Uganda Safari Tours
Nicknamed the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda shines with stunning greenery, deep lakes, soaring mountains and perhaps the greatest natural treasure of all - half of the world's last remaining mountain gorilla population. On an A&K Uganda gorilla safari, travel deep into the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and see these incredible, endangered creatures from closer than you ever thought possible.
While other tour operators may get you to Uganda, A&K delivers you into gorilla country: A&K guests lodge in Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, the only camp located within the Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From this luxurious home base, set off on daily gorilla treks to track down these magnificent mammals at their most natural, a rare sight experienced by only the most fortunate. An even luckier few might see them within the Gorilla Forest Camp - there are no barriers, redefining any close encounter you have ever had with wildlife.
Beyond the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, visit Kibale Forest National Park, known for having the highest primate density of any other region on earth. In Queen Elizabeth National Park, spot plains game, including the rare Uganda kob, Cape buffalo and lions.
Let Karagwe Tours and Safaris show you a different kind of gorilla trekking safari in Uganda.
Country and Culture
Bordering Kenya, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Tanzania, much of the landscape of Uganda is covered by lakes - but that doesn’t stop visitors from being able to enjoy it. Much of the tourism in Uganda is built upon the natural and wildlife experiences, with safaris a top seller among those seeking mammal experiences and birding adventures.
The landscape of Uganda is, therefore, highly protected - with 60 areas under full protection to include the 10 national parks (two of which are also UNESCO world heritage sites).
And it’s not all animals and wildlife. With great weather all year round and a plethora of community and cultural experiences that invite tourists to immerse themselves in authentic Ugandan life, this is a country where you really do get a flavour of how everyday life looks for locals.
The presence of the river Nile through Uganda opens the tourist trade up to a range of additional activities and opportunities - from white water rafting to canoeing, jet boating, and so much more. For those who aren’t such big fans of water, the surrounding mountains present climbing adventures, or you can simply bask in the warm sunlight on solid ground. Uganda really is a place where there’s something for everyone.
The Environment
With much of its natural landscape untouched, Uganda may be popular with tourists, but many visitors are delighted to note that it is largely uninhibited by their presence. That is, footfall may be high but the respect for the environment remains a top priority.
With all manner of land and sea experiences open to visitors, some of the top safari destinations include:
• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - a national park which blends safari experiences with a chance to meet the Batwa people of the Bwindi jungle.
• Murchison Falls National Park - famously home to the Big 5.
• Kibale National Park
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Lake Mburo National Park
• Kidepo National Park
With ten parks in total, each boasts its own selling point and unique aspect for visitors. Plus, for those seeking a sweet treat and some local cuisine, Uganda is also the second best country in the world for growing bananas thanks to its warm climate and high amounts of rainfall.
Safari Experience
Most travellers who stop in Uganda will hope to take part in or book onto a safari at some point, but with so many national parks on offer and so many different species of wildlife and bird life out there, knowing what to look for and where can feel a bit overwhelming. That’s why finding a reputable and high quality safari company is the best way to help you tick all of your safari experience boxes in Uganda
Some of the top animals you can expect to see in Uganda include:
Elephant
Lion
Rhino
Leopard
Mountain Gorilla
Buffalos
Chimpanzee
When you’re not out searching for the perfect photo or booking yourself onto one of the many gorilla trekking experiences which will get you up close and personal to the rare and endangered species, Uganda has a whole host of alternative experiences on offer including relaxing and adventurous activities both inland and on the many lakes across the country.
Tourist Information
When it comes to planning your trip to Uganda, for many it is a matter of where and when to see the animals and wildlife - and for the most part, it is recommended that you try and book your visit during the dry months of the year when the animals are most likely to be roaming freely.
As such, the peak season for safari-goers is between December and February, and between June and August. This is also the best and most consistent time for gorilla trekking as the animals are easier to spot through the drier vegetation, and experiences are less likely to be called off due to rainfall.
Arriving in Uganda will see you land at Entebbe International Airport, which is located just off the banks of the expansive Lake Victoria. From here, you can travel to your desired destination by car or local plane, with the national parks of Uganda spread out across the country.