There are many beautiful places to visit and exciting things to do in Uganda. If you are wondering what to do, here is our list of the top activities in Uganda.
The list is in random order because it was difficult to choose just a few recommendations.
Uganda is much more than a safari destination. Most tour itineraries take visitors from one safari park to another, but there is much more to explore!
Camp in Uganda’s National Parks
Camping in a national park is a great way to explore nature and experience the wildlife up close. It allows you to start your safari early, see more animals, and is cheaper than staying in a lodge.
Some of our favorite campsites include:
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary campsite
- UWA Mweya Public Campsite (Queen Elizabeth National Park)
- UWA Nagusokopire Campsite (Kidepo Valley National Park)
The Ziwa Ranch campground, near the sanctuary, is also a lovely place to stay, though the guesthouse is not the best deal.
Go Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an amazing experience and a bucket list adventure. If you are curious about what a gorilla trekking day is like and whether it is right for you, this activity is definitely worth considering!
Horseback Safari at Lake Mburo
Since Lake Mburo National Park is the closest to Kampala, it is a great place to start your Ugandan safari. This park has few predators, making it ideal for walking safaris, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
At Mihingo Lodge, visitors can go on horseback safaris. Their beautiful stable has former racehorses, and riding through the park allows you to get close to zebras and other wildlife.
Go White Water Rafting in Jinja
Jinja is home to some of the best Grade 5 white water rafting in the world. Even though the construction of dams has reduced the number of Grade 5 rapids, you will still have an exciting adventure.
One of the rapids, Bad Place, has an interesting name, and there are many reliable rafting companies where you can book your trip.
Visit Kidepo Valley National Park
If you have time during your Uganda road trip, make sure to visit Kidepo Valley National Park. The park is located in the far northeast, near the border with South Sudan.
Unlike well-known parks like the Serengeti, Kidepo receives fewer visitors and is considered one of the last great wilderness areas in Africa.
Climb Mount Sabyinyo in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is an off-the-beaten-path destination. Mount Sabyinyo, a dormant volcano in the Virunga Mountains, offers a challenging trek to the summit.
The hike takes 7 to 10 hours for a round trip. The mountain has three peaks, with the highest at 3,669 meters.
The summit marks the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, giving visitors 360-degree views of all three countries—a truly unique experience!
Stay at Mutanda Lake Resort
If you want to relax and enjoy nature, we recommend staying at Mutanda Lake Resort for a few extra days.
While staying at the lodge, you can:
Trek the Virunga Volcanoes
- Go bird-watching
- Try sailing or stand-up paddle-boarding (SUP)
- Swim in the lake and sunbathe
- Take a cultural tour of the local community
Watch the Nile Explode at Murchison Falls
Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest park and can be reached by car from Kampala in about a day.
The Nile River dramatically squeezes through a 7-meter-wide gap, creating the powerful Murchison Falls. The river rushes at 300 cubic meters per second before dropping 43 meters into the Albert Delta.
Visit Sipi Falls
Last but not least, Sipi Falls is one of the most beautiful places in Uganda. Instead of staying in a car, you can put on your hiking boots and explore the area on foot.
The Sipi region has:
- Lush green hills
- Banana and coffee farms
- Beautiful waterfalls
- Amazing views
There are plenty of activities, including coffee tours, cultural experiences, and challenging hikes, as well as family-friendly walks.
