Uganda is a rewarding and much loved destination – voted the top country to visit in 2019 by Fodor’s Travel. English is widely spoken, a warm welcome is guaranteed and tourists are cherished! With unspoilt landscapes and abundant wild animals, what more could you want for the perfect authentic safari?
Your first decision is the key to making a plan: are you going to fly to Entebbe in the East of the country or to Kigali, the nearby capital of Rwanda, to access the West of Uganda more directly? Both options can include a major savannah national park plus the unforgettable experience of tracking primates.
If you decide to fly into Entebbe, located in the eastern part of the country, you’ll have convenient access to various attractions and wildlife reserves. One of the highlights is undoubtedly the opportunity to embark on a thrilling Uganda Gorilla Tour. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prominent destination for gorilla trekking. Here, you can venture into the dense forests, accompanied by experienced guides, to observe the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Additionally, an Entebbe-based itinerary can include a Uganda Safari Tour to Queen Elizabeth National Park, which is renowned for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. The park encompasses savannah plains, crater lakes, and dense forests, providing an ideal habitat for an array of animals, including elephants, lions, buffalos, leopards, and a remarkable variety of bird species.
On the other hand, if you choose to fly into Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, you can access the western part of Uganda more directly. This option also offers an unforgettable experience: tracking primates. A popular primate tracking adventure in this region is the Uganda Gorilla Safari Tour, which involves visiting the gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Kigali is a convenient entry point, and from there, you can make your way to the gorilla trekking sites.
Regardless of your entry point, Uganda offers a wide range of attractions and activities that guarantee an authentic safari experience. From exploring the stunning landscapes to encountering remarkable wildlife, Uganda is truly a gem for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Trek Mountain Gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest near the town of Kisoro. This once-in-a- lifetime adventure can be the single focus of a short holiday or combined with a safari. Please note that Permits must be booked and paid for well in advance of your holiday. Top tip: employ a porter!
Note that it’s less expensive to trek the Golden Monkeys who live in the nearby bamboo forest in Mghinga National Park – a popular alternative!
Wildlife Trip
In Queen Elizabeth National Park you will find elephants galore, buffalo, gangs of hippo and many members of the antelope family including the stately Whitebuck, whilst Queen Elizabeth lions are famous for their tree-climbing habit. Then there’s the boat ride along the Kazinga Channel – a must! This wide channel linking Lake Edward and Lake George offers superb photo opportunities of the wildlife crowding the shore. If you’re lucky you might spot a shy leopard!
After a minimum of 2 nights in Queen Elizabeth, drive on to Lake Mburo National Park where you will encounter zebra and giraffes and the ancient eland.
En route to the North from Entebbe airport, stop over at the Ziwa Sanctuary where you can trek the only Rhino in Uganda. Stunning photos guaranteed!
Murchison Falls National Park is famous for its giraffes and you will encounter elephants, buffalo, lions, hippo, Ugandan kob, oribi and wart hog. The birds are stunning too, especially the hornbill. The exciting boat trip on the Victorian Nile, gliding past crocodiles, will take you to view the magnificent falls after which the park is named.
Wildlife Trip
Chimpanzees inhabit Kibale Forest where you can stay on your return to Entebbe from Murchison Falls. Permits, however, require prior booking and payment. You’ll never forget the commotion and humour of these intelligent primates!
Kidepo National Park is a possible add-on to a visit to Murchison. It is a long drive North, which takes you up to the mountainous border between Uganda and the Sudan. This remote part of the country is home to the Karamojong people who still live in traditional huts. Our favourite lodge offers glamping on a rocky outcrop.
If you are interested in finding out more about what Safari for All can offer, do send us a message through our ‘Contact us’ page. Tell us when you would like to travel, how much time you have and what you would like to see. We can then discuss options for your bespoke safari experience.
