The Budongo Forest Reserve is a large (825-sq-km) tract of virgin tropical forest on the southern fringes of Murchison Falls National Park. Its main…

Taks Centre

It's worth popping into this happening community arts centre to see what's on, whether it be an art exhibition, fireside chat or cultural performance…

32° East Ugandan Arts Trust

This centre for Ugandan contemporary artists includes exhibit space, a library, workspace and resource centre. It is in the process of moving to a nearby…

Kibale Forest National Park

The 795-sq-km Kibale National Park is a lush tropical rainforest, believed to have the highest density of primates in Africa. It's most famous for being…

Mt Elgon National Park

Spread out over the slopes of a massive extinct volcano, Mt Elgon National Park is a good place to spot various primates and lots of birds, including the…

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

The smallest of Uganda’s national parks (34 sq km), Mgahinga punches well above its weight. Tropical rainforest cloaks three dramatic extinct volcanoes…

Rwenzori Mountains National Park

The legendary, mist-covered Rwenzori Mountains were named a World Heritage Site by Unesco in 1994 because of both their beauty and biodiversity. It’s the…

Source of the Nile River

The birthplace of the mighty Nile river (or one of them anyway…), here the water spills out of Lake Victoria on its journey to the Mediterranean flowing…

Kihingami Wetlands Sanctuary

This eco-tourism site, set up with the help of Fort Portal’s Kabarole Tours, preserves an attractive 13-sq-km valley that otherwise would have been…

Nabugoye Synagogue

An unexpected find in this neck of the woods, the synagogue is a simple, yet appealing, rustic red-brick building (with plans to revamp). The Jewish…

Kasubi Tombs

The Unesco World Heritage–listed Kasubi Tombs are of great significance to the Buganda kingdom as the burial place of its kings and royal family. The huge…

Lake Mburo National Park

The 370-sq-km Lake Mburo National Park is an increasingly common stop on the safari circuit. It’s the only place in southern Uganda to see zebra and…

Tooro Botanical Garden

Fort Portal

These homegrown botanical gardens have a lot of well-signed indigenous plants and trees, as well as an organic farming project growing herbs, flowers,…

Bwama & Njuyeera (Sharp’s) Islands

Lake Bunyonyi

Many boat drivers will take you to these islands, where British missionary Dr Leonard Sharp founded a leper colony and settled in 1921, but the story is…

Great Lakes Museum

Along the highway on approach to Kabale, keep an eye out for this museum. It has a varied collection of artefacts and masks, information on clans, and…

Nabajjuzi Wetlands

Just out of Masaka on the way to Mbarara, these Ramsar site–listed wetlands offer excellent opportunities to spy two of Uganda’s most elusive animals: the…

Source of the Nile Gardens

On the western bank of the river you'll find the pleasant Source of the Nile Gardens and Speke Monument – a pillar commemorating where the British…

Kyahugye Island

Run by Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort, this 35-acre island is worth a visit if you want to see to wildlife such as zebra, waterbuck, ipala and kob up close. All…

Uganda Reptiles Village

Get up close to some of the world's deadliest snakes, including mambas, cobras, puff adders and vipers, as well as chameleons, crocs and lizards, all of…

Afriart Gallery

This classy little gallery features works by serious local artists. Downstairs has changing monthly exhibits, while upstairs is a permanent collection,…

Mugusu Market

The Wednesday market, 11km south of Fort Portal, is the largest market in the west and attracts traders from all over, including many from the DRC selling…

Nyero Rock Paintings

Uganda's oldest rock-art site, with six panels painted on the granite outcrop of Moru Ikara. Figures include concentric circles, zebra, canoes and people…

Makerere Art Gallery

Small, but definitely worth a visit, with fascinating monthly exhibitions; check the website for events. There are also some cool sculptures on the…

Kampala Hindu Temple

Right in the city centre, this temple has elaborate towers and a swastika-emblazoned gate. Peek inside to see the unexpected dome.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The Big Five are back. In 2005, Rhino Fund Uganda opened this private 70-sq-km reserve, 170km northwest of Kampala, about 30 years after poachers shot the…

Parliament House

Open to the public, a visit to parliament is an interesting way to spend an hour or two. You can either tour the building or see the government in action …

The interesting village of Katwe on the north shore of Lake Edward, 4km west of Main gate (Kabatoro gate), is famous for its salt industry. Salt mining on…

Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine

Located in Namugongo, this shrine marks the spot where Kabaka Mwanga II ordered the execution of 14 Catholics who refused to denounce their faith,…

Tooro Palace

Looking down at town from its highest hill, the palace is worth a visit purely for its 360-degree panoramic views. It’s the residence of King Oyo, who…

Uganda Museum

There’s plenty to interest you here with a varied and well-captioned ethnographic collection covering clothing, hunting, agriculture, medicine, religion…

More destinations you need to see

The 15 top tourist attractions in Uganda you need to visit

Aside from all the negative press, Uganda used to get in the past decade, this beautiful but rather small landlocked country in the Eastern part of Africa has emerged as one of the best African safari destinations .

From tracking gorillas in Bwindi impenetrable National park to seeing tree-climbing lions on a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National park, there are so many tourist attractions in Uganda that shouldn’t be missed.

Also, known as the Pearl of Africa, Uganda has amazing wildlife, incredible landscapes, amazing scenery, diverse cultures, a great climate all year round, and above all the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

Whether you’re traveling to the country for a short business trip or a long and adventurous trip, here are the best places to visit in Uganda for an ultimate African safari.

The top tourist attractions in Uganda

1. bwindi impenetrable national park.

Home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas (approximately 400 within the park), Bwindi Impenetrable National park located on the edge of the rift valley in the Southwestern region of the country is one of the best national parks in Uganda.

For travelers that have always wanted to track gorillas, Bwindi offers an impeccable experience of getting up close and personal with the endangered mountain gorillas.

Other than tracking gorillas which is the highlight of visiting Bwindi impenetrable national park (and Uganda as a whole) and enjoying the impressive biodiversity, the park offers breathtaking flora and fauna – harboring over 120 species of mammals, 348 bird species, 220 species of butterflies and over 1000 flowering species. All this and the ecological importance that Bwindi national park posses led it to be enlisted as a Unesco site.

Pro tip* You will be required to purchase a gorilla tracking permit from Uganda wildlife Authority (UWA) prior to your safari since only 8 people are allowed to track a specific mountain gorilla group. Also, the gorilla tracking safari can take anywhere between one to eight hours depending on where the gorillas slept the previous night.

But if you don’t want the hustles of planning your trip, here are some of the gorilla tracking tours you can join to experience one of the most incredible adventures in Africa .

2. Queen Elizabeth National park

Spanning districts of Kasese, Rukungiri, Kamwenge, and Rubiririzi in the western region of Uganda and approximately 400km south-west of Kampala, Queen Elizabeth National park is one of the best national parks in Africa and one of the most visited in the country.

A safari in Queen Elizabeth national park never disappoints as it lives up to its reputation of offering an amazing flora and fauna – with an impressive lush of vegetation, a number of crater lakes and the famous tree-climbing lions.

The park has a diverse ecosystem which includes the beautiful crater lakes beneath the park’s hills creating breathtaking views, savanna grasslands, ishaha plains whose trees are the resting places of the lions, views of the Kazinga channel which is filled with hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and buffalos on its banks.

In addition to boasting about the 95 mammal species that call Queen Elizabeth home, it also has over 612 species of birds to cater to bird lovers making Queen Elizabeth national park one of the major tourist places in Uganda.

3 . Murchison Falls National park

Harboring the glorious Murchison Falls, Murchison Falls National park is the largest national park in Uganda spanning an area of 3,840 square kilometers. It is located 283 km north-west of Kampala which is Uganda’s capital.

Murchison Falls is a breathtaking sight as the Nile river water gushes through a 7-meter rocky gorge creating a beautiful musical but thunderous sound – a feature that makes it the most powerful waterfall in the world.

The park together with its neighboring surroundings forms the Murchison Falls Conservation Area (MFCA) which is endowed with a lot of animals including but not limited to lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, Uganda cob, and bush backs. And along the shores of the Nile, hippopotamus, and crocodiles can be spotted.

On top of that, the park also houses over 400 bird species making it one of the beautiful places in Uganda, not only to get a glimpse of the African animals and birds but also the most impressive waterfall in the country.

And Since Murchison falls national park covers a huge part of Budongo Forest, a haven for Chimpanzees, Chimpanzee tracking which is the second exciting tracking adventure after gorilla tracking is possible.

Pro tip* The beauty of the mighty Murchison falls can be enjoyed from anywhere around the falls but to appreciate it even more and get into close proximity with the splashing water of the falls, hop onto a boat cruise along the Nile and your mind will be blown away.

4. The source of River Nile

River Nile is the longest river in the world and seeing it’s origin is a must when you travel to Uganda. A visit to the pearl of Africa is not complete if you don’t see the source of the Nile as it is one of the major Uganda tourist attractions.

Located in the Eastern part of Uganda in Jinja town approximately 80 km from Kampala, the source of the Nile is one of the most visited places in Uganda receiving a number of tourists from far and near to experience this incredible landmark.

One of the incredible features to look out for are the bubbles at the exact spot (source) which indicates that water comes from the underground which later spreads to other parts. And according to John Speke, the first European Explorer, It is believed that actually 30% of the Nile water comes from the underground at the “source”.

And after seeing the Nile and it’s source, explore Jinja town which is like Uganda’s “summer” destination packed with adventurous activities like White water rafting on the Nile, Kayaking, Quad biking, and many other fun adrenaline activities.

5. Kampala city

Located in the heart of Uganda, Kampala comes up as the most diverse city in the country accommodating millions of people from different tribal ethnics. Being the capital, it’s the most developed city in the country and over the years, many western cultures have been adapted making it a fun city to explore and one of the interesting places to visit in Uganda.

The city offers so many places to see that shouldn’t be missed out if you want to learn about Kampala and the locals in-depth. Some of the places to visit in Kampala include but not limited to;

• Kampala downtown: Get the feel of the real-life of the locals, the markets, the taxis parks, the chaos, the liveliness and how local businesses are carried out.
• Places of worship: Gadaffi Mosque also known as the Old Kampala mosque which is the biggest mosque in the country and also the National Mosque, Namirembe cathedral which is the provincial Cathedral for the Church of Uganda ( known as protestants), and Lubaga cathedral which is the provincial cathedral for the Roman Catholics in the country.
• Temples; The Bahai Temple and Shree Swaminarayan Temple.
• The Uganda independence monument;
• Historical places in Uganda like the Buganda kingdom palace, The Kasubi Tombs and so many others

These are just some of the many tourist attractions in Uganda that you can’t afford to miss while exploring this bustling city of Kampala.

6. Lake Victoria

Known as the birthplace of the longest river in the world, the Nile, Lake Victoria is not only one of the country’s landmarks but also one of the top Uganda tourist places.

With a surface area of approximately 59,947 square kilometers, Lake Victoria is not only Africa’s largest lake by area but also the largest tropical lake in the world. It is also the world’s second-largest freshwater lake by surface area just after North America’s Lake Superior.

Lake victoria boats itself with incredible natural beauty from amazing islands, breathtaking sunsets & sunrises, incredible views to the fresh cool breezes. It is also blessed with over 200 fish species and around 350 bird species across the lake region.

Since the lake is spread across the country, there are a number of places to enjoy Victoria but one of the coolest areas is in Entebbe town. A visit to the Entebbe botanical gardens guarantees the utmost relaxation from the cool breeze and a chance to spot some of the Lake’s birds. Other Ugandan locations where you can have a glance at Lake Victoria include Jinja, a town in the Eastern part of Uganda, Ssese islands, a group of beautiful islands on the lake and so many other places.

7. The Equator

Uganda is blessed to be one of the few countries where the equator passes. Located just 72 km from Kampala, visiting the equator can be treated as a stopover activity as it is on the way to some of the tourist sites in Uganda like Queen Elizabeth  National park or Bwindi impenetrable National park along Kampala – Masaka Highway in Kayabwe, Mpigi district.

So you basically get to ticket off a number of places in Uganda on the same trip and at the same time take the iconic photo of you standing right in the middle of the Equator landmark – talk about being in both the southern and northern hemispheres at the same time with just the imaginary line of the Equator cutting across.

While at the Equator, try out the exciting water experiment to see how water swirls in opposite directions when poured at different spots of the northern and southern hemispheres.

8. Kidepo Valley National park

Located in the Karamoja region in NorthEast Uganda, Kidepo Valley national park is one of the most remote and isolated National parks in Uganda and it’s only those that embark on the 700 km journey from Kampala can truly testify that it is one of (if not) the best Uganda wildlife safari.

Spanning an area of 1,442 square kilometers, Kidepo is a rugged savannah in the semi-arid valleys between Uganda’s borders with Sudan and Kenya cut across by the Kidepo and Narus Rivers.

Since the park is very isolated, it still has that wilderness virgin charm that can’t be found anywhere in Uganda. With a combination of the savannah landscape, mountainous features, and flowing water bodies, Kidepo national park is undeniably the best safari in Uganda.

With over 77 mammal species and approximately 475 bird species, Kidepo valley national park not only offers amazing game drives and bird watching extravaganza but also nature and bush walks to get up close with Uganda’s wildlife.

If game driving in the rugged savannah vegetation of Kidepo doesn’t inspire you to embark on this off the beaten path, then the cultural visits to the Karamoja villages should, in order to learn more about the culture, history and the way of life of the Karamajongs plus the IK people whose tribe is one of the oldest in the country.

9. Mt. Elgon National park

Home to the oldest extinct volcano in East Africa, Mt. Elgon National park is popular for the 4,321 m high mountain where it derived its name. It is located in Mbale split between Uganda and Kenya with the Ugandan side covering a surface area of 1,110 square kilometers while the Kenyan part is only 169 square kilometers.

The prime reason for visiting Mt. Elgon national park in Uganda is to climb Mt. Elgon and possibly reach its highest peak of Wagagai which stands at an elevation of 4,321 above sea level.

Mt. Elgon is a great option for hikers since even beginners can step up to the challenge due to the lower elevation and mild climate compared to its counterparts of Mt. Rwenzori or even Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

Aside from taking in the incredible views and reaching the highest peak of Wagagai (this is like a moment of victory), Mt. Elgon national park has an impressive landscape that keeps changing for each altitude reached. From the mixed-bamboo forest, lush Montana, the worldly uncommon plant species like the large Lobelia, to the beautiful wildflowers. The mesmerizing caldera, caves, and water bodies (with one shaped in the map of Africa) are some of the other beautiful features to see while trekking your way up the mountain.

While wild animals are rare to spot in Mt. Elgon National park, a few that call this park home (though at the lower slopes) include Elephants, Buffalos, antelopes, many types of monkeys including the red-tailed ones, black and white colobus plus the blue monkeys. The park is also endowed with a number of different tree species which amount to at least 144 and half of Uganda’s butterfly species are recorded to be in Mt. Elgon National park. All this certainly proves that Mt, Elgon national park is one of the best tourist attractions in Uganda.

10. Sipi Falls

Just located next to Mountain Elgon national park, Sipi falls whose named was derived from the wild banana plant that grows nearby is one of the best places to visit in Uganda for spectacular views and a good splash of water.

It is a collection of 3 falls dotted in the Kapchworwa region on the border of Mt. Elgon national park with each flowing at a different altitude.

Hiking up the falls gives spectacular views of the Karamoja low lands, Lake Kyoga and the coffee plantations in the area.

Pro tip*  Since the Falls are located just at the foothills of Mt. Elgon National park, a visit to the Sipi falls can be easily combined with that of Mt. Elgon. This can either be done before or after but since the falls give a more relaxed and calm vibe, it is better to visit them after a great 4 days climb of the mountain.

11. Ziwa rhino sanctuary

Located 176 km (100 miles) north of Kampala on the Gulu highway in Nakasongola district, Ziwa rhino sanctuary is home to the only wild rhinos in Uganda.

With 22 southern white rhinos, Ziwa rhino sanctuary has become one of the popular Uganda destinations to see rhinos in the country. What makes a visit to the Ziwa rhino sanctuary even more exciting is that you get to do an on-foot rhino trekking tour as the tour guides lead you to the African bushes to have a close encounter with the endangered white rhinos.

Ziwa rhino sanctuary is not just about tracking rhinos (do not let the name mislead you), it also has some other smaller animals like Uganda kobs, Bush backs, waterbucks and others. It’s prime location and the landscape is also great for bird watching and taking nature walks.

Pro tip* Since the Ziwa rhino sanctuary is just off the road that leads to Murchison falls, you can combine both of these safaris in just one trip to save time and money.

12. Lake Bunyonyi

Regarded as one of the honeymoon holiday destinations in Uganda, the beauty that Lake Bunyoni offers cannot be compared to anywhere else in the country. Lake Bunyonyi translated as a “lake of many little birds” is located in south-western Uganda between Kisoro and Kibale and it is believed to be the second deepest lake in Africa.

With a collection of 29 islands surrounded by steep terraced hillsides, well – maintained resorts, calm and quiet environment with the only noise coming from the singing birds, no wonder Lake Bunyonyi is where most travelers in Uganda head to get some peace and quiet after jam-packed safaris in the country as it is one of the most beautiful places in Uganda.

In addition to providing spectacular views, a number of activities can be done at Lake Bunyonyi; from boat canoeing, zip-lining across the lake, resort hopping to swimming in the crystal clear waters – it is perfectly safe to swim in since it has no hippos, crocs or even bilharzia.

So if you were looking for things to do in Uganda to get away from it all, then visiting Lake Bunyonyi will serve you just that and more.

13. Mt. Rwenzori National park

Located in western Uganda at the Uganda- Congo border, Mt Rwenzori National park harbors the snow-capped mountain of Rwenzori which is also referred to as the “Mountains of the moon”

Mt. Rwenzori may not be a volcanic mountain like other major mountains in East Africa, but it is definitely one of the Uganda places to visit for an incredible hike.

Standing at a height of 5,109m above sea level, Margherita is the highest peak on the mountain that makes tourists travel from far and near to conquer this Ugandan giant.

Apart from the incredible and challenging hiking trails, Mt Rwenzori national park which is also enlisted as a UNESCO world heritage site offers breathtaking views of the different landscape that changes with the altitude. From the land terrain, plant life of sub-montane vegetation, luxurious tropical evergreen forest to the incredible snowcapped peaks.

Bird watching, lounging on the foothills of Rwenzori, hiking and cultural exchanges are some of the incredible things to do in Mt. Rwenzori national park.

14. Ssese islands

If you’re looking for what to do in Uganda, then a visit to the Ssese islands will be fulfilling and relaxing. Located in the northwestern part of Lake Victoria in Uganda, Ssese islands are an archipelago of 84 beautiful islands that all differ in size and landscape but each remaining incredibly beautiful in each own way.

The Ssese islands are some of the major tourist attractions in Uganda that you can visit to unwind, relax, enjoy the white sand beaches, and participate in a number of water activities. When you want to get away from it all, the crazy noise of the city, the wildlife, Ssese islands will give you that escape route.

15. The wildlife Education center- Entebbe zoo

Having been listed as the best zoo in East and Central Africa,  Uganda Wildlife Education Center is one of the best places to visit in Uganda. It harbors most of the wild animals especially those that may have been rescued from animal traffickers and poachers.

The wildlife Education center is located just outside of Entebbe town perfect for a visit if you want to see the African animals but you don’t have enough time to visit some of the national parks in Uganda for an ultimate safari.

A visit to the Entebbe zoo will guarantee you a close-up encounter with the chimpanzees or even a guided tour to see the lions, white rhinos, leopards, zebras, and many other animals.

There you have it folks – that was the list of the major tourist attractions in Uganda. It is by no means exhaustive but if you were looking for things to do in Uganda, I hope this post gave you a number of options to consider.

Have you been to any of these Uganda attractions? What was your experience? Share with us in the comment section plus other places in Uganda that could be high on your bucket list but haven’t yet visited.

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26 Comments

I HAVE A SCHOOL PROJECT ABOUT OTHER COUNTRIES CULTURE AND THANK YOU SSOOOOOOO MUCH

Oh I am glad you got to learn about Uganda and its culture from my post. I hope your school project goes well.

I never knew Uganda offered so much! Now I want to go! Thank you for sharing!

Uganda has so much to offer, more than i could even fit in one post. I really hope you visit one time, you will be amazed

I had no idea that Uganda has so many beautiful attractions. Glad to know that it is blessed with so many splendid National Parks. Adding it to my wishlist!

Yes it has a lot – i might have left out some few but its definitely a must see if you are into wildlife and nature

Wow I have never bee to Uganda. Your blog post made me want to pack my bags and leave NOW! totally enjoyed the pictures too. Keep sharing 🙂

Thank you so much Anna. I am so happy, i’ve given you some inspiration to travel to Uganda. I hope you can travel there some time, you will love it. And i will definitely keep sharing- I hope i can inspire you more and more

I just wonder what I would like more. Seeing the life of locals or wildlife. I think Uganda is one of the best places for wildlife photography. But I am always more interested in people in every place I go.

I just wonder what I would like more. Seeing life of locals or wildlife. I think Uganda is one of the best places for wildlife photography. But

Trust me, you would like both and you would fail to choose the best. But if you are a wild life photographer, you would be so excited to see the wild life, its amazing.

What a great list of things to do in Uganda. Personally, my favourites would be the wildlife (which is most of them to be honest) but who could resist a picture opportunity at the Equator?

The wildlife in Uganda is amazing and enormous. It is not surprising that it is the most tourist attraction in Uganda. And of course who wouldn’t want a picture at the Equator.

Uganda has come a long way!

There sure are so many activities to do, places to visit and experiences to be had right?

Thank you for sharing this with us ?

Thank you for appreciating. Yes right, there are so many things to see and do in uganda

Wow, so much nature and wildlife in Uganda! I’m quite curious about the tracking gorillas… Sounds like it could be an incredible experience. Thanks for sharing this about your country!

Gorilla trekking is an amazing experience – one of the highlights of traveling to Uganda for many tourists.

Uganda is so full of life. The sheer number of national parks bears testimony to that. But I am happy to see that Kampala can be an ideal spot to take things slow and experience some great Ugandan history and culture. Do you have a blog on some of the must-try food in Uganda? Would love to read that too.

Kampala is full of diversity, tops the list in the country. I don’t have any post about food in kampala currently , but you have just given me a great idea. I am definitely going to write one as soon as possible. Thank you.

Very interesting. I never knew all these things about Uganda – that it’s the source of the Nile and about the impenetrable forest. Sometimes I wish humans would leave those poor gorillas alone instead of making them a tourist attraction. Then again, that goes for all wildlife.

Uganda is rich in beauty and magnificent wildlife. I did not know that the Nile started in Uganda. Kampala sounds quite cosmopolitan.

Yes Uganda has the source of the Nile. Kampala is a very interesting city, like a mixture of western and traditional

Uganda sounds like the perfect balance between enjoy nature, wildlife and some local culture in the cities too. It’s a wonder it hasn’t been on my list yet!

It is victor, with so many places to go on safari and at the same time many places to relax and connect with the locals. Indeed it is a perfect balance, there is always something for everyone .You should add it on the list already.

Great start Esy .Made some of our lives easier and challenge to explore the beauty of the magnificent world….

Thanks Ritah. Yes the world is so beautiful not to explore it!!

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Explore Uganda

The Pearl of Africa is blessed with an undeniable natural beauty. In the west, the Rwenzori peaks reach towards the sky, the perfect challenge for bold explorers. Across the nation, parks are home to some of the world’s most exotic animals: Silverbacks, lions and countless others, ooh… Uganda is home to Africa’s big 7.

Winding roads lead to places of grand beauty and unique cultures for those who dare to explore.  There’s a story at every turn, especially from our people, who are renowned for their warmth and charm.

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Guide to Uganda – A Complete Reference Guide for Uganda

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Let’s get exploring Uganda! Find information on where to go, top things to see and do, where to stay, how to get here and getting around, travel tips, and more.

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On this guide find about Uganda’s rich history, people and culture, geography, weather and climate, politics and governance, money and currency, and more.

In our exclusive directory find out the different places including restaurants, hotels and safari lodges, foreign exchange bureaus, banks, places of worship, etc. Looking for a travel service provider? Find listings of recommended tour operators, travel agencies, airline brokers, car rental companies, and more. In our reference guide find recommended guide books, food recipes, and places where African items can be purchased.

About Uganda

Uganda is a beautiful country located astride the Equator. The country lies in the East African Region. It lies between the longitudes 29 ½° East and 35° East and between latitudes 4 ½° North and ½° South, at an altitude of about 1,100 meters above sea- level. The nation covers a total area of 236,580sq.Km.

The country is bordered by the Republic of South Sudan (to the North) and the Republic of Kenya to the East. To the West, the nation is bordered by the Democratic Republic of Congo and the United Republic of Tanzania, and the Republic of Rwanda to the South.

The country is one of the most bio-diverse in Africa with varied vegetation and climate zones. It shares a region where the East African savannah meets the West African jungle which makes it one of the prime locations for African safaris. You can easily see lions prowling the plains in the bright morning and track chimpanzees through the forest the same afternoon.

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Uganda has many amazing places that are worthy of exploring. From cities and towns to interesting touristic places, there are many exciting destinations to visit in Uganda.

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Things to Do

• Bird Watching

There are lots of things to do in Uganda. Tourists are drawn to Uganda to engage in various adventure activities that include both active adventures and leisure tours.

• Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
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28 Brilliant Things To Do In Uganda

Uganda! A country of rolling green hills, misty valleys and craggy mountains. Where lions stalk their prey through grasslands, hippos soak lazily in the shallows, and mountain gorillas move purposefully though tangled forests. Where the calm waters of Lake Victoria transform into the thundering rapids of the River Nile as it makes its way across Africa.

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Less well-known, less-well travelled, but no less enchanting than its East African neighbours, Uganda is a country of surprises and highlights .  But you already know that, otherwise you wouldn’t be reading this blog. You’re here because you’re thinking of going – or perhaps you’ve already booked your trip – and you want to know what are the top things to do in Uganda . Well you’ve absolutely come to the right place.

If you follow this blog you’ll know I spent four months living and working in Uganda , so I got to know the country pretty well. During that time I took the opportunity to visit as many of the tourist attractions in Uganda as possible, and at the end of the trip I did a big two-week Uganda adventure , taking in all of the country’s main highlights.

And now I’ve compiled them all into a list. I’ve personally visited, experienced, blogged about and photographed every single one of these things , and written about some of them for Lonely Planet , so you can rest assured these recommendations are as real and honest as it gets.

So here, in no particular order, is my list of the 28 Best Things To Do In Uganda.

1/ Chimpanzee Trekking

If you’ve read other blogs about Uganda, you may already know that this is one of the last places in the world where you can see the critically endangered mountain gorillas. But far less well-known is the fact that you can also spend time and hanging out with our closest relatives: chimpanzees. These guys might not get as much of the glory as their larger neighbours, but visiting them is just as thrilling an experience, and costs a fraction of the price.

Several of Uganda’s parks and forests, including Kibale Forest and Queen Elizabeth National Park, have habituated chimpanzee families, which have been gently trained to tolerate the presence of humans. A chimpanzee tracking experience can be a half or full day, during which you’ll hike through the forest to find the group, before spending time observing them in the wild. If you’re lucky enough to get close to them, as I did, it’s truly breathtaking. It’s definitely one of the top things to do in Uganda.

Read More:  Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale

2/ Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

That’s not to say that you shouldn’t also visit the gorillas if you’re able to. There are only about 880 mountain gorillas left in the world, of which about half live in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. That means the chance to see them is extremely rare, and is the main reason why this is the number one tourist attraction in Uganda.

Like visiting the chimpanzees, gorilla trekking involves hiking through thick jungle to find your allocated gorilla family – one of just a handful which have been habituated to the presence of humans. Once you’ve found them, you’ll spend a magical hour observing these magnificent creatures in the wild.

The price tag may be eye-watering ($600 last time I updated this blog post) and the going can sometimes be a bit challenging, but when are you ever going to come back to Uganda or have the chance again?

Read More: Gorilla Trekking in Rainy Season

3/ Wildlife Safaris

Uganda may not have the cachet of Tanzania’s Serengeti or Kenya’s Masai Mara, but wildlife spotting is still one of the top tourist attractions in Uganda, and there are more than enough safari animals here to delight even the most discerning of connoisseurs. What’s more, because Uganda is less crowded, you’ll more than likely have the animals all to yourself – and it’s cheaper too!

Uganda has 10 national parks, which are collectively home to more than 350 different mammals, including lions, leopards, hippos, elephants, giraffes, zebras, hyenas and buffalos, as well as over 1000 species of birds . Safaris can be organised through one of Uganda’s many safari companies, or though a small group travel company like G Adventures .

Read more: 46 Amazing African Safari Animals – A Photo Guide

4/ Queen Elizabeth National Park

The largest and many would say the best of Uganda’s National Parks, Queen Elizabeth is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Uganda. Located on the western border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, and right on the equator, the park covers nearly 2000 square kilometres and is home to all of Uganda’s wildlife big-hitters. If you only have time to visit one park, make it this one.

You can easily fill a couple of days here with game drives: try an evening drive to spot elephants feeding or big cats on their way out to hunt, and then get up before dawn to enjoy the sunrise and see the hippos returning to the water after a night grazing. At night, sleep in a safari tent so you can hear the sounds of the park at night as you drift off, and if you’re lucky your camp might even receive a nocturnal visitor or two – a slightly terrifying but exhilarating experience.

Read More:  The Amazing Animals Of Uganda: A Photo Guide

5/ Kazinga Channel Boat Trip

While you’re in Queen Elizabeth National Park it would be a mistake not to do a boat trip on the Kazinga Channel, a 20-mile-long shallow river that flows between Lake George and Lake Edward. Animals of all shapes and sizes come down to the water’s edge to drink and bathe, so on any given day you’re guaranteed to see everything from elephants, hippos and buffalos, to – if you’re lucky – a pride of lions. 

The beauty of wildlife spotting by boat is that the animals don’t seem to be bothered by its presence, meaning you can get much closer than you might be able to by car. On a sunny day a lazy boat journey down any river is a wonderful thing, but when you add in more wildlife than you’ll have room for on your memory card, this particular journey becomes one the best tourist attractions in Uganda.

Kazinga Channel boat trips last two hours and cost around $30 per person. Top blog tip: if you can, sit on the left hand side, as that’s the one closer to the shore.

Read more:  A Boat Trip on the Kazinga Channel

6/ Great Rift Valley

As well as amazing wildlife, Uganda boasts some of the most stunning landscapes to be found anywhere in Africa. The country sits on the Great Rift Valley, a vast crack in the earth’s crust created as two tectonic plates move apart from one another, creating an enormous 4000-mile long trench that’s widening by a few centimetres every year. Over millions of years, as the continent slowly tears itself in two, these powerful forces have formed dramatic peaks and troughs, creating some of the highest mountains (including Uganda’s Rwenzori mountains), violent volcanoes, and some of the deepest lakes in Africa (Lake Victoria, for example).

You’ll glimpse the effects of the Great Rift as you travel throughout Western Uganda. From the many huge lakes, to the vast flat plain of the rift itself, to the peaks of the surrounding mountains, these are views you won’t forget in a hurry.

Read More:  19 Wildlife Photography Tips for Beginners

7/ Volcanic Craters

Thanks to all that volcanic activity , Uganda is home to some spectacular craters and crater lakes. Millions of years ago all this scenery would have been scorched and black, but today the fertile volcanic soil has given life to rolling green landscapes dotted with sparkling water holes. There’s something extra special about the perfectly round shape and sharp outline of a crater lake, and the way the water, unruffled by  currents and sheltered from the wind, reflects the sky as sharp as a mirror.

There are stunning craters and crater lakes all across Western Uganda, but the best ones are the Katwe Craters in Queen Elizabeth National Park – do a late afternoon crater drive to really see them at their sparkling best. Or, if your budget will stretch, try spending a night at either Crater Safari Lodge in Kibale, or at Kyaniga Lodge in Fort Portal: both are stunning luxury hotels perched right on the edge of crater lakes with views to die for.

8/ Tree-climbing Lions in Ishasha

Another thing that Queen Elizabeth National Park is well-known for is its tree-climbing lions. These are not a unique subspecies of lion – all lions can climb trees – but this particular park happens to have some very climbable trees, and the lions here aren’t slow to take advantage.

The wonderful thing about lions in trees is they’re much easier to spot and photograph. Hidden in tall, dry grasses at ground level, a lion is virtually invisible, but up in a tree he’s on full display, and likely to rest there for several hours. When one is spotted the rangers let each other know, so as long as he doesn’t wake up and head off to hunt before you get to his location, you’ll have a good chance of spotting him.

To see the tree-climbing lions, simply drive to the Ishasha sector of the park, ask every car you pass if they’ve seen a lion, and keep your eyes peeled!

Read more: Queen Elizabeth National Park Uganda: Is It Overhyped?

9/ Murchison Falls National Park

Located about five hours’ drive north of Kampala, Murchison Falls is Uganda’s largest national park: a massive 4000 square kilometres. Not only does it boast about 500 bird and 75 mammal species, it’s also home to the most powerful waterfall in the world. Murchison Falls is where the River Nile , the world’s longest river, squeezes its entire force through a tiny 6-metre crack and plunges over a 43-metre drop at 300 cubic metres per second. Which is pretty noisy and impressive to behold, and is what makes it another of the top tourist attractions in Uganda.

There are two ways to see Murchison Falls – and I highly recommend you do both. Take a boat trip along the Nile to see the Bottom of the Falls, front on, and then either hike up, or take the boat back and drive up to the Top of the Falls to see the churning, tumbling water close up. Later you can do a game drive in the park to spot giraffes, antelopes, hyenas or elephants, before relaxing in one of the area’s many safari lodges.

Read more:  What To Do In Murchison Falls National Park

10/ Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

If you’re heading from Kampala up to Murchison Falls, don’t miss Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary on your way through. Located just three hours from the capital (so it’s also doable in a weekend), Ziwa is the only place in Uganda to see rhinos in the wild – and not just see them, but get extremely close to them.

Because of poaching, rhinos became extinct in Uganda in 1983.  Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was set up 15 years later to reintroduce them.  They started with just six animals, but thanks to a successful breeding programme they now have 22, with more on the way.

You can see the rhinos by taking a guided walk with an armed ranger. These last about two hours and cost $45 per person for a non-Ugandan. If two hours isn’t enough for you, you can also stay overnight in the park.

Read more:  A Visit To Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

11/ Go Hiking In Sipi Falls

Situated at 1,775 m above sea level in the foothills of Mount Elgon in Eastern Uganda close to the border with Kenya, Sipi Falls is a relaxed hill town that makes a great location for a weekend break away from Kampala. Thanks to its fresh mountain air, rolling hills and craggy cliffs it’s popular with adventure enthusiasts, especially hikers, climbers, and hill runners.

The area gets its name from three pretty waterfalls – and a hike to see them, which takes the best part of a day, is the area’s main attraction. But there are plenty of other outdoor adventures to be had too, from tours of the local coffee plantations, to birdwatching walks, to hill running, to rock climbing on one of 14 bolted sport routes and even abseiling down the side of the main 100m waterfall – which I didn’t do because it sounds terrifying!

Read More: What To Do In Sipi Falls

12/ Kampala

Although most people come to Uganda for the wildlife and scenery, most trips will start or end in Kampala, and no guide to things to do would be complete without mentioning it.

Kampala has a reputation for being noisy, dirty and crowded, but it’s also the beating heart of the country: full of vibrancy, hustle and bustle, noise and colour. Originally built on seven hills, and now sprawling out over many more, Kampala can be confusing to navigate, but the centre is compact and well-organised, with plenty to see and do for a day or two.

Learn about Uganda’s history and the brutal regime of Idi Amin at Mengo Palace, also known as Kabaka Palace – where you can see Amin’s chilling former torture chambers – or check out the last resting place of the former Kings of Buganda at the Kasubi Tombs. Stroll along Parliament Avenue to take in some of the best colonial architecture, shop for souvenirs or African art in one of the many craft markets and art galleries, or avoid the traffic by hopping on the back of a boda-boda (moped taxi) and whizzing across the city (not for the faint-hearted, but an excellent and cheap way to get around).

Read More: Top Weekend Trips From Kampala

13/ Kampala Mosque

A popular thing to see in Kampala is the Old Kampala National Mosque . This stately yellow building with its cluster of copper domes is the 5 th largest mosque in Africa, with space for around 16,000 people all praying together. The huge prayer hall is decorated with stained glass from Italy, an enormous blue and red woven carpet, and intricate chandeliers from Egypt. If you’re feeling energetic, try climbing the 306 steps to the top of the minaret for stunning views of the city spread out in all directions – the  perfect way to get your bearings and take in the size of the city from a peaceful vantage point.

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14/ Kampala Bars and Restaurants

When you’ve had your fill of sightseeing, it’s time to enjoy Kampala’s main attraction: its nightlife. The city is known as the party capital of East Africa, so much so that visitors regularly come from Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda to party the weekend away.

Kampala is divided into districts, each with its own vibe. The main party area is along Acacia Avenue: here you’ll find popular local favourites including  Bubbles O’Leary’s Irish Pub , Big Mike’s bar and nightclub, Kurb bar which sometimes hosts live music, and a little further up the road is Cayenne , which has a restaurant, a poolside bar, and a dancefloor.

Outside the city centre, Kabalagala is known for being a slightly more seedy area, but it still has a few quirky options including Deuces, and Café Cheri. Or head up the road to Bugolobi for excellent cocktails at The Alchemist .

Kampala also has a reputation for excellent food, with dozens of restaurants to try. Here are some of my favourites: Di Vino for the best steak I had in Africa; try Bistro for excellent chicken or fish; Miso Garden for Korean/Asian fusion in a peaceful garden setting; or Mediterraneo for excellent pizza and pasta.

Read More:  A Perfect Day in Kampala

15/ Lake Bunyonyi

Located in the far west of Uganda close to the border with Rwanda, Lake Bunyonyi is a charming place to spend a day or two relaxing.  This stunningly pretty lake is dotted with dozens of islands, some of which have fascinating dark stories. Take a ride in a small dugout canoe to learn about some of them, from Punishment Island, where girls who got pregnant out of wedlock were abandoned to die, to Leprosy Island, which used to be a leper colony run by a Scottish missionary.

A great place to stay is Byoona Amargara , a peaceful island retreat run as a not-for profit enterprise that supports community development at Lake Bunyonyi. Choose between a budget cabin or one of their amazing open-sided ‘geo domes’ with views out over the lake. Fall asleep to the gentle sounds of nature, wake to birdsong, relax during the day with short walks or swimming in the lake, and stuff yourself silly with the restaurant’s amazing food.

Fun fact: even though it’s relatively small, Lake Bunyonyi is the second deepest lake in Africa and the fourth deepest lake in the world, at 900 m at its maximum depth.

16/ Visit the Batwa People

While you’re in Bwindi or Mgahinga National Parks, it’s worth taking time to visit one of the Batwa communities. The Batwa people are a hunter-gatherer tribe, who for thousands of years lived a nomadic lifestyle in the forests of Western Uganda.

But in 1991 the area they live in was turned into a national park, and the Batwa were forcibly evicted. Now they live in makeshift camps on the edges of the forest, where they survive by subsistence farming and offering cultural experiences to tourists.

Visits to the Batwa include the chance to learn about their traditional way of life and watch displays of music and dancing. It’s a great way to support this displaced and marginalised community who really need our help.

Tours can be organised through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or the Batwa Development Programme – but make sure you only do an official visit, as these are culturally sensitive and your ticket price goes back to support the community.

Read more: The Batwa People: How To Visit Uganda’s Displaced Community

17/ Stand On The Equator

Another easy and popular thing to do in Uganda is to visit the Equator. Uganda sits right on this magical line, providing a rare opportunity to stand with one foot in the Northern and one foot in the Southern Hemisphere – a slightly surreal but fun experience if you’ve never done it before. 

The points where the Equator crosses major roads are all marked with circular monuments, but the main place to see it is at Kayabwe, on the Masaka-Mbarara highway, about 45 miles from Kampala.

Here there are craft stalls and cafes, and you can watch a demonstration that proves that water does indeed circle down a plug hole in opposite directions on either side of the Equator. I’d heard this but I didn’t know if it was true or not, so it was fascinating to see it for myself!

18/ Lake Mburo National Park

About five hours’ drive west of Kampala, Lake Mburo National Park is the smallest of Uganda’s savannah national parks. It’s mostly home to herbivores like antelopes, zebras and buffalo, but there are no elephants or lions here. This means that it’s a much safer place to roam around than the other parks, making it the ideal spot for outdoor activities like horseback riding, mountain biking or bird-spotting walks, without running the risk of being trampled on or turned into a tasty meal for a big cat.

Lake Mburo is a great place to stop for night on your way back to Kampala from the west. If your budget will stretch, stay at the stunning Mihingo Lodge , one of the Uganda’s most spectacular lodges, which boasts luxury boutique log cabins with private verandas overlooking the park, and a swimming pool with one of the best views I’ve ever seen!

Read More:  Top Weekend Trips from Kampala

19/ Lake Victoria

Uganda may be landlocked, but what it lacks in sea views it makes up for with the mighty Lake Victoria. This huge body of water sits on the south side of the country, across the borders with Kenya and Tanzania, and at over 23,000 square miles is the largest lake in Africa.

The best departure point to see Lake Victoria is Entebbe (about which, more below).  Enjoy a sunset cruise to enjoy the calm waters, or take a trip out to some of the many islands. The main highlight is the Ssese Islands, an archipelago of 84 islands featuring blue waters, soft white sands, and thick forests – which make for a fantastic off-the-beaten-track tropical island experience. The main island,  Buggala Island is easily accessible by ferry from Entebbe, and is a popular weekend destination for Kampala residents, with a string of beachfront hotels and bars.

Read more:  Top 34 African Birds: A Safari Photo Guide

20/ Entebbe

If you’re travelling by plane, Entebbe is where your trip to Uganda will start and end. But the town is more than just a hub for the airport – it’s also a peaceful retreat right on the shores of Lake Victoria just an hour from Kampala, and it’s a great way to spend a day or two at the start or end of your holiday, or as a weekend away from the capital.

During the day, enjoy the peaceful greenery and bird life of the Botanical Gardens, parts of which are so perfectly lush and jungly they were used in the 1940s as a location for the original Tarzan movies. If snakes or crocodiles are your thing head for the Reptiles Village where you can see some of the many poisonous snakes carefully rescued when they show up uninvited in people’s homes across the country. Or visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre – about which, more below.

In the evening, wander along the shores of Lake Victoria and have a meal at a lakeside restaurant while enjoying the fresh air and maybe the sound of a local band.

Read More: Things To Do In Entebbe

21/ Uganda Wildlife Education Centre

One of the highlights of my trip to Uganda was my visit to Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (or Entebbe Zoo as it’s sometimes known) and the chance to come nose-to-nose with some of the planet’s most incredible creatures.

Far more than just a zoo, UWEC is a wildlife sanctuary where animals rescued from poachers or the illegal pet trade are brought to be cared for until they can be released back into the wild. Those that would be unable to fend for themselves – often because they were only babies when they were found – are kept permanently. These animals have been hand-raised by humans, and that means you can get close to them without fear. Do the Behind the Scenes tour for the chance to feed a giraffe, stroke a cheetah, or make friends with an elephant – at $75 it’s not cheap, but it’s worth it!

Read more: A Day At Uganda Wildlife Education Centre

Or why not watch the short video I made for a taste of the action!

22/ Source of the Nile

The River Nile is the longest river in the world – over 4000 miles long – and runs all the way from Uganda at its most southern end to the Mediterranean sea in the north.

In the 19th century, during the golden age of exploration, a small group of intrepid British adventurers was determined to find the source of this mighty waterway. After several years of searching, punctuated no doubt by run-ins with hostile locals and the occasional bout of one tropical disease or another, it was eventually – and controversially – claimed in 1858 by a man named John Hanning Speke at Jinja, about 80 km east of Kampala.

The historic discovery of the Source of the Nile (or one of them, at least) is commemorated at the Source of the Nile monument just outside Jinja. Take a guided boat ride upstream and onto Lake Victoria, where it’s said you can actually see the bubbles as the water rises out of the lake and begins its journey north.

23/ Whitewater Fun in Jinja

As well as being the place where the River Nile begins, Jinja is also Uganda’s whitewater adventure capital. The foaming waves and thundering rapids of the world’s longest river are a huge draw for adrenalin junkies, who come to enjoy the thrills of whitewater kayaking and rafting on rapids that reach Grade 5 in some areas. Head to the Nile River Explorers base for all the adventures you can eat – from extreme rafting to tandem and solo kayaking to quad biking.

For those of a more nervous disposition, NRE also offers more sedate activities like stand-up paddleboarding or horseback riding. With plenty of places to stay, eat, and drink, and a fun, relaxed vibe, it’s not surprising that Jinja is now the second top tourist attraction in Uganda after the gorillas.

A word of caution though: flowing water is fine, but avoid swimming in still water at the river’s edge as the area is known for carrying the waterborne parasite bilharzia – which won’t kill you but may well ruin several days of your holiday.

Read more: Jinja and the Nile River Kayak Festival

24/ Boutique Lodges

One of the top tourist attractions in Uganda is the chance to stay in one of the country’s many spectacular safari lodges. Far more than just a hotel, these places are experiences in themselves, often featuring sympathetically-designed wood cabins with private terraces overlooking stunning views, and offering delicious three-course meals all included in the price of your stay. While they’re not as cheap as a campsite or a less luxurious hotel, I definitely recommend you treat yourself to a night or two if you can stretch to it.

There are plenty to choose from, but here are a few that I can personally recommend: Kyaninga Lodge in Fort Portal, perched high over a stunning crater lake; Crater Safari Lodge in Kibale, which features luxury cabins with verandas looking out over another crater lake;  Mihingo Lodge with its spectacular vistas over Lake Mburo National Park; Bush Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you fall asleep to the sound of hippos grunting in the nearby river, or Bakiga Lodge , which clings to a hillside overlooking the misty treetops of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Read More:  An Afternoon in Kibale, Uganda

25/ Rolling Green Landscapes

As you travel round Uganda, one of the things you cannot fail to notice is how green the country is. If you’ve only ever seen Africa on the news you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s a dry, dusty continent, but that couldn’t be further than the truth.

Uganda is actually about as rainy as the famously damp United Kingdom, with over 1 metre of rainfall every year, so there’s no shortage of water to provide the necessary juice for things to grow. And – wow! – does stuff grow! Bananas, cassava, potatoes, corn, beans, coffee, cotton, tea, tobacco… these are just some of the things they produce, which means you won’t struggle to find delicious fresh fruit and veg with almost zero food miles.

Many people make a living from subsistence farming, each family owning a small plot of land where they grow crops to sell at the local market. As a result Uganda’s rolling landscape has become a patchwork of terraces and squares, each one a slightly different shade of green.

Look out for them particularly as you drive through Western Uganda’s volcanic region – you’ll definitely be stopping the car to hop out and take pictures – and it’s what makes the landscape another one of Uganda’s many tourist attractions.

Read More: Two Weeks In Uganda – A Suggested Itinerary

26/ Ugandan Music

Uganda has a vibrant music scene, which is influenced not only by local and African sounds, but also by the wider international music industry. Two of the most popular traditional genres are Kidandali, which features the use of typical Ugandan sounds and samples, and Kadongo Kamu, which means ‘one little guitar’ and is based around the acoustic guitar. In Kampala especially there are plenty of opportunities to hear live bands performing all kids of music – try Ndere Cultural Centre for local bands, or JazzVille in Bugolobi for really fun and accessible Jazz.

27/ Arts and Crafts

If Ugandan art is what you’re after, Kampala also has a colourful art scene with at least half a dozen galleries representing both local and internationally-known artists. AfriArt , AKA gallery and Nommo Gallery are probably the best-known, but there are several of others, all offering unique and stylish paintings and textiles that’ll look great on your wall back home.

For souvenirs and crafts you’ll find roadside stalls at every tourist destination , but for the best prices and the most choice save your shopping for Kampala. Here there are two main permanent markets: the  Exposure Africa market on Buganda road and the African Craft Village behind the National Theatre.

Everything from carved wooden figures and animals and leather to jewellery and textiles are on offer here – some are imported from Kenya but there are plenty of local items too. On Fridays there’s also a craft market in Nsambiya along Ggaba Road where you can buy items directly from the artisans who made them – and the prices are often better too.

If you prefer not to have to haggle, a great place to shop for unique local souvenirs is one of the three branches of Banana Boat . This carefully-curated store works directly with local artisans to source and sell unique products you won’t find anywhere else, so not only will you come home with something beautiful, you’ll also be helping to support local businesses.

28/ Meet the People

One of my favourite things about Uganda – that makes it such a joy to travel in – is its people. Rarely have I travelled anywhere where the locals are so warm, welcoming and helpful. As I travel I often stop people and ask for photos – sometimes I’m refused, sometimes they ask for money, but in Uganda almost everyone I met was happy to oblige and asked for nothing in return.

Wandering around by myself with my camera I never felt unsafe or threatened, and although a blonde white woman is often the subject of curiosity, people’s glances almost never felt aggressive or intrusive as they have done in other places I’ve visited. It also helps that English is one of the national languages, making Uganda a very easy and enjoyable country to travel in.

So there you have it – my top 28 things to do in Uganda!  Do you think I’ve missed something! Let me know in the comments, or contact me and I’ll add it in!

And if you’re going to Uganda – happy travels!

Read more about the amazing things to do in Uganda

If you enjoyed this, find out more about some of the beautiful places in Uganda here:

7 Best Weekend Trips from Kampala, Uganda

• A Perfect Day in Kampala
• What Happens On A Chimpanzee Trekking Safari In Uganda
• What To Do In Sipi Falls, Uganda
• The Rewards Of Visiting Uganda’s Batwa Tribe

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Bella is a multi-award-winning travel writer, wildlife photographer and science and history documentary director from London. Among many awards and nominations she won Blogger of the Year at the British Guild of Travel Writers’ Awards 2023 and Best Photography at the Travel Media Awards 2020. Her work has been published by National Geographic, Wanderlust, and BBC Travel among others. Her films have been shown around the world including on the BBC, Discovery and PBS.

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Uganda Animals: The Amazing Wildlife of Uganda

An unhelpful guide to the rockaways & new york.

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Places to Visit in Uganda

• Places To Visit

Uganda Tourist Places

Here is the list of best places to visit in uganda:.

Located in the Buikwe city in Central Uganda on the Kampala-Jinja Highway, this city is locally referred to as Kawelo. It is an important place culturally and is also a hub for educational institutes, sports, and business houses. Lugazi is surrounded by the thick Mabira rainforest that has a rugged yet beautiful terrain and is dotted with several tabletop hills and lush valleys. It is quite fascinating to see Roman architecture in Africa. One such landmark is the Our Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral, one of the best places to visit in Uganda,for its stunning architecture and scenic gardens. Golfing enthusiasts must visit the Mehta Golf Club for a round or two of golf. To remind you of your Ugandan adventure, head over to the Lugazi Central Market for shopping traditional African dresses, crafts, and food. Enjoy a safari to the Mabira Forest Reserve, one of the few-remaining evergreen rainforests in the area which houses the prehistoric Lophocebus Ugandae, which is an Old World monkey species and almost 300 varieties of birds. Another interesting adventure to enjoy here at Lugazi is leisurely walking through its dense banana and coffee plantations. The weather here is mostly humid with overcast skies. June to September are the lowest rainfall months, making this the best time to visit to explore the outdoor attractions.

This is a compact quintessential African city located in Central Uganda along the Kampala-Fort Portal highway. It is a city buzzing with commercial and administrative activity. Mityana has an impressive as well as interesting plateau landscape that comprises hills with gentle slopes and vast open U-shaped valleys. This is interspersed with some semi-rural settlements that add a beautiful lushness to the city’s landscape. Mityana is one of the few Ugandan places that house stunning architectural landmarks. One of the best such places is The Roman Catholic Diocese of Kiyinda-Mityana known for its beautiful and rustic architecture. If you are looking for natural wonders to explore, you can visit the nearby 4000-year-old Lake Wamala to see its several islands and wildlife like Wild pigs, Hippos, Bushbuck, Waterbuck, Guinea fowl, Catfish, Lungfish, etc. People who love unique social experiments must visit the Social Innovation Academy. You can see upcycled fashion exhibitions and see plastic bottle construction, etc. For an offbeat experience, hear the locals tell their stories at the Mityana Central Market. This is also a great place to try traditional delicacies. Weather Mityana has a tropical climate and receives rainfall throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the dry months of July and January-February.

Located in Central Uganda on the Mubende-Fort Portal Road, Mubende is a busy and vibrant commercial and administrative centre where one of the major activities is agriculture. This city has a rich heritage of being a part of the Buganda kingdom till the 1960s. Beauty Mubende has a unique landscape that ranges from 1148ft-4320 ft. This is covered in beautiful tropical forests and barren lands alternatively. One of the most fascinating places here is the Nakayima witch tree, which is a live shrine and is said to house the spirit of a Ndahura, an ancient Bachwezi king. If you are looking for daylong sojourns in the beautiful wilderness, you can enjoy farm tours to see banana, groundnut, cassava, coffee, and tea plantations. For people who want to explore the local way of life, these trails are the best way to meet the locals and enjoy the local foods. For those who are looking for adventures, must trek to the flat-topped Mubende Hill. This challenging trek will reward you with some of the best panoramic views of the surroundings. Those who love trying new foods, must visit the Mubende Central Market. Mubende experiences a warm and humid climate throughout the year interspersed with rains. June-September is the driest month to visit when you can enjoy outdoor activities.

Located in western Uganda, Mbarara is the second-largest city in the country. It is an important transport and infrastructure hub. The name ‘Mbarara’ is a twisted version of the word ‘Emburara’ that means tall grass. It is often referred to as the ‘land of milk and honey’ because of the huge numbers of Ankole cattle here. While the city has more of an urban landscape, the moment you get of its limits, you will be rewarded with stunning natural beauty and a landscape that’s rich in wildlife and offers stupendous experiences. Mbarara is one of the best Uganda tourist spots when it comes to exploring the country’s unique and beautiful history and heritage. Some of the best places to do so are the Igongo Cultural Center and Eriijukiro Museum to learn about the country and its ancient tribes like the Batooro and Bakiga. Another great place that you would love is the Sanga Cultural Village where the ancient artefacts of the Bahima tribe are stored. The lush Mbarara is the perfect place to lose yourself in the wilderness. The city houses the largest cattle farm in Uganda where you can take farm safaris and learn about the elusive Ankole cattle, learn to milk them, and try fresh dairy products. Nature enthusiasts cannot miss visiting Lake Mburo National Park to spot Waterbucks, Impalas, leopards, hyenas, etc. To round off your day and relax, visit the famous Nile Breweries to sample some of the greatest Ugandan wines. The weather in Mbarara is hot and humid throughout the year. The drier months of December- February, June, and August are the best months to visit.

Best of South Africa

Kasese is the largest city in the Rwenzururu region located north of Lake Victoria in Western Uganda. It is one of the most important copper and cobalt mining centres in the country. The city also has its airport. Kasese lies close to the almost 3 million-year-old Rwenzori mountain ranges, one of the top places to visit in Uganda, known as the Mountains of the Moon, which is made up of granite and quartzite stones and covered in tropical rainforests and snowy meadows. Visit the nearby UNESCO heritage Rwenzori Mountains National Park to see Africa’s third highest peak, glaciers, waterfalls, and lakes. Another place that will delight you with its local charms is the Kasese Central Market. The place offers delicious food and shops that sell traditional artworks and mementoes. Enjoy safaris at the Rwenzori Mountains National Park, one of the top places to visit in Uganda,to spot forest elephants, L’Hoest’s monkeys, Hyrax, etc., and almost 90 species of birds. Those who love to explore unique things can head over to the mines of Kasese Cobalt Company to see the process of cobalt extraction. Kasese has a tropical climate and experiences heavy rainfall even in the driest months. July and August receive the lowest rainfall and are the best months to visit.

Best of Cape Town

Located in northern Uganda on the Gulu-Mbale Highway, Lira has always been an important place during and after the Uganda-Tanzania War. It is one of the busiest economic and commercial centers in the country and also has an airport. Beauty Lira is bestowed with scenic natural beauty comprising thick woods and fertile valleys, plateaus, and plantations. The landscape here is dotted with several flat-topped hills and vast rugged meadow. Got Ngetta is a fascinating attraction here. It is a solid rock standing at a height of 4,500 ft. that is said to have appeared out of nowhere. Its silhouettes look like faces of beasts and have several caves around them. Enjoy vast expanses of lush wilderness at the Lira Golf course. The place allows tourists to enjoy a round of golf! If you are a nature lover, Lira has some amazing places and activities for you to enjoy. Some of these include the stunning Karuma waterfall and its surrounding forests that house baboons and a variety of birds and the nearby Budongo forest that has an abundance of African mahogany trees and chimpanzees. Those who want to enjoy a rustic experience must take a village safari to the nearby Masindi Village to enjoy African food and meet the locals. It is hot all year round at Lira with the weather varying between humid and hot. June-September is the best time to visit due to low rainfall.

Best of Africa

Entebbe is located on the Lake Victoria peninsula in Central Uganda. The name of the city translates to ‘the chair’, which is quite apt since this is where the President of Uganda lives and the State House is located. The city is a quiet and slow-paced place that’s loved for its natural charms. Its landscape comprises lakes, vast expanses of forests, and national parks. Entebbe has some of the most fascinating attractions in Uganda. These include East Africa’s oldest golf course and pristine beaches, thanks to Lake Victoria. Some of the best beaches to visit include Aero, One Love, Lido etc. One of the best ways to learn about Ugandan culture is to visit the markets here like the ones in Kitoro and Manyago. You can also try tropical fruits and just sit and observe the local way of life. The city is one of the best birding destinations in Uganda and a haven for nature enthusiasts. The best place to explore the enticing nature and spot species like Vervet monkeys, Hammerkop, Swamp flycatcher, Colobus, etc. is the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Another great place for naturalists is the Uganda Wildlife Education Center where you can see leopards, baboons, pythons, DeBrazza monkeys, etc. The climate here is mostly muggy and overcast the whole year-round. The best time to visit is between January-September when the rainfall is less.

Best of Johannesburg

Located in Eastern Uganda, Mbale lies at the foot of Mount Elgon, which is one of the extinct volcanoes here. Mbale is located amidst vast coffee plantations and is a major agricultural trade center. The beauty of Mbale needs to be seen to be believed. Its picturesque landscape comprises mountains, deep caves, valleys, waterfalls, cliffs, and vast expanses of sheer wilderness. If you are looking for amazing natural wonders, Mbale is the place to be in. Here you can see the world’s largest calderas at Mount Elgon National Park. Another great place is the Sipi Falls that offer amazing adventures like hikes, abseiling, and views of the scenic Lake Kyoga, Karamoja plains, and Mt. Elgon. Another must-see attraction is the Tororo Rock, the slopes of which house ancient rock paintings and caves. Mbale offers a glimpse into one of the traditional imbalu ceremonies followed by the Bagisu tribes. You can participate in the tribal dances and share the tribes’ food here. Mbale houses most of the 1000 bird species that live in Uganda. Head to the Kapkwai forest exploration center to see cinnamon-chested bee-eater, Doherty’s bush shrike, etc. Another great adventure here is to see the buzz and entertainment that comes with the extreme sport of bullfighting held at Wanale. You can hear locals singing war songs and betting. Mbale has the typical tropical Savanna climate that’s muggy and hot throughout the year. The drier months of June-September are the best to visit.

Best of Kenya

Njeru is the largest city of the Buikwe city, located in Central Uganda close to the River Nile. It is visited by travellers for its great homestays that offer traditional African experiences. Due to its proximity to River Nile, Njeru is quite lush and has miles of green grounds with hills in the background. Some pockets of the city have houses made in traditional African and Indian architecture, making it a beautiful place to visit. People who want to revel in the natural beauty of Njeru must visit the Bujagali Hydro Plant that harnesses energy from the nearby Bujagali Falls and lies on the Victoria Nile. Another great attraction is the Source of the Nile Bridge, also known as the New Jinja Bridge that connects Eastern and Central Africa to the Indian Ocean in Kenya. Njeru is loved by adventure enthusiasts for the amazing activities that it offers. You can enjoy horseback safaris, quad biking, and white water rafting at the Nile. The place has warm and humid weather almost all year round. The best time to visit is between June to September to see all the beautiful attractions.

Best of Nairobi

Located in Northern Uganda between the citys of Lamwo, Pader, Omoro, etc. Gulu is the erstwhile homeland of the Acholi ethnic group. Though it was synonymous with unrest till a few years ago, it is now quite a popular place to visit. Gulu is primarily an agricultural area and has acres of lush farms. The place also has some old settlements where you can see traditional African huts amidst beautiful rugged trails. Gulu offers a glimpse into the evolution of Uganda over the centuries. One of the best places to do so here is the Taks Centre. This is a great place to see art exhibitions, cultural performances, and enjoy fireside chats with local artists. Gulu houses an incredible landmark in the form of the 1941 St. Joseph’s Cathedral, one of the best Uganda tourist places known for its magnificent architecture. Round of the day with a visit to the Craft Market to pick up traditional Ugandan paintings and crafts. No trip to Gulu is complete without sampling the traditional African food and world cuisine at cafes like Elephante, Iron Donkey Restaurant, etc. Nature enthusiasts must visit the nearby Albert Nile area to see the elusive leopards, Ugandan Kobs, Warthogs, etc. What tops the charts is a visit to the Baker’s Fort, one of the best places to visit in Uganda to learn about the infamous slave trade practices. Gulu has overcast and humid weather throughout the year. The best months to visit are June-September to enjoy outdoor activities.

Best of Zambia

Masaka, lying in the Buganda region, is an equatorial city. The city has a history of being a base for the Uganda Army during the Tanzania-Uganda war in the 70s. This lakeside city has acres of lush plains and thick forests, especially around Lake Nabugabo. These forests have beautiful wildflower patches and several rugged trails that lead one deep into the raw wilderness. One of the best places to visit here is the nearby Lake Nabugabo, one of the best Uganda tourist places,that was formed from sand and was isolated from Lake Victoria almost 5000 years ago. This is one of the few places to see carnivore plants and rare native Haplochromine cichlids, fish, hippos, sitatunga, grey-crowned cranes, etc. If you are travelling to Masaka in June, you can’t miss attending the annual Uganda Marathon held in June here each to see some of the local celebrities and enjoy the infectious buzz of the place. Those who love to shop can visit Masaka Central Market, one of the best places to visit in Uganda famous for its indigenous textiles, paintings, jewellery, etc. Masaka has a tropical climate where the summer months get more rain than the winter months. June to September is the best time to visit to enjoy outdoor activities.

Best of Botswana

Hoima is located in Western Uganda on the Kampala-Hoima Road and was once the capital of the 18th-century Bunyoro-Kitara Empire. The place is important for being a source of oil and gas, the major drivers of the Ugandan economy. It is also an important cultural and heritage center. Hoima’s proximity to Kabwoya Game Reserve and Lake Albert make its landscape lush and scenic due to the thick tropical rainforest, savannah plains, streams, and the stunning Blue Mountains. Hoima is an absolute haven for nature enthusiasts. You should not miss visiting the Kabwoya Game Reserve, one of the best Uganda tourist places,to spot primates like Baboons and other species like Cape Buffalos, hippos, Ugandan Kobs, Waterbucks, Bush Duikers, etc. Another great place to explore the natural beauty of the city is the nearby Lake Albert where you can enjoy boating. Two of the most incredible sites here are the historic Mparo Tombs that are a royal burying site and the Katasiha Fort and Caves that have centuries-old carvings and trenches. Hoima is one of the few places that give you inroads into the ethnic Ugandan tribes at places like the Bunyoro Palace. You can enjoy a cultural safari here to know about the beliefs, customs, and heritage of this powerful empire. Another great experience that shouldn’t be missed is visiting the Kabwoya Game Reserve where you can enjoy fossil hunting, birding, horseback rides, etc. Hoima experiences short summers that are overcast and humid. The winter months are muggy and cloudy. The best months to visit are June-October and December since these are low rainfall months.

Best of Zimbabwe

Kampala, located on the East African plateau near Lake Victoria, has been the capital city of Uganda since 1962 and its cultural and educational epicentre. Centuries ago, it was the hunting ground for the Budanga kings and was referred to as the ‘Hill of the Impala’. Kampala is known as one of the most scenic Uganda tourist places due to its stunning and diverse landscape. The city is nestled between seven hills and its landscape is punctuated by beautiful valleys, slow-moving rivers, and forested plains covered in Elephant grass and evergreen forests of African olive and Natal fig. Kampala’s beautiful diversity of ethnic tribes and faiths is apparent in the iconic places of worship that it houses. You can not only see one of the seven Baha'i Temples here but also the Gaddafi Mosque, the second largest mosque in Africa. The city is also one of the best Uganda tourist spots to see the remains of its ancient tribes like the UNESCO protected Kasubi Tombs, which are a burial site of Buganda Kings. Another very interesting place is the Uganda Museum known for its collection of musical instruments, fossils, and the in-house cultural village. People who love shopping and exploring new cultures must visit the Owino market, which is the country’s largest open market. Here you can meet the locals, shop for clothes and local jewellery.  History enthusiasts cannot miss visiting the Ndere Center to see ethnic tribal dance performances and the infamous torture chambers at the Kabaka’s Palace. After a day of sightseeing, spend some time in solitude listening to the calming hymns at Gurdwara Ramgarhia Sabha. Kampala has two annual wet seasons with warm and muggy weather. December to February is the best time to visit the city since this period is less rainy.

Best of Namibia

Kira is located between Gayaza, Mukono, Kampala, and Lake Victoria and is Uganda’s largest urban center where most of the working-class people live. It is the country’s second most populated city and one of the best places to visit in Uganda. Kira is a quiet and laid back city dotted with marketplaces, residential colonies, and gardens of medicinal plants and trees. One of the best places to visit here is the Uganda Martyrs Shrine, one of the best Uganda tourist places,that’s dedicated to 15 martyrs who were burnt alive in 1886 for their refusal to stop following Christianity. Sports enthusiasts must visit the Mandela National Stadium that’s Uganda’s largest stadium. With some luck, you can even run into the famous local football teams. Those who love trying out indigenous cuisines must visit places like the Marian Gardens, The Address, and Grand Food Tavern, etc. These are some of the best places to try the unique Ugandan dishes like Luwombo, Katogo, Matoke, Kikalayai, Posho, etc. Kira mostly sees warm and humid weather with overcast skies most of the days. December to February are the best months to visit here.

This city is located in central Uganda near the Kampala-Jinja highway and is bordered by Kira and Kalangala. Mukono is visited by travellers to get a quintessential urban African experience of shopping and traditional food. This is primarily an urban city with pockets of rural settlements. These rural areas are the lushest areas that have dirt trails and traditional African thatched-roof huts. This is where you can meet beautiful people and see their famous colourful ethnic attire. Mukono is a haven for people who are out to explore the beautiful charms of Uganda. You can explore the Central Market and its local shops that sell traditional African textiles and jewellery. This is also a great place to try the delicious Ugandan street food and drinks. Nature-lovers should visit the Ssezibwa Falls, one of the most scenic Uganda tourist spots. This waterfall is famous for its roaring waters and the surrounding forests that house the rare Vervets, African Cobra, Green Mambas, Red-Tailed monkeys, etc. Don’t miss to explore the surroundings of the Ssezibwa Falls, one of the top Uganda tourist places,where you can find centuries-old artefacts of the Buganda people including ancient caves and 100-year-old trees. Take a break from the touristy places and head over to the beautiful campus of Uganda Christian University for a leisurely stroll. Don’t miss the ancient Catholic Church on the university grounds. The weather here is overcast and humid almost throughout the year. The best time to visit Mukono is from June to September to enjoy all the outdoor activities.

Other Attractions

Murchison falls.

Lake Victoria

Jinja, Start Of The Nile River

Ssese Islands

Nyero Rock Paintings

Kasubi Tombs

Ndere Centre

Owino Market

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Lake Katwe Explosion Crater Drive

Kazinga Channel

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Lake Mutanda

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The Equator

Entebbe Botanical Gardens

The Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Rubaga Cathedral

Mount Elgon National Park

Semuliki National Park

Ssezibwa Falls

Lake Bunyonyi

Lubiri Palace

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Uganda Tourism Guide

Uganda tourism guide – gateway to uganda’s tourism, travel and holidays.

The Uganda Tourism Guide is a comprehensive online directory for Uganda tourism and travel. This is your number one guide for travellers and visitor to this country called Uganda “The Pearl of Africa” .

Are you planning to travel in Uganda? The Uganda Tourism Guide provides a wealth of travel information for accommodation, attractions, tours and much more. Every accommodation, attractions, tours and transport business is listed together on this guide with extensive visitor holiday and vacation information for both local and international travellers.

Start planning your Uganda holiday or travel now and enjoy one of the most beautiful countries on earth. Check out the best things to see, adventure activities, places to visit and travel information to help you plan a great trip to Uganda.

About Uganda

To many, Uganda is a new destination. This guide introduces you to Uganda (our Country) and all its regions that make it the “Pearl of Africa”. Here is a lot of information you might not have known about. Whether you are undecided to visit this country or decide, we give you information that will make your travel plans easy.

Abound with stunning natural beauty, thrill seeking activities, picture perfect Uganda hotels, friendly Ugandan locals and a laid-back lifestyle; this tiny East African country is a perfect holiday destination that will not disappoint you.

There are lots of things to do while on safari in Uganda ! Whether you’re a beach bum or an adventure seeker looking to white water rafting, nature enthusiast or just someone looking to chill out and escape the world, come and experience Uganda, the land gifted by nature!

Welcome to the Uganda Tourism Hub, your one-stop resource for planning the ultimate Uganda safari adventure. We give you extensive travel information for planning and booking your next holiday in Uganda. Discover the best places to visit, things to see, things to do, travel tips and information to help you plan a perfect holiday.

Great Things to See

Uganda is a country of scenic wonder – the source of the mighty River Nile, mysterious Rwenzori Mountains, the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi is also known as the “Switzerland of Africa” and many more.

Today there are only an estimated 900 Mountain Gorillas remaining in the whole world. Half of these great apes live in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda.

Great Things to Do

Ecologically, Uganda is where the East African savannah meets the West African jungle. Where else but in this impossibly lush country can one observe lions prowling the open plains in the morning and track chimpanzees through the rain forest undergrowth the same afternoon, then the next day navigate tropical channels teeming with hippo and crocs before setting off into the misty tropical rain forests to stare deep into the pensive eyes of the famous endangered mountain gorilla?

Uganda is also a land of diverse cultures! There are over 52 tribes of people within a small country!

The country offers great chances for big game viewing, and there are many exciting and thrilling activities that you can undertake during your safari holiday.

Our  Uganda Country Guide below will tell you all you need to know about the best of amazing Uganda. If you are interested in finding out about events, tours, attractions and things to do in Uganda simply follow the links. Let us guide you through Uganda with our local suggestions.

We recommend you read about travel in Uganda and get tips, advice and updates.

Check out the latest Uganda Travel features on Youtube

Be sure to contact us if you have any questions and we look forward to sharing the true beauty of Uganda with you!

• Uganda Tours

A trip to Uganda is not easily forgotten – nature and history combine to offer every visitor something to remember the country by. Notwithstanding the political unrest that plagued Uganda for many decades, this majestic nation’s stunning natural beauty has remained largely unspoilt. The savannahs of East Africa meet the jungles of west Africa in the lush country of Uganda.

Places to Visit

Uganda is  the ‘Pearl of Africa’ – the best features of the continent are packed into its borders. Uganda boasts of lots of amazing places to visit;

• the Rwenzori National Park home to the Mountains of the Moon , Africa’s tallest mountain range.
• The mighty River Nile that originates from Jinja and offers some of the world’s best white-water rafting opportunities around Jinja .

Things to See

Uganda is also home to the largest concentration of primates in the world, including one of the earth’s rarest animals – the mountain gorilla. To spot one of these majestic animals, visit the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

To top it all is the picture perfect scenery. The landscape of Uganda is a picture of contrasts – the rough and craggy mountains stand tall against the gentle meadows and wide savannah grasslands, and the dry uplands are very different from the wetlands located on the lakeshores. This difference in landscape is reflected in the Ugandan people as well.

Where to Stay

Uganda hotels and accommodation come in all shapes and sizes including resorts, lodges, hotels, apartments and safari camps. Visitors to Uganda will be delighted by the many treasures just waiting to be discovered and adventures to be had in every corner of Uganda. To ensure you get the right Uganda hotels in each city and town to best complement your needs, take a look at our interactive Uganda map and Uganda accommodation guide. You will also find some of the many fabulous Uganda attractions listed on the map.

Where to Go

Here are all national parks, game reserves and many other touristic spots within Uganda.

Things to Do

There are lots of adventure activities to do in Uganda. Here are the top things to do in the country.

Country Information

Learn about Uganda including history, people and culture, geography, climate and even fun facts.

Welcome to Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa”! Uganda is one of the best travel destinations in Africa. It is home to the mountain gorillas, rare and endangered apes that are only found in three countries in the world.

Let us introduce you to Uganda also known as the “Pearl of Africa”.  Abound with stunning natural beauty Uganda is a rewarding opportunity to thrill seekers. There are lots of adventure activities to do in Uganda. Learn about the friendly Ugandan People, culture, history and their laid-back lifestyle. This tiny East African country embodies the perfect appreciation of life’s simple delights.

It is no doubt that Uganda has been voted several times as “the Best tourist Destination” in the world. Whether you’re seeking for an active holiday or a leisurely holiday, Uganda has it all! Are you a nature enthusiast or just someone looking to chill out and escape the world, come and experience Uganda, a destination like no other in Africa!

Why Visit Uganda

Covering just 1% of the planet’s land mass, Uganda is home to around 10% of the world’s biodiversity. Uganda is the ultimate nature paradise that should not miss on your bucketlist.

Uganda protects a lot of flora and fauna within the 10 national parks. There are also several game reserves spread across the country where you can experience a true wilderness safari.

Uganda is vibrant and diverse. Each part of the country also has its own unique micro climate, making it a place in itself to enjoy.

The rain forests, cloud forests and tropical dry forests of Karamoja Region here are home to a spectacular assortment of not only birds and animals, but monkeys, lizards, snakes, sloths, butterflies and frogs as well.

With its own unique take on ecotourism, Uganda today has emerged as one of the premier ecological vacation hotspots of the world. Travel here to see some of the rarest wildlife on the planet or take a canopy tour and zip across the rain forest to enjoy incredible views of the pearl of Africa below.

Uganda Travel Guide Directory Page

List Free Your Company in the Uganda Tourism Directory

Are you looking for a place to advertise your company or service on the Internet for free? On this page I welcome anyone ready for space on my site for free. NO CONDITIONS ATTACHED. List your company on the most trafficked site on the internet for free, and i mean Free!

Your potential customers are searching for you on the internet but can’t find you, and they are coming to the Uganda Tourism Guide looking for credible information.

Here are a few questions you should consider!

Did you know that over 80% of people are now searching for local services through the Internet?

Can people find you or your company on the Internet?

How many Internet leads did you get this year from people searching on the internet for services you provide?

The Uganda Tourism Guide is the highly ranked, most trafficked Uganda tourism website on the Internet and that is why Ugandans have made the choice to ad their company listings to generate targeted qualified leads.

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• People and Culture
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• Border Posts
• Lubiri (Kabaka Palace)
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• Katashiha Fort and Caves
• Nakayima Tree
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• Destinations
• Arts and Crafts
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• Eastern Uganda
• Mabira Forest
• Getting Here
• Fort Patiko
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• Lake Bunyonyi
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• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
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• Murchison Falls National Park
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• Semuliki National Park
• All Saints Cathedral Nakasero
• Bahai Temple
• Gaddaffi National Mosque
• Lubaga Cathedral
• Namirembe Cathedral
• Namugongo Martyrs Shrine
• National Mosque
• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
• Ssese Islands
• Chimpanzee Tracking
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• Kisiizi Falls
• Ssezibwa Falls
• Bigodi Wetlands
• Mabamba Bay
• Katonga Game Reserve

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Uganda Culture & Etiquette—Things A Traveler Must Know

• People & Culture

Discover The Various Types of Travel in Uganda

• Experiences

What Motivates The Warmth of Ugandan People?

The Evolution of Religious Tourism and Holy Sites in Uganda

Uganda’s Climate, People, and Cultures

• Environment

7 Ugandan Snacks You’ve Just Got to Try

Languages that make up Uganda’s diverse cultural scene

Tourist Activities You Can Experience in Uganda on Safari

An Unforgettable Nature Escape at Mount Gahinga Lodge

Nkuringo Sector: The Gorilla Town in The South of Bwindi

The Five Travel Regions in Uganda

Uganda Travel Restrictions & Country Declared Ebola Free

Animals to see.

Northern White Rhinoceros

Roan Antelope

The hyrax and other strange tiny animals in Uganda

Honey Badger

Hippopotamus

The African Wild Cat

Uganda Tourist: Guide to Tours & Travel Around Uganda

Welcome to Uganda Tourist , an Online Travel Resource for tourists planning to explore Uganda. Find the best things to see, things to do, travel tips, and resourceful information to plan your trip. This complete guide is rich with all the tourism and travel information you need to plan your holiday.  See how far you can go on a safari in Uganda with these must-see places. Experience Uganda following our must-do things in the country. Plan your ideal journey of interest by using informative tips and advice. Looking for accommodation? Get the best recommendations from locals who know Uganda.

Uganda is a wonderful place to visit for a holiday. On offer is a wide range of adventures, tourist, and leisure activities including wildlife safaris in the national parks, gorilla tracking, hiking, bird watching, white water rafting, fishing, climbing the Rwenzori Mountains, or just being lazy by a swimming pool enjoying the excellent climate.

This directory is aimed at making holiday planning in Uganda as easy as possible, both for the independent traveler and those wishing to join an organized tour.

Planning to take a vacation, weekend getaway, or a day trip to an attraction, or event, we have all the information you need to help you plan a perfect trip! In our directory are selections of the best hotels, safari lodges, restaurants, car rental Uganda agencies, outdoor activities, and more.

Explore Uganda

Get the best recommendations from locals who live in Uganda.  In each and every destination, you will find information, advice, and experiences from locals. Learn about the latest recommendations on attractions, places to eat, shop and much more.

Travel Destinations

There are many exciting destinations in Uganda.

Bwindi Forest

Visit Bwindi Gorillas

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the most popular destination in Uganda, the best place to see the endangered mountain gorillas in the whole world.

• Kampala City

Capital City – Kampala

A first time visitor to Kampala can be surprised by the way of life in this craddle green city that spread over various hills. Kampala oozes with the zest of life!

Queen Elizabeth NP

Elephants In Queen Elizabeth NP

This protected area of nearly 2000 sq kms is one of the most popular savanna national parks. It is filled with craters, forests, lakes, and other picturesque features. Read More

Source Of River Nile – Jinja

Jinja is the adrenaline capital of Uganda. Located 50 kms from Kampala, this is the home to the Source of the Nile. Lots of adventures await you here!

Murchison Falls

Explore Uganda’s largest national park, home to incredible wildlife. Don’t miss seeing the scenic Kabalega Falls, a glorious tribute to the forces of nature. Read More

Kidepo Valley

Kidepo National Park

Located in the northeast corner of Uganda, Kidepo is a wonderland that bristles with wild life! This is one place where Uganda’s wildlife come together in the truest sense of the word.

Kibale Forest

Kibale Chimps Tracking

Kibale National Park is all about chimpanzees. Kibale prides itself as being Africa’s top protected area for primates numbering to about 13 species. Read More

Rwenzori Mountains

Trek The Rwenzori Mountains

The summit is shrouded in the mist. These are the legendary “Mountains of the Moon”. At 4000 meters, the range is among the highest in Africa. Read More

• Lake Bunyonyi

Honey Moon Destination

Lake Bunyonyi is a beautiful place situated in south western Uganda. The sense of serenity here is equal to none and thus has been nicknamed the “Switzerland of Africa.

Top Experiences

There are lots of amazing experiences that you can engage in while in Uganda. From mountain gorilla trekking to chimpanzee watching, there are adventures for you to enjoy.

• Gorilla Trekking

• Chimpanzee Tracking

• Wildlife Safaris

Uganda Tourist Directory

Start your search for the best tourism service providers in Uganda. Uganda Tourism has firmly established itself as one of the most comprehensive directories for Uganda travel and tourism provides. Listed here are different accommodation places including hotels, safari lodges, and campsites, activities, restaurants, bars, and pubs, etc.

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• Uganda Culture
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I've been to 107 countries. Italy and Mexico are great, but these 5 underrated destinations should be on your travel radar.

• I've visited 107 countries, and I recommend these 5 that can be overlooked for more popular places. 
• Estonia is a European dream, and Namibia is one of my favorite places in the world . 
• Costa Rica is popular but not as packed with tourists as some similarly beautiful places nearby. 

This year, travelers are looking to visit more under-the-radar destinations than popular ones — in part to dodge crowds and in part to save money.

Some are specifically looking for "travel dupes," a term for destinations similar to popular spots that are often cheaper with fewer crowds.

And, as someone who's been to 107 countries , I can tell you each region of the world has an often overlooked country that may offer a more rewarding experience than a more well-known place. These more under-the-radar destinations are often less crowded, and your dollar just might go further.

Popular travel destinations like Italy, France, and Mexico are great picks — but consider visiting these alternative options to the more popular choices in the region.

Estonia is a European dream.

I was immediately captivated by the fairy-tale appearance of Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia.

Walking the cobblestoned streets within the fortress-like walls of the old city transported me back to medieval times.

The city is small enough to explore on foot, and there's plenty to entertain history and architecture enthusiasts. Enjoying a coffee or a beer in the Town Hall Square while people watching is a highlight of my European travels.

Although many people visit Tallinn as a day trip from Helsinki, which is a two-hour ferry ride away, it's worth staying here for a few days and heading into the Estonian countryside. The roads are often quite empty and incredibly peaceful.

I enjoyed Estonia so much that I returned twice more in the 18 months after my first visit.

I've enjoyed visiting Oman, a country in the Middle East.

Dubai gets a lot of attention for its luxurious travel opportunities , and many know Qatar because it recently hosted the World Cup, but nearby Oman should not be skipped.

After all, Oman's capital, Muscat, provides an excellent gateway to the country.

A stroll along the beautiful Corniche will take you along the water and by the bustling Grand Bazaar. For those who love hikes, there are plenty of options in Oman, including several easily accessible trails in Muscat that offer great city views.

Better still, the amazing Wadi Shab is less than two hours from the capital city and is one of the best hikes I've ever experienced . The trail takes you through narrow gorges and across streams and ends with a surreal swim through incredible caves.

It's an experience so breathtaking I'd expected it to be packed with tourists, but it wasn't when we visited. We only saw a handful of people, which allowed us to really enjoy our trip.

I've seen many parts of Africa, but Namibia may just be my favorite spot.

I have been fortunate to go on safaris in Kenya , Botswana, and Tanzania, but Namibia is my favorite travel destination of the bunch.

While there, we rented a campervan and did a self-drive tour of the country, allowing us to explore independently. Yet again, we avoided the crowds and the campsites were usually just us and local animals.

Waking up to the sounds of monkeys, elephants, and even lions was a special treat, especially knowing we were safe inside our campervan.

In addition to the wildlife, there's a lot to explore in Namibia, including colossal dunes, which we hiked up and surfed down —undoubtedly the trip highlight for my children.

Sri Lanka showcases a lot of what Asia landscapes have to offer.

Asia has some beautiful beaches, but Sri Lanka has beaches and tea plantations, mountains, rocks, waterfalls, and more.

We visited Sri Lanka last year and hired a driver and guide who showcased the diverse landscapes of this island country. The food was terrific and extremely cheap — our family of four was fed for less than $10 on most occasions.

The locals I interacted with were incredibly friendly and the island is also small enough to allow for in-depth exploration in a relatively short time.

Costa Rica is an excellent place to visit in Central America.

Growing up in Texas, my wife has been to Mexico many times since the state shares a border with the country. But to explore somewhere new, smaller, and in the same region, we chose to have our honeymoon in Costa Rica .

Although it's still popular, Costa Rica offers an authentic travel experience as I feel it has yet to be overrun by tourists. Like the other countries on this list, it has a diverse landscape, from white-sand beaches to rainforests to volcanoes, so there's plenty to do.

We also visited during the rainy season, so we took advantage of low crowds , low prices, and often received upgrades — and, as a bonus, it rarely rained!

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10 cheap places to travel on a budget

Want to travel the world this summer at a low cost find low prices of drinks and food at places such as vietnam or japan.

By Alyssa Bradford

Picking out places to visit for the upcoming summer may come with its challenges, especially for those on a budget.

However, according to Post Office , a British-based mail and financial services company, there are opportunities to explore destinations around the globe without straining your finances. Countries such as Vietnam, South Africa and Japan present enticing options where in-country costs remain relatively low.

Post Office released the Holiday Money Report for 2024 . In its report, it shares cheap hotspots to visit on your next adventure.

Post Office based its recommendations on costs of tourist essentials, like drinks and meals, instead of the price of traveling by plane or accommodations.

Paphos, Cyprus

Paphos offers a rich blend of modern amenities and ancient sites, catering to diverse traveler interests. For example, visit Agia Kyriaki Chrysopolitissa, one of the oldest Christian churches in the world, according to Hotels.com .

Per the U.S. Department of State , when you visit Cyprus, make sure to only enter and exit the Republic of Cyprus, not the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, for your safety. Paphos is in the Republic of Cyprus.

Marmaris, Turkey

Marmaris, situated at the meeting point of the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas in Turkey, is celebrated for its nightlife, beaches and clear waters. During summer, it offers ferry services to Greece, including trips to Rhodes, per Mares Travel Agency .

According to the U.S. Department of State , exercise caution when visiting Turkey. There is a small possibility of terrorist attacks and wrongful detaining of U.S. citizens. Furthermore, do not visit the Sirnak province, Hakkari province or anywhere near the Syrian border.

Kuta, Bali, Indonesia

Kuta is known for its stunning coastline, a popular spot for surfing. There are also cultural spots such as Buddhist temples and theater or conservation centers, according to Hotels.com .

Per the U.S. Department of State , exercise caution when visiting Indonesia. There is a risk of terrorist attacks, natural disasters and violent demonstrations. Also, stay away from the Central Papua and Highland Papua provinces.

Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

Sunny Beach, found on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, attracts individuals with its beaches and is great for watersports, nightlife and amusement parks, per Tripadvisor .

According to the U.S. Department of State , you can exercise normal precautions in Bulgaria.

Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt

Sharm el-Sheikh is a resort town in the Sinai Peninsula. Beyond resorts, there are also great luxury restaurants and nightclubs to visit. Also, due to its location on the coast, snorkeling around the coral reefs is popular, according to Britannica .

Per the U.S. Department of State , “The Department of State Travel Advisory warns U.S. citizens to avoid travel to the Sinai Peninsula (with the exception of travel to Sharm El-Sheikh by air) and the Western Desert.”

Algarve, Portugal

Algarve, located in southern Portugal, is known for cliff beaches and seafood. One of the popular places to visit this summer in Algarve is Lagos, per Lonely Planet .

According to the U.S. Department of State , you can exercise normal precautions in Portugal.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is full of ancient culture while still showcasing modern attractions. For example, you could visit Asakusa, a Buddhist temple, or Tokyo’s Disneyland, according to Hotels.com .

Per the U.S. Department of State , you can exercise normal precautions in Japan.

Mombasa, Kenya

Mombasa, located near the Indian Ocean, has a lot of beachfront hotels and is a great place for watersports! Some of the top places to visit include the Fort Jesus Museum or Haller Park, per Tripadvisor .

According to the U.S. Department of State , parts of Kenya have a risk of terrorism, kidnapping, violent demonstrations or crime. Therefore, when visiting, one should exercise increased caution. Make sure to stay away from the Kenya-Somalia border counties.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a beautiful location where one can find wildlife and a variety of plants. There are also great places to visit to learn more about the heritage, eat delicious food or to hike. For example, you could visit Lion’s Head Peak or Greenmarket Square, according to Hotels.com .

Per the U.S. Department of State , exercise increased caution in South Africa because of crime and civil unrest.

Tourists in Cape Town using GPS apps sometimes get directed through high-crime residential areas. Make sure to stay updated on the current events in the area, according to the U.S. Department of State .

Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An has diverse scenes from rice farms to beaches. Travelers can go shopping around the town or spend time hiking around farms. For a historical trip, stop by the Japanese Bridge or take a cooking class. For shopping, visit unique stores such as Cocobox to find jams or Reaching Out for tea sets and jewelry, according to Vietnam Tourism .

Per the U.S. Department of State , you may exercise normal precautions in Vietnam.

Disneyland Shuts Down 4 More Attractions Ahead of Summer Break

in Disney Parks , Disneyland Resort

A total of four iconic Disney attractions will close in the coming weeks.

Related: Disney Welcomes Everyone to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Months Ahead of Opening

While magic abounds inside the Disney theme parks, safety is Disney’s number one priority, meaning it must shut down rides and attractions as necessary. While Disneyland may be known as “The Happiest Place on Earth,” this happiness must come to an end, at least for a little while, for some select experiences. Sometimes, rides and attractions close due to necessary maintenance or refurbishments, while others close for exciting new rethemes and upgrades.

Disneyland’s iconic Haunted Mansion dark ride closed earlier this year to make way for not only a retheme on the inside of the mansion but a totally new outdoor queue area, complete with dozens of new set pieces and points of interest.

Unfortunately, four more attractions will soon join the Haunted Mansion, meaning guests will have fewer things to enjoy during their Disneyland trip.

The following four attractions will close within the next month

• The Incredicoaster
• Matterhorn Bobsleds
• Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln
• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

Related: Universal Studios’ Jurassic Park Attractions May Be Doomed, New Report Suggests

Guests should already be aware that four attractions are already closed at the Disneyland Resort, meaning a total of eight attractions will be unavailable as the resort enters one of its busiest times. The Incredicosaster will be closed from April 8 through April 18. Matterhorn Bobsleds will close on the slower weekdays, going offline between April 15 and 18, April 22 and 25 and April 29 through May 2. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh will close on May 1 as work continues to bring Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to life.

A reopening date has not been set. Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln will close on April 16, and there is also no reopening date set.

These closures also join other recent Disneyland attraction closures like Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, Fantasmic!, and Splash Mountain.

Of course, ride closures are not exclusive to the Disney theme parks and resorts, with several experiences closing across all theme parks recently. Over at the Universal Orlando Resort in Florida, a popular attraction recently closed forever as the resort undergoes significant changes and alterations ahead of Epic Universe’s official opening day. This massive new expansion will act as the resort’s third theme park alongside Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Epic Universe will bring with it dozens of new rides, attractions, and fun experiences for guests to enjoy, all based on some of the world’s biggest and most recognizable brands, like Super Mario and Harry Potter.

Epic Universe is set to officially open sometime in 2025, though a specific date has yet to be released.

Stay tuned here at Inside the Magic for all theme park news updates. 

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Disneyland | disneyland closes 4 attractions during busy spring season, the attraction closures coincide with the season of the force and pixar fest seasonal events just as the spring break crowds begin to dwindle..

Disneyland will close four attractions for seasonal refurbishments during the Season of the Force and Pixar Fest events just as the Spring Break crowds begin to dwindle at the Anaheim theme parks.

The Incredicoaster, Matterhorn Bobsleds, Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh and Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln will temporarily close in mid-April or early May as part of Disneyland’s standard refurbishment schedule.

ALSO SEE: See early Disneyland ride concepts that never got built

The four new attraction closures join the Haunted Mansion, Splash Mountain, Redwood Creek Challenge Trail and “Fantasmic” that were already shuttered for refurbishment.

The timing of the attraction closures coincide with the two-month-long Star Wars event that started Friday, April 5 at Disneyland and Pixar Fest that kicks off April 26 at Disney California Adventure.

The Incredicoaster in Pixar Pier will go down Monday, April 8 through April 18 for a seasonal refurbishment.

ALSO SEE: First look at Avatar themed land proposed for Disneyland

The Matterhorn Bobsleds roller coaster will close three times on slower weekdays — April 15-18, April 22-25 and April 29 to May 2.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh will close on May 1 as part of the larger closure of Critter Country while work continues on the transformation of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. A reopening date has not yet been set for the Pooh dark ride.

Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln will close on April 16 with no reopening date set. The venerable Disneyland Audio-Animatronics show will remain closed at least through May 20.

ALSO SEE: Disneyland to convert Autopia cars from gas to electric

The Haunted Mansion closed in January for an extended renovation of the outdoor queue area that will add a new accessibility elevator for wheelchair users exiting the ride and a new retail shop at the attraction’s exit. Disneyland has not announced a reopening date for the popular haunted house dark ride.

The latest temporary closures don’t include Splash Mountain — which is undergoing a yearlong conversion into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure . The Critter Country log flume ride is scheduled to reopen with a new “Princess and the Frog” theme in fall or winter 2024.

“ Fantasmic ” will return on May 24 after a yearlong hiatus following an inferno that engulfed the show’s audio-animatronic fire-breathing dragon.

Also not on the temporarily “out of order” list are several attractions that never returned following the yearlong pandemic closure that shuttered Disneyland and DCA.

Disneyland’s Star Wars Launch Bay and DCA’s Blue Sky Cellar are being used for Imagination Campus — an educational travel workshop that teaches students about the arts and sciences used in Disney theme parks.

The Magic Eye Theater in Tomorrowland remains dark with no upcoming show in the works.

DCA’s Hyperion Theater in Hollywood Land briefly returned for a two-month run of “ Rogers: The Musical ” before closing again with nothing planned for the 2,000-seat Broadway caliber venue.

The Fantasyland Theatre no longer has regularly scheduled shows after the “ Tale of the Lion King ” ended its run in January.

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Even Disney’s beloved Autopia ride is giving up on gas-powered cars

For decades, visitors to Disney’s Autopia ride in Anaheim, Calif., have experienced a taste of the open road, navigating the curves and slopes of a winding miniature motorway in cars with real working gas pedals and steering wheels.

But now the enduring attraction is getting a planet-friendly upgrade: This week, Disney said it will phase out cars powered by pure gasoline engines.

The announcement, which was first reported by the Los Angeles Times, comes as the park is taking steps to decarbonize as part of an effort to reach a goal of net-zero emissions by 2030 . The statement did not specify details about a timeline for electrifying Autopia and whether the new vehicles will be fully electric or hybrid. On Wednesday, Disney CEO Bob Iger defeated activist investors vying for seats on the company’s board. One of them, billionaire Nelson Peltz, had criticized the company for being too “woke.”

“As the industry moves toward alternative fuel sources, we have developed a road map to electrify this attraction and are evaluating technology that will enable us to convert from gas engines in the next few years,” Disney spokesperson Jessica Good said in a statement.

From the park to the road

Autopia, a feature of Disneyland’s Tomorrowland, dates to the park’s opening day in Anaheim nearly 70 years ago.

In his dedication to Tomorrowland , Walt Disney described it as a “vista into a world of wondrous ideas, signifying man’s achievements … a step into the future, with predictions of constructive things to come. Tomorrow offers new frontiers in science, adventure, and ideals: the Atomic Age, the challenge of outer space, and the hope for a peaceful and unified world.”

The driving attraction — originally designed to tap into America’s fascination with the freeway — has undergone updates over the years . But the gas-powered cars remained, despite feedback from some visitors that the attraction “ stinks like exhaust ” or gives off “ a very strong smell of fuel .”

The move to get rid of Autopia’s polluting cars is overdue, said Ingrid Malmgren, senior policy director with the electric vehicle advocacy group Plug In America.

“It sounds like Tomorrowland is kind of ready for an update,” Malmgren said. “It was maybe retroland with regard to Autopia.”

In the United States, sales of electric vehicles are increasing, but not as quickly as some experts have hoped — despite federal incentives and lower prices . Wider adoption of EVs appears to still be somewhat hampered, in part, by a hesitant American public .

“Giving people the opportunity to try out these zippy little EVs in Autopia has the potential to really demystify the technology — for people to see how fast it is, how quiet it is,” Malmgren said. “It could get people one step closer to trying an EV as a passenger vehicle.”

Given its widespread popularity, the theme park could help sway Americans who may still be reluctant to make the transition away from fossil fuels.

“So many Americans hold Disney in such a close place in their heart,” said Leah Stokes, an adviser to the nonprofit group Rewiring America, which focuses on electrification. “It’s a huge cultural force in this country, and seeing them embrace the clean electric future is an important milestone along the clean energy transition.”