Uganda Explorer
from £2,500
/per person
- Recommended 16-20 Days
Where this route takes you
We love sharing the places closest to our hearts, the ones we know inside and out. That’s why most of our routes are rooted in Southern Africa, where we’ve spent most of our own travels. However, after an unforgettable journey through Uganda and falling head over heels for this underrated gem, we knew it had to be part of our collection.
Known as the “Pearl of Africa” for good reason, Uganda rivals its more visited neighbours and offers even more, a country still largely untouched by mass tourism. Here, classic east African safaris meet Uganda’s true crown jewel, its status as the primate capital of the world.
If gorilla tracking or chimpanzee trekking is on your bucket list, there’s no better place to see these incredible close relatives of ours. For bird lovers, Uganda is paradise. Home to half of Africa’s bird species, including the rare, prehistoric-looking shoebill.
This itinerary weaves together the very best of this breathtaking country into one unforgettable adventure.
Your journey begins in Entebbe, home to a well-serviced international airport with frequent connections from Europe, the Middle East, and across Africa. Upon arrival, you’ll collect your adventure-ready 4x4 and stock up on supplies, getting familiar with your route while soaking in the first glimpses of Uganda’s stunning landscapes. Nearby Kampala, the capital, offers vibrant culture, bustling markets, and excellent hotels and restaurants. From here, your adventure truly begins, whether you’re heading into rolling hills, lush forests, or the wild savannahs that lie ahead. |  |
Famous for being the source of the mighty River Nile, Jinja is also widely regarded as Uganda’s adventure capital. Thrill-seekers can tackle adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting on the world’s longest river, navigate its rapids by kayak, or try bungee jumping and jet boating. For those who prefer a slower pace, serene sunset cruises along the river offer a chance to relax, spot wildlife along the banks, and enjoy the stunning scenery as the sun dips below the horizon. Whatever your style, Jinja combines adventure and natural beauty in a magical way. |  |
| Reaching up to 100 meters in height, the Sipi Falls on the slopes of Mount Elgon are among Uganda’s most breathtaking natural wonders. The area is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and cascading waters that create stunning rainbows in the mist. Adventurous visitors can take on a challenging three-hour hike to explore all three falls, passing scenic trails and local villages along the way. For those seeking a shorter outing, the most popular track, just a 20-minute walk from town, leads to the base of the main fall, offering incredible views, refreshing pools, and the perfect spot for photos or a peaceful picnic. |  |
| Set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Morungole, which rises to 2,750 meters, this vast expanse of classic East African savannah remains largely untouched, offering a truly off-the-beaten-path safari experience. Unlike the Serengeti or Masai Mara, the area sees relatively few visitors, allowing you to enjoy wildlife in a more intimate, unspoiled setting. The park is home to nearly 80 mammal species, including lion, leopard, hyena, elephant, and giraffe, as well as a variety of antelope and smaller creatures. With wide open plains, dramatic scenery, and abundant wildlife, it provides everything you could hope for in an ultimate safari adventure, from thrilling game drives to peaceful moments in nature’s raw beauty. |  |
| The largest of Uganda’s national parks takes its name from the immense volume of water cascading over Murchison Falls. While it’s easy to think the falls are the park’s main attraction, the area is also home to a rich diversity of wildlife and offers excellent game viewing opportunities. Many of Africa’s iconic animals can be found here, from elephants and lions to hippos and crocodiles, with the exception of rhinos. However, a short detour to your next destination will ensure you tick that species off your list as well, making this region a must-visit for any safari enthusiast. |  |
| The poaching of rhinos across Africa has been well documented. These magnificent creatures are targeted for their horn which holds a high value in certain foreign markets. Whilst huge efforts to protect them across Africa are significant, sadly, in Uganda, there are none currently in the true wild. The sanctuary offers a haven for the white rhino, with the ultimate aim to reintroduce them into the wild in Uganda. Here you'll take guided walks with rhinos who roam freely on a large protected reserve. This experience offers a great opportunity to see white rhinos and other animals up close while also contributing to conservation efforts. |  |
| As you settle into your camp for the night, listen carefully; you may hear the calls and hoots of our closest living relatives. Kibale Forest is famous for its population of chimpanzees and is widely regarded as one of the best places in the world to see them up close. Join a guided and informative trek through the forest to observe these incredible creatures and witness their social behaviours in their natural habitat. Along the way, your experienced ranger guides will also point out other fascinating forest inhabitants, making every step of the hike an opportunity for discovery. A truly magical and unforgettable experience. |  |
| Queen Elizabeth is one of the most accessible savannah grasslands in the country, making it ideal for wildlife exploration. The park is teeming with iconic African animals, including lions, leopards, buffalo, antelope, and large herds of elephants that roam freely across the plains. Its diverse habitats, from open grasslands to shady woodlands and sparkling crater lakes, also support an incredible 600 bird species, making it a true paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike. With game drives, boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel, and stunning scenery at every turn, Queen Elizabeth offers a complete and unforgettable safari experience. |  |
| While staying within Queen Elizabeth National Park, you’ll travel south to the Ishasha Sector. Although the landscapes and wildlife are largely similar to the northern part of the park, Ishasha is famous for its unique tree-climbing lions. This rare behaviour draws wildlife enthusiasts from around the world, as it is thought to be the only place where these big cats regularly climb and rest in trees. Alongside the lions, the area is home to elephants, buffalo, leopards, and a variety of antelope, providing excellent game-viewing opportunities in a more secluded, off-the-beaten-path section of the park. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly distinctive safari. |  |
| Maybe Uganda's greatest attraction lies in the mountain forests of the Bwindi forests. If being face to face with chimpanzees isn't enough, getting up close and personal to another of our close relatives is a truly surreal experience. The mountain gorilla population, although still endangered, has steadily increased since conservation efforts and tourism in this area has grown. As with the chimp trekking, this is your opportunity to join experienced rangers to walk with these magnificent, gentle giants. With their human like mannerisms, there's not much that will ever compare to the feeling of being in the presence of these incredible primates and Bwindi is one of the few places in the world that offers this bucket list experience. |  |
| Yet another fantastic wildlife-spotting opportunity, Lake Mburo provides the perfect place to break up your journey back toward Entebbe. But the park is much more than just a convenient stopover. Its rolling savannahs, shimmering lake, and lush woodland create some of the most beautiful scenery in Uganda, complemented by one of our favourite campsites in the country. A stay here allows you to experience the savannah from a unique perspective, with opportunities for guided game walks, horseback safaris, or even cycling through the park’s trails. With wildlife encounters around every corner and breathtaking landscapes at every turn, Lake Mburo offers a memorable stop on your Ugandan adventure. |  |
| Your final major experience of the trip takes place on Lake Victoria. Birding enthusiasts may well already have this species on their bucket list, but this is an experience that can be enjoyed by all. Join a local guide on a traditional canoe to explore this swamp area of Lake Victoria in search for the famous Shoebill. This truly pre-historic looking bird measures up to 1.4m tall with a wingspan of 2.6m. Its somewhat intimidating gaze has made the bird infamous for it's almost dinosaur like features. As with all wildlife there's an element of luck needed to spot these elusive creatures, but what is guaranteed is the chance to observe countless other bird species while silently floating through the reeds. |  |
| Your adventure comes full circle as you return to Entebbe and hand back your vehicle. We recommend spending a final night at a local hotel or guesthouse to unwind and reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had. Take the time to explore local markets, enjoy a delicious meal, or simply relax and savour the memories of your journey. |  |
Included
- All accommodation
- Specialist vehicle hire
- Insurance for 2 drivers
- Camping and off-roading equipment
- Expert advice and support before and during your trip
- Comprehensive itinerary document including detailed route maps and must see recommendations.
Excluded
- International and domestic flights
- Fuel
-
Personal travel insurance
- Food and drinks (unless specified at accomodation)
