Uganda

Uganda: general info for travelers

Uganda is a country located in East Africa, bordered by South Sudan to the north, Kenya to the east, Tanzania and Rwanda to the south, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west. Its capital and largest city is Kampala.
Uganda is known as the "Pearl of Africa" because of its natural beauty, which includes mountains, forests, and one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world, Lake Victoria. It is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, lions, and more than 1,000 species of birds.
The official language of Uganda is English, and the local currency is the Ugandan shilling. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with over 50 tribes speaking different languages and practicing different customs and traditions. Uganda's economy relies mainly on agriculture, with coffee being the most important crop.
Overall, Uganda is a fascinating and beautiful country with a lot to offer travelers interested in nature, culture, and adventure.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Uganda, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Uganda: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main tourist attractions in Uganda: 1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, this national park is located in southwestern Uganda. Trekking through the dense forest to see the gorillas is a must-do experience for many travelers.
2. Murchison Falls National Park - This park is located in the northwestern part of Uganda and is named after the spectacular Murchison Falls on the Nile River. Visitors can go on a wildlife safari to see elephants, lions, giraffes, and other animals, while also enjoying the scenic beauty of the park.
3. Queen Elizabeth National Park - This national park is located in western Uganda and is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and chimpanzees. Visitors can also go on a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake George and Lake Edward.
4. Jinja - Located on the shores of Lake Victoria, Jinja is Uganda's adventure capital and is a popular spot for white-water rafting, kayaking, and bungee jumping. You can also visit the source of the Nile River, which is located nearby.
5. Rwenzori Mountains National Park - Located in western Uganda, the Rwenzori Mountains are the third highest mountain range in Africa and offer some excellent hiking opportunities. Visitors can take on the challenging trek to the summit of Margherita Peak or explore the lower slopes of the mountains.
6. Kampala - Uganda's capital city is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that is worth exploring. Some of the highlights of the city include the Uganda National Museum, the bustling markets, and the colorful street food scene.
These are just a few of the many beautiful places to visit in Uganda. Each of these destinations is unique in its own way and offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and diversity of this amazing country.
There is more to see and do in Uganda: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Uganda: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Uganda, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Uganda has a tropical climate, with two rainy seasons and two dry seasons. The rainy seasons are from March to May, and from October to November, while the dry seasons are from December to February, and June to August. The best time to visit Uganda for wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons, as the conditions are ideal for tracking in the forests and wildlife spotting in the parks. However, the weather is generally good throughout the year, and depending on your interests, you may find each season has its advantages.

Uganda: activities and what to do

There are many great activities and sports to enjoy on holiday in Uganda, including: 1) Gorilla trekking in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park 2) Hiking and nature walks in the stunning Rwenzori Mountains 3) Wildlife safaris in Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, and more.
4) White-water rafting in the Nile River 5) Mountain biking and cycling adventures 6) Canoeing and kayaking 7) Bird watching in one of the most diverse birding destinations in Africa 8) Rock climbing and abseiling near Sipi Falls 9) Cultural tours to local villages and historical sites 10) Football (soccer) is a popular sport in Uganda, and it can be fun to join in a pickup game with locals.
With so many options, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Uganda.

Uganda: few words on history and culture

Uganda is a country located in East Africa, and it has a rich history and culture that dates back centuries. The early kingdoms of Uganda, such as Buganda, Bunyoro, and Toro, played a vital role in shaping the country's culture and traditions. During the colonial period, Uganda was colonized by the British, which greatly influenced the country's language, religion, and governance.
Uganda has a diverse cultural heritage with over 50 distinct tribes that have their unique customs, languages, and beliefs. The Buganda kingdom, for example, is well known for its traditional dances, drumming, and royal regalia, which are still practiced today. The Basoga tribe is famous for their music, while the Karamojong people are known for their resilient nomadic lifestyle.
Uganda is also home to many natural landmarks, including national parks, lakes, and rivers. These natural attractions provide a glimpse into the country's ecological diversity. The people of Uganda value community and respect for elders, and they are known for their warm hospitality towards tourists, making it a great destination for cultural tourism.

Uganda: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Uganda depends on your point of origin and your travel preferences.
If you are travelling from neighbouring African countries, the best options would be by road or air. Uganda is easily accessible by road from Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Besides, there are several international airports in Uganda, including Entebbe International Airport, which is the main gateway to Uganda. So, you can also take a flight to Uganda if your origin is far away.
Once in Uganda, there are various means of transportation that you can explore depending on where you want to visit. The most common means of transport in Uganda are buses, taxis, motorcycles known as ''boda-boda'', and car rentals. You can choose to hire a car and drive yourself if you are confident driving in Uganda, or you can opt for a private driver and vehicle. Buses are the most affordable means of transport, and they ply most of the routes within and outside Kampala, Uganda's capital city. On the other hand, taxis and boda-bodas are convenient for moving around within the cities and towns. Overall, the means of transport that you choose in Uganda will depend on the distance that you want to cover, your budget, and personal preferences. To hire a car to visit Uganda, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Uganda: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Uganda with a full stomach:D
Here are some of the main typical foods of Uganda: 1. Matoke: Mashed green bananas that are wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until they are soft. It is the most common food in Uganda and is often eaten with peanut sauce, meat or fish and vegetables.
2. Ugali: A simple porridge-like dish made from cassava flour, maize flour or millet flour mixed with water. It is a staple food across the African continent.
3. Posho: A similar dish to Ugali, made from maize flour and water. It has a stiff consistency and is often eaten with a sauce or stew.
4. Rice and Beans: A dish made with boiled rice and beans, usually kidney beans or black-eyed peas. It can be served plain or with a sauce on top.
5. Chapati: A type of flatbread made from wheat flour. It is usually eaten as a side dish with stews or curries.
6. Rolex: A popular street food made with a wrap of fried eggs, vegetables like onions and tomatoes, and chapati. It is often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
7. Luwombo: A traditional Ugandan dish made by cooking meat or fish with vegetables in banana leaves. It is steamed until it is tender and served with rice or Matoke.
These are just a few of the typical foods in Uganda. Ugandan cuisine is diverse and you can find many different dishes depending on the region you are in.

Uganda: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Uganda is generally considered an affordable country for tourists. The cost of living in Uganda is lower than many other popular tourist destinations, so travel costs such as accommodation, food, and transportation are relatively inexpensive. However, the cost of some activities such as gorilla-trekking permits can be expensive. Overall, Uganda is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers.

Uganda: where to find accodation

There are several ways to look for accommodation in Uganda. Some of the popular options include: 1. Online booking websites: Websites like Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Expedia offer a wide range of accommodation options in Uganda. You can compare prices, read reviews, and book a room online.
2. Local travel agencies: Many travel agencies in Uganda offer accommodation options as part of their tour packages. They may have partnerships with hotels and lodges in different parts of the country.
3. Contact the accommodations directly: If you have a specific hotel or lodge in mind, you can contact them directly to inquire about availability and rates. They may be able to offer you a better price if you book directly with them.
4. Airbnb: Airbnb is becoming increasingly popular in Uganda, especially in urban areas. You can find apartments, villas, and rooms for rent on this platform.
5. Hostels: If you are on a budget, hostels are a great option for accommodation. There are many hostels in Uganda, especially in Kampala and other major cities.
You can check hotel prices in Uganda here:
Booking.com

Uganda: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Uganda receives roughly 1.5 million tourists per year. The peak tourism season usually falls between December and February and again in June and August, which can be quite crowded with tourists. However, outside of these periods, tourism is less crowded and can offer a more intimate and enriching experience. It is always recommended to plan ahead and book accommodations and activities in advance during peak tourism seasons to ensure availability.
Uganda is generally a safe country for tourists, but like any other destination, it's essential to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. The crime rate is low, but as with any other destination, there are places that tourists should avoid. These areas include: - The areas around the border with South Sudan and the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo due to border disputes and political instability.
- Parts of Kampala, especially at night. It is best to avoid walking around alone or in poorly lit areas and always be vigilant of your surroundings.
- The Karamoja region in the northeast, particularly near the Kenyan border due to tribal conflicts and occasional banditry.
Overall, with a little caution and attention to the changing situations, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Uganda.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Uganda on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Uganda: events for tourists

There are several interesting events for tourists in Uganda. Some of them are: 1. Kampala City Festival: This festival happens every October and celebrates Uganda's cultural heritage through music, dance, and food.
2. Nyege Nyege Festival: This is a four-day music festival that takes place in Jinja in September. The festival features local and international acts, and it's a great way to experience Uganda's vibrant music scene.
3. Gorilla Naming Ceremony: Uganda is home to half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas, and every year, the country holds a gorilla naming ceremony in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The ceremony is a celebration of conservation efforts and provides an opportunity to learn about gorilla conservation.
4. Uganda Martyrs Day: This is a religious event that happens every June 3rd. Pilgrims from all over East Africa gather at the Namugongo Martyrs Shrine to commemorate the 22 Catholic and Anglican Ugandan martyrs who were killed for their faith in the 1800s.
5. Kampala Restaurant Week: This happens every August and features special menus and discounts at participating restaurants in Kampala. It's a great way to experience Uganda's diverse culinary scene.

Uganda: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Uganda, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Here is a suggested two-week travel itinerary for a typical tourist in Uganda: Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2: Explore Entebbe town, visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), and take a sunset boat cruise on Lake Victoria.
Day 3: Drive to Jinja and visit the source of the Nile and do a rafting excursion on the Nile River.
Day 4: Take a guided tour of the Sipi Falls in eastern Uganda.
Day 5: Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park and enjoy a game drive.
Day 6: Go on a guided nature walk in Kidepo Valley National Park.
Day 7: Drive to Murchison Falls National Park and enjoy a scenic boat cruise on the Nile River.
Day 8: Visit the top of Murchison Falls and enjoy game drives in the park.
Day 9: Biking tour around Budongo Forest.
Day 10: Visit the Rwenzori Mountains, or the "Mountains of the Moon," and take a guided hike in the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 11: Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park and enjoy game drives and a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.
Day 12: Take a guided chimpanzee trek in Kyambura Gorge.
Day 13: Explore Fort Portal town, and visit the Amabere Caves.
Day 14: Return to Entebbe for your departure flight.
This itinerary can be customized to include more activities and destinations depending on your preferences and time budget. I highly recommend working with a local travel agency to plan and book your trip.

Uganda: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Uganda described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Arua is a town located in the northwestern part of Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is the largest town in the West Nile sub-region and is the administrative center of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Arua
- Budongo Forest Reserve is a protected area located in northwestern Uganda. It covers an area of approximately 825 square kilometers and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including over 600 chimp... CONTINUE here for a trip to Budongo Forest Reserve
- Butabika is a neighborhood located in Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. It is mainly known for Butabika National Referral Hospital, which is a psychiatric facility that provides mental health servi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Butabika
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southwestern Uganda. The park is covered in dense forest and is home to over half of the world's population of endangered m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Entebbe is a city located in Uganda, on the shores of Lake Victoria. It is the gateway to Uganda and is known for being the location of the country's main airport, Entebbe International Airport. The c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Entebbe
- Fort Portal is a town located in western Uganda, in the Kabarole district. It is situated about 320 kilometers from Uganda's capital, Kampala. Fort Portal is named after a colonial fort built there by... CONTINUE here for a trip to Fort Portal
- Gulu is a city located in Northern Uganda with a population of approximately 152,276 people. It is the largest city in the region and serves as the commercial and administrative center for the area. G... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gulu
- Hoima is a town located in western Uganda, about 206 km northwest of the capital city Kampala. With a population of over 100,000 people, it serves as the headquarters of Hoima District. The town is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hoima
- Jinja is a town in Uganda located about 80 kilometers east of the capital city, Kampala. It is situated on the northern shores of Lake Victoria, where the Nile River begins its journey northwards towa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jinja
- Kabale is a town located in southwestern Uganda, also known as the "Switzerland of Africa" due to its hilly terrain and cool climate. It is situated at an elevation of 1,950 meters above sea level and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kabale
- Kabalega Falls is a beautiful natural attraction located in the Murchison Falls National Park of Uganda. The falls are named after Kabalega, the king of Bunyoro Kingdom, and are formed by the Victoria... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kabalega Falls
- Kalinzu Forest Reserve is a protected area located in southwestern Uganda, near the town of Ishasha. It covers an area of approximately 147 square kilometers and is home to various flora and fauna, in... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kalinzu Forest Reserve
- Kampala is the capital and largest city of Uganda, located in the central region of the country. It has a population of over 1.5 million people and is the economic, political, and cultural center of t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kampala
- Kasese is a town located in western Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is the largest urban center in Kasese District and is situated at the foothills of the Rwenzori Mo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kasese
- Kibale Forest National Park is located in Uganda, in the western part of the country. It covers an area of 776 square kilometers and is known for its diverse wildlife and lush rainforest. The park is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kibale Forest National Park
- Kibale is a national park located in western Uganda, known for its diverse primate population. The park is home to over 1,400 chimpanzees and 13 other species of primates, including the red colobus mo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kibale
- Kidepo Valley National Park is located in the northeastern corner of Uganda, near the borders of Kenya and South Sudan. It is considered one of the most isolated and remote parks in Uganda, but it is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kidepo Valley National Park
- Kisoro is a town located in the southwestern part of Uganda, near the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is surrounded by beautiful scenic views of mountains, forests and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kisoro
- Lake Bunyonyi is a beautiful and stunning lake located in southwestern Uganda, near the border with Rwanda. It is a freshwater lake known for its clear waters, surrounded by steep green hills and nume... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lake Bunyonyi
- Lake George is a large freshwater lake located in Uganda. It is part of the Queen Elizabeth National Park and is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lake George
- Lake Mburo National Park is a national park in western Uganda, located about 240km (150 miles) southwest of the capital, Kampala. It covers an area of about 370 square kilometers (140 square miles), a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lake Mburo National Park
- Lira is a town located in Northern Uganda. It is the largest town in the Lango sub-region and is the capital city of Lira District. Lira is a vibrant and rapidly growing town with a population of abou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lira
- Mabira Forest is a tropical rainforest located in central Uganda, covering an area of approximately 300 square kilometers. It is home to over 300 species of birds, a variety of primates including the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mabira Forest
- Masaka is a city located in the southern region of Uganda. It is the largest city in the Masaka District and the fifth-largest urban center in the country. The city has a population of around 103,100 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Masaka
- Masindi is a town located in western Uganda. It is the largest town in the Masindi District and is situated approximately 220 kilometers northwest of the capital city, Kampala. The town is surrounded ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Masindi
- Mbale is a town in Eastern Uganda, located at the foothills of Mount Elgon. It is the third-largest metropolitan area in the country after Kampala and Entebbe, with a population of approximately 350,0... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mbale
- Mbarara is a city located in southwestern Uganda. It is the largest city in the Ankole sub-region, and it serves as the administrative center of Mbarara District. The city has a population of around 1... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mbarara
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a protected area located in southwestern Uganda. It is a part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area that covers parts of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Murchison Falls is a national park located in northwestern Uganda, spreading over an area of 3,893 square kilometers. The park is named after the Murchison Falls, a scenic waterfall where the Nile Riv... CONTINUE here for a trip to Murchison Falls
- Queen Elizabeth National Park is a wildlife reserve located in southwestern Uganda, and it is classified as a savanna grassland biome. The park covers an area of approximately 1,978 square kilometers ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Semuliki National Park is located in western Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. It covers an area of approximately 220 square kilometers and was established in 1993. The pa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Semuliki National Park
- Sipi Falls is a stunning area located in the eastern region of Uganda near the town of Kapchorwa. It is known for its beautiful scenery, including a series of three waterfalls that cascade down the sl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sipi Falls
- Soroti is a town located in the Eastern region of Uganda. It is the main commercial and administrative center of the Soroti District. The town has a population of around 100,000 people and is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Soroti
- Ssese Islands is an archipelago located in the northwestern part of Lake Victoria, the world's largest tropical lake, in Uganda. Comprising of 84 islets, Ssese Islands have become a popular getaway de... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ssese Islands
- Toro-Semuliki Wildlife Reserve is a protected area situated in the western part of Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. It covers an area of about 542 square kilometers and i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Toro-Semuliki Wildlife Reserve


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