Uganda is a beautiful and diverse country in East Africa with a lot to offer in terms of short trips and adventures. Here are some short trips and places to visit in Uganda:
Kampala: Start your journey in Uganda’s capital city, Kampala. You can explore cultural sites like the Kasubi Tombs, the Uganda Museum, and the Ndere Centre for traditional music and dance. Don’t forget to visit the bustling markets and try some delicious Ugandan street food.
Jinja: Jinja is known as the “Adventure Capital of East Africa.” You can go white-water rafting on the Nile River, visit the source of the Nile, and explore the vibrant town. Bungee jumping, quad biking, and boat trips on the Nile are also popular activities.
Murchison Falls National Park: This park is known for its powerful waterfall, Murchison Falls, which is a sight to behold. You can take a boat safari on the Nile River to see hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species. Game drives offer the chance to spot lions, elephants, and giraffes.
Queen Elizabeth National Park: This park is famous for its diverse wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and a wide variety of bird species. Take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel to see hippos and crocodiles, and enjoy the stunning scenery of the park.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: If you’re interested in gorilla trekking, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is the place to go. It’s home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking permits are limited, so be sure to book in advance.
Lake Bunyonyi: Known as the “Switzerland of Africa,” Lake Bunyonyi is a peaceful destination for relaxation. You can take a boat ride on the lake, go hiking, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the serenity.
Sipi Falls: Sipi Falls is a series of three waterfalls in Eastern Uganda. You can go hiking and explore the beautiful landscapes of the Elgon Mountain region. The area is also known for its coffee farming, so you can visit coffee farms and learn about the coffee-making process.
Kibale National Park: This park is famous for its chimpanzee tracking experiences. You can also explore the lush forests and spot other primates and bird species.
Rwenzori Mountains: For a more challenging adventure, consider hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon. You can choose from various trekking options and enjoy breathtaking alpine scenery.
Lake Victoria Islands: Explore the islands on Lake Victoria, such as Ssese Islands, and relax on the sandy beaches. You can also enjoy water sports, fishing, and visit local fishing communities.
Samples of short trips.
3 Days Gorilla Safari in Uganda.
A 3-day gorilla safari in Uganda is a thrilling adventure that allows you to trek through the lush rainforests to see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Here’s a sample itinerary for a 3-day gorilla safari in Uganda:
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe/Kampala
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport.
Meet your tour guide and transfer to your accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala.
Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore the local area or rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Arrive in Bwindi, check in at your lodge, and have dinner.
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Early morning breakfast and a briefing from park rangers about gorilla trekking rules and guidelines.
Start the gorilla trekking adventure. The trek can vary in duration and difficulty, depending on the location of the gorilla family you are assigned. It can take a few hours to a full day.
Once you locate the gorilla family, you’ll spend approximately one hour observing and taking photographs.
After the gorilla trek, return to your lodge for relaxation and to share your experiences with fellow travelers.
Dinner at the lodge.
Day 4: Return to Entebbe/Kampala
After breakfast, check out of your lodge.
Begin the journey back to Entebbe or Kampala.
You may have a stop for lunch along the way.
Arrive in Entebbe/Kampala in the evening or late afternoon.
You can opt for an overnight stay in Entebbe or Kampala, or if your flight schedule allows, you can head directly to the airport.
2 Day Safar to Murchison Falls National Park
A 2-day safari to Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda can be a fantastic adventure, allowing you to experience the park’s abundant wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and the famous Murchison Falls. Here’s a sample itinerary for a 2-day safari to Murchison Falls National Park:
Day 1: Arrival and Game Drive
Morning Departure: Leave from Entebbe or Kampala early in the morning for the approximately 5-6 hour drive to Murchison Falls National Park.
Lunch: Arrive at the park and check in at your chosen accommodation. Have lunch at the lodge.
Afternoon Game Drive: In the afternoon, embark on a game drive in the northern section of the park. This area is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, buffalos, lions, and numerous antelope species. Your guide will help you spot and identify the animals.
Return to Lodge: Return to your lodge in the early evening. You can relax, have dinner, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the park.
Day 2: Boat Safari and Departure
Early Morning Start: After an early breakfast, head out for a boat safari on the Nile River, which is the highlight of the park. The boat safari offers fantastic opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species, including the rare shoebill stork.
Murchison Falls: The boat will take you to the base of the Murchison Falls, where the Nile River forces its way through a narrow gorge, creating a breathtaking and powerful waterfall. You can also take a guided hike to the top of the falls for a different perspective.
Lunch: Return to the lodge for lunch.
Departure: Check out from the lodge and start your journey back to Entebbe or Kampala.
Optional Rhino Trek: If time allows, you can opt for an optional visit to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you can track rhinos on foot.