Explore Uganda and experience our captivating wildlife, heterogeneous cultures, large water bodies and spectacular landscapes. Sir Churchill Winston; secretary of the British colonies declared Uganda to the ‘Pearl of Africa’ in his book called My African Journey which depicted his tours around African countries colonized by the British Empire. Recently voted by Lonely Planet as the number 1 travel destination for 2012, Uganda boasts is the ultimate safari destination for adventure seekers, holiday makers, photographers, cultural tourists as well as business travelers. Uganda offers a variety of things to do and see but no activity beats the thrill of trekking through the impenetrable Bwindi forest in search of the last surviving mountain gorillas in the world, however other exciting activities to do while on tour in Uganda include white water rafting, game viewing, chimpanzee tracking, exploring Kampala city among others as mentioned below in our top 10 things to do in Uganda

 

Gorilla Tracking –

Over half the population of surviving mountain gorillas in the world can be found in Bwindi forest and a chance to encounter these giant apes is one of the best wildlife experiences in Africa. Tracking gorillas is can last between 2-4 hours depending on the location of these apes at a particular time , You will be given a hour in the midst of the gorillas to observe them as they feed, play and relax in the lush green vegetation. Tourists are later treated to a wonderful presentation by the locals and a community walk through neighboring villages and craft shops.

 

River Nile Exploration –

Jinja town is regarded as the extreme sport capital of East Africa and rightly so because of the numerous adventures sports activities carried out on the famous Nile river; the world’s longest river that crosses 11 countries with the source found in Jinja. White water rafting, kayaking and bungee jumping are some of the most popular activities that attract tourists to Jinja. The thrill of exploring the Nile on an open raft and diving into the Nile supported by an elastic bungee cord may steer fear in some tourists but is the perfect adventure for adrenaline junkies and families. Cycling, Quad biking, River boarding activities are also available to add on your list of things to do in the home of the Nile.

Go on a Wildlife safari–

Blessed with up to 10 national parks and game reserves, Uganda has got an incredible number of different wildlife species including primates, carnivores, birds, herbivores, reptiles, antelopes, fish among others. Enjoy sensational up-close game viewing in the comfort of a pop-up roof safari van while staying in African styled safari lodges and camps. A wildlife tour in Uganda presents opportunities to encounter big game like Lions, Elephants, Buffaloes, Rhinos, Leopards and lots of birds all in a single safari. Other wild animals you may spot include huge herds of antelopes, waterbucks, hippos, zebras, giraffes, spotted hyenas, elands, Jackson hartebeests, giant Nile crocodiles and birds like African fish eagles, Kingfishers, Cormorants, Geese, Yellow billed storks, Snipes to mention but a few.

Visit Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary –

The 70 square km sanctuary is located just off the Kampala- Gulu highway is the only place a tourist can get chance to see rhinos in Uganda. The sanctuary was created to protect Rhinos from poachers and other unknown dangers so as to increase their populations before being reintroduced to the wilds of the national parks. Visitors will track rhinos on foot as they get first hand information from the guide about this projects history, shortcomings and future plans. Zziwa Rhino sanctuary is also home to other wild animals including monkeys, hippos, antelopes, crocodiles as well as a good number of bird species making it an interesting destination worth your time and money.

Go Chimpanzee Tracking –

Kibale forest is one of the best eco-tourism destinations in Uganda popularly known for its huge population of over 500 chimpanzees and 12 other primate species. Tracking chimpanzees is a cheaper alternative for tourists who can’t afford the gorilla tour costs or those who dread the prospect of hiking through the impenetrable Bwindi rain forest. The forest walks offer opportunities to encounter Black & white colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, baboons, red tailed monkeys and a variety of beautiful forest birds. Get a close-up view of these fascinating primates as they swing from tree to tree, take photos but throw any food at them .

 

Tour around Kampala City –

The best way to start off any tour in Uganda is by first exploring Kampala city; Uganda’s capital and busiest town filled with numerous historic, cultural and entertainment sites. This tour offers tourists an opportunity to sample and experience the local culture and get used to the tropical climate. Popular tourist attractions located within the city and its out-skirts include Kasubi tombs, Kabaka’s palace, Namugongo martyrs shrine, Namirembe cathedral, Bahai temple, Gaddafi mosque, Owino market , Makerere university, Ndere traditional center, Art & Crafts shops among others.

Canoeing on Lake Bunyonyi

This is one of the most beautiful lakes dotted with up to 29 small islands with terraced hills creating a beautiful scenery most especially during sunset . Bunyonyi means ‘little birds’ though big birds can also be spotted on the several islands. A canoe ride on the lake is the perfect way of exploring popular islands like Bushara, Byoona Amagara, Akapene(Purnishment) island, Kyayugye, Sharps island. Most tourists visit lake Bunyonyi after a safari to relax and bond with their loved ones but can also be put first on the list of things to do on your tour itinerary.

 

Straddle the Equator

The equator is an imaginary line that divides the earth into the northern and southern hemispheres and Uganda is among the 13 countries where this unique geographical line passes. Situated 72 km south of Kampala along the Kampala- Masaka highway. Take pictures standing in between the cemented circles and also get chance to see a free demonstration on how water moves in opposite directions along the equator line. You can also visit one of the numerous African craft shops and purchase some beautifully hand-made African local items like bracelets, necklaces, mats, beads, t-shirts among other souvenirs…