Meet the Big Five & More in Uganda

As home to more than half the world’s population of endangered mountain gorillas, Uganda tops the bucket lists of travel enthusiasts seeking to come face to face with a majestic silverback in the wild. In addition to the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of gorilla tracking, a diverse range of nature, wildlife, and cultural activities await in the "Pearl of Africa" on a Uganda tour.

Primates Galore

Tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a must for nature enthusiasts. There is no feeling quite like locating a gorilla family and peering through the misty, lush undergrowth to observe them from just meters away. Those hoping to catch sight of chimpanzees should visit Kibale National Park, home to 13 primate species.

Big Game and the Mighty Nile

Murchison Falls National Park provides a dramatic backdrop for robust wildlife viewing. Big game in Murchison includes elephants, lions, leopards, and buffalo, along with giraffes, waterbucks, warthogs, and more. The park is bisected by the Victoria Nile, where resident crocodiles and hippos and other visiting wildlife can be found when exploring the area on a Uganda tour, including the base of the falls, by boat.

Birders’ Paradise

Uganda is Africa’s richest birding destination, and twitchers from around the world flock to Uganda hoping to spot some of the country’s 1,072 species, including several found nowhere else on earth. Watch for the prehistoric-looking shoebill and the grey crowned crane, Uganda’s national bird.

Look Up!

The tree climbing lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park are a sight to behold. Visit the park’s Ishasha section, where these big cats laze away the day from above.

Tribal Immersion

The culture of Uganda is defined by its colourful communities and more than 50 distinct tribes. Visit their villages to learn about crafts such as basket weaving or beekeeping, or experience the infectious spirit of traditional song and dance during performances.

 

By Kirsty Perring