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6 Best Places to Visit in Uganda

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Tourists at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda.

The top six must-see places to visit in Uganda can help you discover why this East African gem is known as the “Pearl of Africa”. The country’s beauty, charming people, and wildlife create an unforgettable combination of experiences.

A nation proud of its heritage, Uganda offers visitors the chance to embrace local culture, while also embarking on epic adventures through forests, national parks, channels, and lakes. Uganda’s must-sees range from city discoveries to legendary lakes, breathtaking waterfalls, and the wonders of remote volcano lakes.

Gorilla trekking and a chance to view chimpanzees are highlights of any Uganda visit and add to the importance of embracing successful sustainable tourism efforts you can have when in Rwanda.

Overview
  1. 1. Gorillas in the Mist at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
  2. 2. Captivating Queen Elizabeth Park - Wildlife and Water Wonder
  3. 3. Stand in Awe Below the Mighty Murchison Falls
  4. 4. Find the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Haven
  5. 5. Walk Through Kibale Forest National Park
  6. 6. Bask in the Relaxing Lake Victoria
  7. Book for the Best Places in Uganda

1. Gorillas in the Mist at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Mom and baby mountain gorilla at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda.

The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest lies strong and silent in the southwest of Uganda in the Rift Valley, a rainforest surrounded by thick canopies and lush groundcover.

Famous as home to over half of the world’s population of highland gorillas, Bwindi is alive with excitement and adventure, not only for its remarkable inhabitants, but also for the many visitors who trek and trail through the forest.

The slopes are a mix of gentle and steep, and entering this misty wonderland can be done from various gorilla-family locations, from Buhoma to Nkuringo, and Rushaga and Mgahinga to Ruhija.

Highlights: Gorilla Trekking | Bird Watching | Community Organization and Village Visits outside the Forest

2. Captivating Queen Elizabeth Park - Wildlife and Water Wonder

Lake Edward in Queen Elizabeth Park, Uganda.

Queen Elizabeth Park, Uganda.

Queen Elizabeth Park in Uganda is one of East Africa’s most popular destinations as it offers a variety of landscapes, settings, and stories told through cultural and wildlife encounters.

With forest, open savanna, channels, and crater lakes, Queen Elizabeth Park supports a collection of diverse wildlife.

The breathtaking scenery is shaped by the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains and rolling hills surrounding the Kazinga Channel to create one of Uganda’s most unforgettable destinations.

Highlights: Outstanding Game Viewing | Prolific Birdlife on Kazinga Channel | Community Encounters | Boat Cruises | Safari Drives | Tree-Climbing Lions

3. Stand in Awe Below the Mighty Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls in Uganda.

Murchison Falls in Uganda.

Travel north of Kampala and unfold the mighty Murchison Falls, perched high above Lake Victoria, with the Victoria Nile cutting through its path.

A magnificent feature set in the Albertine Valley, the dynamic Murchison Falls tumble into the “Devil’s Cauldron” and paint a picture of color to complete the dramatic scenery.

Noted as Uganda’s first national park, Murchison Falls can lead you to views of elephants and giraffes, lions and waterbuck, as well as reveal the nearly 460 species of birds that fill the trees and bush with vibrant colors and calls.

Highlights: Hiking | Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary | Hot Air Balloon Rides Over the Falls | The Launch Trip - Wildlife and Photographic Experience

4. Find the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Haven

Chimp at Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Haven in Ngamba Island, Uganda.

Ngamba Island, Uganda.

An island retreat for a number of rescued chimpanzees, Ngamba Island is a retreat and haven for these fascinating animals.

The island lies in Lake Victoria and offers a space for injured or traumatized chimpanzees to recuperate and thrive, something visitors can be a part of when they visit. Spots of open grassland intersperse with forests to provide the ideal habitat for these rambunctious primates.

Whether during a forest walk or when crossing the waters by boat, the experience will demonstrate the importance of Uganda’s local environment and communities.

Highlights: Ngamba Island Chimp Trails and Education

5. Walk Through Kibale Forest National Park

Chimpanzee at Kibale Forest National Park in Uganda.

Kibale Forest National Park, Uganda.

Comprising lowland and montane forests, the landscape of Kibale is diverse and lush, and invites visitors to step inside a fairytale setting of green and brown splashed against muddy pathways.

Home to lively chimpanzees, trekking them through Kibale is entertaining and exciting as you uncover foliage perfectly placed to provide a home to more than primates. Kibale is an attractive forest that offers landscapes that change from dense to delicate, with thick tropical forest to emerging savannas.

Highlights: Chimp Trekking | Bird Viewing | Nature Walks

6. Bask in the Relaxing Lake Victoria

Marabou Stork bird on shore of Lake Victoria in Uganda.

Lake Victoria, Uganda.

The source of the mighty Nile River, Lake Victoria lies on the equator and is the size of some European countries.

Lake Victoria is a freshwater lake, a breathtaking formation that comprises a variety of vegetation, thick forests giving way to open savannas.

Incredible birdlife and a popular spot to fish, as well as the promise of an array of water sports, make Lake Victoria one of Uganda’s most memorable experiences. Relax on the shoreline, interact with locals, and indulge in the sheer beauty of Lake Victoria’s shimmering waters.

Highlights: Birding | Watersports | Boat Activities | Nature Walks

Book for the Best Places in Uganda

Rainforest in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda.

Uganda is a place where culture meets breathtaking beauty and wildlife comes in all shapes and forms, spread out in forests and valleys, as well as on rivers, and lakes.

When planning your Uganda adventure, be sure to give yourself enough time to embrace as much of the communities, animal encounters, and downtime in unique, serene settings.

To get more ideas on what you can discover in Uganda, check out our Uganda Safari & Gorilla Trekking. When you are ready to book, fill out a Trip Request to speak with a Zicasso Travel Specialist or call our team at 1-888-265-9707.

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