6 Best Places to Visit in Uganda on Safari

The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest lies strong and silent in the southwest of Uganda in the Rift Valley, a rainforest surrounded by thick canopies and lush groundcover.

Famous as home to over half of the world’s highland gorillas, Bwindi is alive with excitement and adventure, not only for its remarkable inhabitants, but also for the many visitors who trek and trail through the forest.

The slopes are a mix of gentle and steep, and entering this misty wonderland can be done from various gorilla-family locations, from Buhoma to Nkuringo and Rushaga and Mgahinga to Ruhija.

Highlights: Gorilla Trekking • Bird Watching • Community Organization and Village Visits Outside the Forest

Recommended length of stay: 1-2 days

Queen Elizabeth Park is one of East Africa’s most popular destinations, as it offers a variety of landscapes and stories told through cultural and wildlife encounters.

With forests, open savannas, channels, and crater lakes, the park supports diverse wildlife.

The breathtaking scenery is backgrounded by the Rwenzori Mountains and rolling hills surrounding the Kazinga Channel to create one of Uganda’s most unforgettable destinations.

Highlights: Outstanding Game Viewing • Prolific Birdlife on Kazinga Channel • Community Encounters • Boat Cruises • Safari Drives • Tree-climbing lions

Recommended length of stay: 1-2 days

Travel north of Kampala to the mighty Murchison Falls, perched high above Lake Victoria, with the Victoria Nile cutting through its path.

A magnificent feature in the Albertine Valley, the falls tumble into the “Devil’s Cauldron” and paint a picture of color to complete the dramatic scenery.

Noted as Uganda’s first national park, Murchison Falls can lead you to views of elephants and giraffes, lions and waterbuck, as well as reveal the nearly 460 species of birds that fill the trees and bush with vibrant colors and calls.

Highlights: Hiking • Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary • Hot-Air Balloon Rides Over the Falls • The Launch Trip: Wildlife and Photographic Experience

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

An island retreat for a number of rescued chimpanzees, Ngamba Island is a haven for these fascinating animals.

The island lies in Lake Victoria and offers a space for injured or traumatized chimpanzees to recuperate and thrive, something visitors can be a part of when they visit. Spots of open grassland intersperse with forests to provide the ideal habitat for these rambunctious primates.

Whether during a forest walk or when crossing the waters by boat, the experience will demonstrate the importance of Uganda’s environment and communities.

Highlights: Ngamba Island Chimp Trails and Education

Recommended length of stay: 1-2 days

Comprising lowland and montane forests, the landscape of Kibale is diverse and lush, inviting visitors to step inside a fairytale setting of green and brown splashed against muddy pathways.

Home to lively chimpanzees, trekking them through Kibale is entertaining and exciting as you uncover foliage perfectly placed to provide a home to more than primates. Kibale is an attractive forest that offers landscapes that change from dense to delicate, with thick tropical forests to savannas.

Highlights: Chimp Trekking • Bird Viewing • Nature Walks

Recommended length of stay: 1-2 days

The source of the mighty Nile River, Lake Victoria lies on the equator and is the size of some European countries.

The body of water comprises a variety of vegetation, with thick forests giving way to open savannas.

Incredible birdlife and a popular spot in which to fish and partake in water sports, Lake Victoria offers one of Uganda’s most memorable experiences. Relax on the shoreline, interact with locals, and indulge in the sheer beauty of its shimmering waters.

Highlights: Birding • Water Sports • Boat Activities • Nature Walks

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Uganda is a place where culture meets breathtaking beauty and wildlife comes in all shapes and forms, spread out in forests and valleys, as well as on rivers and lakes. When planning your Uganda adventure, be sure to give yourself enough time to embrace as much of the communities, animal encounters, and downtime it offers in unique, serene settings.

To get more ideas on what you can discover in Uganda, explore our Uganda safaris and gorilla trekking or find inspiration in our African safari travel guide.