This story was created in partnership with: Uganda Tourism Board
Uganda earned its status as a bucket list destination thanks to the country’s most famous residents – the majestic mountain gorilla. The thrill of trekking through Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and spending time in the presence of these extraordinary animals draws travellers from around the world, but there’s so much more to Uganda than awe-inspiring apes.
This astonishingly diverse country — which Winston Churchill famously dubbed the ‘Pearl of Africa’ — is also home to tree-climbing lions, some of the rarest bird species on the planet, and spectacular natural scenery that will leave you in awe.
If you’re ready to start planning the ultimate Uganda itinerary, read on for a list of remarkable experiences — from wildlife viewing to cultural attractions — that can’t be missed.
1. Chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest Reserve
Chimpanzee trekking offers a completely different experience to a traditional gorilla trekking tour. Rather than observing gentle giants in a quiet, intimate setting, you’ll follow a boisterous group of chimps as they leap and scamper through Budongo Forest Reserve, heading in whatever direction the agile animals lead you.
The reserve is home to nearly 700 of these playful primates including six groups habituated for trekking. Knowledgeable guides follow the chimps’ daily movements and lead groups of up to six people into their habitat.
Much like on a gorilla trek, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a full day to locate a group of chimpanzees, which provides ample time for participants to learn about the forest’s ecology before spending an hour watching a chimp family play and go about their daily lives in the wild.
2. Look up for the tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Not only is Queen Elizabeth National Park home to four of the Big Five safari animals (lion, leopard, elephant, and Cape buffalo), it’s also one of the few places on the continent where you can see a wonderfully rare wildlife sighting: tree-climbing lions.
Found in the park’s southerly Ishasha sector, lions ascend the wide branches of acacia and sycamore fig trees to catch a cool breeze and avoid insect bites on the ground — a unique behavior that’s rarely exhibited in other lion populations. If your safari guide shouts “lions!” in this region, remember to look up rather than out at the grasslands.
When traversing the park, be sure to plan a stop at the equator. Monuments on both sides of the road mark the exact spot of latitude 00 – a perfect photo opportunity.
3. Spot rare bird species in Uganda’s parks
If you’re a birding enthusiast, prepare to be wowed: Uganda is home to more than half of Africa’s bird species, and it’s one of the richest birding destinations on the continent. Visitors from across the globe flock to Uganda hoping to get a glimpse of more than 1,000 species, including several found nowhere else on Earth.
With the right itinerary, it’s possible to identify as many as 200 species in a single day. Keep an eye out for the prehistoric-looking shoebill stork, considered one of the most desirable bird sightings in Africa; the colourful African green broadbill found in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park; and one of the world’s rarest birds: the elusive Shelley’s crimsonwing (which can be found in Bwindi and Kibale National Park).
4. Ride the Nile to Murchison Falls
Majestic waterfalls draw visitors to Murchison Falls National Park, and a boat trip along the Nile River to their base is one of Uganda’s signature wildlife activities.
The three-hour trip allows travellers to get up close and personal with an abundance of wildlife, including hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and plenty of birds.
This activity offers a new perspective on the traditional safari, along with incredible photo opportunities. An early boat trip in the cooler morning hours is often followed by an afternoon game drive and sundowners, while a morning game drive and bush breakfast set the stage for an afternoon boat trip.
5. Whitewater rafting on the Nile
When it comes to adrenaline-fueled activities in Uganda, look no further than Jinja, the undisputed adventure capital of East Africa.
Of the town’s many activities — from horseback riding to kayaking and bungee jumping — nothing is more thrilling than whitewater rafting on the Nile. This mighty river boasts class 1 – 6 rapids, making it an ideal activity for first-time rafters, families, and adrenaline junkies looking for an unforgettable adventure.
Rafters on the lower class rapids can enjoy a relaxing float, swimming in the river’s warm pools along the way, while those opting for higher class rapids can set off on a heart-pounding adventure filled with plenty of thrills and spills.
6. Get buzzed on a coffee safari
Uganda is quickly becoming the next up-and-coming destination for specialty coffee in East Africa thanks to its high-quality Arabica coffee plants.
A coffee safari in the Sipi Falls region or the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a fantastic way to learn about the country’s burgeoning coffee industry (and get your caffeine fix at the same time).
Directly benefiting local communities, these coffee tours give visitors the chance to explore coffee farms, meet local farmers, and learn about the stages of production from field to cup. Of course, a sample of the plantation’s finest brew is included as well.
7. Experience the culture of rural communities
Uganda’s culture is defined by its colourful communities and more than 50 distinct ethnic groups. Each area of the country offers opportunities for visitors to interact with locals and learn about their unique customs and livelihoods.
Activities like the Batwa Experience near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offer a glimpse into the living history of this tribe that once called Uganda’s forests home. The Batwa are one of the oldest surviving communities in Africa and have preserved many of their traditions.
The Ik reside on Mount Morungole near Kidepo Valley National Park and welcome visitors who partake in a challenging day-long hike to their isolated home.
Due to years of isolation and their strong beliefs, the Ik have been able to maintain their ancestral customs dating back thousands of years and willingly share these with visitors keen to make the trek.
Thinking it’s time to make your dream Uganda trip a reality? Head to TourRadar now to explore a range of Uganda tours, and get ready to cross these bucket list-worthy adventures off your list!
