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African Safaris and Tours
Uganda Safaris
Tailor-Made Uganda Safaris: Gorilla Trekking, Chimpanzees, Game Drives And The Nile
Uganda fits rainforest, savannah, crater lakes and the Nile into one country, and a well-planned safari moves between them. Most of our itineraries centre on mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in the south-west. Then they add chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, or game drives and a Kazinga Channel boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where the channel links Lake Edward and Lake George and the Ishasha sector is known for its tree-climbing lions. Murchison Falls National Park brings the Nile forcing its way through a narrow gorge, and Kidepo Valley National Park lies in Uganda's far north-east, on the border with South Sudan and close to Kenya.
Every safari below is tailor-made. You can travel by road with a private guide, fly between airstrips to cut out the longest drives, or mix the two. We shape the route, pace and lodges around your dates, interests and budget. Uganda also pairs well with Rwanda, Kenya or Tanzania in a single East African journey.
Choose where to stay on our Uganda lodges pages, and check the seasons on when to visit Uganda. Before you book, read our Uganda malaria advice and our guide to malaria in Africa. When you're ready, tell us about your trip, and our team, planning African safaris since 1999, will build your itinerary.
Our Uganda Safari Itineraries
Budget Gorilla Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
A 7-day budget-friendly Uganda safari for the young at heart or travellers watching their spend. Trek mountain gorillas in the south-west, unwind on the shores of Lake Bunyonyi, look for wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park and soak up the culture and history of Kampala, the capital.
Glimpse of Gorilla Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
A 5-day safari that pairs Entebbe with mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. You get a little city time and an hour face to face with a gorilla family in deep, misty forest. It suits first-time visitors and seasoned travellers alike, and it's ideal when time is short.
Murchison Falls Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
A 4-day safari in Murchison Falls National Park, north-western Uganda. Game drives across open savannah alternate with time on the Nile, where the river forces its way through a narrow gorge at the falls. It makes a rewarding short break, or a strong savannah counterpart to a gorilla trek.
Uganda Birding Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
A 12-day Uganda birding safari for enthusiasts chasing the Albertine Rift endemics and a long, varied list across forest, savannah and wetland. Expect early starts, long and rewarding days in the vehicle and a pace set by the birds. Guests should be keen, reasonably fit and happy to rise before dawn.
Uganda Fishing Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
A tailor-made Uganda fishing safari on the River Nile and Lake Victoria, where the target is Nile perch. Days on the water come with birdlife, wildlife and green riverbank scenery. The trip suits seasoned anglers and curious first-timers alike, and we can blend in gorilla trekking or a game drive.
Uganda Fly in Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
A 4-day luxury fly-in safari across Uganda's contrasts, from gorilla forest to sun-baked savannah. Light-aircraft hops replace long road transfers, so more of every day goes on wildlife and less on the vehicle. It's an elegant, unhurried way to see two very different sides of the country in a short stay.
Uganda Gorilla Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
A 6-day safari from Entebbe to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, trekking in either Uganda or Rwanda. The itinerary builds in an extra day for a second gorilla trek. The other day goes on a forest walk or a visit to a local village for a closer look at life in the hills.
Uganda Primate Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
An 8-day primate safari from Entebbe that tracks both mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. Game viewing and birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park round it off, along with a boat cruise where hippos, buffalo and waterbirds crowd the shoreline. It's a superb all-round introduction to Uganda's primates and savannah.
Ultimate Uganda Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
A 12-day safari from Entebbe that brings together Uganda's great apes. Trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Rwanda, and track chimpanzees in Kibale National Park or Kyambura Gorge. There's also a moving visit to the orphaned chimps on Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Lake Victoria.
Unspoilt Uganda Safari
This Safari is Tailor-made Rates On request
A 12-day safari through Uganda's forests and savannah, beginning with the botanical gardens and wildlife education centre. Explore the dense forest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, then follow the big game across Queen Elizabeth National Park. It's a varied, action-packed journey with time to take it all in.
Uganda Safaris and Gorilla Trekking: Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of safari can you do in Uganda?
Uganda safaris combine primate treks on foot with savannah game viewing. Most itineraries pair mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga with chimpanzee tracking, then add guided game drives and boat cruises in Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls national parks, along with forest and birding walks. There are also specialist itineraries built around birding or sport fishing.
How many days do you need for a Uganda safari?
Our Uganda itineraries run from four to twelve days. Four or five days covers a single highlight, such as a gorilla trek in Bwindi or a Murchison Falls safari. Seven or eight days adds chimpanzees and savannah game viewing. Twelve days takes in forest, savannah and lakes at an unhurried pace, with time for birding or a cultural visit.
Should I drive or fly between parks in Uganda?
Most Uganda safaris travel by road with a private guide and vehicle, and fly-in safaris use light aircraft between airstrips near the parks. Driving shows you far more of rural Uganda. Flying saves long days in the vehicle. Many itineraries mix the two, and road transfers are always planned to finish before dark.
How do I get a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda?
Gorilla permits for Bwindi and Mgahinga are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, and foreign non-residents must book them through a tour operator licensed by the Uganda Tourism Board. Each habituated gorilla family takes no more than eight visitors a day, so permits are limited. We arrange yours as part of your safari itinerary, so book as early as you can.
What are the rules for gorilla trekking in Uganda?
You must be at least 15 years old to trek mountain gorillas in Uganda. Groups are capped at eight visitors per gorilla family, your time with the gorillas is limited to one hour, and you keep 10 metres away. Anyone with a cold or other infectious illness may not trek, because gorillas catch human diseases.
Which Bwindi sector should I choose?
Choose the sector that fits the rest of your route, because every Bwindi gorilla permit is issued for one specific sector. Bwindi has four trekking sectors, Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga and Nkuringo, each with its own trailhead and gorilla families. Tracking somewhere other than the location on your permit carries a fine of half the permit fee. See our Bwindi lodges for where to stay.
Uganda or Rwanda for gorilla trekking?
Both countries offer superb mountain gorilla trekking, so the choice usually comes down to the rest of your trip. In Uganda you trek in Bwindi Impenetrable or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, with permits from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, and you can add chimpanzees and savannah parks in the same country. In Rwanda, permits come from the Rwanda Development Board. Each country sets its own permit fees.
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.