Here are some of the top travel treasures you’ll want to visit during your stay in Uganda:

Kampala, the cosmopolitan capital city

With a population of approximately 2.5 million, Kampala is the largest city in Uganda. It is not yet completely overwhelmed with traffic and sprawl like Nairobi and Lagos. Additionally, Kampala is very safe to walk around, even at night, a welcome fact for many a high-strung visitor arriving from Nairobi. The people of Kampala, and Ugandans in general, are very kind and friendly, and very approachable. Uganda also hosts a large number of Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs). Most of these are based in Kampala, so there is an established expat scene in the city. Overall, Kampala is a bustling, vibrant, cosmopolitan city with lots to see and do, making it a great base camp for your journey.

Jinja, the adventure capital

Jinja, located east of Kampala, is the adventure capital of Uganda. From here you can go White Water Rafting on the Nile, Bungee Jumping, Quad Biking, Kayaking and more. You can also enjoy a leisurely boat cruise at the Source of the Nile or set out on a sunset cruise.  Rest assured there are no hippos or crocodiles on this stretch of the river.

Disembark at Entebbe

In contrast to Kampala, Entebbe is more relaxed for a weekend visit or a day trip. Whether it’s the Botanical Gardens, the zoo, or visiting the Chimpanzees on Ngamba Island; Entebbe is a great place to disembark for a day. And if you’re flying in to Uganda, you’ll also disembark at the Entebbe Airport.

Gorilla Trekking at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

This ancient rainforest is famous for Mountain-gorilla Trekking. Come and spend time with these magnificent mammals in their native habitat. These gentle giants are one of the most memorable and exciting experiences Uganda has to offer. During your visit, you can also go for a nature walk, meet a traditional Ugandan healer, visit the Pygmees, and taste some local banana wine.

Safari in Murchison Falls National Park

The largest national park in Uganda is located at the northern end of the Albertine Rift Valley. The safari at Murchison will bring you close to elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, buffaloes, hartebeests, and various bird species. You can also join a launch cruise to visit the hippos, water bucks, crocodiles and more.

Tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park

This park’s residents include elephants, cape buffaloes, giant forest hogs, lions, leopards, hyenas and more. You can also enjoy a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, and visit the famous tree climbing lions in Ishasha.

Chimps and Primates in Kibale Forest National Park

With the highest density of primates in the world, this spectacular national park is a haven for 12 different species of primates and an astonishing 355 types of birds. Say hello to the park’s most famous inhabitants – the chimpanzee. This delightful ape that is more closely related to humans than any other living creature! The park is also a great delight for botanists, birders and butterfly lovers.

Gigantic Elands at Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo, located in the western part of the country, is the smallest of the national parks but home to gigantic elands – which are nowhere else to be found in the country. The varied landscapes of the park also inhabit a number of other species such as impalas and zebras. Take a walking safari, a game drive or ride a quad-bike! Enjoy the amazing scenery of the five lakes which are surrounded by forested hills, open savannah and papyrus swamps.

Breath-taking Kidepo Valley National Park

Tucked in the corner of Uganda’s border with Sudan and Kenya, Kidepo valley is one of Africa’s most outstanding parks. With open-tree savannah dominating the park, it provides an excellent game viewing opportunity, and harbours scenery that cannot be found in any other park in East Africa.

Bird-watching at Semliki National Park

This is a wondrous flying paradise with 400 bird species and 300 butterfly species. This ancient park also offers magnificent hot springs that bubble up from the depths beneath Sempaya.

More gorillas in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Located on the border of Rwanda and Congo, this is one of the two parks in Uganda that are a habitat for the endangered mountain gorilla.

Scenic hiking in Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Rwenzori, the highest mountain in Uganda, can be explored along a seven-day trail that meanders along the Mobuku and Bujuku Valleys. Community walks and nature trails also provide a scenic and cultural experience. The key to this exhilarating and rewarding experience is preparation and planning.

Visit the volcano in Mt. Elgon National Park

Mt. Elgon, the fourth largest extinct volcano in Africa, is a great place for the hiking enthusiast. Enjoy a hiking adventure over several days or a day walk. You can start your journey to this extinct volcano in Mbale town which is the centre of Uganda’s coffee cultivation, and a great place to visit for local culture.

Chill out in the Ssese Islands

Relax, unwind and put your feet up at Ssese Islands. Spend time with the friendly islanders and enjoy the peaceful environment which provides an excellent opportunity for fishing, bird-watching, boating and walking.

Experience the magic of Lake Bunyonyi

Often referred to as the ‘Switzerland of Africa’, Lake Bunyonyi is a truly magical place. Dotted with over 20 small Islands and encircled by steep terraced hills, this is a great spot for camping, canoeing, kayaking or simply enjoying the scenic views from a high altitude. You can also swim the lake safely without worrying about running into any hippos or crocodiles.