If you’ve entered the new decade with the desire to explore, then it’s time to think outside the box. Berlin, Barcelona, Brussels…they’re all a little bland, right? You’ve done Thailand and Vietnam, ticked off Turkey and Morocco, and you’re hungry for a new adventure a little further flung.
Well, have you considered Uganda? This East African country boasts some of the most diverse landscapes and incredible wildlife you’re likely to come across anywhere on the planet. What’s more, it has the highest mountain range, the Rwenzoris, on the continent and its largest lake. Enough of the superlatives, we think, as Uganda isn’t only about some of the world’s most awe-inspiring safari experiences.
Rich with culture and intrigue, there’s so much to do in the so-called Pearl of Africa that doesn’t involve riding in a landcruiser. Instead, get your itinerary started, with these; our 11 amazing places to visit in Uganda in 2024.
Kampala City
The cosmopolitan, charming capital city is the heart of Uganda. The residents here are fiercely proud of Kampala, and as such, the welcome is warm and it feels an incredibly safe city to stroll around. Those who dip their toes only briefly before heading to the countryside miss out on all this great city has to offer.
If you are wise enough to stick around a while, start with Kampala downtown to experience the vibe as the locals do; laid back yet lively. You’ll find some of the best action at Owino market, the largest and busiest markets in the Kampala, which boasts a wide display of colourful products, clothing, crafts, and electronics. Just be prepared to barter! Make sure you make time to visit the Uganda independence monument and extraordinary Ggaba beach at golden hour, too.
Kasubi Tombs
While in the capital, a visit to Kasubi Tombs is well worth your time. This historic palace consists of 35 buildings and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Four former Ugandan kings and other Buganda royal family members are buried here, and to this day the site plays both an important political and spiritual role in Ugandan society.
Lake Victoria
Lake Victoria needs little in the way of introduction. Not only is it the largest in Africa, but it’s also the mouth of the River Nile, its starting point, and the lifeblood of not only Uganda but its neighbouring countries, too, extending into Tanzania and Kenya. The lake offers plenty of opportunity for tourists to explore; there are several resorts housed on the islands on the lake, and fishing excursions a particular highlight. What’s more, many of the country’s famous gorilla and chimpanzee sanctuaries are found on the lake’s islands (more of that later).
Kidepo Valley National Park
For those seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure, Kidepo Valley National Park in the northeastern corner of Uganda is a must-visit. This remote park is less frequented by tourists due to its distance from the capital, but it offers some of the most stunning savannah landscapes in the country, framed by mountains and dotted with Borassus palms.
It’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with one of the highest concentrations of wild animals in Uganda, including cheetahs, lions, elephants, and many endemic bird species. The cultural encounters with the Karamojong people, who live in the region, add a rich layer of human history and tradition to the wildlife spectacle.
Jinja & The Source Of The Nile
Jinja is a vibrant town located at the source of the Nile River, known as the adventure capital of Uganda. Here, you can partake in a variety of water sports, such as white-water rafting on some of the world’s longest rapids, kayaking, or a more serene boat trip to the very spot where the Nile begins its journey from Lake Victoria.
The town itself has a charming, laid-back atmosphere, with colonial buildings and a burgeoning food scene – don’t miss out on Uganda’s national dish, Matoke, while you’re in town. Here, green bananas are steamed then mashed, providing a luxurious, satisfying counterpoint to grilled meats and fish.
For those interested in history, a visit to the source of the Nile provides a tangible connection to the explorers of old.
The Batwa Trail In Mgahinga National Park
While Mgahinga National Park is known, first and foremost, for its Ugandan gorilla safari, it also offers the unique cultural Batwa Trail experience.
The Batwa, or ‘pygmies’, are indigenous forest dwellers who have lived in harmony with the forest for millennia. On this immersive trail, visitors are guided by the Batwa themselves, who share their ancient knowledge of the forest, demonstrate traditional hunting techniques, and perform music and dance that tell the story of their culture. It’s a rare opportunity to engage with a way of life that is deeply connected to the Ugandan wilderness.
Sipi Falls
This breathtaking natural wonder is situated in Eastern Uganda (on the edge of Mount Elgon’s national park). Hike up that mountain and the views of the Sipi Falls (actually three separate waterfalls) below, at the beginning of the hike, are simply superb. Many tourists choose to spend a few days here, with several excellent hotels and resorts at the base of the mountain offering serenity and calm in abundance. Also of interest, the slopes of Elgon are home to a keen culture of coffee cultivation. Expect to drink some seriously fine java here!
The Royal Tombs Of Buganda At Ssezibwa Falls
The Ssezibwa Falls are a cultural and spiritual site for the Buganda kingdom, with beautiful waterfalls that hold significant cultural importance. According to local legend, the river was born by a woman, and the site is often visited for traditional healing and good fortune rituals.
Visitors can explore the falls, the surrounding lush greenery, and the cultural sites, including the Royal Tombs where Buganda ancestors are laid to rest. It’s a peaceful retreat that offers insight into the spiritual traditions of the Buganda people and a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Entebbe Botanical Gardens
The spectacular National Botanical Gardens are located in the city of Entebbe, just 23 miles south of the capital. Here, you’ll see spectacular flora and fauna native to Africa, as well as extoric birds flying and monkeys. Interestingly, the ‘rainforest’ area of the gardens provided the backdrop to legendary film Tarzan.
While you’re here, head to the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre in Entebbe and meet Sushi, the shoebill stork.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Nestled in the southwest of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a true jewel in the country’s crown. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, with more than half of the world’s population of endangered mountain gorillas residing within its dense forests.
Trekking through this ancient rainforest to witness gorillas in their natural habitat is a profound and unforgettable experience. Beyond gorillas, Bwindi is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 350 bird species, including several that are endemic to the East Congo Montane region.
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Should your interest in great apes still not be sated, then the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, established in October 1998 to care for orphaned chimpanzees who have been rescued by UWA (Uganda Wildlife Authority), is one of the best of its kind on the planet. The sanctuary covers 100 acres of the beautiful, remote Ngamba Island, part of Lake Victoria. It’s only accessible by boat, but regular one day trips are available from Entebbe Dock (speedboats will get you there in under an hour).
If you’re keen on continuing your African adventure, then just a three hour flight north east is Ethiopia. There are so many incredible things to see and do here that we wrote this; our 5 IDEAL reasons to visit Ethiopia. Check it out!