Uganda Travel Guide
Affectionately dubbed the ‘Pearl of Africa’, Uganda is one of the continent’s best-kept safari secrets.
A lush and diverse country that promises a world of new experiences for intrepid luxury travellers seeking extraordinary wildlife encounters, off-the-beaten-track adventure and warm East African hospitality.
In just one destination, you can trek through ancient rain forests in search of endangered mountain gorillas, feel the roar of Murchison Falls as the Victoria Nile makes its way north, or enjoy a classic safari adventure in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
From savouring the cool breezes off Lake Victoria in Entebbe to marveling at the misty canopy of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda offers a safari experience as luxurious as it is untamed.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
One of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a bucket-list destination for luxury travellers seeking an extraordinary wildlife experience. These ancient rainforests protect nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, alongside a host of remarkable jungle species. Guided gorilla treks are led by expert rangers, usually setting out from your lodge in the early morning. After an exhilarating hike through the dense forest, travellers can spend an hour in the company of a habituated but wild gorilla family in their natural habitat, observing their feeding and interactions. Beyond gorillas, Bwindi’s trails also reveal a rich tapestry of forest dwellers, from chimpanzees and colobus monkeys to elusive forest elephants and over 350 bird species.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Set against the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of Uganda’s most memorable wildlife destinations. Covering 1978 square kilometres, the park features a diversity of ecosystems ranging from open savannah to rainforest and wetlands, supporting over 100 animal and 600 bird species. A chance to see the unique tree-climbing lions is a highlight, as is tracking wild chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge. A boat safari on the Kazinga Channel offers close encounters with hippos and abundant birdlife.
Murchison Falls National Park
Uganda’s largest and oldest protected area offers a fantastic combination of land- and water-based safari activities. The park’s centrepiece is the Murchison Falls, where the Victoria Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge to plunge 43 metres in a thunderous display. River cruises will introduce you to the region’s vast pods of hippos, while downstream, the Victoria Nile Delta is a hotspot for birding: 556 bird species have been recorded here, including the rare shoebill stork. Game drives across the savannah will reveal herds of Uganda kob, Jackson’s hartebeest, and Rothschild’s giraffes, or go trekking in search of chimpanzees through the Budongo Forest.
Entebbe
Set on the shores of Lake Victoria, Entebbe is Uganda’s gateway city and an ideal bookend for your adventures in Uganda. Wander the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, discover the incredible work being done at the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre, or pick up last-minute souvenirs at the Entebbe Craft Village. The vibrant streets of Kampala, the capital, are just an hour’s drive away, and the city’s museums, galleries and restaurants offer an unforgettable taste of Africa’s urban energy. End your stay with a laid-back sunset cruise on Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa and the world’s largest tropical lake.
Uganda’s equatorial climate makes it a fantastic year-round destination, but some months are better than others, especially if you plan on trekking with gorillas. June to September is the long dry season and the best time for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, as the forest paths are more accessible. Wildlife sightings are also better in Queen Victoria National Park and Murchison Falls National Park, as animals seek out available water sources. A short dry season returns from December to February, offering another excellent window for trekking and safari trips.
March to May, and October to November are the rainy seasons in Uganda. While travel is still possible and the landscape is lush – and birding is even more productive! – forest trails for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking may be challenging. However, these quieter months also bring fewer tourists and discounted lodge rates.
Africa By Design will tailor-make your Ugandan adventure, but in our experience, a combination of gorilla trekking and safari stays offer the best snapshot of all that the ‘pearl of Africa’ has to offer. Our expert safari planners will gladly create a bespoke luxury journey for you, but with decades of experience in East African safaris, we have found these carefully curated packages to offer the best of all that Uganda has to offer.
As tourism to Uganda continues to grow, it’s driving a welcome increase in luxury lodges in and around the country’s key wildlife and wilderness destinations. From forest hideaways overlooking Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to riverside retreats in Murchison Falls National Park, each lodge in our portfolio has been carefully selected for its charm, comfort, and commitment to conservation.
The official currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX), though most luxury lodges and hotels will accept major international currencies, including US Dollars, British pounds and Euros. Credit cards are widely accepted in high-end establishments, though a surcharge might apply for some issuers. Souvenir shops and roadside vendors may accept US Dollars, but be sure to carry small denominations for purchases, as any change will likely be given in local currency.
Tipping is not obligatory in Uganda, but guests wishing to reward excellent service are welcome to share a gratuity with staff. In restaurants and bars, 10-15% of the bill is appropriate.
Safari lodges will offer guidance on gratuities for guides and staff but expect to tip between $10 and $20 per person per night for housekeeping and general lodge personnel. This can be handed to lodge management or reception, as these tips are pooled and distributed equally among the back-of-house staff. Guides (and trackers, when applicable) should receive tips directly. $10 to $20 per day is considered standard. Tipping your guides ($10) and porters ($5) after gorilla trekking is also recommended. Where possible, tipping in local currency is preferred. When in doubt, ask your tour guide or lodge manager for guidance.
Uganda operates on a 240V electrical system with Type G plugs (British-style three-pin). Most lodges provide universal adapters, and charging stations are available even in remote camps. Visitors from North America should ensure their devices are dual voltage or bring a converter.
Uganda is considered safe for travellers, particularly on organised itineraries that do not involve independent travel and public transport. Tourism is a priority sector for the government, and visitors are warmly welcomed. In remote safari areas, crime is virtually non-existent, and there is little need for concern. However, most lodges will provide in-room safes for your valuables and documents for your peace of mind.
When exploring the large cities of Entebbe and Kampala, it pays to apply a little common sense. As with any large city, keep a close watch on personal items such as handbags and cameras when in busy public spaces like airports and markets. Refrain from displaying valuables, jewellery or large amounts of cash. For further guidance in the cities, ask your guide or hotel concierge for advice on safe areas to explore and reputable taxi companies.
Uganda may be one of the smallest countries in Africa, but it’s packed with places you simply shouldn’t miss. While you could pay a flying visit for a two-day gorilla trekking adventure, we recommend spending at least 10 days in Uganda for a truly immersive experience at a relaxed pace. This allows time to ease into your holiday in Entebbe, followed by memorable days in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s key wildlife destinations.
Most international travellers require a visa to enter Uganda, which can be conveniently obtained online via the Uganda eVisa system. Visas are typically valid for 90 days. Passports should be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date. Ensure you have proof of onward travel and any required vaccinations. A seven-day transit visa is also available for travellers transiting through Uganda en route to another destination.
A yellow fever vaccination is required for all travellers to Uganda. Ensure your vaccination is completed at least 10 days before arrival in the country. Since 2014, the World Health Organisation has decreed that a yellow fever vaccination offers lifetime immunity, and no boosters or revaccination are required. Malaria is widespread in Uganda, and prophylaxis is recommended. Consult your travel doctor at least three weeks before departure.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in most luxury lodges and hotels, although the connection speeds are likely lower than travellers are accustomed to. Mobile coverage is good in cities and many safari regions, although remote parks may have limited signal.
Uganda Travel Destinations
Africa By Design
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