Where to do tours in Uganda
Uganda is one of the most exciting and diverse travel destinations on the continent. With breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, friendly people, and a wealth of wildlife, Uganda offers unforgettable tours for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, birding enthusiast, or cultural explorer, Uganda has it all. From gorilla trekking in the misty mountains of Bwindi to scenic boat cruises on the Nile, there are countless places to explore.
Here’s a detailed guide on where to do tours in Uganda and what you can expect in each region.
1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Gorilla Trekking
Bwindi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southwestern Uganda, is world-famous for mountain gorilla trekking. This is Uganda’s top tourist activity and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The park is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
- Tour highlight: A guided trek through thick rainforest to observe a gorilla family in their natural habitat.
- Additional activities: Birdwatching, community walks, Batwa cultural experiences.
2. Queen Elizabeth National Park – Wildlife Safaris & Boat Cruises
Located in western Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most popular wildlife destination in the country. It offers a classic African safari experience with opportunities to see elephants, lions, hippos, buffaloes, antelopes, and over 600 bird species.
- Tour highlight: Game drives through the Kasenyi Plains and the famous Kazinga Channel boat cruise, which showcases wildlife along the waterbanks.
- Unique experience: Tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector.
3. Murchison Falls National Park – Adventure and the Mighty Falls
Murchison Falls National Park in northern Uganda is home to the most powerful waterfall in the world. The Nile forces its way through a 7-meter gorge, creating a thunderous explosion of water.
- Tour highlights: Game drives, boat cruises to the base of the falls, hiking to the top of the falls.
- Wildlife: Giraffes, elephants, crocodiles, hippos, and lions.
4. Kibale Forest National Park – Chimpanzee Tracking
Kibale is known as the primate capital of the world, with 13 primate species, including the famous chimpanzees. Chimpanzee tracking tours are thrilling, educational, and suitable for all ages.
- Tour highlight: Chimpanzee tracking with knowledgeable guides who help you spot and learn about primate behavior.
- Other activities: Nature walks, birding, Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary visits.
5. Kidepo Valley National Park – Remote Wilderness Safari
Often described as Uganda’s hidden gem, Kidepo is a remote park in the northeast, offering untouched wilderness and a true sense of isolation. It’s one of Africa’s most beautiful safari destinations.
- Tour highlight: Game drives in an open savannah surrounded by mountains.
- Wildlife: Cheetahs, lions, elephants, ostriches, and zebras.
6. Lake Mburo National Park – Walking Safaris and Horseback Rides
Lake Mburo is the closest national park to Kampala and perfect for short tours. It’s unique for offering walking safaris, horseback riding, and cycling within the park—activities rarely allowed elsewhere in Uganda.
- Tour highlight: Encounter zebras, impalas, and hippos while walking or riding through the park.
- Other activities: Boat cruise, night game drives, birding.
7. Jinja – Source of the Nile and Adventure Capital
Jinja is known as East Africa’s adventure capital and is the source of the mighty River Nile. This is the place to go for adrenaline-pumping activities.
- Tour highlight: White-water rafting on the Nile.
- Other adventures: Bungee jumping, kayaking, quad biking, horseback riding, boat cruises to the source of the Nile.
8. Sipi Falls – Scenic Hiking in Eastern Uganda
Sipi Falls, located near Mount Elgon in eastern Uganda, offers one of the most scenic hiking experiences in the country. The area is a favorite for nature lovers and photographers.
- Tour highlight: Hike to three waterfalls with panoramic views of the Karamoja plains.
- Extra experiences: Coffee tours, abseiling, cave visits.
9. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Rhino Tracking
Located en route to Murchison Falls, Ziwa is the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos in the wild. It’s a great addition to any safari itinerary.
- Tour highlight: Guided rhino tracking on foot.
- Bonus: Birding and nature walks.
10. Cultural and City Tours – Kampala & Beyond
Uganda’s capital city, Kampala, offers cultural and historical tours including visits to:
- The Kasubi Tombs
- Uganda Museum
- Buganda Kingdom palace
- Namugongo Martyrs Shrine
You can also enjoy vibrant markets, local food tours, and religious heritage trails.
Uganda is a land of immense beauty, diversity, and adventure. Whether you’re trekking gorillas, rafting on the Nile, or watching lions roam free, every corner of this country has something unique to offer. From the highlands of Kisoro to the vast savannahs of Kidepo, Uganda invites you to explore and be amazed.
If you’re ready to experience the very best tours in Uganda, the key is planning with a knowledgeable and experienced operator. Tour with locals, respect the communities, and travel with purpose.
