Uganda

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Discover Uganda

Uganda is one of Africa’s best-kept secrets, offering lush landscapes, abundant wildlife, and life-changing encounters with mountain gorillas in the misty forests of Bwindi. It’s a destination for travellers who want to connect deeply with nature and explore off the beaten path.

Track endangered gorillas through dense jungle with expert guides, watch chimpanzees swing overhead in Kibale Forest, or explore Queen Elizabeth National Park on a game drive or boat safari along the Kazinga Channel. Uganda’s wildlife is as diverse as its scenery, from savannahs and rainforests to volcanic mountains and crater lakes.

The country’s warm, welcoming people and rich cultural traditions make each journey even more rewarding. Visit small villages, meet local artisans, and learn about Uganda’s heritage through music, dance, and storytelling. Every experience here feels personal and authentic.

With Nexus Travel, your Uganda adventure is planned with care and expertise. We partner with trusted guides, conservation-focused lodges, and community-based tourism providers to deliver safe, meaningful, and memorable travel. Whether it’s your first time in Africa or your fifth, Uganda will surprise and inspire you.

Let us help you experience the best of Uganda, from rainforest treks to riverside sunsets. Your journey starts here.

Suggested Trips and Tours

Explore our hand-picked selection of suggested trips and tours, designed to help you experience the very best each destination has to offer.

Top Hotels

Explore our curated collection of top hotels, where exceptional comfort meets refined style. Hand-picked for their outstanding service, prime locations and unique character, these properties offer more than just a place to stay – they elevate your entire travel experience.

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Useful Information for your trip to Uganda

Entry Requirements

UK travellers need a visa to enter Uganda. This can be obtained online as an e-visa prior to travel. Passports must be valid for at least six months and have at least two blank pages for entry stamps.

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Uganda are during the dry seasons from December to February and June to September. These months offer better trekking conditions for gorilla and chimpanzee tracking in the forests.

Vaccinations

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for entry. It is also recommended to have protection against Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Malaria. Always consult your GP or travel clinic before departure.

Currency

The Ugandan Shilling (UGX) is the local currency. US dollars are accepted at many lodges and tour companies. Credit card acceptance is growing but still limited in rural areas, so carry cash for day-to-day expenses.

Language

English is the official language and widely spoken, especially in cities and tourist areas. Luganda and Swahili are also commonly spoken throughout the country, with over 40 indigenous languages in use.

Electricity

Uganda uses the UK-style Type G plug with a 240V power supply. Power outages are not uncommon, especially in rural regions, so a torch and a portable charger can be helpful.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to almost half the world’s mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking here is one of Africa’s most powerful and moving wildlife experiences.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

This diverse park offers classic game drives, boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel, and sightings of tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector, alongside hippos, elephants, and hundreds of bird species.

Murchison Falls National Park

Marvel at the power of the Nile as it surges through a narrow gorge, then tumbles into the Murchison Falls. Game drives, boat safaris, and nature walks are all possible here.

Kibale Forest

Famous for its chimpanzee tracking and incredible biodiversity, Kibale Forest is also home to over a dozen other primate species and rich birdlife, including colourful turacos and hornbills.

Lake Bunyonyi

Surrounded by terraced hills and dotted with islands, Lake Bunyonyi is one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes. It offers swimming, canoeing, and peaceful lodges ideal for post-trek relaxation.

Kampala and Entebbe

Kampala is Uganda’s vibrant capital with cultural sites and bustling markets. Entebbe, near the international airport, is a quieter lakeside town with botanical gardens and wildlife sanctuaries.

Getting Around

Private road transfers are common for safaris and treks. Domestic flights are available to remote areas like Bwindi or Kidepo, though road travel allows scenic stops and cultural visits along the way.

Packing Essentials

Bring sturdy walking shoes or boots for trekking, long-sleeved clothing for forest walks, sun protection, insect repellent, and lightweight rain gear. A small backpack is useful for day hikes.

Gorilla Permits

Gorilla trekking permits are limited and should be booked well in advance. They currently cost around $700 per person, and the trek can be strenuous, so a reasonable fitness level is important.

Health & Safety

Use filtered or bottled water, practise good hygiene, and carry any essential medications. Lodges and safari companies maintain high safety standards and often have medical kits and radios for emergencies.

Connectivity

Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and lodges, though speeds can be slow in remote areas. Local SIM cards with data are inexpensive and can improve coverage while travelling.

Travel Insurance

Make sure your policy covers gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, medical evacuation, and safari activities. Delays can occur on domestic routes, so flexible coverage is advised.

Mountain Gorilla Sanctuary

Uganda is one of only three countries where endangered mountain gorillas can be seen in the wild. Strict conservation efforts and visitor limits help protect these majestic creatures.

Equator Crossings

Uganda is one of the few countries where you can cross the Equator. Popular photo stops and souvenir shops mark the crossing points on routes between major parks.

Source of the Nile

The world’s longest river begins its journey in Uganda at Jinja, where adventure seekers can go white-water rafting, bungee jumping, or enjoy a relaxed boat cruise on the Nile.

Birding Paradise

Uganda is a top destination for birdwatchers, with over 1,000 species recorded. Rare and colourful sightings include the shoebill stork, African green broadbill, and great blue turaco.

Cultural Diversity

Uganda is home to more than 50 ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, music, and dance. Cultural encounters and homestay visits are a meaningful part of many itineraries.

Sustainable Tourism

Uganda is deeply committed to conservation. A portion of every gorilla permit supports local communities and national park maintenance, making your visit a direct contributor to protection efforts.

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

Arrive in Entebbe and unwind by Lake Victoria, with time to explore nearby gardens.

Day 2: Cultural Gems of Kampala

Take a guided tour of Kampala’s cultural landmarks, museums, tombs, and vibrant markets.

Day 3: Scenic Journey to Bwindi

Travel through breathtaking countryside to Bwindi, stopping at scenic villages and local craft stalls.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Venture deep into Bwindi for a once-in-a-lifetime trek to meet mountain gorillas.

Day 5: Serenity at Lake Bunyonyi

Hike Bwindi’s forest trails or relax beside the stunning waters of Lake Bunyonyi.

Day 6: Into Queen Elizabeth National Park

Journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park for an afternoon game drive among incredible wildlife.

Day 7: Safaris and River Life

Spot lions, elephants and hippos on a thrilling game drive and Kazinga boat cruise.

Day 8: Arrival at Murchison Falls

Drive to Murchison Falls and witness the dramatic power of the Nile from above.

Day 9: Nile Safari and Wildlife

Cruise the Nile and search for the Big Five on a sunrise safari through the park.

Day 10: Farewell Uganda

Return to Entebbe with time for shopping or lakeside relaxation before your onward journey.

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Every journey shaped just for your style

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FAQs

    Where is Uganda and why should I visit?
    Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa, bordered by Kenya, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Tanzania. Known as the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda offers a rich blend of spectacular landscapes, unique wildlife, and vibrant culture. It’s one of the few places on Earth where you can trek through misty forests to encounter endangered mountain gorillas, alongside classic safari experiences, beautiful lakes, and welcoming communities.
    What are the must-visit places in Uganda?
    Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the top highlights, offering unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking experiences. Queen Elizabeth National Park combines savannah landscapes with lakes and wetlands, providing excellent game viewing. Murchison Falls National Park features dramatic waterfalls and wildlife-packed game drives, while Kibale Forest is the best place to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Lake Bunyonyi, surrounded by terraced hills, is ideal for relaxation, and the capital city, Kampala, offers a lively introduction to Ugandan culture and history.
    When is the best time to visit Uganda?
    Uganda is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons: from December to February and from June to September. These months offer the best conditions for gorilla trekking and game viewing, as trails are more accessible and wildlife is easier to spot. The wet seasons (March to May and October to November) bring lush scenery and fewer tourists, though some roads and trails can become muddy or difficult to navigate.
    What can I do in Uganda besides a safari?
    Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is the headline activity, but Uganda offers so much more. You can go chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, take a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, or hike to the top of Murchison Falls. The Rwenzori Mountains offer challenging treks through spectacular alpine scenery. Visit traditional villages, explore bustling markets in Kampala, or relax by the serene waters of Lake Bunyonyi. White-water rafting and kayaking on the Nile near Jinja provide a thrill for adventure seekers.
    Where can I combine Uganda with for a twin-centre holiday?
    Uganda combines well with Rwanda for a gorilla trekking and culture-focused itinerary. Kenya or Tanzania can be added for classic savannah safaris or beach extensions in Zanzibar. For something unique, consider combining Uganda with a trip to the Democratic Republic of Congo for more off-the-beaten-track wildlife experiences, or head to Ethiopia for a contrasting cultural and historical adventure.
    What should I absolutely not miss?
    Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and not to be missed. A boat safari on the Kazinga Channel offers superb wildlife viewing, often including hippos, elephants, and a vast range of birdlife. Visiting Murchison Falls to see the Nile forced through a narrow gorge is both dramatic and memorable. Don’t miss the chance to spend time with local communities, learning about Ugandan traditions and daily life, which adds real depth to your journey.
    What kind of accommodation can I expect in Uganda?
    Uganda offers a mix of accommodation, from luxury eco-lodges and safari camps to mid-range lodges and budget-friendly guesthouses. In national parks and trekking areas, you’ll find comfortable lodges that often focus on sustainability and community support. In Kampala and Entebbe, international hotels and boutique guesthouses provide convenient and well-equipped options. Many lodges offer stunning views, warm hospitality, and proximity to key activities like gorilla trekking and game drives.
    Is Uganda suitable for families and first-time travellers?
    Yes, Uganda can be a rewarding destination for families with older children and adventurous first-time travellers. Gorilla trekking has a minimum age limit (typically 15 years), but many parks and lodges welcome families and offer shorter treks or cultural experiences suitable for younger travellers. For first-timers to Africa, Uganda offers warm hospitality and guided tours that make travel manageable and engaging. English is widely spoken, which makes communication easy for UK visitors.
    What should I know before I go?
    British citizens require a visa to enter Uganda, which can be obtained online via the e-visa system. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry. The local currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX), though US dollars are accepted in many lodges. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it’s wise to carry some cash. Uganda is generally safe for tourists, particularly in designated tourist areas, but as always, it’s best to take normal precautions and follow local advice. Malaria is present, so prophylaxis and insect repellent are strongly recommended.
    Final inspiration – Why Uganda?
    Uganda offers one of the most unforgettable and diverse travel experiences in Africa. Whether you’re trekking through lush forests to meet gorillas, gliding down rivers on safari, or relaxing by a volcanic lake, the country’s natural beauty is simply breathtaking. Add to this the warm-hearted people, vibrant culture, and off-the-beaten-path charm, and you have a destination that feels both authentic and deeply rewarding. For those looking for something truly special, Uganda delivers beyond expectations.

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