Top Things to Do on a Uganda Safari

A Uganda safari offers a range of thrilling activities and experiences that cater to every nature and wildlife enthusiast. Here are the top things to do on a Uganda safari, detailed to help you plan an unforgettable adventure

1. Gorilla Trekking | Things to Do on a Uganda Safari

• Where: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
• What to Expect: Begin your journey with a briefing at the park headquarters, where you’ll learn about gorilla conservation and trekking protocols. Trek through the dense and misty forests, guided by experienced rangers, to find a family of mountain gorillas. Once you locate them, you get to spend an awe-inspiring hour observing these gentle giants as they interact, play, and feed. The trek can be challenging, but the reward of seeing gorillas in their natural habitat is unparalleled.

2. Chimpanzee Tracking
   

   Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest National Park

• Where: Kibale National Park, Budongo Forest, Kalinzu Forest and Kyambura Gorge.
• What to Expect: Set out early in the morning with a guide to locate the chimpanzee troops. Listen for their distinct calls and follow their movements through the trees. As you approach, you’ll see them swinging from branches, grooming each other, and foraging for food. Guides will provide insights into their behavior and social structures, enhancing the experience.

3. Game Drives

• Where: Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Lake Mburo National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park.
• What to Expect: Hop into a 4×4 safari vehicle for guided game drives through the savannas and woodlands. In Queen Elizabeth National Park, marvel at the sight of tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector. In Murchison Falls, spot elephants, giraffes, and large herds of buffalo. Lake Mburo offers sights of zebras, elands and impalas. Kidepo offers encounters with cheetahs, leopards, and vast herds of antelope. Each park provides a unique wildlife experience, with knowledgeable guides pointing out and explaining animal behaviors.

4. Boat Safaris

• Where: Kazinga Channel (Queen Elizabeth National Park), Nile River (Murchison Falls National Park), and Lake Mburo.
• What to Expect: Board a boat for a leisurely cruise along these water bodies. The Kazinga Channel is teeming with hippos and crocodiles, while the banks are frequented by elephants and buffaloes coming to drink. Murchison Falls boat safaris bring you close to the base of the roaring falls and offer sightings of rare birds like the African Skimmer. Lake Mburo’s boat rides reveal peaceful waters where you can spot the shy African Fin foot.

5. Bird watching

• Where: Various parks including Bwindi, Mabamba Swamp, and Semuliki National Park.
• What to Expect: Equip yourself with binoculars and a bird guidebook for an avian adventure. Bwindi’s dense forests are home to the African Green Broadbill and other Albertine Rift endemics. Mabamba Swamp is the best place to spot the prehistoric-looking Shoebill. Semuliki National Park offers a mix of Central and East African bird species, making it a unique birding destination.

6. Hiking and Nature Walks

• Where: Rwenzori Mountains, Mount Elgon, and various national parks.
• What to Expect: Trek through diverse terrains, from the snow-capped peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains to the rugged slopes of Mount Elgon. Guided nature walks in parks like Queen Elizabeth and Kibale allow you to explore different ecosystems, observe flora and fauna, and enjoy breathtaking landscapes. The guided hikes range from short walks to multi-day treks, catering to all levels of hikers.

7. Cultural Encounters

• Where: Various communities near national parks.
• What to Expect: Immerse yourself in Uganda’s rich cultural heritage. Visit the Batwa pygmies near Bwindi to learn about their traditional forest life, songs, and dances. In Kidepo, engage with the Karamojong people, known for their cattle-herding and vibrant culture. These interactions provide a deeper understanding of Uganda’s diverse cultures and traditions.

8. Visiting Waterfalls

• Where: Murchison Falls, Sipi Falls, and More.
• What to Expect: Witness the sheer power and beauty of Uganda’s waterfalls. Murchison Falls is where the Nile River plunges through a narrow gorge with thunderous force. Sipi Falls, located in eastern Uganda, consists of a series of three stunning waterfalls cascading down the slopes of Mount Elgon. Hiking trails around the falls offer spectacular views and a refreshing experience.

9. Exploring Crater Lakes

• Where: Fort Portal and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
• What to Expect: Discover the beauty of Uganda’s crater lakes. In Fort Portal, hike around the scenic crater lakes such as Lake Nyinambuga and Lake Nkuruba, each offering serene landscapes and opportunities for bird watching and picnicking. In Queen Elizabeth National Park, explore the Katwe Explosion Craters, where volcanic activity has created a series of dramatic landscapes.

Conclusion

Uganda’s safari adventures offer an incredible mix of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re trekking to see gorillas, cruising down the Nile, or watching the sunrise from a hot air balloon, Uganda promises an unforgettable safari experience.