Destination: Uganda

Explore this fascinating East African country with us

Offering incredible diversity in terms of landscapes, wildlife, and culture, Uganda is packed with wonderful destinations, superlative experiences, and exceptional accommodation options. An Anderson & Harvey safari to this wonderful East African nation is bound to impress and we pride ourselves on creating exceptional Ugandan itineraries that encapsulate the vibrant spirit of this fascinating country. Let's find out more about it...

There's no doubting Uganda's appeal as a safari destination. It's renowned the world over for being home to some of the last remaining mountain gorillas, with Bwindi Impenetrable National Park its crowning glory. This UNESCO World Heritage Site draws visitors from across the globe every year in search of unique interactions with these incredible great apes.

Gorilla trekking is an experience that leaves a lasting impression. The excitement of navigating the rainforest, guided by skilled trackers, culminates in an extraordinary hour spent with a gorilla family in their natural habitat. Observing mothers cradling their young, playful juveniles exploring the undergrowth, and powerful silverbacks overseeing their group is a profoundly moving experience that highlights Uganda's remarkable conservation efforts.

But there's so much more to Uganda than gorillas and its diversity extends beyond the ancient forests of Bwindi. Kibale National Park, for example, is a lush rainforest that's home to an incredible array of primate species - the most famous of which is our closest "relative" - the chimpanzee. Here they can be seen literally swinging through the canopy, their calls resonating through the dense foliage. Red colobus monkeys, with their striking black and red fur, leap between branches, while L'Hoest's monkeys shyly pose for photographers.

More 350 bird species inhabit Kibale, from the elusive African pitta to the vibrant great blue turaco. For thrill-seekers, a canopy walk through Kibale rainforest, crossing suspended bridges high above the forest floor, offers a unique perspective of the lush vegetation and the chorus of birdlife below.

For a different experience, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a more traditional safari experience, with the added drawcard of offering boat-based safari options on the Kazinga Channel, a waterway teeming with hippo and crocodiles, and surrounded by lush savannahs and woodlands filled with elephant, buffalo, and diverse bird species. Here lions climb trees, creating unique photo opportunities!

Murchison Falls National Park also provides a fabulous African safari experience, with its vast savannahs and acacia woodlands filled with wildlife, including herds of elephant, giraffe, zebra, antelope, and exceptional birdlife. Predators like lion and leopard add to the allure of this world-class safari destination. The park's highlight is Murchison Falls, where the nascent Nile River forces its way through a narrow gorge, creating a spectacular waterfall. It's here you can also see the spectacular shoebill stork - a top "tick" for avid birders!

For those seeking adventure, Uganda offers challenging hikes such as the ascent of Mount Elgon, a dormant volcano with stunning panoramic views. Reaching the summit rewards climbers with breathtaking vistas.

On the cultural front, Ugandan cuisine is a delightful fusion of tradition and innovation. Savour "luwombo," a stew of meat or fish cooked in banana leaves with vegetables and spices, a staple of Ugandan cuisine. Enjoy "rolex," a popular street food consisting of an omelette rolled in a chapati, or try "matoke," steamed and mashed plantains served with a savoury sauce. Ugandan coffee, renowned for its rich and aromatic flavour, is a must-try for coffee enthusiasts.

Uganda's cultural tapestry is as rich as its natural beauty. The country is home to over 50 distinct ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions, music, dance, and crafts. The Baganda, the largest ethnic group, are known for their vibrant ceremonies and intricate bark cloth creations. Traditional dance and music performances, featuring instruments like the adungu (a type of harp) and the embaire (a large xylophone), provide a captivating insight into Uganda's cultural heritage.

From a cultural perspective, the vibrant capital city of Kampala is a destination worth exploring, offering a dynamic blend of urban experiences, cultural interactions, and historical exploration. Numerous tours are available to help visitors make the most of their time in this bustling city. From guided city tours that take you through the heart of Kampala, exploring its key landmarks and historical sites, to arts and food tours delving into the bustling markets and local art, music, and restaurant scene, there's something for everyone.

Get in touch to chat to us about putting together a Ugandan safari for your clients.