Air crafts in Entebbe International Airport in Uganda

The best time to visit Uganda for a safari is generally during the two main dry seasons: June to August and December to February. These months offer the most favorable conditions for wildlife viewing, gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, and game drives across Uganda’s iconic national parks such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kibale Forest National Park.

During the dry seasons, the vegetation is less dense, and wildlife tends to congregate around water sources, making animals (elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalo, hippos, and more) easier to spot. The dry weather means park roads and forest trekking trails are more accessible and less muddy, a crucial consideration for gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga, where steep slopes and thick undergrowth present a challenge in the wet. August is especially popular as it falls at the peak of the long dry season; skies are clear, temperatures are pleasant, and sightings are frequent.

Shoulder (rainy) seasons in Uganda occur from March to May and September to November. While these months bring lush, green landscapes and are favored by birding enthusiasts (with migratory birds peaking between November and April), they’re also associated with heavier rainfall, muddier trails, and sometimes impassable roads in remote regions. However, the “green season” offers lower rates on accommodation and discounted gorilla permits, plus fewer tourists and a more private experience.

Altitude and region also influence Uganda’s weather. The highlands (Bwindi, Rwenzori) are cooler, while parks like Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley are warmer year-round. Nights, especially in forested or mountainous areas, can be chilly; layering is advised.

Summary Table: Best Safari Timing in Uganda

Visiting during the dry months is ideal for most classic safari activities and gorilla trekking, but Uganda is a year-round destination, some travelers even prefer the dramatic green landscapes of the wet season, and budget-friendly safaris can be planned year-round with careful consideration

A group of tourists from Nile Abenteuer Safaris trekking Mubare gorilla Family in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. 

Uganda is renowned for a remarkable diversity of safari destinations that cater to both adventure seekers and wildlife lovers. The country boasts ten national parks, each offering unique experiences, from close encounters with endangered primates to classic big game viewing on scenic savannahs.

Top National Parks and Safari Destinations:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – World-famous for gorilla trekking, home to nearly half the world’s mountain gorilla population. Activities: gorilla tracking, birdwatching, forest hikes.
2. Queen Elizabeth National Park – Uganda’s most visited park, celebrated for its diverse landscapes (savannah, wetlands, crater lakes), tree-climbing lions (Ishasha sector), Kazinga Channel boat cruises, and over 600 bird species.
3. Murchison Falls National Park – Uganda’s largest park; famed for its thunderous waterfall where the Nile squeezes through a 7-meter gorge. Excellent for game drives, Nile boat cruises, and sightings of elephants, lions, giraffes, crocodiles, and hippos.
4. Kibale National Park – The “primate capital” of East Africa, renowned for chimpanzee tracking, 13 primate species, and vibrant birdlife.
5. Kidepo Valley National Park – Remote and rugged, offering a true wilderness experience with rare wildlife (cheetahs, ostriches, bat-eared foxes) and interactions with the Karamojong culture.
6. Lake Mburo National Park – Smaller, easily accessible, excellent for walking and horseback safaris, with abundant zebras, impalas, and bird species.
7. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Gorilla and golden monkey trekking, volcanic landscapes, Batwa pygmy culture.
8. Rwenzori Mountains National Park – Iconic for mountaineering (“Mountains of the Moon”), glaciers, and alpine flora.
9. Jinja – Source of the Nile – East Africa’s adrenaline capital with white-water rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, and cultural experiences.

Other notable sites: Semuliki National Park (hot springs, rare forest wildlife), Lake Bunyonyi (scenic crater lakes, relaxation), Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (for rhino tracking and Big Five completion), Mount Elgon (hiking, caves), and Entebbe/Kampala for urban adventures and nearby wildlife.

Uganda’s blend of savannah plains, rainforest jungles, snow-capped peaks, and rich tribal culture creates a uniquely varied safari circuit. Most itineraries combine several parks for the full experience of gorilla treks, classic game drives, birding, and local culture.

Kahungye Gorilla Family ready to receive our visitors in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Gorilla trekking is Uganda’s most sought-after primate adventure, and a permit is mandatory to visit the endangered mountain gorillas of Bwindi or Mgahinga.

How to Secure a Gorilla Permit:

• Booking Source: All official gorilla permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), you can book directly via UWA’s headquarters in Kampala, but most international travelers book through a UWA-registered, local tour operator (Nile Abenteuer Safaris), for convenience. International operators partner with local agencies for seamless logistics.
• Advance Booking: High demand during the dry (peak) seasons - June to September, December to February, means permits often sell out 6–12 months in advance. Even in the low season, booking 3–6 months ahead is wise.

• Permit Prices (2025):

  • USD 800 per trek for foreign non-residents (Per person)
  • USD 700 for foreign residents (Per person)
  • UGX 300,000 for East African citizens (Per person)
  • The permit includes one hour with a designated gorilla family, park entry, and a ranger guide.
• Booking Process: Confirm your travel dates with your tour operator who will check permit availability in real time via UWA’s online system. Full payment (often by bank transfer) secures your spot; you’ll get a confirmation/receipt, and the actual permit is collected closer to your trek date.
• Permit Validity: Only valid for a specified date and park sector (Buhoma, Nkuringo, Rushaga, Ruhija for Bwindi or Nyakagezi for Mgahinga). Permits are non-refundable except for illness or exceptional situations.
• On the Day: Arrive by 7:30–8:00 a.m. at park headquarters for briefing and group assignment. Groups are limited to 8 trekkers per gorilla family per day.

Pro Tips:

• Shoulder (wet) seasons (March–May, October–November) offer better permit availability and sometimes lower prices or shoulder-season discounts for other services.
• Booking an all-inclusive tour through a trusted operator can ensure permits, accommodation, and local transport are secured at once.

Summary Table: Uganda Gorilla Permit Facts

Secure your permit well in advance, especially if you’re on a fixed schedule, to guarantee this bucket-list adventure.

A female elephant with her calf in Murchison Falls National Park during safari game drive

Uganda is celebrated for delivering some of Africa’s best-value safari experiences. Your safari budget will depend on several key factors: season, length of stay, type of accommodation, chosen activities (especially gorilla trekking), group size, transport mode, and operator services.

Key Cost Elements:

• Gorilla Permit: Largest single expense for most; see FAQ 3 (USD 800 per person for non-residents).

• Safari Packages:

  • Budget safaris: Start from USD 150–350 per person/day; basic accommodation, group tours, limited extras.
  • Mid-range safaris: Usually USD 400–600 per person/day; private transport, comfortable lodges, activities included.
  • Luxury safaris: USD 650–1,500+ per person/day; luxury lodges, fine dining, exclusive experiences, and private guides.
• Park Entry Fees: ~USD 40–45/day for most parks. Included in some tour packages.
• Chimpanzee Trekking Permit: USD 150–250 per person.
• Accommodation: Ranges from hostels (~USD 25–60/night), mid-range lodges (USD 80–200/night), to luxury eco-lodges (USD 300–1,000+/night).
• Transport: Private 4x4 with guide (~USD 150–200/day); shared safari vans for groups (USD 60–100/day per person); or fly-in safaris for higher-end travelers.
• Extra Activities: Boat safaris, guided walks, community/cultural visits (USD 10–50/activity).
• Food and Drinks: Most safari packages are “full board” (all meals included); budget for extras if self-catering or eating at tourist restaurants (USD 10–25/meal).
• Tipping and Miscellaneous: Guides/trackers typically tipped USD 10–15/person/day; tips not always included.
• International Flights, Visas, Vaccinations: Not usually included in safaris; see FAQs 5 and 6.

Sample Safari Budgets (excluding flights):

Cost-Saving Tips:

• Travel in green/low season (March–May, Oct–Nov) for reduced rates and potential permit discounts.
• Join group tours to split transportation and guide costs.
• Book with local tour operators for better value.
• Select fewer parks for shorter, cost-effective routes.

Uganda safaris range from budget camping to ultra-luxury wilderness retreats, plan for your style, but always book gorilla permits and accommodation well in advance for peak months.

Tree climbing lions in Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park during transfer to Bwindi

Up-to-date vaccination and health preparation are essential for a safe and enjoyable safari. Uganda’s climate and ecosystems support a range of vector-borne and contagious diseases; proper precautions reduce your health risks.

Mandatory and Recommended Vaccinations:

• Yellow Fever: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for all travelers aged 12 months or older entering Uganda. Proof of vaccination must be carried and shown at entry.
• Routine Vaccinations: Keep standard immunizations up to date: MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), polio, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, chickenpox.
• Hepatitis A and B: Strongly recommended for all travelers.
• Typhoid: Advised for most, especially those visiting rural areas or staying longer.
• Rabies: Consider for long stays, adventure travelers, or those in rural settings.
• Meningococcal meningitis: Sometimes advised, especially for travel during the dry season in crowded conditions.
• COVID-19: Recommended; entry requirements can change.
• Malaria: High risk across Uganda, especially in safari destinations. Use antimalarial medication (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine) as advised by your travel doctor. Apply insect repellent with DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, and sleep under mosquito nets.
• Other Precautions: Practice safe food and water routines: drink bottled/boiled water, avoid street food where hygiene is questionable, peel or wash fruit and vegetables, and be wary of ice in drinks.

Summary Table: Health Essentials for Uganda Safari

Consult a travel health professional at least 4–6 weeks before traveling to Uganda. Bring a well-stocked first aid kit, all medications in original packaging (with prescriptions), and carry copies of your medical insurance and vaccination records.

A magnificent view of Murchison Falls during viewing of the top of falls in Murchison Falls National Park 

Most travelers to Uganda need a visa, with a few exceptions for some African and Caribbean nations.

How to Apply:

• All eligible travelers MUST apply for a tourist visa online before arrival via the official Uganda Immigration portal: https://visas.immigration.go.ug 
• Visa on arrival is no longer available.
• Submit your application, upload required documents, and pay the fee online.

Visa Types & Fees (2025):

Required Documents:

• Minimum 6 months passport validity
• Recent passport-size photo (digital upload)
• Travel itinerary and proof of accommodation
• Return/onward ticket (often requested)
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination
• Visa approval letter (print and present on arrival)

Visa approval is usually processed within 2–5 working days, though applying at least 10–14 days in advance is advised. The approval letter must be shown to airline/immigration officers upon entry.

East Africa Tourist Visa, ideal for multi-country travel (Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda), must be obtained from the country of first entry.

Extensions: Possible via immigration office in Kampala for valid reasons; not automatic.

Our tourists during gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Uganda is generally safe for tourism, with the majority of visitors reporting positive, worry-free experiences, especially in national parks and with reputable operators (Nile Abenteuer Safaris). However, safety conditions can vary by region and over time, and basic precautions are necessary.

Key Safety Insights:

• National Parks and Rural Areas: Ugandan parks such as Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, and Murchison Falls are considered very safe for guided safaris. Security is regularly maintained by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers and local police, and incidents are rare.
• Major Cities: Kampala and Entebbe are friendly to tourists, but standard urban precautions apply: keep valuables secure, avoid walking alone at night, be alert in busy areas, and use reputable taxis.
• Border Regions: Exercise particular caution near borders with South Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo, as sporadic unrest and cross-border crime have been reported. Always follow government and tour operator advisories.
• Petty Crime: Opportunistic theft (pickpocketing, bag snatching) is the most common risk in urban centers and markets. Keep valuables out of sight; use hotel safes; avoid displaying cash.
• Road Safety: Ugandan roads can be challenging, with variable driving standards and potholes. Arrange private or lodge-based transport, avoid night travel outside main cities, and use seatbelts.
• Women and Solo Travelers: Female visitors report feeling safe, but caution is recommended after dark and in unfamiliar neighborhoods. Dress modestly in rural areas.
• LGBTQ+ Travelers: Uganda’s laws are extremely strict regarding same-sex relations, and open LGBTQ+ expression is not accepted in most settings. Discretion is advised; consult current consular advice.
• Terrorism & Political Demonstrations: Incidents are rare but possible. Avoid protests, heed local and international alerts, and register with your embassy if required.

In the parks:

• Always follow park regulations, keep a safe distance from wildlife, and listen to your armed ranger and guide.
• Gorilla and chimp tracking involve strict rules for health and safety (keep a 7-meter distance, show no signs of illness, no flash photography).
• Do not hike or drive in parks without a registered guide.

Health & Safety Summary:

• Keep up-to-date with vaccinations and bring antimalarial medication. Only drink bottled or treated water.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation.
• Carry emergency contacts and register your trip with your home embassy if required.

In summary, safaris in Uganda are very safe when well-organized. Using professional tour operators, focusing on authorized parks, and following health and security advice ensures a trouble-free trip.

A leopard resting on a tree branch at Murchison Falls National Park

Uganda is a biodiversity hotspot, famed for not only Big Five safaris but for exclusive primate experiences, rare species, and over 1,000 bird species.

Wildlife Highlights by Category:

• Primates: Uganda is the global epicenter for mountain gorilla trekking (Bwindi, Mgahinga), with over half the world’s population. Chimpanzee tracking is best done in Kibale, but chimps inhabit Kyambura Gorge, Budongo, and Kalinzu. Golden monkeys, black-and-white colobus, and L’Hoest monkeys are commonly spotted.
• Big Five: Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo Valley National Parks are home to four of the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo); rhinos can be tracked at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

• Unique Wildlife Experiences:

  • Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha (Queen Elizabeth NP), a rare phenomenon.
  • Shoebill stork, a prehistoric-looking bird, found in Mabamba Swamp and Murchison Falls.
  • Boat safaris on the Nile (Murchison Falls) and Kazinga Channel (Queen Elizabeth) yield close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds.
  • Giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, antelopes, and hyenas are abundant in specific parks.
• Birding: Uganda boasts more species per square kilometer than any country in Africa, making it a “birder’s paradise.”
• Savannah Game: Buffalo, Uganda kob, oribi, warthog, waterbuck, topi, and impala abound in parks like Lake Mburo and Queen Elizabeth.

Regular sightings include mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, buffalo, crocodiles, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and an expansive array of birdlife. Each park presents a different wildlife profile depending on location and ecosystem

Our group tourists spotting birds in Kibale Forest National Park in Uganda

Packing smart for the Uganda safari environment means preparing for humid days, chilly mountain mornings, unpredictable rain, and insect exposure.

Essential Items:

• Clothing: Lightweight, breathable, neutral-colored clothing (avoid white, black, neon). Quick-dry fabrics recommended. Long sleeves and pants for bush walks and evenings.
• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots for trekking; comfortable walking shoes/sandals for evenings.
• Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket or poncho, a year-round must due to unpredictable showers.
• Accessories: Wide-brimmed sun hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, reusable water bottle.
• Medical: First aid kit (incl. plasters, antiseptic, rehydration salts), personal medications, malaria prophylaxis, insect repellent (DEET-based), hand sanitizer, and oral rehydration powder.
• Tech/Optics: Camera with zoom lens, spare batteries, power bank, binoculars.
• Documents: Passport, printed e-visa/approval, yellow fever certificate, travel insurance, vaccination records (copies, keep separate from originals).
• Daypack: For water, camera, rain gear, snacks, and documents on activities like trekking.
• Toiletries: Biodegradable soap/shampoo, toothbrush/paste, wipes, tissue, feminine hygiene products.
• Others: Headlamp/torch (power outages possible), spare SIM card, plug adapter (UK-style G).

For Gorilla Trekking:

• Gloves (garden gloves protect hands from stinging nettles)
• Gaiters/long socks (to tuck in trousers; protection against ants and bugs)
• Warm layers (temperature drops at altitude)
• Small, waterproof backpack
• Walking stick (often provided/available at park HQ)
• Snacks and minimum 2L water

Tip: Laundry is possible in most lodges, so pack light and plan to re-wear outfits. Avoid camouflage or military clothing, it is illegal in Uganda.

Pack light, prioritize the essentials, and be prepared for a range of conditions to ensure comfort and safety throughout your Uganda trip

A group of Batwa people in Kisoro - Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Uganda’s safaris are just the beginning, cultural immersion and community-based tourism add depth to any visit. With over 50 different tribes, Uganda’s cultural diversity is remarkable. Top experiences and attractions include:

Must-See Cultural Attractions and Experiences:

• Kampala: Uganda’s lively capital is a hub for history, religious sites (Uganda Martyrs Shrine, Rubaga Cathedral), museums (Uganda Museum), bustling markets (Nakasero), craft centers, and modern nightlife.
• Buganda Kingdom/Kasubi Tombs: Explore the royal heritage, palaces, and Buganda’s spiritual traditions, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Batwa Experience: Engage with the Batwa "forest people" near Bwindi or Mgahinga; discover hunter-gatherer traditions through forest walks, demonstrations, music, and storytelling. This supports community preservation and sustainable tourism.
• Karamojong Manyatta Visits (Karamoja region): Encounter nomadic pastoralists, join cultural dances and learn about ancient cattle herding customs.
• Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary (near Kibale): Community-led projects offer guided walks, birdwatching, primate viewing, and traditional meals.
• Coffee Tours (Mount Elgon/Sipi Falls region): Participate in coffee farming, roasting, and tasting; connect with local farmers and agricultural traditions.
• Ndere Cultural Centre (Kampala): Watch live performances of music and dance from Uganda’s varied ethnic groups.
• Craft Markets: Shop for handwoven baskets, beaded jewelry, bark cloth, and wood carvings, supporting local artisans.
• Local Cuisine Tasting: Sample iconic dishes such as luwombo (stewed meat/groundnut sauce in banana leaves), rolex (egg/chapati street food), matoke, and eshabwe (ghee sauce). Food tours and cooking classes abound.
• Festivals: If visiting in August/September, time your trip with festivals like World Gorilla Day or the Nyege Nyege Festival in Jinja, celebrations of music, conservation, and Ugandan culture.
• Community Projects: Participate in or visit community tourism initiatives supporting education, healthcare, and sustainable development.

Community tourism is a highlight of responsible travel in Uganda, offering visitors deep cultural exchanges while positively impacting local livelihoods