Things to Do in Uganda: Top Activities & Attractions

Uganda, known as the “Pearl of Africa,” is a diverse and exciting destination offering wildlife safaris, gorilla trekking, adventure sports, cultural experiences, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, nature lover, or cultural enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in this East African paradise.

Here’s a complete guide to the top things to do in Uganda.

1. Go Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Mgahinga

Observing the critically endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is one of the most engaging activities that can be done in Uganda. The fact that Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s remaining gorillas makes this an experience that should only be had once in a lifetime.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are destinations that are worth seeing. It is recommended that you make reservations in advance for gorilla permits, which cost $800 per person.

2. Experience a Big Five Safari in Uganda’s National Parks

The Big Five of Africa—the lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros—can only be seen in just a select few nations, and Uganda is one of those countries. Activities such as wildlife drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris are all part of a safari in Uganda.

Where exactly is it?

Among the best places to go on wildlife and boat safaris is Murchison Falls National Park.
Known for its tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most isolated and wild safari park. Kidipo Valley National Park is Uganda’s most spectacular national park.
The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the only national park in Uganda where rhinoceros can be seen.

When it comes to game drives, the best opportunities to view predators are during the early morning and evening hours.

3. Go Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest

There are about 5,000 chimpanzees living in the wild in Uganda, which is why the country is recognized as the primate capital of the world. Due to the fact that chimpanzees are lively and highly social, hiking with them is an experience that is both exhilarating and interactive.

What are the locations of Kibale Forest National Park, Budongo Forest, and Kyambura Gorge? The cost of a permit to go chimpanzee trekking is approximately $200 per person.

4. Hike the Rwenzori Mountains – The “Mountains of the Moon”

If you are someone who enjoys going on adventures, the Rwenzori Mountains are home to some of the most difficult and beautiful walks in all of Africa. Margherita Peak, which stands at 5,109 meters, is the third-highest mountain in Africa and features snow-capped summits, glaciers, and vegetation that is found in alpine environments.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is the location of the park. A word of advice: the whole circle of a trek requires at least seven days of hiking, but there are shorter trail options available.

5. Go White-Water Rafting on the Nile in Jinja

If you are someone who enjoys taking risks, Jinja is the place to be! The Nile River is home to some of the most impressive white-water rapids in the world, with grades ranging from grade 3 to grade 5.

Where exactly is it? Jinja, the origin of the Nile, is a place of great significance. Bungee jumping, kayaking, quad biking, and sunset boat cruises are some of the other sports being offered.

6. Visit the Source of the Nile in Jinja

Jinja is the location of the fabled Source of the Nile, which is the point at which the Nile River starts its trip of 6,650 kilometers to the Mediterranean. You have the option of going on a boat excursion to the precise location, or you can engage in sightseeing along the riverbanks.

Where exactly is Jinja? It is recommended that you combine your trip with a tour on quad bikes or a cultural experience in Jinja town.

7. Go on a Boat Safari in Queen Elizabeth & Murchison Falls

Boat safaris in Uganda are quite remarkable, as they provide a one-of-a-kind opportunity to observe animals while traveling along the lake. You should be prepared to witness a wide range of bird species, as well as hippos, crocodiles, and elephants.

Where exactly is it?

Located in Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Kazinga Channel is the best place to see elephants and hippos.
Views of Murchison Falls and crocodiles may be seen from Victoria Nile, which is located in Murchison Falls National Park.

A helpful hint: Evening boat excursions provide the opportunity to witness breathtaking sunsets and see more animals.

8. Explore Lake Bunyonyi – The Switzerland of Africa

There are 29 islands scattered around Lake Bunyonyi, which is Uganda’s most beautiful and deepest lake. It is flanked by hills that are covered with lush greenery. Whether you want to swim, canoe across the lake, or unwind after a gorilla walk, here is the ideal location to do so.

The location is in the southwestern region of Uganda, close to the Bwindi National Park. For a unique way to discover the ancient islands, consider going on a dugout boat journey.

9. Visit the Ssese Islands – Uganda’s Tropical Paradise

There is a hidden beach hideaway known as the Ssese Islands, which are situated on Lake Victoria. These islands include sandy shoreline, waters that are crystal clear, and tropical beauty. It is an excellent location for fishing, beach games, and relaxing at the beach.

May I inquire about Lake Victoria? To get the most out of your trip, it is recommended that you take a ferry from Entebbe to Kalangala Island.

10. Discover Uganda’s Rich Culture & Heritage

Every one of Uganda’s more than fifty distinct ethnic groups has its own set of customs, music, and dance. One of the best ways to gain an understanding of Uganda’s rich cultural legacy is to travel to various villages and cultural landmarks.

Where exactly is it?

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the burial sites of Buganda Kings, the Kasubi Tombs are located in Kampala. The Ndere Cultural Centre is home to a lively cultural show that features traditional dances.
A tour of the indigenous Batwa pygmy community is included in the Batwa Cultural Experience (Bwindi & Mgahinga).

Advice: If you want to have a real experience, you should go to a performance of traditional dance.

11. Birdwatching – Spot Over 1,000 Bird Species

A heaven for birdwatchers, Uganda is home to more than 1,060 different kinds of birds, one of which is the extremely uncommon Shoebill Stork.

Where exactly is it?

There is no better site to watch the Shoebill Stork than in Mabamba Swamp.
Kazinga Channel and Maramagambo Forest are both located within Queen Elizabeth National Park.
The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the breeding ground for the Green-breasted Pitta.

Hire a local birding guide to have the most enjoyable trip possible.

12. Stand on the Uganda Equator Line

One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Uganda is the Equator Line, which allows visitors to experience the benefits of standing in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres at the same time.

Where exactly is it?

One of the most well-known locations in Queen Elizabeth National Park is Kayabwe, which is located along the Kampala-Masaka Road. Another Equator sign may be found within the park.

One useful piece of advice is to observe the demonstration of the water experiment, which demonstrates how water swirls differently in each hemisphere.

Best Things to Do in Uganda

Uganda is a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list since it offers a wide variety of activities, including gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, adventure sports, and cultural experiences. There is something unique and interesting to discover in Uganda, whether you are interested in exploring the savannah, the rainforests, the mountains, or the lakes.

For bookings, contact your Uganda Safari Packages Specialist