What to See and Do in Uganda

What to See and Do in Uganda (Without Gorilla Trekking)

Planning a safari in Uganda but not interested in gorilla trekking? Don’t worry—Uganda offers plenty of exciting activities and attractions for every kind of traveler. From wildlife and primates to cultural experiences, Uganda is a top destination for a memorable and budget-friendly safari. Here’s a list of the top things to see and do in Uganda minus the gorillas.

Top Safari Experiences in Uganda (Without Gorilla Trekking)

Uganda is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts. With a variety of primates, stunning wildlife, and unique cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone. Check out the best offers for an unforgettable Ugandan safari, including activities that you can enjoy in the “new normal” with safety and health measures in place.

Other Primate Tracking Experiences

Uganda is home to a wide range of primates, including chimpanzees and golden monkeys. If you’re looking for an alternative to gorilla trekking, primate tracking is an excellent choice. Here are two exciting primate experiences you can enjoy:

Chimpanzee Trekking

Head to the lush forests of Kibale Forest National Park, Kyambura Gorge (in Queen Elizabeth National Park), Kalinzu Forest, or Budongo Forest near Murchison Falls National Park for chimpanzee trekking. Track chimpanzees in the wild and observe their behavior up close. Chimpanzee trekking is available in the morning and afternoon, and we can help organize the permits for your trip.

Cost:

• USD 250 for non-resident foreigners
• USD 200 for foreign residents
• USD 55 for East African citizens

This gives you a 1-hour encounter with the chimpanzees.

Golden Monkey Trekking:

For a unique experience, trek the Golden Monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These playful monkeys are fun to observe as they leap through the trees in their high-altitude habitat.

Cost:

• USD 100 for a standard trekking permit (1-hour encounter)
• USD 140 for the golden monkey habituation experience (4-hour encounter)

Gorilla Habituation Experience

If you still want to spend time with gorillas but prefer a different experience from traditional gorilla trekking, consider the Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This immersive experience allows you to spend 4 hours with semi-habituated mountain gorillas, learning about their behavior and helping them get accustomed to human presence. This is a smaller group activity (only 4 visitors per group), providing an intimate and educational encounter.

• Cost:
  The Gorilla Habituation Experience costs more than regular trekking because of the extended time with the gorillas.

Wildlife Viewing and Game Drives

Uganda is also known for its incredible wildlife. Explore the vast savannah parks of Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park to spot a variety of animals, including:

• Tree-climbing lions
• Elephants
• Buffaloes
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Warthogs
• Leopards

Take a game drive in the early morning or late afternoon for the best chances of spotting wildlife in action. The experience is perfect for wildlife lovers and photographers alike.

Experiential Tourism Activities

For a truly hands-on experience, don’t miss Uganda’s unique experiential tourism activities. These activities allow you to get closer to Uganda’s wildlife and ecosystems in an unforgettable way. Some options include:

• Lion Tracking: Help track and monitor lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
• Mongoose Tracking: Join researchers in tracking the small but mighty mongoose.
• Hippo Census: Participate in counting hippos along the rivers in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
• Bird Counts: If you’re a bird enthusiast, join a bird census and discover Uganda’s rich birdlife.

These activities offer incredible opportunities to learn more about Uganda’s wildlife and conservation efforts while getting an up-close look at animals in their natural habitats.

Cultural Experiences in Uganda

Uganda is one of the most culturally diverse countries in Africa, with over 50 ethnic tribes and languages. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in enriching cultural experiences. Whether it’s visiting local communities near national parks or learning about the ways people coexist with wildlife, these encounters will provide a deeper understanding of life in Uganda. Experience traditional dances, listen to captivating stories, and enjoy authentic interactions with local tribes who live in harmony with nature.

Mountain Hiking and Cycling Adventures

Uganda’s stunning landscapes offer excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling. From lush hills to towering mountain ranges, Uganda is an adventurer’s paradise. Popular hiking destinations include Mountains of the Moon (Rwenzori), Mountains of Muhavura and Gahinga, Mount Elgon, and Mount Moroto. Whether you prefer a challenging trek or a relaxing bike ride, Uganda’s diverse terrain promises an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.

Bird Watching in Uganda

Uganda is a birdwatcher’s dream, home to over 1,000 bird species. Whether you’re an avid bird enthusiast or a casual observer, Uganda’s rich birdlife will impress you. The country’s many wetlands, forests, and national parks are prime spots for bird watching, with Bwindi Forest, Mabamba Swamp, Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Bigodi Wetland being some of the best locations. Some must-see species include the rare Shoebill Stork, Pel’s Fishing Owl, Gray Crowned Crane (Uganda’s national bird), and many more. Uganda also offers incredible birding during game drives in various national parks.

Boat Safari Excursions

Take your Uganda safari to the next level with a boat safari! With an abundance of lakes and rivers, boat trips are a fantastic way to see wildlife up-close. Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park, boat excursions along the River Nile, and trips to Murchison Falls National Park provide opportunities to view water-loving animals like hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds. These tranquil boat rides offer a unique perspective of Uganda’s wildlife and stunning landscapes.

When is the Best Time to Visit Uganda?

The best time to visit Uganda is during the dry months, typically from December to February and June to October. These months offer more comfortable weather conditions for outdoor activities, such as hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. While Uganda experiences a mild equatorial climate with two rainy seasons (March to May and November), it’s easier to explore the parks and trails during the dry season when the roads are more accessible, and wildlife viewing is optimal.

Discover Uganda with Excursia Adventures

At Excursia Adventures, we are dedicated to providing memorable and sustainable travel experiences. Our focus is on delivering exceptional safaris that benefit both the local communities and the wildlife we encounter. We offer a variety of safaris, including activities beyond gorilla trekking, ensuring that you get the most out of your time in Uganda.

Contact us today to learn more about the amazing things you can see and do in Uganda, and let us help you plan your adventure!