Uganda Safaris

Gorillas, chimpanzees, and more

A Uganda safari offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for gorilla trekking. The dense forests and mist-covered mountains in the southwest of the country are home to more than half the world’s population of mountain gorillas. Besides the gorilla trekking highlights, Uganda is also a haven for chimpanzees, found in the Kibale Forest, Kyambura Gorge and Budongo Forest.

Uganda, often called “The Pearl of Africa,” offers a captivating blend of gorilla trekking and savannah safaris in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls national parks. With good connections to Kenya it is also possible to combine gorilla trekking with the Masai Mara, combining some of Africa’s major bucket-list wildlife experiences in one itinerary; gorillas, chimpanzees and the Great Migration. Find out everything you need to know about gorilla trekking in Uganda.

More Reasons To Go On a Uganda Safari 

Uganda’s Avian Symphony: A Kaleidoscope Of Feathers  

Nestled in the heart of Africa, Uganda unfurls its vibrant avian tapestry. With over 1,000 species, this lush land is a haven for birdwatchers. Its secret lies in its strategic position—bridging the East African savannahs, West African rainforests, and the northern semi-desert. Here, endemic Fox’s weaver and Ruwenzori Bouble-collared Sunbird dance alongside 150 unique species found nowhere else in East Africa. The elusive shoebill is a prehistoric-looking giant that graces Uganda’s wetlands. Its massive bill, like a sculpted shoe, emerges from the papyrus. A sighting of this avian relic is whispered among birders like a sacred chant. From November to April, as migratory birds sweep through, Uganda’s skies echo with their symphony—a timeless ode to nature’s grandeur. 

Kibale Forest: A Primate Paradise 

Tucked into Uganda’s heart, Kibale Forest thrives as a haven for primate enthusiasts. With an astounding 13 primate species, this lush sanctuary beckons explorers. Chimpanzee tracking unveils their secrets, while the Virunga Mountains await those seeking the elusive golden monkey. Step into their enchanting realm, where nature’s symphony plays on ancient branches.  

Savour Spectacular Scenery  

Uganda is home to the world’s second-largest freshwater lake, the source of the Nile, the mightiest waterfall, and Africa’s tallest mountain range. Known for it’s spectacular scenery, Uganda’s landscape is enchanting, from the Great Rift Valley basin to the magical rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The Rwenzori Mountains, the crown jewel, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers breathtaking vistas of waterfalls, lakes, rivers, glaciers, and forests.  

Tree-Climbing Lion 

Queen Elizabeth National Park is the country’s premier destination for classic game viewing. One of the most biologically diverse parks in the world, it offers sightings of elephant, hippo, crocodile, buffalo, and various antelope species, to name a few. However, the famous tree-climbing lion that call the park ‘home’ undoubtedly steal the limelight.

Uganda Safari Tours 

Mountain gorilla trekking is undoubtedly the ultimate adventure in the mist-shrouded forests of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. With racing hearts and treading softly, you can encounter gorilla families embraced by their natural habitat, an immeasurable privilege.  

To complement this primate experience, Kibale National Park, a verdant haven, invites you to join its lively residents—the chimpanzees. Trek through tangled vines, listen to raucous calls and witness their playful antics. It’s a dance with our closest relatives. 

Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls national parks offer exciting savannah safaris. Elephant, buffalo, Ugandan kob (an endemic antelope species), zebra and lion are all found in these plains and forests. Boating safaris on the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park and on the Nile in Murchison Falls National Park offer a wonderful perspective for birding as well as watching hippos and crocodiles.  

Uganda’s landscapes are poetry etched in green, from rice paddies and lush forests to the dramatic glacier-covered Rwenzori Mountains to the west. To the south, visitors can explore the Mabamba swamp in search of shoebill stork and adventure seekers can go white water rafting on the Nile at Jinja. Uganda’s allure extends far beyond its gentle giants.

For a full guide to exploring Uganda, from logistics and culture to wildlife and adventure, take a look at our ultimate FAQ: The Ultimate Guide Beyond Gorillas.

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Getting To Asilia Camps In Uganda

Entebbe city serves as the primary gateway for visitors entering the country, mainly through Entebbe International Airport. For wildlife and safari enthusiasts, Entebbe offers easy access to Uganda’s national parks and reserves, with scheduled flights available to various remote locations, making it the perfect starting point for adventure seekers.

Explore more about the best time to visit Uganda and the top places to visit in Uganda, or visit our blog to read inspiring stories from the field.

Why not consider combining a gorilla trek with the great wildebeest migration on a neighbouring Kenya safari or Tanzania safari – our experts are on standby to help make your dreams a reality.

Uganda Positive Impact Projects

Giving back to communities by preserving ecologically and economically vulnerable areas is part of Asilia Africa’s core mission. By making bold and pioneering investments, we strive to create viable conservation economies and support these efforts through tourism. By travelling with Asilia, you directly support conservation and community projects.