Destination Guide Uganda
Uganda is a gem tucked away in East Africa, known for its diverse landscapes that range from vast savannas to dense rainforests. It’s particularly celebrated for its wildlife, including half the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. Uganda offers a rich tapestry of experiences that make it a thrilling destination for adventurers, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Highlights & Must-See Attractions
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Renowned for gorilla trekking, Bwindi is home to several families of endangered mountain gorillas. Trekking through the misty jungle offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
- Murchison Falls National Park: Famous for its powerful waterfall where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge before plunging 43 meters. The park is also rich in wildlife, including elephants, lions, and hippos, and offers excellent bird-watching opportunities.
- Queen Elizabeth National Park: Known for its diverse ecosystems, including savanna, wetlands, and forests, this park boasts an impressive array of wildlife, such as tree-climbing lions, hippos, and over 600 species of birds.
- Jinja: Known as the adventure capital of Uganda, Jinja is located on the shores of Lake Victoria and at the source of the Nile River. It’s a hub for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities like whitewater rafting, kayaking, and jet boating.
- Kidepo Valley National Park: One of Africa’s wildest parks, Kidepo is remote and spectacular, with vast savannas surrounded by mountains. It’s less frequented by tourists, providing a more secluded safari experience.
Our lesser-known favourites
- Sipi Falls: Located in eastern Uganda, Sipi Falls consists of three beautiful waterfalls that flow over the cliffs of Mount Elgon. The area is also known for its coffee plantations and offers picturesque hikes.
- Lake Bunyonyi: With its serene, bilharzia-free waters and lush, terraced hillsides, Lake Bunyonyi is a perfect spot for relaxation, canoeing, and bird watching. It’s also a great place to experience local culture in the surrounding villages.
- Rwenzori Mountains: Known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” this mountain range offers challenging hikes and spectacular views, with its snow-capped peaks and diverse alpine vegetation.
- Semuliki National Park: This park offers a taste of Central Africa’s jungle landscapes, complete with hot springs and a diverse array of wildlife and bird species.
Did you know?
Uganda is one of only three countries in the world where you can trek mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Uganda’s equator line crosses through the country, offering visitors the unique chance to stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at the same time.
Food and Cuisine
- Matoke: A staple dish made from steamed green bananas, often served with peanut sauce, meat, or fresh fish.
- Rolex: A popular street food, not a watch, but a tasty omelet rolled in chapati, making it a must-try for visitors.
- Luombo: A traditional dish where meat or fish is steamed in banana leaves with groundnut sauce.
Literature and cinema
“The Last King of Scotland”: While not entirely filmed in Uganda, this film provides a dramatized account of Idi Amin’s dictatorship and has brought international attention to Uganda’s historical context.
“Kintu” by Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi: A modern classic of Ugandan literature, this novel weaves together the past and present of Uganda, exploring themes of family, tradition, and history.
Practical Information
- Best Season to Visit: The best time to visit Uganda is during its two dry seasons: June to September and December to February. During these months, wildlife viewing is at its peak as animals congregate around water sources, and the weather is conducive for trekking and game drives. However, visiting during the off-peak seasons — the rainy periods of March to May and October to November — also has its advantages, such as the scenic beauty of lush greenery, fewer tourists, and potentially lower travel costs. These seasons can offer a more secluded and intimate experience of the country’s natural beauty.
- Temperature: Uganda experiences a generally temperate climate despite its equatorial location, with temperatures averaging between 21°C and 25°C.
- Visa Requirements: Most visitors will need a visa to enter Uganda, which can be obtained online as an e-visa prior to arrival. It’s important to check the latest entry requirements on the official government website….or drop us a line!
Getting ready for departure
- Local Currency: Ugandan Shilling (UGX). It’s advisable to have local currency for everyday transactions.
- Culture & Dress Code: Ugandans dress modestly. It’s respectful to do the same, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites.
- Language: English is the official language and is widely spoken in tourist areas, making communication relatively easy.
- Electronics: Uganda uses type G electrical outlets, the same as in the UK, and the standard voltage is 240 V.
- Local emergency numbers: Police: 999; Medical: 112.
Before you travel to Uganda, check our Ultimate Packing List to ensure you’re prepared for both safari adventures and cultural experiences. Consider bringing back handcrafted souvenirs like bark cloth, drums, or beaded jewelry to remember your journey to this diverse and dynamic country.