Where to visit in Uganda

Bwindi is one of Uganda’s most visited park, and rightly so. Located in the southern-western part of the country, on the edge of the African Rift Valley, Bwindi is known for its exceptional biodiversity and its home to approximately 400 mountain gorillas. Bwindi was gazetted as a national park in 1991, and a world UNESCO heritage site in 1994. Thousands of tourists visit Bwindi each year to see the habituated mountain gorillas. These gorillas live in families and share very similar social behavior patterns to humans. The one main difference is their weight – a large silverback can weigh up to 150 kilograms. Bwindi is almost always included in a Uganda itinerary and because of its location in the very south, it often works well to end with this destination, finishing with the most thrilling experience. All of the safari camps and lodges are located close to Bwindi Park Headquarters which is where you will start your safety briefing the morning of the gorilla trek.

Situated in the west of the country is a one of Uganda’s treasures – Queen Elizabeth National Park. The park was named after the Queen of England during her visit to Uganda in 1954. With such diversity in landscape, the park offers a varied safari experience. In the southern part of the park in the Ishasha sector are the tree-climbing lions. These have become famous to see during a Uganda itinerary. The Kazinga Channel is also a prominent feature of the park. Home to a large number of hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, and an diversity of fish and bird species, a boat safari here is a must-do. A safari from the water gives you a new perspective on the park. Not only do you see the larger species like the elephants and buffalo, but you also take time to observe the smaller creatures like the native lizards and exotic birdlife. It is a beautiful park and often one that is included in a Uganda itinerary because of its accessibility from Kibale Forest to Bwindi National Park.

Kidepo is located in the very north-eastern tip of Uganda, bordering South Sudan. Because of its location, the landscape is very different compared to other areas of the country, offering dry and vast savannahs next to mountainous bodies. Because of its isolated location, few tourists visit Kidepo National Park and as a result, it has become a hidden gem off the beaten track. The safari experience here is exceptional, with over 75 species of mammal and 420 species of bird. As well as game drives, activities in Kidepo include cultural visits to see the Karamojong people. This is an indigenous community with strong traditions that are interesting to see. There is one safari camp in Kidepo we would recommend named Apoka Safari Lodge. This camp is a sister property to Clouds (in Bwindi National Park), and offers exceptional views across the Kidepo savannah. A safari experience here involves early morning game drives, a relaxing lunch back in camp, and then another afternoon game drive before enjoying memorable sundowner drinks in the bush.