A Responsible Tour Operator in Uganda

Excursia Adventures: A Responsible Tour Operator in Uganda

At Excursia Adventures, we are committed to offering sustainable and affordable gorilla trekking safaris across Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. Our tours blend eco-friendly practices with unforgettable wildlife and adventure experiences, ensuring that your journey not only leaves a lasting impression on you but also supports biodiversity, wildlife conservation, and local communities. In addition to gorilla trekking, our safaris include chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 game drives, mountain hiking, boat cruises, and cultural encounters across some of Africa’s most iconic destinations, such as Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia.

Travel Smart, Achieve More with Excursia Adventures

Our mission is simple: to create life-changing adventures from the moment you arrive in Africa. We aim to redefine how people explore this continent by offering trips that allow you to give back—whether through tree planting, volunteering, or participating in programs like Packing for a Purpose, where you bring much-needed supplies to local communities. Our safaris are designed to make a positive impact, preserving Africa’s natural beauty for future generations while uplifting the people who call it home.

From the moment we meet you at the airport, through private or group transfers to your safari destinations, every detail of your trip is carefully planned and managed. We are also deeply committed to environmental conservation. We encourage travelers to avoid packing non-recyclable items and instead opt for reusable products, such as water bottles, to minimize environmental harm.

Things to Do on Safari in Uganda with Excursia Adventures

While gorilla trekking might be the highlight of your trip, there are plenty of other exciting activities to enjoy on your safari in Uganda.

Boat Cruises on Lake Victoria

A boat cruise on Lake Victoria is a must during your stay in Entebbe. Imagine relaxing on one of the world’s largest lakes, watching the sun set over the horizon. Whether you choose a sunset cruise or a cheese and wine cruise, this is a fantastic way to unwind before catching your flight home. As you drift towards the equator line or explore nearby islands, you’ll witness fishermen casting their nets and enjoy the snacks and drinks provided on board.

Visit the Entebbe Botanical Gardens

One of the best ways to connect with nature while in Entebbe is by taking a relaxing walk through the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Established in 1898, these gardens are located along the northern shores of Lake Victoria, right at the equator. Known as Uganda’s National Botanical Gardens, they boast a diverse array of tropical, subtropical, and temperate plant species, as well as naturally regenerated shrubs. In addition to the flora, you’ll find a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and reptiles. The gardens are a peaceful and safe haven, popular for birdwatching, picnics, and serene nature walks. A day trip to the Botanical Gardens is a must during your stay in Entebbe.

Day Trip to Uganda Wildlife Education Center (Entebbe Zoo)

Opened in 1952, the Uganda Wildlife Education Center, commonly referred to as Entebbe Zoo, was initially established to care for animals rescued from the wild. These animals may have been injured, orphaned, or confiscated from illegal trade. Today, it serves both as a rehabilitation center and a popular tourist attraction. Situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, the zoo offers a 100% chance to see animals like lions, elephants, giraffes, leopards, crocodiles, and the rare shoebill stork. Whether you’re visiting for educational purposes or simply to enjoy wildlife, the Entebbe Zoo provides a rich and memorable experience for both local and international tourists.

Chimpanzee Experience at Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Ngamba Island is a sanctuary for 49 orphaned and rescued chimpanzees, offering them a safe and semi-natural environment where they can recover and thrive. The island has 95 acres of natural forest where the chimps roam and forage daily. Tourists have the chance to observe them from a special viewing platform during feeding times. Visitors also learn about the conservation efforts to protect these remarkable animals. Whether you’re spending a few hours or a full day, a visit to Ngamba Island is a perfect way to connect with nature and witness the extraordinary lives of chimpanzees.

Mabamba Shoebill Stork Day Excursion

Lake Victoria’s swamps are a haven for birdwatchers, and the Mabamba Swamp is particularly renowned for the rare shoebill stork. Just a short boat or canoe ride from Entebbe, this swamp is one of the best places in Uganda to spot the shoebill along with many other bird species. You can take an early morning or late afternoon boat ride to maximize your chances of seeing these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. For an alternative experience, the Entebbe Zoo also offers opportunities to see shoebills up close.

Relax on Entebbe’s Beaches

A visit to the beaches in Entebbe is a must for anyone looking to unwind after a day of exploring. With stunning views of Lake Victoria, beaches like White Sand Beach, Lido Beach, Aero Beach, and Imperial Beach offer the perfect escape. Whether you’re relaxing under the cool breeze, enjoying a meal, or taking part in beach games, these spots provide a great way to enjoy your holiday. Many visitors find these lakeside retreats ideal for honeymooners or anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic spot to recharge.

Equator Crossing Excursion on Lake Victoria

Lwaji Island, located on Lake Victoria, is crossed by the equator and is an excellent spot for those looking for a unique experience. This uninhabited island offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding areas, including the Entebbe Airport runway. A boat ride will take you to the equator line, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty, birdlife, and cool lake breezes. Many tourists choose to take a sunset cruise to fully appreciate this extraordinary location. While in Entebbe, don’t miss out on this adventure.

Canoeing on Lake Bunyonyi

For those seeking a peaceful escape, Lake Bunyonyi offers the perfect setting for a canoeing adventure. Using non-motorized boats, you’ll explore the lake, visiting its many islands and the communities that inhabit them. This tranquil experience is ideal for couples or anyone looking to relax and take in the beauty of Uganda’s landscapes. With its calm waters and stunning surroundings, Lake Bunyonyi is a fantastic place to enjoy a laid-back day of exploration.

Hiking and Scenic Views Around Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is not only a great spot for canoeing but also for hiking. The area is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, making it one of the most picturesque lakes in Africa. You can take guided hikes to nearby villages, giving you the opportunity to experience the local culture firsthand. Whether you’re exploring on foot or simply taking in the views, Lake Bunyonyi offers an unforgettable backdrop for your holiday.

Batwa Pygmy Village Experience

One of the unique cultural experiences available around Lake Bunyonyi is a visit to the Batwa Pygmy and Bakiga tribes. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to interact with the local communities, watch traditional dances, and hear stories about their rich history and culture. This cultural encounter provides valuable insight into the lives of these indigenous people and is an essential part of any trip to the area.

Birding Experience at Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi stands out as one of Uganda’s top birding destinations, with over 200 bird species, including several migratory varieties. Birdwatchers can spot species such as the Grey Crowned Crane (Uganda’s national bird), White-tailed Blue Flycatcher, African Harrier Hawk, Giant Kingfisher, Shoebill Stork, Abyssinian Ground Hornbills, and many others. With its peaceful ambiance and rich birdlife, Lake Bunyonyi offers an unforgettable birding experience for both amateur and seasoned birdwatchers.

Mutanda Island Trip

A visit to Mutanda Island is a perfect addition to your itinerary while staying near Lake Mutanda. This scenic boat trip, lasting 2-3 hours, takes you to the burial place of Kyangushu and then to Mutanda Island, the largest and only inhabited island on the lake. You’ll enjoy stunning views of the Congo border, Lake Mulehe, and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This shared trip is not only cost-effective but also enhances the experience as you journey with fellow travelers.

Volcano Hiking in Mgahinga National Park

For hiking enthusiasts, the Mgahinga National Park offers an incredible opportunity to conquer the Gahinga mountain ranges, including Mount Sabyinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura. Depending on your fitness level, you can choose one of these hikes. Mount Sabyinyo stands at 3,669m and takes around eight hours to complete, offering steep climbs with rewarding views. Mount Gahinga, the smallest at 3,474m, takes six hours to hike and is topped by a crater filled with giant lobelia. Mount Muhavura, the tallest at 4,127m, provides breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and even the Rwenzori Mountains on a clear day. Along the trails, you may encounter different tree species, birds, forest elephants, primates, and even gorillas if you’re lucky.

Golden Monkey Tracking in Mgahinga National Park

Golden Monkey tracking is a must-do activity when visiting the Lake Mutanda area. Mgahinga National Park is one of the few places where you can find these rare primates. Uganda is fortunate to host these elusive creatures, and two habituated groups are available for trekking. A permit for Golden Monkey tracking costs USD 100, as per Uganda Wildlife Authority tariffs. The experience starts with a briefing at 7:00 a.m. at the park headquarters, after which you embark on a guided trek through the forest to find and observe the golden monkeys for an hour. Besides Mgahinga, the golden monkeys can only be found in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that draws adventurers from around the globe. Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo are the only countries where you can trek to see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are top spots for this thrilling adventure. Although gorilla trekking comes with a hefty price tag, it’s a rewarding experience that lets you witness these majestic creatures up close. For those interested in a unique experience, Congo offers the opportunity to see the Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

Booking a Budget Gorilla Safari to Ruhija During Low Season

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider booking a budget gorilla safari to the Ruhija sector of Bwindi during the low season. Responsible tour operators, such as Excursia Adventures, can help you plan a budget-friendly safari while still delivering an unforgettable experience.

Why Book with Excursia Adventures

Excursia Adventures is a trusted, responsible tour operator with a solid reputation for organizing unforgettable safaris in Uganda and Rwanda. Highly rated on TripAdvisor, we specialize in eco-friendly adventures that include gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris, mountain hiking, cultural encounters, and more. By booking with us, you’re contributing to biodiversity conservation and supporting local communities, while enjoying a memorable African safari. Whether you’re dreaming of safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, or Namibia, Excursia Adventures is here to provide the ultimate travel experience. Contact us today to start planning your adventure!