30 REASONS TO VISIT UGANDA IN 2024 FOR A SAFARI TOUR
Looking for reasons to take on a Uganda safari in 2024, look no further. Taking on a Uganda safari can be an incredible and rewarding experience. Located in the Eastern part of Africa, neighboring Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda is one of the best safari and tour destinations one should look up to in 2024. Also known as “The Pearl of Africa,” Uganda has tremendously developed her tourism industry lately. From the popular gorilla trekking safaris to lion tracking and birding safaris, 2024 must be the year for you to take on an incredible Uganda safari trip.
Are you planning a Uganda safari trip in 2024? Here are 30 reasons why you should consider embarking on a safari adventure in Uganda in 2024.
Important Note: These reasons have been compiled basing on our experience in conducting safaris not only in Uganda but also other countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, South Africa, to mention but a few. We have also based on the feedback we get from our previous clients. Check out our client safari reviews or Safari Booking and Trip Advisor.
30 Reasons to take on a Uganda safari in 2024
- Breathtaking wildlife
- Gorilla trekking
- Chimpanzee tracking
- Murchison Falls National Park
- Unique Wildlife Encounters
- Bird-watching paradise
- Scenic landscapes
- Authentic cultural experience
- Uganda’s friendliness and security
- Affordable safari options
- Off-the-beaten path adventure
- Boat safaris
- Pristine wilderness
- Game drives
- Nature walks and hiking
- Waterfall explorations
- Adventurous activities
- Primate habituation experiences
- Tree-climbing lions
- Night game drives
- Cultural festivals
- Hot springs
- Community-based tourism
- Conservation success stories
- Accessibility
- Photographic opportunities
- Educational value
- Responsible tourism
- Volunteering opportunities
- Unforgettable memories
Now that you have an insight into reasons why you should visit Uganda in 2024, let us dive into a detailed bit of it.
Breathtaking Wildlife
Uganda is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and numerous primate species such as chimpanzees and gorillas. Whether you are a first time visitor to Uganda or you are making a return trip, Uganda’s breathtaking wildlife encounters await.
Visiting any of Uganda’s national parks in 2024 is an opportunity for you to meet some of the rare species. Remember that Queen Elizabeth National park is one of the few national parks with the rare tree-climbing lions in Africa. Booking a safari to Queen Elizabeth national park in 2024 is a gateway to an everlasting safari experience. Meet the lions roaming the Ishasha sector or enjoying shade in the acacia trees of the park.
Uganda wildlife safaris can be tailor-made to fit your budget and expectations. Book a Uganda wildlife 2024 safari now and get an everlasting experience.
Gorilla Trekking
Uganda offers the opportunity to go on gorilla trekking expeditions in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This allows you to observe these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat.
Uganda is home to half of the world’s mountain gorilla population. Did you know that mountain gorillas, like human beings live in families? Each family comprising of about ten members headed by an adult male known as “Silverback.” Silverbacks are named so because they develop silver hair at their back as they grow old. Taking on a Uganda gorilla trekking seafaring in 2024 is an opportunity for you to learn the mysteries of these giant apes. From their feeding habits, to reproduction, communication, name it.
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable national park takes place daily in the four sectors of the park. These sectors are Nkuringo, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Buhoma. Each of these sectors is home to several gorilla families both habituated and non-habituated.
For those that would love more time with the gorillas, we recommend taking on a Uganda gorilla habituation safari. This is because, with gorilla habituation visitors spend more time with the gorilla family compared to the one hour spent in gorilla trekking.
Any travelers that might not be able to make it to Bwindi Impenetrable National park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for gorilla trekking, we recommend them to pass by the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC). Here, one gets an opportunity to see mountain gorillas, however not in their natural habitats.
Book a Uganda Gorilla safari for 2024 now and satisfy your curiosity.
Chimpanzee Tracking
More like gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking is yet another primate safari activity that Uganda has to offer in 2024. Kibale National Park is renowned for its chimpanzee tracking experiences, where you can witness these intelligent primates in their native forest environment. Chimpanzee tracking can also be done in Kyambura Gorge – Queen Elizabeth national park. The activity can also be done in Budongo forest near Murchison Falls National Park as well as Ngamba Islands Chimpanzee Sanctuary.
Taking on a Chimpanzee safari in 2024 is not restricted to primate experience, it is rather an opportunity for you to go birding. This is because, almost all the chimpanzee destinations in Uganda are birding spots. A case in point is the famous Bigodi wetland found in Kibale National park.
Book a Uganda Wildlife and Chimpanzee tracking safari Now and get an exceptional Uganda primate safari in 2024.
Murchison Falls National Park
Looking for where to start your Uganda safari in 2024, Murchison Falls National Park is all yours to explore. The park happens to be the oldest and largest national park in Uganda. Formerly known as Kabelega national park, Murchison Falls National Park has gained fame over the past decades. The park is home to the awe-inspiring Murchison Falls, where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge, creating a spectacular waterfall.
Quite a number of safari and tourism activities are done in Murchison Falls national park. These include among others but not limited to; wildlife safari game drives, nature walks, hike to the top of the falls, boat cruise, bungee jumping, biking, birding, fishing, and cycling. Close to the park is Budongo forest where one can take on a chimpanzee tracking experience to supplement their visit to the park.
Majority of the travelers do not want to miss the exceptional Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola while on their way to Murchison Falls national park.
Talk to a tour specialist and tailor your safari inclusive of Rhino tracking for the best safari experience in Uganda in 2024.
Unique Wildlife Encounters
Uganda might look smaller in size compared to Kenya and Tanzania. But look, Uganda is never small in experience. The country is home to mountain, forest and savannah parks. Each of these parks have got unique wildlife opportunities for their respective visitors.
On a Uganda safari, you can witness tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park and spot the rare shoebill stork in the swamps of Mabamba Bay. Additionally, Uganda is home to rare wildlife species some of which are restricted to a few safari destinations in the whole world. Needless to mention are the critically endangered mountain gorillas. These can be found in the Virunga massif – a chain of tropical mountainous forests. The Virunga massif comprises of Bwindi Impenetrable national park, Mgahinga Gorilla national park, Rwanda’s Volcanoes national park and Congo’s Virunga national park. All these parks can be explored in a single trip, talk to a travel specialist for your combined Uganda Rwanda and DRC Safari in 2024.
Birdwatching Paradise
Uganda boasts over 1,000 species of birds, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park are particularly popular for birdwatching. Needless to mention is the Semuliki national park whose nickname is “the true birders haven.”
It is important to note that some of the birds in Uganda are migratory and thus can be seen during particular seasons. This is why you need to plan your Uganda birding safari in 2024 with an experienced tour operator.
On the other hand, some of the bird species in Uganda can only be seen here and The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has categorized them as critically endangered.
Some of the bird species that can be spotted while on your Uganda birding safari include; African green broadbill, Shelley's Crimsonwing, and yellow-eyed black flycatcher, chocolate-backed kingfisher, African paradise flycatcher, red-tailed bristle bill, Congo serpent eagle, black-and-white casqued hornbill, and palm-nut vulture.
Scenic Landscapes
From the rolling savannahs of Kidepo Valley National Park to the mist-covered mountains of Rwenzori National Park, Uganda offers a diverse range of stunning landscapes to explore. Are you looking for a prime destination from where you can enjoy scenic views of the landscape in 2024? Take on a Uganda trip and make your dream come true. The general terrain of Uganda is a true reflection of beauty. Covered by lush green vegetation, and savannah plains especially the western wing. Be it the rolling hills of Kigezi covering districts of Kabale, Kisoro and Kanungu.
Take on a drive from Kampala to Queen Elizabeth national park via Kampala – Masaka - Mbarara – Kasese highway for exceptional landscape views. Do not miss hiking to the top of the world as well as visiting the crater lake region in Fort Portal.
Authentic Cultural Experiences
Uganda is home to over 50 indigenous tribes, each with its distinct traditions and customs. Engaging with local communities can provide a unique insight into their way of life. Each of these tribes in Uganda has got something unique to offer to visitors. From the entry point – Kampala, you are greeted by traditional women and men during the Buganda Kingdom tour. This tour gives you an opportunity to learn about history and traditions of Uganda. Take part in these activities such as preparing local meals like Luwombo.
In the deeper parts of the country, tourists get an opportunity to participate in other cultural activities. For instance, in Bwindi Impenetrable national park and Lake Bunyonyi, they get to interact with the Batwa. The Batwa are the indigenous dwellers of the areas stretching to eastern parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Batwa people will teach you how to make fire traditionally as well as hunting techniques. These people have not yet adapted to modern life. It is therefore to respect their culture during your visit.
Talking of indigenous cultures, we cannot fail to mention the Ik. The Ik is a small group of people living in the northern parts of Kidepo Valley National park. This is one of the tribes that are at the verge of extinction, it is believed that the Ik’s entire population is about 1000 individuals. These people speak a unique language and have deliberately refused to adapt to modern life. They claim that the best way to preserving their culture is rejecting modern culture which they call “western influence.”
Lastly, taking on a cultural tour in 2024 in Uganda, is a chance for you to meet the Banyankole of western Uganda. A trip to Lake Mburo national park gives you an opportunity to immerse yourself in the life of the Banyankole. Banyankole are famous for their long-horned cows which have been categorized among the UNESCO endangered species.
Book a Uganda cultural safari now and dive into the life beyond borders.
Uganda's Friendliness and security
Much as they say that “home is the best,” a trip to Uganda in 2024 might reveal something new. Ugandans are renowned for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature, ensuring that you feel at home throughout your safari adventure. The appropriate word to describe Ugandans is “Hospitable.” Right from the entrances of Uganda to the deeper remote areas, you will meet and greet hospitable people. Even if a Ugandan does not understand your language, they will do their best to make you feel at home.
It is important to learn some basic local words before embarking on a Uganda safari in 2024. One of the unique attributes of the country is it is easy to land on someone who speaks English, French, German, Chinese and other common languages across the globe. Additionally, many tour companies in Uganda have linguistic tour guides that can make communication in Uganda and easy venture.
Talking of security, Uganda is one of the safe countries in Africa and the world at large. With exception of a few political riots, Uganda has been a peaceful destination since 1970s. This is evidenced by the growing number of tourists in the country year after year. Additionally, Uganda’s tourism sector is a priority industry as it earns the country much revenue. This implies that security for tourists is a guarantee and a top priority. Several security bodies have been put in place to safeguard tourists during their stay in Uganda. For instance, tourism police and the Uganda Wildlife Authority Army is already in place.
However, much Uganda has put security measures for tourists in place, it is important to follow the guidelines closely. Prevention is better than cure, there are simple security measures that may supplement your safe stay in Uganda in 2024;
- Stay in touch with your country’s embassy or consulate in Uganda all the time
- Use a reliable tour operator in Uganda
- Make copies of your important travel documents such as visas, air tickets, etc.
- Respect the local cultures and communities in Uganda
- Stay in touch with your people at home
- Ask your tour operator for emergency contacts in case of emergency while in Uganda
- Follow park rules and regulations strictly
- Do not walk alone in the night
With these and many more safety precautions, your stay in Uganda becomes the best safari experience ever.
Affordable Safari Options
Compared to other popular safari destinations, Uganda offers relatively affordable options, making it an accessible choice for travelers on various budgets. Each safari destination in Uganda has three categories of accommodation namely; budget, mid-range and luxury or upmarket.
Additionally, most of the safari activities are cheaper than the closer destinations. For instance, a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda goes for $700 compared to that of Rwanda which is $1500.
Uganda also has many tour companies that can tailor your safari to easily fit your budget unlike many safari destinations where it is “take it or leave it.”
Book a Uganda budget safari for 2024 now and fly your wings beyond borders.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure
Uganda's national parks are often less crowded than those in neighboring countries, allowing you to enjoy a more exclusive and intimate wildlife experience.
With a professional tour operator, it is easy to go off-the-beaten path in Uganda. This is an opportunity for you to get an extraordinary safari experience. With such a safari, you get to learn and enjoy a safari destination. Uganda has got so many small attractions close to major safari destinations. These include cultural encounters, coffee and tea tours, simple hiking options. The beauty about these attractions are usually free of charge or go as much as $15.
Are you planning an off-the-beaten-path Uganda safari in 2024? Speak to a travel specialist here.
Boat Safaris
Several national parks in Uganda, such as Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park, offer boat safaris along their rivers, providing a unique perspective for wildlife viewing.
Taking on a Uganda boat cruise in 2024 is the best way to experience the aquatic life and species that the country has got to offer. Boat cruises in Uganda take place in the morning and afternoon. This makes them easy to put alongside safari game drives.
A morning boat cruise in a Uganda national park gives you an opportunity to enjoy scenic views as the sun rises. This is the best photographic moment for nature lovers.
Pristine Wilderness
Uganda is still relatively untouched by mass tourism, allowing you to explore unspoiled landscapes and encounter wildlife in its natural habitat. Are you looking for a prime safari destination where you can go into hiding from the daily huddles for some time? Uganda all yours to grab.
With Kidepo Valley national park as the most isolated national park in Uganda, you might look up to such a safari destination in 2024. The park offers some of the best accommodation facilities such as Apoka Rest Camp. This offers an ample space for you to hide out of the daily urban life.
Other pristine wildernesses in Uganda are Murchison falls and Lake Mburo national parks. Taking on a safari to these destinations will do you more good while experiencing the real breath of nature. Enjoy birds singing in an unperturbed manner. This is the best way to rejuvenate, meditate and get to a better shape.
Game Drives
Embark on thrilling game drives in Uganda's national parks, where you have the chance to spot a wide variety of wildlife, including the Big Five. Taking on a morning game drive in any of Uganda’s national park in 2024 is an opportunity for you to witness the early risers of the park. It is the best time for you to see hunters as they get back to their hiding places. A good example is a leopard. These are illusive species and do much of their chores in the night.
On the other hand, afternoon game drives in Uganda present opportunities for tourists to experience the wilderness in broad day light. They get to witness day hunters as well as grazers roam the parks. Clear views of animals, birds and plants are guaranteed on an afternoon game drive in Uganda. A picnic bush lunch is highly recommended for a greater experience.
Taking on a night game drive is equally a unique safari experience one should look up to on a Uganda safari in 2024. Night game drives are somewhat expensive compared to day game drive. But the experience is worth the price. A night game drive comes with great views night life in the wilderness. It is at such a time that one can see a group of lions hunting down a zebra or gazelle. With the help of a professional guide, night a night game drive on a Uganda safari can be a highlight of your 2024 safari trip.
Nature Walks and Hiking
Are you that traveler that likes getting out of your safari vehicle and walk? Uganda should be the destination to look up to in 2024. Many national parks in Uganda offer guided nature walks and hiking trails, allowing you to explore the wilderness on foot and appreciate the smaller aspects of the ecosystem.
Uganda hiking safari destinations for both difficult and easy hikers. This is why you need a professional tour operator to organize your Uganda hiking safari in 2024. Taking on a nature walk is one of the ways to relax in nature, feel the breeze and touch on the green lush with your hands. It is here that you ask any questions about nature and get all the answers. What an opportunity for you to learn during your Uganda trip safari!
Waterfall Exploration
In addition to Murchison Falls, Uganda is home to several other stunning waterfalls, such as Sipi Falls and Karuma Falls, offering picturesque sights and the chance to cool off in natural pools.
Uganda’s waterfalls offer scenic photographic opportunities. This is in addition to an ample space for meditation, relaxation and scenery viewing. Imagine staying at an accommodation facility close to a waterfall! All you hear is nature and a beautiful sound of the rolling waters.
At these waterfalls, animals and birds converge, this is a prime opportunity for you to see the fauna thus blessing your trip safari.
Book a trip to Murchison Falls national park here.
Adventurous Activities
Talking of adventurous safari activities, Uganda is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. You can enjoy activities like white-water rafting on the Nile, zip-lining, bungee jumping, and quad biking. All these activities can be got in a single trip during your Uganda safari. All you need is a professional Uganda safari guide to organize your trip in 2024. Jinja is one of those places you should look up to while planning your Uganda 2024 adventure safari. Remember, this is the source of the world’s longest river – River Nile.
A trip to Jinja can easily be combine with other safari activities such as Uganda gorilla trekking safaris and Uganda wildlife safari trips.
Primate Habituation Experiences
Certain national parks in Uganda offer primate habituation experiences, where you can spend an extended period of time with chimpanzees or golden monkeys, gaining a deeper understanding of their behavior.
Gorilla habituation in Bwindi Impenetrable national park is an opportunity for you to spend more time with these apes. You get to learn more about their lives and behavior.
Book a Uganda Gorilla habituation safari and create a signature of memories.
Tree-Climbing Lions
Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its unique population of tree-climbing lions, allowing for remarkable wildlife sightings. Tree-climbing lions are some of the endangered species. These can be easily seen in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth national park. Here, you get a chance to lions hunt down a buffalo. Lion tracking in Uganda is watching National Geographic right in the palm of your hands.
With the help of a professional guides, tracking lions in Uganda is made an easy safari activity. Book your 2024 lion tracking NOW.
Night Game Drives
A Uganda safari is incomplete without taking on a night game drive safari. The uniqueness of a Uganda night game drive can only be testified by someone who has undertaken it before.
Kidepo Valley National Park permits night game drives, providing a rare opportunity to spot nocturnal wildlife in action.
Cultural Festivals
Throughout the year, Uganda hosts various cultural festivals, such as the Imbalu circumcision ceremony of the Bagisu people or the vibrant Nyege Nyege Music Festival, offering a chance to immerse yourself in local traditions and celebrations. These Cultural festivals are a gateway to connecting with people beyond borders. You immerse yourself in the activities of Uganda’s culture while experiencing a spectacular night life.
It is important to stay in touch with your local tour operator in Uganda for updates on the ongoing and upcoming Uganda cultural festivals. This helps you in answering questions of “when” and “where” to go.
Hot Springs
Semuliki National Park is home to hot springs with healing properties. You can enjoy a soothing dip in these natural thermal pools. Visiting a hot spring during your 2024 Uganda safari is yet another opportunity to learn. There is a traditional health value that these hos springs carry in Uganda. It is believed that some illnesses get cured after washing yourself in these hot springs.
Other than the traditional value held by these hot springs, they are a reliable birding destinations. A case in point is the popular Semuliki national park (also known as The True Birders Haven). The park is home to the magnificent Sempaya hot springs. Quite a number of bird species dwell in the areas near the hot springs. Some of these bird species near include; the Congo serpent eagle, hornbills, turacos, cuckoos, Rwenzori turaco, black-and-white casqued hornbill. The palm-nut vulture, blue-breasted kingfisher, African dwarf kingfisher and African pied hornbill.
Community-based Tourism
Uganda promotes community-based tourism initiatives, allowing you to support local communities directly and contribute to their sustainable development.
Community-based tourism is one of the key things that should make you visit Uganda in 2024. Imagine a country where your money spent during your safari is meant to support a family of children. For instance, 10% of the proceeds from our safaris go directly to our child sponsorship project. The project operates in the areas of Kabale where blind children get school fees and other scholastic materials. This is called impact travel, something that you should consider being part of during your 2024 safari adventure.
There are many other ways community-based tourism is being practiced in Uganda. Planting trees in every safari destination is yet another way of supporting the community through environmental conservation.
Additionally, taking on a Uganda community tour is another way of participating in Uganda’s community-based tourism. A case in point is the famous Batwa community tours in Bwindi Impenetrable national park and Lake Bunyonyi. During such tours, travelers give back to the local members of the communities. This is why we encourage you to spare some $10 for tipping local members of the communities. This is a motivation to support their co-existence with wildlife and benefit from their conservation efforts.
Book a Uganda Community Tour Now and get and participate in Uganda’s community-based tourism.
Conservation Success Stories
Uganda has made significant strides in wildlife conservation, particularly in protecting endangered species such as mountain gorillas. It is evident that Uganda is home to some of the world’s endangered species (both birds and animals). Back in the days, conservation efforts were minimal due to factors like insecurities and limited marketing. As of 2023, Uganda has realized a tremendous shift in as far as conservation is concerned. For instance, Uganda is home to half of the world’s total mountain gorilla population. This is in addition to other species such as the rare tree-climbing lions, several monkey species and multiple bird species.
By visiting Uganda in 2024, you contribute to these conservation efforts while creating a signature of memories.
Accessibility
Uganda is relatively easy to access, with international flights landing at Entebbe International Airport. From there, you can explore the country's national parks and attractions via well-maintained road networks.
Additionally, Uganda is the one East African country that can be accessed from every other angle. The strategic location of Uganda right in the heart of East Africa makes it an easy-to-access safari destination. This implies that whether you are from the north, east, west or south, you can easily connect to Uganda. Forget about Uganda being landlocked (having no direct access to a sea or ocean), one can easily connect to the Indian Ocean through Kenya or Tanzania. This makes it easy for any travelers to combine Uganda safaris with other Africa safari itineraries. Book yourself a combine East Africa safari now.
Remember that with any visa of any East African country, entrance to Uganda is easy. You may as well obtain a Uganda visa right from the airport.
Photographic Opportunities
With its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, Uganda offers ample opportunities for photographers to capture breathtaking images of wildlife, landscapes, and cultural experiences.
Are you a photographer, nature lover or just a traveler that loves memorable pictures? Uganda should be on your 2024 travel destinations list. Taking a picture at the Uganda Equator, Murchison falls or River Nile is something you deserve.
Book a Uganda photography safari and turn your moments into memories.
Educational Value
A Uganda safari provides a valuable educational experience, allowing you to learn about different ecosystems, wildlife behavior, and conservation efforts firsthand.
What can we say about learning during your Uganda 2024 safari! An opportunity to learn about cultural differences, nature and ecosystems is all here. With the help of a professional guide, your Uganda 2024 safari becomes a lecture room in the wilderness. We highly recommend taking on a Uganda safari, if you are a researcher, intern, or a fresh college graduate.
Responsible Tourism
Uganda places a strong emphasis on responsible tourism practices, ensuring that wildlife and natural habitats are protected and local communities benefit from tourism activities. Responsible tourism is meant to create a harmonious co-existence of human beings and nature. It is also meant to support conservation efforts as well as reducing carbon emissions during your travel.
It is important to adhere to the guideline and regulations governing tourism in Uganda. Do your best to reduce carbon emissions during your stay in Uganda. Do not feed birds and animals unless told to do so. With these in place, your 2024 Uganda safari will be the best of its kind.
Volunteering Opportunities
If you are interested in making a positive impact, Uganda offers various volunteering opportunities, such as working with local conservation organizations or supporting community development projects.
There is quite a number of organizations that offer volunteer opportunities in Uganda. Majority of these organizations work hand-in-hand with tour companies. This means that you can take on a Uganda wildlife safari during your volunteering period in Uganda. Volunteering in Uganda in 2024 is such a great opportunity for you to give back while exploring the country.
Book a Uganda 2024 Volunteering safari trip here.
Unforgettable Memories
Finally, a Uganda safari promises to create memories that will last a lifetime. The unique encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural experiences will leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.
In a nutshell, embarking on a Uganda safari offers an array of compelling reasons to choose this destination for your next adventure in 2024. From the opportunity to witness incredible wildlife, including gorillas and chimpanzees, to exploring diverse landscapes and engaging with local cultures, Uganda provides a unique and unforgettable experience. With its affordability, off-the-beaten-path appeal, and commitment to responsible tourism, Uganda offers an authentic and immersive safari adventure. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, nature lover, adventure seeker, or cultural explorer, Uganda has something extraordinary to offer. So, pack your bags, embrace the beauty of Uganda, and create memories that will last a lifetime on a remarkable safari journey.
Remember to always prioritize ethical and sustainable practices during your safari to minimize your impact on the environment and contribute positively to the local communities and wildlife conservation efforts.