Why Choose Uganda for Your Safari?

When it comes to bucket list holidays, a safari is one of the most thrilling adventures you’ll have. This once-in-a-lifetime experience gets you up close to the planet’s most awe-inspiring animals in their natural habitat and lets you fall asleep surrounded by sounds of the wild. There are many stunning safari destinations to choose from, but Uganda is one of the best. Here’s why:

1. Flora and fauna
As one of the world’s top 10 most biodiverse countries, “the pearl of Africa” boasts a wide range of wildlife and plant species. Home to around 350 species of mammals, there’s plenty more to see than the breath-taking Big 5 roaming the planes. Gorillas, monkeys, zebras and giraffes can be found along with crocodiles, pythons, lizards, and chameleons. Plus, around 1,065 species of birds make it a hotspot for ornithologists. Uganda’s vegetation is equally eclectic, with a scenic landscape featuring everything from savannas and rainforests to mountains, woodland, rivers, and lakes.

2. Gorilla tracking
Uganda is home to half of the world’s mountain gorilla population and the majority of these live in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Track one of the majestic ape families on a full-day’s walk through the dense jungle canopy, past sun-lit waterfalls, where you’ll glimpse many types of birds, butterflies, trees and ferns. Mountain gorilla families can also be found in the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, but they’re harder to track because they frequently cross into Rwanda.

3. Tree-climbing lions
It’s a pretty rare sight to spot a lion up a tree, but not in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The country’s oldest game reserve is one of only two places worldwide where these agile predators exist, lounging leisurely above ground and hanging from branches of the indigenous acacia trees. Seeing a tree-climbing lion is a truly unique experience and the stuff of legends.

4. Adventure activities
If looking a lion in the eyes isn’t thrilling enough, Uganda offers plenty to keep adrenaline junkies on a high. Kayaking or rafting on the Nile, ziplining over the rainforest, hiking up a mountain, and hot air ballooning across swathes of parkland are among the unforgettable activities you can try. And, if you prefer a more sedate way to unwind, a relaxing boat cruise along Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa, is just the ticket.

5. Local culture
Uganda is a cultural melting pot with over 30 local languages and a colourful mix of customs. Myriad museums reveal the country’s rich heritage, plus there’s a wide variety of tours to take you around historic sites. A visit to the open-air markets is another wonderful way to enjoy an authentic taste of contemporary culture while shopping for hand-made souvenirs and fresh produce.

Take a look at one of our safari packages, or contact us to create something unique.