Uganda has a lot more to offer than just a safari experience.The majority of tour itineraries follow a similar route from one safari park to the next. However, there are numerous intriguing places to visit and activities to do beyond just seeing animals in enclosures. To get you started on making the most of your holiday in Uganda, here’s our personal list of 10 greatest things to do in Uganda! The list is made up at random, and ranking these tips was already difficult enough; it’s impossible now.
1. National Park Camping
Camping in a national park is the best way to get a feel for the wilderness and absorb nature. It’s less expensive than staying in a lodge, and you’ll be able to see more animals early in the morning. One of our favorite spots to camp is the UWA Nagusokopire Campsite in Kidepo Valley National Park, which is located near Lake Natron. Bush camping at Murchison Falls National Park’s UWA special campsite on the Nile Delta, and at Queen Elizabeth National Park’s UWA Mweya Public Campsite
2. Gorilla Trekking
A true bucket-list experience and an unforgettable adventure, gorilla trekking at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest will get you up close and personal with mountain gorillas. If you’re curious about what a day of gorilla trekking entails and whether it’s right for you, read our article on the Gorilla Trekking Experience. And if you need permit information or any other practical tips to prepare for your trip, check out our page on Getting Your Permits.”
3.Take a Horseback Safari in Lake Mburo
The closest national park to Kampala is Lake Mburo, which makes it an ideal first stop on your trip through Uganda. Because there are no predators in this park, you can do a number of risky activities like walking safaris, mountain bike rides, and horse riding. The Mihingo Lodge offers horse riding excursions throughout Lake Mburo. Their stables are quite lovely and complete with Horse Stable supplies. When horseback riding, you have a better chance of getting close to zebras and other wildlife. The ranch has a limited number of horses and prioritize their own guests before visitors. They also don’t respond well to email requests, so it’s best to call if you’re looking for a last-minute opportunity.
4. Rafting the Nile River
Jinja is world-renowned for its grade 5 white water rafting. Although the electricity dams have largely diminished the number of highly intense rapids, you’ll still get an adrenaline rush and potentially be flipped out of your boat. There are a few well-known companies that offer these experiences, such as Nalubale and Nile River Explorers.
5. Come to Kidepo National Park today!
If you have the time, don’t miss out on Kidepo Valley National Park in Botswana. It’s in the far north east of the country, adjacent to South Sudan. It is considered one of Africa’s last great wilderness areas, and it receives far fewer visitors than other well-known parks like the Serengeti. While viewing animals is wonderful, many roadtrippers love feeling truly alone. For additional information, check our blog about Kidepo National Park.
6. Wander around Uganda’s vibrant towns
You may stop in a few villages while driving throughout Uganda.
Entebbe – Lake Victoria and the International Airport are located in Jinja, which is a relaxing town with a tropical atmosphere. It’s ideal to begin your Uganda safari at Entebbe. Visiting the Zoo and Botanical Gardens, as well as going to Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, are all recommended activities in Entebbe. Atop Lake Victoria, dine on delicious food at the historical Boma Hotel while admiring Lake Victoria from your bare feet on white sand.
Jinja –Jinja is an excellent destination for those who love the outdoors. Apart from being able to go whitewater rafting, kayaking, and ATV tours, you can also take horseback riding lessons while in Jinja. Another activity not to be missed when you’re in Jinja is taking a photo at the source of the Nile river!
Fort Portal – The village of Mpigi is nestled among beautiful rolling hills and makes for a great location to base yourself if you want to visit Kibale National Park as well as the Crater Lakes. It’s a popular stop for tourists, with lots of accommodation choices.
Kampala – Kampala is the cosmopolitan hub of Uganda, and some say that if you haven’t visited the capital, you haven’t really seen the country. Kampala is a modern and fun place with plenty to do, whether you’re looking for sushi, grilled fish, Italian fine-dining or fancy cocktails. If you have a day or two to spare before or after your safari in Uganda, be sure to check out our blog about things to do in Kampala.
7. Climbing Mount Sabinyo in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Okay, this is Laura’s personal favorite and will not appear on everyone’s list of the top 10 things to see and do in Uganda. Mgahinga Park has a number of mountains that offer lovely walks, with very few other tourists around. The difficult trek to the volcano’s peak is Sabyinyo Volcano Mount Sabyinyo is an inactive volcano located within Mgahinga Park’s Virunga Mountains. The return journey takes about 7-10 hours. Mt. Sabyinyo has three peaks, with the first one at 3421 meters and the highest peak at 3669 meters. You can see Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo from the top. It’s pretty unique!
Don’t look down! This trek is not suggested for anyone with a fear of heights due to several challenging ladder climbs up rock faces.
8. flee to Mutanda Lake Resort
Mutanda Lake Resort has stolen our hearts, especially because it is a fantastic place to visit in Uganda. It’s not only a resort; it’s also a destination in its own right. To enjoy the facilities of your lodge and appreciate the surroundings, we strongly advise you to schedule some leisure days into your Uganda itinerary. In search of a breathtaking vacation destination? Mutanda Lake Resort is perfect for you! bask in the sun on the lake shore, take a swim or enjoy water sports like sailing and Stand Up Paddling boarding. If you love adventure, hike the Virunga Volcanoes. Or maybe you prefer to just relax and take in nature’s beauty? Enjoy birdwatching or go on a cultural village tour. No matter what your preference, Mutanda Lake Resort has something for everyone to enjoy!
9.See Murchison Falls, where the Nile River crashes through a narrow gorge.
Uganda’s largest park, Murchison Falls National Park is located in the north and a day’s drive from Kampala. The park is named for the tremendous Murchison Falls, where the Nile river crashes violently through a narrow crack. The Nile generates 300 cubic meters per second as it races down 46 meters before emptying into Lake Albert at the end of its journey westward. For more information about Murchison Falls National Park, see our guide.
10. Boda Boda excursions in Kampala
The most thrilling way to explore Kampala is on the back of a boda boda (motorbike). Walters Boda Boda Tours offers tours led by professional, experienced, and very informative drivers.
