Since Rwanda announced it was to increase the price of its Gorilla Trekking permits by fifty percent in 2017, tourism to neighbouring Uganda has grown exponentially.

Home of the Bwindi Impenetrable Rainforest, the Rwenzori Mountain Range, the mighty Murchison Falls, the Tree Climbing Lions of Ishasha, the wildlife rich Kazinga Channel, and some of the last remaining Mountain Gorillas in the world, Uganda is more than an awe-inspiring holiday destination, it is the Pearl of Africa, and if you are looking for a true African experience in 2018, Uganda should be right up there at the top of your Bucket List.

Image rights: Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International

While it is possible to travel throughout Uganda independently, it is not as advanced as many African countries, and so many visitors prefer to explore on a small group escorted tour. Whether you decide to go it alone, or join an organised trip, there are some places you simply shouldn’t miss, such as our Top 5 Must See Attractions in Uganda:

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

A highlight of any trip to Uganda, Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Rainforest is a once in a lifetime experience. While costly (gorilla trekking permits cost $600 USD per person per day), all money raised goes towards the protection of the Mountain Gorillas of Uganda, and so it really is a worthwhile cause. Gorilla trekking permits are strictly limited to just a small group of visitors each day, and so it is essential that you book your permits at least 3 – 4 months in advance, and prior to confirming your travel arrangements.

Murchison Falls

A rare opportunity to see the mighty River Nile forcing its way through a narrow gap, before making its way west to the Lake Albert Delta, Murchison Falls is a sight to behold. The Murchison Falls National Park if full of wildlife including elephants and hippos, and it is one of the few places in the world where you can spot the extremely rare (and ugly!) Shoebill Stork. Cruises along the River Nile and hikes to the top of the falls are available for adventurous travellers.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

There is so much to see and do in Queen Elizabeth National Park that you could easily spend a week there during your trip to Uganda. You can enjoy a game drive in search for lions, elephants, buffalos and warthogs, take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, and visit the Ishasha Sector, famous for its tree climbing lions.

Kibale National Park

Described as ‘a dream come true for primate fans’ Kibale Forest National Park is bursting with colobus monkeys, rare red-tailed monkeys and over 1,000 chimpanzees. You can enjoy a guided hike here or a chimpanzee trekking tour, don’t forget your cameras!

Lake Victoria

Named after our very own Queen Victoria, Lake Victoria is one of the Great Lakes of Africa. Sharing its borders with Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya, this magnificent lake remains the chief reservoir of the River Nile, and so it is steeped in history and natural charm. Here, you can take a fishing trip, go on a lake ‘safari’, or simply spend the afternoon enjoying a BBQ on the banks of this exquisite lake.