Activities in Uganda are predominantly focused around its wildlife and the picturesque landscapes that can be found throughout this entire African nation. Still, each region has its own magnificent things to offer. Western Uganda has the largest population of gorillas and chimpanzees, while northern Uganda is the perfect place to go on a safari to spot an endless amount of African wildlife. Mount Elgon National Park in eastern Uganda boasts over 400 species of plant life and separates the country from neighboring Kenya.
The African Great Lakes and Victoria Nile offer a wealth of activities and are popular spots for water loving tourists. Rafters and kayakers can go on a challenging journey along the Nile, while boaters can spot some fascinating wildlife while enjoying a ride on Lake Mburo, Lake Albert or Lake Edward. Uganda also has plenty of opportunities for hiking along nature trails or into the mountains.
Bamboo Ecotours specializes in gorilla trekking tours through western Uganda. Visitors can chose to explore the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park or can spend a few days in the area and go on a tour of both of these popular parks.
Visitors who wish to see other wildlife such as elephants, lions, giraffes and buffalos can go on a guided safari in the Kidepo Valley National Park through The Uganda Safari Company, a family run company that has won awards for its superb eco-tourism and specializes in tailor-made tours. Asyanut Safaris and Travel offers car hire safari tours for those that wish to venture off on their own.
As the name suggests, Nile River Explorers offers rafting trips along the Nile as well as cruises for those less adventurous. They offer half-day, full day and two day grade five rafting along this famous Uganda River, using safe 14-foot rafts. Adrift is another reputable company that offers white water rafting excursions along the river.
For a more relaxing journey, boating on Lake Bunyoni through Jajama Panorama is a blast. The company offers motor-boat tours around Uganda’s lake, or those that are more fit can opt to go canoeing. Wild Frontiers, on the other hand, takes visitors on boat cruises along the Nile and into the Murchison Falls National Park.
Wild Frontiers also offers fishing trips in the massive Lake Victoria. This African Great Lake is 68,800 square kilometers and is home to over 500 species of fish. Fishing is available throughout the year except in April and May when the rain is quite heavy. Some operators organize a fishing safari, such as Uyapi and Active African Vacations. These mainly take place both in Lake Victoria and along the Nile in the Murchison Falls National Park.
Some companies, such as Merit Safaris, include excursions to the islands and beaches in Lake Victoria such as the beautiful Ssese Islands, including Buggala Island, Bukasa Island and Bulago Island. Faith Tours & Safaris also does this tour, but includes the Tanzanian Rubondo Island National Park on its journey.
Rwenzori National Park and Mount Elgon are two premier hiking destinations in Uganda. Most guided hikes take a few days and take hikers to the peaks of Mount Margherita, Mount Speke and Mount Baker, which are the three highest peaks in the Rwenzori National Park. Rwenzori Mountaineering Services specializes in this area, while companies such as Access Uganda Tours and Pearl of Africa Tours and Travels offer guided hiking tours of Mount Elgon and other national parks throughout the country.