An East African gem, Uganda is a paradise for natural and cultural travel. It is home to historic and natural phenomena, making it the perfect escape to see unworldly creatures and connect with over 50 ethnic groups. Whether you’re on a full family affair, solo endeavour, or a couple’s retreat, there is so much in the country for anyone to enjoy.
From incredible walking tours to lakeside relaxation and many famous natural features, let the natural landscape of Uganda dictate the perfect once-in-a-lifetime trip. And if planning feels overwhelming, let this guide take the pressure off. With the best time to go to the best places to stay and things to do, we’ve covered it all. Read on and let your dream trip come to life.
The Best Time to Go to Uganda
Like many districts in the world, Uganda is home to specific wet and dry seasons that should be researched before a trip. The wet season, from March to May and September to December, can make the natural landscapes more challenging to adventure through. Roads can be difficult to navigate and the jungle landscapes can become muddy, making the dry season more appealing.
The temperature commonly remains consistently warm year-round typically sitting between 20 to 30°C. The dry can still bring short rainfall periods in forest areas in particular, but the warmth should still allow the outside to be comfortable even during these times. As animals tend to gather around water sources in the National Park landscapes, wildlife spotting can also be easier during this dry season.
Though wet season endeavours can often mean fewer tourists and exciting conditions for the most intrepid explorers, the dry season is the safest time to visit Uganda.
The Best Places to See in Uganda
With incredible natural landscapes to manmade locales, the country is scattered with so many places to see. As the country is home to more than half of the world’s mountain gorilla species, the abundance of wildlife to be seen is also vast. Head to the slopes of Virunga Mountain in Mgahinga National Park to see the nearly endemic species living in their natural habitats amid stunning greenery.
There are countless other protected natural areas worth seeing in the country. Discover the beauty of Murchison Falls National Park, where the Nile River meets cascading waterfalls and stunning rock faces. Meanwhile, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most popular savannah district in Uganda where huge elephant herds can be seen.
For a different side of the country, the capital is equally a must-see. Kampala is the country’s largest city filled with cultural vibrancy as well as modern infrastructure. See the kaleidoscopic colour of local markets and art galleries like the Uganda National Cultural Centre, where local customs and crafts can be treasured and taken home.
The Best Things to Do in Uganda
It wouldn’t be a truly authentic African adventure without an iconic safari. Trek through some of the world’s most delicate landscapes and ecosystems with breathtaking Uganda safari holidays that help manage all the details of a safari booking. Whether you’re desperate to see lions and leopards roaming the forestlands or the synonymous mountain gorillas are top of your must-sees, there are plenty of options available.
The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is an inclusion on most safari visits. Celebrated across the world for its gorilla protection spreading over 331 square kilometres and 20 habituated groups of the monkey species. Pick from a range of different routes and regions in the Park for the perfect safari trek for you.
If you’d prefer a seated safari venture, the largest National Park of Murchison Falls is the perfect landscape for hosting game drives and boat cruises along the Nile. Enjoy these other perspectives of the delicate locations and wealth of wildlife from giraffes to lions.
Feel like you’re at sea with the feeling of island hopping over Lake Victoria. As the lake hosts a group of 84 islands, the Ssese Islands provide the perfect backdrop for more relaxing days by beaches. Fish, boat and connect with local cultures along the lakeside.
The Best Places to Stay in Uganda
For the most seamless trip despite being so action-packed, it’s vital to pick the best hub or various hubs to stay in. From the most authentic camping experiences on a budget to luxury lodges peacefully isolated in the wilderness, the country is abundant with accommodation options to suit all.
If it is a luxury occasion like a honeymoon or family celebration, uncover the variety of luxury lodgings across the country’s National Parks. There are lodges with panoramic views across Murchison Falls that sit on hilltops to equally offer spectacular sunset viewing platforms. From infinity pools to firepits and low light pollution for stargazing, embrace the most unforgettable stay on the luxurious side of Uganda.
What to Pack for Uganda
As the likelihood of you heading on safari in Uganda is so high, it’s vital to pack appropriate wear and equipment for the best safari to unfold. To see animals in their most natural states, the best advice is to choose clothing that blends you well into the natural environment. Think neutral, earthy colours and equally comfortable layers to ensure the best for both you and the animals.
Other things to ensure to pack:
- Sun protection
- Waterproof layers
- Comfortable footwear (walking boots)
- Sleepwear
- Insect repellent
- Comfortable shoes for evening wear
- Blister plasters just in case.
It’s always best to acknowledge that it’s best to go with too much rather than too little. As a safari escape is so once in a lifetime and so focused on the natural world, this isn’t the kind of trip where you can pop to the shop for anything left behind!
Summary
A trip to Uganda is sure to be unworldly and once-in-a-lifetime. Visit a landscape that’s so far from Western world norms and see how local communities create homes here. From the wildlife to tribal history within National Parks, you’re sure to return with a newfound appreciation for the natural world.
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