Seven Things to do in Uganda

Uganda has rightly been called ‘The Pearl of Africa’. In fact, National Geographic channel has named it amongst the top 20 tourist destinations for 2013. Besides Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda has been steadily coming on the list of Safari Goers. Rain forests, glaciers, and lakes are only some of the attractions of Uganda. Uganda is a playground for adventurous tourists who want to make their trip the time of their lives.

1. Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the wonders of Uganda which plays host to a wide variety of eco systems such as forests, meadows, flora and fauna, savannah, and swamps. Multiple species of animals reside within this park which includes the famous tree climbing lion, Uganda kob, antelopes, elephants and the list goes on. It also boasts of an amazing collection of birds making it the ideal picnic spot for bird watchers. Some of these birds are the black bee-eater, the kingfisher, Shoebill storks, falcons, eagles, and raptors.

Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park

2. Behold at the Majestic Mgahinga Gorilla

Uganda has been known for its Gorillas. Mgahinga Gorilla is the home to one of the endangered types of mountain Gorilla. It is situated high above the Virunga Mountains. The leopard, giant forest hog, bushbuck, buffalo, and golden monkey are also some of the attractions of this spot.

Gorilla

3. Hike Mount Elgon

Mount Elgon is a dead volcano on Uganda’s eastern border. The volcano is fascinating to explore with its caves, bewitching waterfall, and hot springs. Birdlife and wildlife also account for the beauty of the volcano.

Seven Things to do in Uganda

4. Trek Rwenzori Mountains

If you’re up for some thrilling mountain trekking, then Rwenzori Mountains will not disappoint you. Rwenzori Mountains have been labelled as the ‘Mountains of the Moon’. Some peaks of these mountains are covered with white snow while others are covered with rainforests. The third highest mountain of Africa, Mt. Maagherita is also among the Rwenzori Mountains. This mountain is 5100 meters above sea level. The chimpanzees, blue monkey, hyrax, and giant forest hog are among some of the wildlife which can be found here.

Rwenzori Mountains

5. White Water Rafting

If you want more excitement, then head to source of the river Nile near the Jinja Town for white water rafting. The river is rapid from 10km of its starting point with epic scenery and relaxation points. The tours offer a half day, full day, or 2 days rafting adventure.

White Water Rafting (on The Nile)

6. Fishing

Fishing is another leisure activity which you should do while you’re in Uganda. It is usually done in Lake Victoria and Murchison Falls National Park. You could compete with your friends to catch the Nile Perch, which is the largest fresh water game fish in the world. If you get really lucky, you might end up catching it.

Done fishing on the Nile

7. Check out Ndere Center

Apart from wildlife and safaris, Uganda is also famous for its culture and African tribes. The best place to see this culture as a show is at Ndere Center in Kampala where you’ll see dances and performances, listen to music, jokes etc. all shown in Ugandan style. The food served here is appetizing comprising of local dishes and BBQ buffet.

Ndere Center

Have you been to Uganda? Feel free to share your tips and recommendations.

Photo Credits (Flickr & Wikimedia CC):Queen Elizabeth National Park by jnorton/ Gorilla by Roger Luijten/ Mt. Elgon by Kristina/ Nile River by PeterJBellis/ Nile Fishing by sanjoyg/ Ndere Center by Annabelle Orozco/ Rwenzori Mountains by Jorn Eriksson