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African Safaris and Tours
Uganda Travel Guide
Uganda Travel – Mountain Gorillas, Chimpanzees and the Wild Nile
Uganda packs an extraordinary amount into a compact corner of East Africa. Mist-wrapped rainforest cloaks the southwest, where mountain gorillas live in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla national parks. Chimpanzees hoot through the canopy of Kibale forest, the Nile forces its way through the narrow gorge at Murchison Falls, and the savannah of Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to the tree-climbing lions of its Ishasha sector, rolls down to the hippo-lined Kazinga Channel.
Gorilla trekking is the experience that draws many travellers here, and an hour in the company of a habituated gorilla family is something you never forget. Yet Uganda rewards those who linger: boat cruises beneath the falls, superb birding, game drives on open plains, and white-water rafting on the Nile near Jinja. It is a wonderful destination for photographers, with every day bringing a change of scenery.
Entebbe International Airport, on the shores of Lake Victoria, is the main gateway. From there, most safaris travel by road in a dedicated safari vehicle with an experienced driver-guide, and roads can be slow – our Uganda distance table helps with planning. Private charter flights are available for those who want more time on the ground and less on the road.
Accommodation ranges from intimate forest lodges and tented camps on the edge of the parks to boutique guesthouses and larger hotels in Entebbe and Kampala. Browse our hand-picked Uganda lodges to find the right fit for your style and budget.
Uganda has two rainy seasons a year, which shape trekking and road conditions – see when to visit Uganda. Malaria risk is high throughout the country, so read our Uganda malaria guide and malaria in Africa advice before you travel. Visa details are on our Uganda visa requirements page.
Uyaphi has been creating tailor-made African safaris since 1999. Tell us how you like to travel and we will shape a Uganda itinerary around you.
Explore Uganda Lodges, Safaris and Travel Guides Below
Uganda Lodges
Discover Uganda's finest lodges, tented camps and hotels, from forest hideaways on the edge of Bwindi to riverside camps near Murchison Falls and lodges overlooking Queen Elizabeth's plains. Each blends comfort with wonderful access to wildlife and scenery. Whether you prefer polished luxury, rustic canvas or a stylish Entebbe guesthouse, there is a perfect base for your stay in the 'Pearl of Africa'.
Uganda Safaris
Trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi, track chimpanzees in Kibale, cruise beneath the thundering Murchison Falls and watch for the tree-climbing lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Our tailor-made Uganda safaris weave primates, savannah and the mighty Nile into one unforgettable journey. Gorilla permits are limited, so plan early to secure your preferred dates.
Uganda Safari Planner
Uganda is a captivating land of misty rainforest, sweeping savannah and the mighty Nile. Tell us how you like to travel and our team, creating tailor-made African safaris since 1999, will design a Uganda itinerary around your interests, pace and budget, from gorilla trekking in Bwindi to boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel. Start planning your journey here.
Uganda Attractions
Discover Uganda's most celebrated safari attractions, from gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in ancient rainforest to thrilling adventures on the Nile and the vast expanse of Lake Victoria. Add extraordinary wildlife encounters, dramatic landscapes and a rich, vibrant culture, and Uganda makes a remarkable addition to any East Africa itinerary.
Uganda Photo Gallery
Explore Uganda through our photo galleries, from gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in misty rainforest to tree-climbing lions, the mighty Nile and white-water rafting near Jinja. Bird lovers will find plenty to admire too. Every image was taken by the Uyaphi.com team, offering a vivid visual journey through this small yet spectacular safari destination.
When To Visit Uganda
Uganda straddles the equator, so temperatures stay fairly steady throughout the year. There are two rainy seasons, roughly March to May and October to November, when forest trails grow muddy and some roads become slow going. Rain brings lush scenery and fewer visitors, though. Our month-by-month guide helps you choose the right time for gorilla trekking, game viewing and birding.
Getting To Uganda
Getting to Uganda is easier than many travellers expect, with a choice of international airlines flying into Entebbe International Airport, the country's main gateway on the shores of Lake Victoria. Road-based safaris combining Uganda with Kenya or Tanzania are also popular. Let Uyaphi.com take care of the logistics, so you can focus on preparing for an unforgettable trip.
Malaria In Uganda
Uganda is classified as a high-risk malaria destination, with risk present throughout the country. Consult your doctor, pharmacist or a travel clinic well before departure for personalised advice on the most suitable antimalarials, and pack a good insect repellent. With sensible precautions and professional guidance, you can enjoy your Uganda safari with complete peace of mind.
Uganda Distance Table
Distances in Uganda may look modest on the map, but road conditions, villages, livestock and wildlife all slow the pace, so journeys often take longer than expected. Our Uganda distance table sets out realistic driving times between key towns and parks, helping you plan comfortable travel days. Google Maps and Street View are also useful for exploring routes before you go.
Map of Uganda
Explore our detailed map showing the locations of safari lodges, tented camps, hotels and boutique guesthouses across this captivating East African country. Pinpoint your stay near Uganda's national parks, lakes and highlights, including Lake Victoria, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale forest and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Uganda Visa Requirements
Most visitors need a visa to explore Uganda, and the application is made online through the country's official immigration portal before you travel. Our guide explains how the process works, which nationalities enjoy visa-free entry, and how the East African Tourist Visa fits a combined Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda safari, making your travel planning smoother.
Uganda Travel FAQs
Where is Uganda?
Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa that straddles the equator. It borders Kenya, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda and Tanzania, and shares Lake Victoria with Kenya and Tanzania. Kampala is the capital, while Entebbe International Airport, on the Lake Victoria shore, is the main gateway for safari travellers.
Do I need a visa to visit Uganda?
Yes, unless your nationality is on Uganda's visa-exempt list. Apply online through the official immigration portal; once approved, you receive an emailed letter, and the visa is finalised at the border with biometric capture. Passports need six months' validity. The East African Tourist Visa covers Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda for 90 days with multiple entries, entering first through the issuing country.
Do I need a yellow fever certificate to enter Uganda?
No. A notice from Uganda's immigration directorate, dated 2 October 2026, states that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is no longer mandatory for entry. At the time of writing, its East African Tourist Visa page still lists the certificate among supporting documents, so carry yours if you have one. Vaccine advice is on our Uganda malaria and health page.
What currency is used in Uganda?
Uganda's currency is the Ugandan shilling (UGX). Your lodges, guiding and safari activities are priced as part of your itinerary, so cash is mainly needed for tips, curios and incidentals. UK FCDO travel advice recommends carrying only small amounts of cash and using indoor ATMs, ideally reached by arranged transport.
Is Uganda safe for a safari?
As of October 2026, the UK FCDO does not advise against travel to any part of Uganda, but read its full travel advice before booking. It considers terrorist attacks very likely, including in national parks, and urges particular caution near the DRC border. Security personnel routinely accompany gorilla treks in Bwindi and Mgahinga, and we build every itinerary around current advice.
How does Uganda compare with Kenya and Tanzania?
Uganda is above all a primate destination: mountain gorillas in Bwindi and Mgahinga, chimpanzees in Kibale forest and exceptional birdlife, with savannah game in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls. Kenya and Tanzania are the classic open-plains destinations, home to the wildebeest migration. Uganda's green, mountainous forests feel quite different from the grasslands further east.
Map of Lodges in and around Uganda
Uganda Travel Topics
10 Best Lodges In Uganda
Embark on a journey through the heart of Africa with our latest exploration into Uganda, a country renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and vibrant cultures. This enchanting land offers more than just an adventure; it presents an opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty and tranquillity of nature. From the mist-covered mountains of Bwindi to the vast savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda promises an unforgettable escape into the wild. Our latest blog post delves into the "10 Best Lodges in Uganda," each selected for its unique blend of luxury, comfort, and harmony with nature.
The Perfect Uganda Honeymoon Safari
Welcome to "The Perfect Uganda Honeymoon Safari," where romance meets adventure in the heart of East Africa. Uganda, with its lush landscapes and diverse wildlife, offers an idyllic backdrop for newlyweds seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. Track endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi, enjoy boat safaris on the Nile, and unwind in luxurious lodges surrounded by nature. Discover why Uganda is the perfect honeymoon safari destination, offering unforgettable memories and thrilling adventures.
Uganda Travel Bucket List
Planning your dream trip to Uganda? Our latest blog post, "Uganda Travel Bucket List," is, without a doubt, your ultimate guide to uncovering the wonders of this East African gem—a destination that truly lives up to its title as the Pearl of Africa. Imagine the thrill of gorilla trekking in the lush Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where each step brings you closer to an incredible wildlife encounter. Or picture yourself enjoying the stunning views of Queen Elizabeth National Park, with its vast savannahs and sparkling crater lakes.
The Ultimate Guide To The 10 Must-See Attractions In Uganda
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Uganda's diverse landscapes and captivating culture. From wildlife encounters to adventure activities, Uganda offers incredible attractions that will leave you with lasting memories. Discover the must-see attractions, from Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to stunning landscapes and waterfalls in Sipi Falls & Mount Elgon National Park. Explore Uganda and immerse yourself in its unique cultural experiences and majestic wildlife.
Exploring Uganda Safaris - Gorilla Trekking, Wildlife Tours & Safari Holidays
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Uganda, the "Pearl of Africa"! Experience gorilla trekking, wildlife tours, and breathtaking landscapes in the country's 10 national parks. Encounter mountain gorillas, tree-climbing lions, and witness the powerful Murchison Falls. Immerse yourself in the local culture and explore Uganda's incredible beauty on an unforgettable safari!
Uganda the Pearl of Africa
There are certain names in Africa that are simply magical, conjuring up spectacular images of mystery, exotic fauna and flora, and even a touch of danger. I had the immense pleasure of visiting one of these places last year: the magnificent Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in the southwest corner of Uganda. This is one of the best places in the world to find troupes of majestic mountain gorillas. In the dense, misty forests of the Virunga Mountains, you can witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, an experience few other locations can offer.
White Water Rafting Uganda
Our whitewater rafting adventure on the Nile River, without a doubt one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life, began at the vibrant Nile River Explorers backpackers in Jinja. From the very start, the attention to detail was exceptional. Our guides delivered a remarkably thorough safety briefing—far more comprehensive than most would expect. This wasn’t just a surface-level overview; it included multiple, mandatory practice flips in the raft, ensuring every participant felt fully prepared for the thrilling challenges that awaited. The meticulous preparation added a layer of confidence and excitement, setting the stage for what proved to be an unforgettable journey down one of the world’s most iconic rivers.v
Bwindi Safari Experience Uganda
Often referred to as "The Pearl of Africa" by Winston Churchill, Uganda is a country of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and incredible biodiversity. However, its history is also marked by darker times, such as the brutal civil war and the oppressive regime of the infamous dictator Idi Amin, events that remain a significant part of the nation’s story. Today, Uganda is a top destination for travelers. Most visitors come to see its famous residents—the endangered mountain gorillas. Found in the forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, these majestic creatures offer an unforgettable encounter in one of the world's most biodiverse ecosystems. Uganda’s beauty and wildlife attract adventurers from across the globe.