Choose Uganda Safaris focuses exclusively on Uganda. We know the country inside out. We deliver seamless, sustainable journeys, from mountain gorilla trekking to exploring vibrant savannahs and lush wetlands.
We could write a full book about Uganda and everything special about this country, but we will keep it short. Uganda has it all. As if all the special things Africa has to offer have been packed into one country. We have savannas and deep green jungles, but also mountains peaks covered in eternal snow. We have rivers and crater lakes. You will find an endless variety of wildlife in Uganda: from the Big 5 to mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. Uganda is a tourist destination, but there is no mass tourism like in Kenya and Tanzania. That makes the experience very pure. It almost feels as if you have one of the most beautiful places on earth all to yourself. Moreover, you can visit Uganda at any time of the year, it is beautiful in both the rainy and dry seasons.
We founded Choose Uganda Safaris in 2025. From the start, our goal was to organize the most beautiful trips for people who want to discover Uganda. We want only one thing: putting together a Uganda trip that suits you perfectly. To be able to do that, we need to fully understand what you have in mind. What is important to you. That is why we take the time to get to know you. From there, we plan your tour and arrange everything for you: from where to stay and activities to a guide and a driver.
Let’s be honest from the start Malaria exists in Uganda This sounds scary, but it should not...
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Gorilla trekking is often the main reason for many people to come to Uganda. It is a unique experience: along with neighboring countries Rwanda and Congo, Uganda is the only place in the world where you can still see gorillas in the wild. In Uganda, seeing them is both safe and relatively affordable. You can encounter gorillas in two places: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
While many Africa safari destinations offer the Big Five, Uganda goes a step further with the Big Seven. Alongside lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos, you also encounter two incredible primates: chimpanzees and the majestic mountain gorilla. This rare combination makes a Uganda safari truly unforgettable.
In Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, you go on a gorilla trek through dense rainforest. The walk is adventurous. Then suddenly, you come face to face with a gorilla family. It’s powerful, emotional, and something you will never forget. In Kibale National Park, you search for lively chimpanzees in the forest. The adventure continues in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you may see rare tree-climbing lions. In Murchison Falls National Park, large herds of elephants roam freely. Add almost 1,100 bird species, and you have a safari that offers everything Africa is known for.
Uganda is incredibly rich in wildlife and nature. You will find more than 300 mammal species and nearly 1,100 bird species here, so there is always something new to see. And it doesn’t stop there; there are also many primates, butterflies, reptiles, and beautiful plants that make the landscapes feel alive. Most of this can be experienced in Uganda’s national parks. The country has fifteen national parks and several wildlife reserves. And each one feels completely different. One day, you might be walking through thick rainforest, searching for mountain gorillas or chimpanzees. The next day, you’re out on the open savannah, enjoying a game drive and spotting elephants, lions, or buffalo. That contrast is what makes Uganda so special.
Uganda is full of adventures and unforgettable sights. The Pearl of Africa is one of the most diverse countries on the continent, and perhaps the world. The wonders go far beyond its incredible wildlife. Trek mountain gorillas, track chimpanzees, explore lush forests, or relax by sparkling lakes. There is so much to see and do. Below are the top highlights of Uganda, showing why a visit here is truly unforgettable.
During your Uganda safari tour, we will ensure that you stay in lovely and beautiful places. Places that suit you perfectly. These are a few of our favorite accommodations during a safari in Uganda:
Buhoma Lodge, an intimate and luxurious property that commands spectacular and uninterrupted views...
Deep in the verdant heart of breathtakingly beautiful Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park lies...
Perched on a scenic bluff high above the Kazinga Channel, The River Station is one of the most...
Uganda, officially the Republic of Uganda, lies in the heart of East Africa. The equator runs right through it, shaping its warm climate and lush landscapes. The country borders five nations: Kenya to the east, South Sudan to the north, Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, Rwanda to the southwest, and Tanzania to the southeast. In the southeast, Uganda meets the vast Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa. The main gateway into the country is Entebbe, home to the international airport. The capital city is Kampala, a lively hub full of culture and energy. Uganda’s central location, natural beauty, and welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect starting point for exploring East Africa.
Uganda is rich in water, which makes the country incredibly green and beautiful. Large lakes such as Lake Victoria, Lake Albert, Lake Edward, and Lake Kyoga shape the landscape. Near Jinja, you find one of the sources of the Nile, the longest river on Earth. Here, you can even do white water rafting on its wild rapids. The Nile River flows through the country and divides it in two, adding to Uganda’s natural beauty. Uganda is one of the most diverse countries in Africa. One day, you stand among the snow-capped peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains. The next, you hike through tropical rainforest or explore wide savannahs on a game drive. This constant change of scenery is what makes Uganda so special. It is also why the country proudly carries the name “Pearl of Africa.”
Uganda is a true wildlife paradise. On a safari here, you will see many species here that you won’t find anywhere else. Primates are the biggest highlight of a safari in Uganda. You come face to face with mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, the true stars of Uganda. Only three countries in the world offer this rare experience in the wild. Beyond that, Uganda is home to more than 20 different primate species.
But there is more. In the savannah parks, you have a great chance of seeing the elegant Ugandan kob. You may also spot the rare tree-climbing lions, one of the few places on Earth where lions rest in trees. Wildlife encounters happen everywhere. During game drives, you see animals across open plains. On boat safaris, the experience changes completely.
Cruise along the Nile River in Murchison Falls National Park or the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park. From the water, you get closer to hippos, crocodiles, and animals coming to drink. It is this mix of rare primates, unique wildlife, and diverse safari experiences that makes Uganda truly one of a kind.
Only in Uganda can you experience the unique “Big Seven.” This includes lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros, plus two extraordinary primates (chimpanzees and the mountain gorilla). This rare combination sets Uganda apart. You don’t just see classic African wildlife. You also come face to face with some of the world’s most remarkable and endangered primates.
Uganda is a dream destination for bird lovers. With more than 1,080 bird species, it ranks among the best birdwatching spots in the world. You explore rich habitats; from wetlands along the Nile River to the shores of Lake Victoria, as well as open savannahs and dense tropical rainforests. Here, you may spot the iconic shoebill stork, bright and colorful bee-eaters, and powerful birds of prey like ospreys.
Uganda is a dream for nature photographers. The landscapes are incredibly diverse. One moment, you are in misty mountain forests. The next, you are on open savannahs. Every scene feels like a perfect shot. The light is exceptional. Early mornings bring soft, golden tones. Evenings end with dramatic sunsets that color the sky and land in warm hues. Wildlife photography is just as special. You often get close to animals without the crowds found in other destinations. This makes every photo feel more personal and authentic.
Uganda is home to over 45 million people. And its rich culture is a key part of any journey. More than 50 ethnic groups live here, each with its own traditions, languages, and customs. The people of Uganda are known for their warmth and hospitality. Different cultures and religions live peacefully side by side, creating a welcoming and harmonious atmosphere.
Christianity and Islam are the main religions. About 85% of the population is Christian, while around 12–14% is Muslim. Traditional beliefs are also still practiced in some communities. English and Swahili are the official languages, making communication easy for visitors. At the same time, many local languages are spoken, with Luganda being one of the most widely used. A visit is not complete without trying the local food. Don’t miss matoke, steamed plantains and the national dish of Uganda.
You need a visa to travel to Uganda. The process is simple and done online through the e-visa system. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your return date. This is a standard requirement. The visa costs around USD 50 and is usually processed within a few days.
A yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers to Uganda, except those with health issues. Vaccinations against hepatitis A, DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, and polio), and typhoid are strongly recommended. Arrange these well in advance with your doctor or a tropical medicine specialist. Malaria is present throughout almost the entire country. Taking malaria prophylaxis is essential. In addition, use mosquito repellent and wear protective clothing to reduce the risk of mosquito bites. For drinking water, always choose bottled or purified water to prevent stomach and gastrointestinal issues.
The best time to visit Uganda is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to September. During these months, road trips become easy, and animals gather around water sources, giving you excellent wildlife-spotting opportunities. Uganda’s climate is influenced by altitude. The savannas can become warm, while the mountainous regions where mountain gorillas live stay cool and humid all year round. The rainy season turns the landscape into a lush, green paradise, but some roads may become harder to drive. Despite this, gorilla trekking is possible throughout the year. For hiking comfort, the dry months are preferred, but gorillas remain active and visible regardless of the season.
Tourism is vital for protecting Uganda’s unique wildlife and landscapes. Revenue from gorilla trekking permits goes directly to conservation programs and helps local communities thrive. By visiting Uganda, you play a part in preserving the beauty of the ‘Pearl of Africa’. Many lodges partner closely with nearby communities, offering jobs and training while supporting local projects. This approach, known as community-based tourism, ensures that the benefits of tourism reach the people who live closest to nature. Your visit not only creates unforgettable experiences but also helps safeguard Uganda’s wildlife and ecosystems for the future.
Most international visitors arrive at Entebbe International Airport. Direct flights are available with KLM from Amsterdam, while other airlines such as Brussels Airlines, Emirates, FlyDubai, and several African carriers connect Uganda with Europe, the USA, Asia, and Australia. Within Uganda, the best way to travel is by 4×4 vehicle with an experienced driver-guide. These guides know the roads, local conditions, and animal behavior, ensuring a smooth and safe journey. We don not recommend self-driving in Uganda.
The local currency of Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). The US dollars are also widely accepted. Don’t forget to come with a universal adapter (type G).
A Uganda safari is special, and it often raises questions. To ensure you are well prepared, we have answered the most important questions for you below.
A tour of Uganda feels different. It’s quieter. It’s more personal. Uganda receives fewer visitors than Kenya or Tanzania. This means less crowds in the parks. You won’t find long lines of vehicles around animals. Instead, you feel like the landscape is yours.
The variety is what makes Uganda stand out. One day you are on the savannah, surrounded by wildlife. The next, you are in a tropical rainforest. Then come mountains, lakes, and even the Nile. No two days feel the same.
Uganda also offers something truly unique. You can come face to face with mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in the wild. This is not part of a classic safari. It is something rare and unforgettable. This mix of quiet parks, diverse landscapes, and special wildlife makes Uganda a journey that stays with you long after you leave.
Uganda is a great destination all year round. It lies on the equator, and its varied altitude keeps temperatures pleasant and stable throughout the year.
The dry seasons (from June to September and December to February) are often considered the best time to visit Uganda. During these months, roads and trails are easier to use. Wildlife is also easier to spot, as animals gather around water sources.
The rainy seasons have their own beauty. The landscape turns lush, green, and vibrant. Parks are quieter, which makes the experience feel more peaceful and personal. And there are discounts on gorilla permit prices and lodge rates.
There is no single “perfect” time to visit. It all depends on what you want from your trip. With the right planning, Uganda offers a special experience in every season. Want to learn more? Read our guide: Best time to visit Uganda.
A complete tour of Uganda usually takes two to three weeks. This gives you enough time to explore several national parks and enjoy different landscapes without rushing.
With a good pace, travel days feel relaxed. You have time to slow down and truly experience each place. Staying a few nights in one location makes a big difference. It allows time for safaris, treks, and moments to rest.
Shorter trips are possible, but they require careful planning and fewer destinations. You may need to move faster and make clear choices. With two to three weeks, everything comes together. You travel comfortably, see more, and enjoy Uganda at its best.
You can make your safari in Uganda very luxurious and expensive, but you can also make it more affordable. Most of the Uganda safari trips we organize fall somewhere in between.
We offer great locations, excellent tour guides, safe transportation, and delicious meals. For example, for a very complete Uganda safari including nice lodges, a vehicle, guide, meals, and park fees, you should budget around USD 4,152 to 5,932 per person.
The exact budget depends on the content of your trip (a gorilla permit, for example, is quite expensive) and your group size. If you’re traveling as a group, five of you, for example, the trip becomes cheaper per person.
Read more: Uganda safari cost.
A self-drive in Uganda is possible. But it is not always the most relaxing choice. You need to focus on many things. Navigation. Road conditions. Travel times. Reaching your lodge before dark. Driving at night is not recommended, which adds pressure to your day. Because of this, you may miss out on the experience. Instead of enjoying the scenery, your attention stays on the road.
With a private guide, everything feels easier. You can sit back and enjoy the journey. The guide knows the routes and where to find wildlife. You are taken to places you might not find on your own. Along the way, you also learn more. About the country. The culture. Daily life in Uganda. In the end, you don’t just travel, you experience more, see more, and understand more.
Uganda is largely considered a safe country. Our Uganda safaris and tours generally avoid areas considered unsafe.
During our safari in Uganda, you will always be accompanied by an experienced driver guide. They know the roads well and will only stop where it is safe to do so. Read more here: Safety in Uganda.
Uganda has many national parks. Each one is different. Each one offers something special. The most popular parks are Murchison Falls National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park.
Murchison Falls is famous for its powerful waterfall and large numbers of wildlife. You can see elephants, giraffes, and more. Queen Elizabeth National Park offers great variety. You find savannah, lakes, and even tree-climbing lions.
Bwindi is one of the last places on Earth where you can see mountain gorillas. It is also the best and most affordable place for gorilla trekking.
Kibale is known for chimpanzees. It is one of the best forests in Africa for seeing primates. Lake Mburo is smaller and peaceful. It is perfect for walking and cycling safaris.
Kidepo is remote and wild. It feels untouched and far from the crowds.
The best parks for you depend on your interests. It is the mix of these places that makes Uganda so special.
Yes, you can see the Big Five in Uganda. These are lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. This makes Uganda a complete safari destination, but with a unique feel.
Lions, elephants, and buffaloes are often seen in parks like Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Leopards are also present, but they are harder to spot, as they are shy and mostly active at night.
Rhinos are a little different. They do not yet live freely in most national parks. You can see them at Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch. There is also exciting progress. Since March 2026, rhinos have been reintroduced into Kidepo Valley National Park, with the goal of bringing them back into the wild.
Seeing all five animals is possible on a well-planned trip, but never guaranteed. That is part of the magic. With the right route, timing, and guidance, your chances are high, and the experience becomes much more than just ticking a list.
You can see lions in several national parks in Uganda. The best places are Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most famous. It is known for its rare tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector. Here, lions often rest in large fig trees. This is a unique sight you only see in a few places in Africa.
In Murchison Falls National Park, lions live in the open savannah. You have a good chance of seeing them during early morning or late afternoon game drives, when they are most active.
Kidepo Valley National Park is remote and wild. Fewer visitors come here, which makes the experience more special. Lions are often seen near large herds of buffalo.
Timing matters. Lions are most active at sunrise and sunset. During the dry season, animals gather near water, which increases your chances of sightings.
Wildlife is never guaranteed. But with the right parks, timing, and a good guide, your chances of seeing lions in Uganda are high.
Uganda is one of Africa’s most diverse safari destinations. What you see depends on the parks you visit, but you can expect incredible wildlife.
In the savannah parks, such as Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park, you can spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and large herds of buffalo. Hippos and crocodiles are often seen during boat safaris. And with some luck, you may even see a leopard.
But Uganda offers more than a classic safari. You can walk through tropical rainforest and come face to face with chimpanzees or mountain gorillas. Along the way, you will also see many monkey species and antelopes in surprising places.
Birdlife is everywhere. With more than 1,080 species, Uganda is a paradise for bird lovers. Even if you are not a birder, you will notice how colorful and alive the landscapes feel.
It is this mix; Big Five wildlife, rare primates, and rich birdlife, that makes Uganda a truly unforgettable safari destination.
Safari days often start early. And for good reason.
Animals are most active in the early morning. The air is still cool, so many animals are out hunting, feeding, or moving through the landscape. This is the best time to see wildlife.
As the day gets warmer, animals rest in the shade. They become harder to find, and sightings are less frequent.
Early mornings also feel special. The light is soft. The air is quiet. You hear birds calling and the bush slowly waking up. It’s not just about seeing more animals. It’s about the atmosphere. That calm, golden moment at sunrise often becomes one of the highlights of your safari.
Yes, you can. Boat safaris are a big highlight in Uganda.
The best places are Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
On a boat safari, everything feels different. You move along rivers and channels instead of driving on land. This gives you a new view of wildlife. You will see hippos resting in the water. Crocodiles lie along the banks. Elephants and buffaloes often come down to drink.
In Murchison Falls, the boat takes you to the base of the falls. Here, the Nile pushes through a narrow gorge with great force. It’s powerful and impressive.
In Queen Elizabeth National Park, you cruise along the Kazinga Channel. This area has one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa.
It is this mix of boat safaris and game drives that makes a safari in Uganda so rich and complete.
Yes, you can go on a walking safari in Uganda. These experiences are always guided by an expert ranger, so you are safe at all times.
A walking safari feels very different from a game drive. You slow down. You notice more. It’s not just about big animals anymore. It’s about the small details that bring the landscape to life.
You see tracks in the sand. You learn about plants, insects, and smaller wildlife. Things you might miss from a vehicle suddenly become interesting and meaningful.
Lake Mburo National Park is one of the best places for this experience. But walking safaris are also possible in other parts of the country.
Getting out of the car changes everything. You feel closer to nature. You understand your surroundings better.
It adds a new layer to your trip. Your safari becomes more personal, more immersive, and more memorable.
Yes, it truly is. For many travelers, this is the highlight of the entire Uganda tour.
A gorilla trek is more than just seeing an animal. It begins with a walk through the rainforest. You follow a ranger. You search for a gorilla family deep in the forest.
Then it happens. You come face to face with a mountain gorilla. Everything slows down. You notice their calmness. Their strength. Their almost human behavior. There are no fences. No barriers. Just you and them, in the wild. That is what makes it feel so real.
It’s not just something you see. It’s something you feel. And for many travelers, it stays with them for a lifetime.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park lies at an altitude of approximately 1,160 to 2,706 meters above sea level. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi can be physically demanding; however, some sectors like Buhoma sector are generally considered the easy and most suitable for older trekkers.
The trek to see the gorillas usually takes between 2 and 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family on that day. Once you find the gorillas, you will spend one hour observing them.
On the morning of the trek, park rangers will give a full briefing explaining what to expect. Trekkers are divided into small groups of no more than eight people, and each group is assigned a gorilla family. The assignment is based on age, fitness level, and terrain, so less strenuous routes can be arranged. Some gorilla families live closer to the trails, while others are in steeper areas.
Rangers take this into careful consideration to ensure safety and a comfortable experience. The guides are very experienced and will allow regular breaks for rest, water, and snacks as needed.
There are generally three types of treks: short, medium, and long. During the briefing, you may request to be assigned the easiest gorilla family or a shorter trek.
A gorilla permit in Uganda costs USD 800 per person in the high season. In the low season (April, May, and November) the price drops to USD 600. These prices are set by the government and are the same for everyone.
What you get in return is hard to describe. You walk into the rainforest with experienced rangers. You search for a gorilla family. Then, when you find them, you spend one full hour in their presence.
Standing face to face with a silverback is something truly special. It is rare. It is powerful. And it is something you won’t experience anywhere else in the world like this.
Yes, the permit is expensive. But it is also one of the highlights of your trip. Think of it not as a cost, but as a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will never forget.
Before traveling to Uganda, it’s important to get the recommended vaccinations and take precautions. A yellow fever vaccine is required for entry. Vaccines for Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio (DTP) and Hepatitis A are also recommended. Bring mosquito repellent and consider malaria prevention medication. It’s best to consult a travel medicine specialist in your home country before your trip to Uganda.
Read More: Uganda Entry Requirements, and Malaria In Uganda.
You are most likely required to get a tourist visa for Uganda o. Depending on which country you will travel to, you must apply for a Uganda tourist visa online with Uganda Immigration, since a visa on arrival is no longer possible. If you are visiting both Uganda and Rwanda or going on to Kenya, you will need an East African tourist visa that allows you to visit all three countries.
Yes, you can easily combine a Uganda safari with a beach stay. Many travelers choose to end their trip this way. After days of safaris and treks, it feels great to slow down and relax.
The most popular option is Zanzibar. Here, you enjoy white sandy beaches and clear blue water along the Indian Ocean. It’s the perfect place to unwind and reflect on your journey.
Getting there is simple. There are good flight connections from Uganda, so adding a beach extension fits easily into your itinerary.
The result is the best of both worlds; adventure and relaxation, all in one trip.
Our Uganda tours are designed to be as easy and stress-free as possible. Everything is arranged from start to finish, with great attention to detail. In most cases, your trip includes accommodation, transport with a private guide, and a safari vehicle. Fuel, park entrance fees, and safari activities are also covered. Most meals are included as well.
The idea is simple; you don’t have to worry about anything. You just enjoy the journey. Some things are not included. These are usually personal expenses, such as drinks, tips, and your visa. There are no surprises. Everything is clearly explained in advance, so you know exactly what is included and what is not.
