Africa Pleasant Safaris is a Ugandan registered Travel Entity, specializing in Air Ticketing, Travel Consultancy services and Safaris/Adventures. We boast of a rich string of corporate clients who have contributed to a consistence growth of business through the years.
Wildlife Safaris in Uganda promise unforgettable adventures combined with breathtaking landscapes, exotic wildlife, and thrilling experiences. With its diverse range of habitats and wildlife, Uganda is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. But planning a safari can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate guide to planning your dream adventure safari in Uganda. From choosing the best time to visit to selecting the right safari package, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make your safari experience unforgettable. Whether you’re interested in tracking mountain gorillas, spotting the Big Five, or exploring the stunning landscapes of Uganda, our Uganda Wildlife Safaris guide will help you plan the perfect safari adventure. So, let’s get started on making your dreams a reality!
The unique wildlife attractions in Uganda attract many first-time safari adventurers eager to explore these outstanding highlights.
The best time for safaris in Uganda is during the dry season, which runs from December to February and June to September. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, and the wildlife is more visible as they gather around water sources. The dry season also offers the best conditions for gorilla trekking in Uganda, as the trails are drier and easier to navigate. December to February and June to July are ideal for birdwatching, as migratory birds flock to Uganda’s national parks. The wet season, which runs from March to May and October to November, may offer fewer crowds and lower prices, but the roads can be challenging to navigate in some areas. However, it is important to note that Uganda’s national parks are open year-round, and each season offers a unique experience. Take a look at the month-by-month analysis in the boxes below.
January through February is a relatively hot season with clear skies, minimal rains, and more sunshine. It is an excellent time to visit Uganda for gorilla trekking and walking with chimpanzees in lush forests.
The country’s north can be pretty hot and dusty during this period.
March marks the beginning of the rainy season, a perfect time to spot the birth of many animals. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting many colorful winged creatures during this time.
April is the wettest month in Uganda, parks are quieter, and many roads can be impassable. On the other hand, it’s low season, perfect timing for discounted hotel and lodge rates.
May ends the first rainy season of the year with lesser downpours and incredible greenery in the countryside.
June is the start of the peak season because of its gorgeous dry weather, extending into August. It’s the best time for a Uganda safari, attracting the biggest number of tourists to the country. Gorilla trekking permits and premium safari lodges can get booked out during this time; book well in advance to avoid unnecessary bother.
July is also excellent for gorilla trekking excursions and wildlife safaris in Uganda. Wild animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.
August is fantastic for game-viewing safaris, and boat safaris and parks don’t feel crowded.
September is usually the end of the dry season, but depending on when the rains arrive, you may experience some downpours on your Uganda safari. September is not ideal for gorilla trekking excursions. However, those who can brave the downpours will undoubtedly save on travel costs.
October is not a busy month for a safari in Uganda. Prices are reasonable, and this is a good time of year for specials on gorilla trekking permits. Most game parks are still accessible at this time, but the rainfall can be a little unpredictable.
The rains continue into November, turning the countryside plains into a vibrant green perfect for wildlife and landscape photography. The November rains hold back many travelers, so the low season extends into December.
December ends the wet season with relatively short rains paving the way for the peak season. It’s the best time to travel north to Kidepo and Murchison for excellent game-viewing safaris. It is also a good time for bird-watching, with a wide variety of migratory birds making their way into the area.
If you love animals or enjoy safari adventures, don’t miss the incredible opportunity to have up-close encounters with Africa’s gorillas in Uganda on gorilla trekking expeditions. To help you plan your trip, we have created a list of our top wildlife tours in Uganda. Take a look!
Bwindi is a 25,000-year-old oasis of 331 square kilometres (128 sq mi) pristine rainforest with a vibrant ecosystem. It has 19 gorilla groups available for tourism in four sections (Nkuringo, Buhoma, Rushaga, and Ruhija Sectors) spread over the park’s four corners. Visitors can access the park by domestic flights from Entebbe or by a 10-hour scenic drive.
Kibale Forest and the nearby crater lakes are nature lovers’ dream destinations. The rainforest park has the densest population of primates, with 15 primate species jumping the forest canopy. It is in Kibale that you will visit wild chimpanzees up close.
a family safari and big game viewing tours. Game drives will bring you close to the elephants, tree-climbing lions, leopards, but just as well, boat safaris on the Kazinga channel have excellent encounters with thirsty animals
Lake Mburo National is the smallest and closest wildlife park to the city, 230 kilometers outside Kampala. This small park is usually included on Uganda safari tours as a buffer between Kampala and Bwindi and offers decent wildlife sightings.
Murchison Falls National Park is located in the northwestern region, a bit far from the famous western safari circuit, but worth a first-time visit. Here, you’ll marvel at the mighty waterfall, cruise the Nile, and take a game drive to get close.
Kampala is a must-visit destination in Uganda, offering a diverse range of cultural experiences, including bustling markets, national museums, restaurants, nightclubs, and traditional music and dance performances at the Ndere Cultural Centre.
When planning a safari in Uganda, choose from guided group tours or private tours for a unique experience that combines wildlife, culture, and adventure. Game drives in national parks such as Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo Valley offer sightings of elephants, lions, giraffes, and more. Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest and Budongo Forest provides an opportunity to observe these primates in their natural habitat. And, gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park gives a chance to see endangered mountain gorillas up close. Visitors can also enjoy a boat safari along the Nile River and Kazinga Channel or experience cultural encounters in remote villages to learn about traditional ways.
One of the most memorable experiences on a safari is observing wild animals in their natural habitat. Join a chimpanzee trekking tour to visit a human-habituated chimpanzee community in the forest. Local trackers will guide you to ensure an optimal experience, where you can observe the creatures’ behaviors and dynamics from a safe distance. Take a guided primate walk into the ancient African forest, and spend an hour or the whole day walking with a wild chimpanzee troop, observing their social behaviors and antics in their natural environment.
Gorilla expeditions in Uganda and Rwanda offer unparalleled opportunities to observe Africa’s extraordinary mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Join daily gorilla trekking adventures through tropical rainforests to sit close to gentle silverbacks and their families in serene surroundings. Trek alongside fully human-habituated gorilla groups or wild troops on a habituation experience guided by skilled rangers and researchers. Gorilla trekking is seamlessly integrated into various wildlife tours, perfect for explorers seeking an all-encompassing forest hiking experience as part of their wildlife safari journey.
Game drives offer a timeless safari experience, especially for those wishing to spot Africa’s Big Five. You’ll be driven daily through game reserves, stopping at prime locations for up-close wildlife encounters with lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos. It’s one of the most popular activities, perfect for families seeking a memorable safari getaway or travelers yearning to witness Africa’s most magnificent wildlife. With a new destination to explore each day, you’ll be chauffeured back to your lodging, allowing you to unwind and savor the rest of your journey at your own pace. It truly is a delightful fusion of adventure and relaxation!
It’s hard not to be fascinated by East Africa’s birdlife; the sheer diversity of species, sizes, and colors is astounding. The varied landscapes provide a rich habitat for unique and colorful birds. Birding safaris in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, or Rwanda offer a treasure trove of species to discover. Expert guides lead immersive birdwatching excursions to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats, listen to their melodic songs, and witness their fascinating behaviors. Many birdwatching spots are located in national parks where you may encounter elephants, lions, and leopards while on your birding trail.
Photography is an excellent way to preserve memories from your safari trip, with African landscapes providing diverse subjects and compositions. Photography safaris are perfect for camera enthusiasts aiming to refine their skills or capture remarkable images. Our experienced guides and trackers will take you to the finest locations for unbeatable shots, and patience and focus are essential for making the most of this adventure. Your lens will capture the essence of your unforgettable safari as you journey through picturesque settings.
While your wedding album may hold its charm, it is your collection of safari honeymoon snapshots that you will return to time and again. Our honeymoon safaris embrace you with utmost tenderness and care, igniting a sense of lingering romance. Whether it’s a safari-focused honeymoon or a harmonious blend of bush and beach, East Africa undeniably checks the “romance box.” Each lodge or camp is thoughtfully chosen, offering an array of intimate activities and experiences tailored to the theme of romance, ensuring an exclusive honeymoon escapade. Coupled with exhilarating wildlife safari exploits and wilderness adventures, our romantic safari moments will etch lifetime memories.
For those who appreciate remarkable, meticulously planned, and expansive signature expeditions, our collection of luxury safaris is tailor-made for you. Embark on an extraordinary journey alongside our local experts, where every detail is carefully curated to provide the epitome of indulgence. Our luxury safaris showcase opulent amenities, incredible destinations, and safari activities that embody the essence of extravagance, reminiscent of Hemingway’s iconic adventures. Immerse yourself in a world of unparalleled luxury as you embark on an unforgettable safari experience that will exceed your wildest expectations.
Our cultural safaris provide an immersive experience for those seeking to delve deeper into the places they explore. East Africa, the cradle of humanity, offers a rich tapestry of experiences with indigenous cultures, ancient communities, villages, fossil sites, and colonial heritage. Our safaris are designed for culturally curious explorers and offer a bridge to a new understanding of oneself and the world. While African wildlife is integral to the journey, we also connect you with locals and communities, providing insight into the lives of people who call these places home and the diverse cultures spanning across countries like Uganda and Rwanda.
In East Africa, many exhilarating hiking adventures are waiting for you to explore. You can journey through alpine wonderlands and botanical paradises on your way to snow-capped summits. Our hiking adventure safaris showcase some of the region’s most iconic peaks, including Kilimanjaro, Rwenzoris, Mount Kenya, and the Virunga Volcanoes. These majestic mountains are the backdrop for unforgettable climbing expeditions that will push your limits and reward you with breathtaking views and a profound sense of achievement. Whether you seek the challenge of reaching the roof of Africa or the allure of conquering towering volcanic peaks, our hiking adventure safaris offer the perfect blend of adrenaline, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences.
East Africa is the perfect introduction to the continent for first-time travelers. With abundant wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and expert guides, East Africa includes safari heavyweights like Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and the Indian Ocean islands of Zanzibar and Seychelles. The region is renowned for its massive concentrations of wild animals and stunning scenery, from mountains to sprawling savannah plains, from massive freshwater bodies to ancient untamed rainforests – a tapestry of wilderness wonders. Our safari specialists can help you tailor your first African safari with the utmost care without the stress of planning.
Planning a family safari with kids to view wildlife is an unforgettable experience that will fascinate the whole family, especially the children. A family safari vacation in Africa’s natural habitats will enthrall children and create lasting memories vital to preserving our dying natural world. Safari holidays typically involve traveling long distances, staying in remote locations with limited facilities, spending long hours in the bush searching for animals, requiring significant patience, and demanding safety precautions. As a result, Africa safaris are better suited for teenagers and adults. Our safari experts, however, can make the dream of taking your young children on an African wilderness adventure come true.
If you’re looking for an adventure that strays from the typical vehicle or walking safaris, consider a canoe safari in East Africa. This unique experience allows you to connect with the awe-inspiring wildlife and landscapes of the region in a serene and intimate manner. Accompanied by experienced local guides, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the area. A canoe safari offers a perfect complement to your gorilla encounter in Uganda, promising a refreshing and unforgettable experience that will deepen your connection to the natural wonders of East Africa.
Experience the untamed wilderness of East Africa with our exclusive fly-in safaris. Opt for a light aircraft between remote destinations, bypass long travel times, and immerse yourself in extraordinary experiences. Witness the majestic African landscapes unfold before your eyes, offering a bird’s-eye view of the untamed beauty below. Fly-in safaris help you optimize your time and ensure that every moment of your East African adventure is filled with awe-inspiring encounters.
Experience the thrill of a hot air balloon safari, soaring high above East Africa’s savannah plains. Gain a unique perspective, capturing breathtaking moments through your lens and indulging in first-rate wildlife photography opportunities. Witness the remarkable wonders of the African wilderness unfold beneath you, creating memories that will last a lifetime
For birdwatching nerds, Uganda offers some of the most accessible bird habitats registering over 1000 bird species. Explore Uganda’s top birding spots, including naturally rich national parks and other protected areas.
It costs between $350 and $1500 per person per day to go on safari in Uganda, including transport, meals, and guide fees, but not permits. Take a look at the summary cost table below:
| Budget | Mid-range | High-end | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vacation Camps & Lodges | under $150 | $150 – $400 | over $400 |
| Restaurants (per meal) | under $15 | $15 – $30 | over $30 |
| Safari Vehicle (per day) | under $100 | $100 – $250 | over $250 |
| Local Guide (per day) | under $50 | $50 – $150 | over $150 |
Most Uganda safaris refer to an all-inclusive (full-board) per-person rate, including taxes, and assuming double occupancy. A few lodges operate on a half-board rate, and rare ones offer bed & breakfast except city hotels.
When planning your Uganda wildlife safari, create a clear itinerary and budget. Your itinerary should include a night in the city, a day for traveling to the national park, trekking with gorillas, and visiting other national parks for wildlife viewing and chimp rainforests. Remember that traveling between destinations can take an entire day and should be included in your budget. Your budget should cover flights, accommodation, food, and activities. To maximize your budget, consider traveling during the low season when there are fewer tourists and prices are lower. You can also save money by booking Uganda wildlife safaris through a licensed local tour operator, which can provide a more authentic experience and is often more affordable. These operators are now verified by trade associations to protect visitors.
Uganda offers various accommodation options for safari travelers. Luxury lodges provide private rooms, fine dining, and exceptional service, while budget-friendly campsites offer a more rustic experience with basic amenities and a closer connection to nature. When selecting accommodation, consider its location and proximity to national parks and wildlife reserves, as well as the level of luxury and your budget. Some lodges offer all-inclusive packages, while others charge separately for each service. Check out our selected list of lodges & camps best for Uganda wildlife safaris.
Nkuringo/Rushaga Sectors
Luxury Lodge
From $230 pp single fb.
Buhoma Sector
Luxury Safari Camp
From $315 pp sharing fb
Buhoma
Luxury Lodge
Price range: USD 300
Nkuringo Sector
Luxury/high-end
Lodge Price range: USD 490—1085
Buhoma Sector
Mid-range
Price range: USD 380
Buhoma Sector
Luxury chalets
Price: From $480 pp
Rushaga or Nkuringo Sector
Mid-range Lodge
From $155 pp single fb.
Nkuringo/Rushaga Sector
Mid-range price
From $125 pp sharing fb.
Buhoma Sector
Budget Lodge
From $216 pp single fb.
Uganda is a great safari destination with limited tourist crowds. Group tours are small, and popular wildlife sites are still relatively unconstrained. The country’s forested and game reserves are accessible to independent travelers, and off-the-beaten-track gems like the Ssese Islands, Katonga Wildlife Reserve, Sipi Falls, and Kasenda Crater Lakes are relatively affordable. Uganda has a healthy reputation for safety, with low levels of crime against tourists. Independent travelers face minimal day-to-day hassle, and the locals are warm, friendly, and relaxed hosts. Here’s some essential information to help you understand navigating Uganda.
Many phone networks cover Entebbe, Kampala, large towns, and tourist areas, but signals may be inconsistent. Local SIM cards are affordable, and international calling bundles make it easy to call home. It’s best to unlock your mobile phone before arriving, which can be done in Kampala but may delay your Uganda wildlife safari. Wi-Fi of varying quality is available for free in nearly all countryside lodges.
When traveling to Uganda, it is important to have proof of yellow fever vaccination upon arrival at the airport. The Ministry of Health recommends Hepatitis A and B vaccinations, and those traveling to rural areas should also consider the typhoid vaccine. Malaria is a risk in Uganda, so consult with your doctor on antimalarial options. At the very least, sleep under a mosquito net at night and wear insect repellent during the day. It is also recommended to drink bottled or filtered water.
Uganda is generally a safe place for tourists, but it’s recommended not to wander alone at night, especially in urban areas. Ugandans are welcoming people but hold traditional beliefs, so public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. LGBTQ+ travelers can travel through the country without issues, as Ugandans don’t discriminate based on race and sexuality.
When traveling around Uganda, use shillings to pay for items at local shops and restaurants. Larger hotels and tour companies may accept U.S. dollars and credit cards. You can withdraw local currency at ATMs or exchange dollars, euros, and pounds at the airport, forex branches, or local banks. Bills printed before 2006 may not be accepted.
A three-month tourist visa costs US$50 and can only be obtained online at visas.immigration.go.ug. Applicants must submit a completed form, two passport-sized photos and at least three days before travel. You can not get on arrival at Entebbe International Airport. Passports must be valid for six months from the intended travel date and have at least one blank page.
Uganda, located on the equator with an average altitude of around 1,000m, is a year-round destination for wildlife safaris. March-May and Oct-Nov have the highest rainfall, but gorillas can still be found, although trekking can be slippery and slower. Accommodations and gorilla permits can be cheaper at this time. The best time to visit Uganda and go on safari is June-Sep, which is the peak season, but Uganda remains unaffected by mass tourism, and you won’t have to worry about crowds.
The best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry seasons, specifically from January to February and June to September. This ensures that you won’t encounter heavy rainfall and that the roads will be smoother, although there is still a possibility of rain or muddy conditions. However, it’s important to note that the peak season, which coincides with the dry season, presents some challenges in securing gorilla permits and finding available accommodations. Therefore, make your bookings well in advance, preferably 4-6 months or even a year ahead.
On the other hand, the low season, spanning from September to November and March to May provides discounted rates for gorilla expeditions in Uganda but comes with guaranteed downpours, typically lasting up to two hours each day. Nevertheless, the views during this time of year are breathtaking. Additionally, during the dry season, Uganda gorilla tours often extend for wildlife game viewing in the savannah parks, as animals tend to gather around water sources. Bird watching is also exceptional all year round, particularly from November to April when migrant species are present. Even during the rainy season, April and May are excellent periods for birding during your trip.
Uganda and Rwanda gorilla permits are non-refundable and non-transferable since your passport details are checked against the ticket. If you cancel your gorilla tour or fail to turn up on the tracking day, you can not get your money back for whatever reason. However, you or your tour operator can reschedule the permit to another date up to a week before the tracking date. You can book the gorilla permit up to two years before the trekking date. You must pay at least 30% of the permit price at reservation time, remit the balance less than 90 days before the trekking date, or lose the 30% deposit and the permit. However, if you must cancel your booking, you must incur expenses.
Uganda and Rwanda gorilla permits are non-refundable and non-transferable since your passport details are checked against the ticket. If you cancel your gorilla tour or fail to turn up on the tracking day, you can not get your money back for whatever reason. However, you or your tour operator can reschedule the permit to another date up to a week before the tracking date. You can book the gorilla permit up to two years before the trekking date. You must pay at least 30% of the permit price at reservation time, remit the balance less than 90 days before the trekking date, or lose the 30% deposit and the permit. However, if you must cancel your booking, you must incur expenses.
You should definitely hire a porter on your gorilla trek. The trek is quite tuff for many people. Porters are very useful in helping you navigate challenging terrain by pulling your hand, pushing you up steep slopes, and sometimes carrying you when injured. They also hold your pack or gear, so the hike through high altitude is smooth and pleasant. On a responsible travel note, hiring a porter is an excellent way to support the local communities directly. The men and women offering their services as porters come from remote villages that would be looking at the rainforest for livelihood. The 20 bucks you pay can support an entire family for almost twenty days, which is quite something for low-income families living near gorilla habitats.
Your packing list for gorilla trekking should include a tourist visa, waterproof hiking shoes, jacket, trekking trousers, gloves, sunhat, fleece, waterproof backpack, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, binoculars, walking poles or staff, drinking water, energy bites, disposable facemasks, and a basic first aid kit.
Your packing list for gorilla trekking should include a tourist visa, waterproof hiking shoes, jacket, trekking trousers, gloves, sunhat, fleece, waterproof backpack, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, binoculars, walking poles or staff, drinking water, energy bites, disposable facemasks, and a basic first aid kit.
Both Uganda and Rwanda offer great gorilla safari expeditions, but there are a few differences to consider. Rwanda offers upmarket accommodation options, but gorilla permits are more expensive at $1,500 per person, and it’s a shorter drive from the airport to Volcanoes National Park. Conversely, Uganda offers a more challenging and raw experience with more safari options and accommodation choices for all markets. It’s also cheaper, with more trekking trailheads, more gorilla families habituated to tourism, and more gorilla permits available. Ultimately, the choice between the two destinations for the best gorilla expeditions in Africa depends on your preferences, including physical fitness, proximity to the airport, accommodation options, permit pricing, and entry restrictions.
Both Uganda and Rwanda offer great gorilla safari expeditions, but there are a few differences to consider. Rwanda offers upmarket accommodation options, but gorilla permits are more expensive at $1,500 per person, and it’s a shorter drive from the airport to Volcanoes National Park. Conversely, Uganda offers a more challenging and raw experience with more safari options and accommodation choices for all markets. It’s also cheaper, with more trekking trailheads, more gorilla families habituated to tourism, and more gorilla permits available. Ultimately, the choice between the two destinations for the best gorilla expeditions in Africa depends on your preferences, including physical fitness, proximity to the airport, accommodation options, permit pricing, and entry restrictions.
