Uganda, known as the Pearl of Africa, is one of the most popular destinations on the continent. It is renowned for its diverse attractions, including stunning landscapes, rich nature, and, most notably, its famous safaris.
The country is recognized for its wildlife, especially for being one of the few places visitors can trek to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat at Bwindi National Park. This destination deserves at least seven days to explore its main attractions and cultural wonders.
Where To Stay In Uganda
Uganda offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to hostels and budget choices. The place you choose to stay depends on your interests and the experience you’re looking for.
In addition to traditional hotels, which can be found on apps like Booking.com or Expedia, you can explore options through platforms like VRBO and Airbnb.
If you prefer a more authentic experience, staying in cabins or eco-lodges near national parks or in rural areas is also an excellent option. Don’t forget to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Uganda has positioned itself as a destination for luxury safaris. It is important to note that when we talk about a luxury safari, it refers exclusively to the comfort of the accommodation and the services included but not to the safari experience itself.
Luxury does not mean you will have a higher chance of spotting animals. All guides are connected via radio and share sightings, ensuring that vehicles have the same opportunities regardless of the company.
What To Do In Uganda
Entebbe
Entebbe is an important city because it is home to Uganda’s International Airport. If you prefer to stay close to the airport or enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere by Lake Victoria, Entebbe is a good option.
However, I wouldn’t recommend staying here unless you have an extra day or are looking for a peaceful place to rest before your flight.
If you decide to stay, I suggest visiting:
Things To Do In Entebbe
- Entebbe Botanical Garden
- Entebbe Wildlife Sanctuary
- Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
- Uganda Museum of Natural History
- Boat Ride on Lake Victoria
- Lakeside Dining
Some hotels, mainly intended for those who need a place to stay while waiting for their flight, are:
Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park is one of the few places in Uganda where you can do a walking safari. Unlike a vehicle safari, walking allows you to get closer to the animals in their natural habitat and observe details that typically go unnoticed.
This is an excellent option for those seeking a more intimate experience with wildlife. You will always be accompanied by expert guides ensuring your safety and providing interesting information about the area. You can also opt for a boat safari to spot hippos, crocodiles and birds.
Where To Stay Near Lake Mburo National Park
Kampala
Kampala, Uganda’s capital, combines the energy of a modern metropolis with the charm of its African traditions. Located on the shores of Lake Victoria, Kampala is the country’s political, economic, and cultural center, offering visitors a unique experience.
The city is relatively easy to navigate, with public transport, taxis, and Ubers available. However, I recommend staying in a central area, such as Downtown Kampala or Kololo, where you can walk to the main tourist sites.
Things To Do In Kampala
- Kasubi Tombs
- Nakasero Market
- Shree Sanatan Dharma Hindu Temple
- Kampala Gadafi Mosque
- Bahai Temple
- Independence monument
- Namirembe Cathedral
- Kabakas Palace
- Ndere Cultural Center
Where To Stay In Kampala
- Harmony Hotel Kampala
- The Uptown Villa
- Sheraton Kampala Hotel
- The Choate Boutique Hotel & Restaurant
- Explorers Hub
- Protea Hotel by Marriott Kampala
- Koki Hotel
Fort Portal
Fort Portal is one of the few cities in Uganda that kept its colonial name, reflecting its historical significance as an administrative post during British rule and its ongoing legacy.It is known for its proximity to major attractions like Kibale National Park and the crater lakes region. However, I wouldn’t recommend staying there long, as it’s typically just a stopover. If you have time for a break, a great place to grab coffee and snacks is Everybody’s Kitchen.
Chimpanzee Trekking In Kibale Forest National Park
Kibale Forest National Park, located just 30 minutes from Fort Portal, is a top destination for chimpanzee trekking in Africa. The park is home to 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, along with diverse bird species and impressive trees. It offers an incredible opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to explore Uganda’s rich biodiversity.
What To Bring For Chimpanzee Trekking
- Insect repellent
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Bottled drinking water
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers to avoid scratches on your body.
- A walking stick to ease trekking
- Camera and binoculars
- A small backpack to carry a few essentials like cameras and extra batteries while trekking.
- A sun hat and sunscreen.
Other Activities In Kibale
- Kibale Forest Hikes | Walking Trail
- Birding in Kibale
- Cultural Tours around Kibale
- Crater Lakes Tour
Where To Stay In Kibale
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, located in the southwest of Uganda, is one of the country’s most fascinating and iconic destinations.
This tropical rainforest, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for being home to more than half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas, an endangered species. With its dense vegetation, mist-covered mountains, and impressive biodiversity, Bwindi offers a unique experience for those who want to have a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with mountain gorillas.
Lake Bunyonyi
Located in the southwestern highlands of Uganda, Lake Bunyonyi is a breathtaking gem often referred to as “the place of many little birds.” This is the second deepest in Africa and visitors can enjoy canoeing, birdwatching, hiking, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Its calm waters, free of crocodiles and hippos, make it perfect for swimming. Visitors should be aware that the region carries a high risk of malaria, so taking appropriate precautions, such as using mosquito nets and mosquito repellent, is essential.
Where To Stay In Lake Bunyonyi
- Villa Bunyonyi
- Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort
- Lake View Villa
- Keije Resort Bunyonyi
- Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Located in the Southwest of Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the most iconic destinations for safaris. Originating from the Swahili word ‘safari,’ meaning ‘journey,’ safaris are now popular in Uganda, offering the chance to observe animals in their natural habitats. Travelers come here for a game drive, an activity focused on spotting the Big Five, which includes lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses.
Where To Stay In Queen Elizabeth National Park
With a wide variety of lodges, campsites, hotels, and tented camps, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers accommodation options for all budgets, ranging from luxury to mid-range and budget facilities. If you choose to stay at any of the accommodations within the National Park, you must pay an additional fee for park access.
I personally stayed at Song Bird Safari Lodge and I would recommend it not only because of the hospitality of Hans (Whatsapp +256751801433) the owner, but also because of the amazing location just outside the National Park, which allows you to see animals like elephants, antelopes, and warthogs right from your balcony. Other accommodations in that area include:
- Enshama Game Lodge and Campsite
- Buffalo Safari Lodge
- Engiri Game Lodge and Campsite
- Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge by Nature Lodges LTD
Activities In Queen Elizabeth National Park
Like any other activity in the country, you can also do a safari independently. If you have your own car, you can drive around and hire a guide to enhance your experience. The entry fee is $40, and you can see here the costs for the other activities that the park offers, such as game drives and boat rides.
- Lion Tracking: The lions in Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park are famous for climbing trees, particularly fig and acacia trees, which is a rare behavior among lions.
- Kazinga Channel: Connecting Lakes Albert and George, home to hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, and buffaloes, all visible on an exciting boat ride.
Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park is also a popular place in Uganda for safaris, and it is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and abundant wildlife. Apart from the Murchison Falls, the park offers a variety of exciting activities, including game drives, boat safaris, hiking, and birdwatching.
Where To Stay Near Murchison Falls National Park
- Hemingway’s Luxury Tented Camp
- Murchison Falls Bamboo Village
- Murchison Giraffe Camp
- Elephant View Lodge
Kibale Craters
The Kibale Craters are a series of crater lakes formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago. These lakes are surrounded by hills covered in lush vegetation, creating an impressive and picturesque landscape.
The most popular include Lake Nyinambuga and Lake Kyaninga, which are perfect for walking, swimming, or simply enjoying the views. Although many tours don’t typically include stays here, this area is ideal for those seeking peace and nature. Visitors can enjoy boat rides on crater lakes, hike scenic trails, birdwatch, and visit local villages to learn about traditions.
Where To Stay Near Kibale Craters
In the Kibale Crater area, there aren’t many accommodation options, but we were fortunate to discover Mwaba Kelele Lodge (https://www.booking.com/Share-rYONr78), an eco-lodge owned by a Spanish NGO.
All the proceeds generated go towards supporting the local school and empowering the community. The lodge offers stunning lake views, a restaurant service, and a shop featuring crafts made by local women. Other accommodations in the area include:
What To Eat In Uganda
Uganda offers a variety of local dishes that reflect its rich cultural heritage. One must-try is Matoke, a dish made from green bananas cooked with onions and spices. It is often served with meat or beans.
Posho, a staple made from maize flour, is commonly paired with stews or vegetables. For street food enthusiasts, the Rolex is a must-try. It is a chapati rolled with scrambled eggs and vegetables, typically enjoyed at breakfast.
Uganda’s tropical climate supports a wide variety of fresh fruits, making fruit juices incredibly refreshing and often made right in front of you.
How To Get To Uganda
Uganda, a very popular tourist destination on the continent, is well-connected and offers easy access through several main entry points. These options include:
- Entebbe International Airport is the country’s main gateway, located just an hour from Kampala. Ethiopian Airlines, Egypt Air, KLM, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Kenya Airways, RwandAir, and Emirates operate most flights between Entebbe and Europe and the Middle East.
- From Rwanda, the Gatuna border crossing directly connects Kigali with Kisoro in Uganda, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours. Other crossings, such as Kagitumba and Kyanuka, are also available.
- From Kenya, you can take direct flights from Nairobi to Entebbe or opt for overland transport via buses or private vehicles. The most common border crossings are Suam, Malaba, and Busia.
- From Tanzania, the main border crossing with Uganda is Mutukula.
Uganda Entry Requirements
Uganda allows most nationalities to obtain a visa on arrival. However, for greater convenience, it is recommended that you apply for it online in advance through Uganda eVisa. The single-entry visa costs $50 and is valid for 90 days.
If you plan to visit other countries in the region, you can opt for the East Africa Visa, which allows you to travel to Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya with a single visa. This visa costs $100 and is valid for 90 days with multiple entries.
When applying for the East Africa Visa, request it through the government of your first country of entry. For example, if you begin your trip in Rwanda, you must apply for an East Africa Visa through the Rwandan government. You must process your first destination with the Ugandan government if your first destination is Uganda. Similarly, if Kenya is your first country of entry, you must apply through the Kenyan government.
It is important to note that a yellow fever vaccination is mandatory to enter Uganda, and you must present the international vaccination certificate. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before travel to be officially valid. Additionally, you must have a passport with a minimum validity of six months and a return ticket to enter the country.
Getting Online In Uganda
The fastest, though more expensive, way to get immediate internet access in Uganda is by downloading apps that provide an eSIM, such as Airalo – Referral Code ALESSI0688.
Prepaid local SIM cards are more affordable and usually offer better connectivity in remote areas. You can purchase them at airport kiosks of Uganda’s main mobile providers: MTN, Airtel, and Africell. Airtel is one of the best options, especially if you’re visiting remote locations like Bwindi and Mburo, where it offers better coverage than other providers.
Safety and Security In Uganda
Uganda is a stable and safe destination compared to its neighboring countries, particularly in tourist areas where security measures are consistently in place. However, as with any location, it’s important to stay vigilant and take care of your belongings, especially bags and wallets.
Additional precautions are advised in busier areas like Kampala. Avoid walking alone at night, keep valuables out of sight, and dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees to avoid unnecessary attention.
Book accommodation in safe areas with good reviews and security measures, such as safe boxes, is also recommended. In crowded places like the Nakasero Market in Kampala, it’s better to go accompanied. Crowds can sometimes lead to uncomfortable situations, such as people persistently trying to talk to you or get your attention.
What To Wear In Uganda
When dressing, it is important to consider cultural norms in your choice of attire. In tourist areas like national parks, you can wear lighter clothing, such as shorts or tank tops, without issues.
However, when traveling through cities like Kampala or rural areas with a significant Muslim population, it is recommended to wear clothing that covers at least your knees and shoulders. This will help you blend in better with the local culture, show respect for local customs, and help you feel more comfortable.
In general, it is recommended to wear comfortable and suitable clothing for walking, especially if you plan to go hiking or explore natural areas like the national parks. Uganda has a warm, tropical climate, so choosing lightweight, breathable clothing in light colors is ideal to minimize heat.
Additionally, wearing closed, sturdy shoes is important, as many tourist activities, such as safaris or gorilla treks, involve traversing uneven terrain, often wet or slippery.
Given that Uganda has a rainy season, it is recommended to include waterproof clothing, such as a raincoat or a light jacket, to protect yourself in case of rainfall. It is also helpful to bring a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun during the day and sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays.
If you plan to visit mountainous areas or higher-altitude regions, such as Bwindi, it is important to pack warmer clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night.
Do not forget to bring mosquito repellent. Uganda is a malaria-endemic area, so taking preventive measures such as using insect repellent and sleeping under mosquito nets is essential.
Best Time To Go To Uganda
Uganda is a destination that can be enjoyed year-round, but the dry season is the best time to make the most of outdoor activities.
This period, which runs from December to February and from June to September, offers pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, making activities like safaris and gorilla trekking easier. Additionally, the roads are in better condition, and the vegetation is less dense, improving visibility and access.
In contrast, the rainy season, which runs from March to May, can make travel more difficult due to muddier or slipperier roads and terrain. However, this period is ideal for those who prefer to avoid crowds, as there are fewer tourists, and prices are usually lower due to the off-season. In mountainous areas or higher-altitude regions like Bwindi, temperatures can drop significantly, particularly at night.
How To Move Around Uganda
In cities like Entebbe or Kampala, getting around is relatively easy thanks to public transportation options, taxis, or apps like Uber. Uber is undoubtedly the most convenient and safest option, even when arriving at the airport.
However, when venturing outside these cities to explore the country, you’ll find various ways to get around, each with its own advantages and disadvantages depending on your needs and budget:
Independent Travel
The first option for traveling around Uganda is to go independently, which is the most economical choice but requires more planning. Renting a car is undoubtedly the best option for exploring Uganda on your own.
While public transportation connects the main cities, this method is often much slower due to the lack of fixed schedules, road conditions, and waiting times. Additionally, once you arrive in the main cities, you will need to figure out how to get to your accommodation or tourist sites, which are often not well-connected.
If you choose to travel by public transport, it’s important to allow enough time, as the travel delays can cost you valuable hours that could be spent exploring and enjoying the tourist attractions.
Renting a car in Uganda offers multiple advantages, such as the flexibility to explore at your own pace, access to remote destinations not well connected by public transport, and time savings by avoiding waiting and delays.
It also provides comfort by traveling in a private setting and allows you to customize your itinerary based on your interests. The roads between Uganda’s main cities are generally in good condition, but as you venture into more remote areas, the roads become more rural and challenging, especially during the rainy season.
Therefore, it’s essential to be prepared for long distances and difficult terrain and adjust to driving on the left side of the road if you’re not used to it.
I rented a car through Alpha Rental Cars (WhatsApp +256 701 436348) email: [email protected]) an option I recommend, as they offer the possibility of crossing the vehicle into other countries like Rwanda.
My experience with them was very positive. A great benefit is that if you rent a vehicle from this company, they assist you in processing the permits for gorilla tracking in Uganda at no additional cost, which makes trip planning much easier. Other car rental options in the country include Road Trip Africa.
Although the distances on the map may seem short, road conditions and other logistical factors can make travel times longer than expected. Therefore, planning your visits and departures with enough time to avoid setbacks and make the most of your experience in Uganda is essential.
Book A Tour
Booking a group or private tour is the most comfortable and expensive option. By contracting a group or private tour, you ensure that you will be picked up and taken directly to the points of interest, with a guide providing valuable information about the places you visit.
This option is ideal if you prefer to avoid the logistics of transportation and want a fully organized experience without worrying about traffic, price negotiations, or practical details. While it is more costly, it can be the best choice for those looking for a more comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Currency in Uganda
Uganda’s official currency is the Ugandan shilling (UGX), which currently has a value of approximately 1 USD = 3,700 UGX. As a popular tourist destination, the US dollar and the euro are widely accepted, with the US dollar being preferred. Ensure the bills are new and in good condition, as some places may not accept old or damaged banknotes.
In cities like Kampala and Entebbe, you’ll find ATMs or currency exchange offices in most tourist and commercial areas. Although most restaurants and hotels accept card payments, carrying some cash for tips, shopping at smaller businesses, or emergencies is always a good idea.
Bring enough cash for your trip, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas where access to ATMs or currency exchange offices may be limited.
Exploring Uganda Wrap Up
I hope you’ve found my guide to Uganda helpful. Uganda is a magical destination steeped in wildlife and culture that is worth adding to your bucket list.
If you have questions about visiting Uganda, please comment below or message me directly on Instagram @alessia.ramponi.
You can also check out all our other Africa guides for more travel inspiration!
We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Uganda! If you have questions about Uganda or tips to share with our readers please leave these in the comments below.
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