Things To Do
in Uganda
Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” is a landlocked country in East Africa celebrated for its diverse landscape that encompasses the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains and immense Lake Victoria. Its abundant wildlife includes chimpanzees as well as rare birds, and the remote Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a renowned sanctuary for mountain gorillas.
Rich in cultures and languages, Uganda showcases a tapestry of over 40 ethnic groups, offering a vibrant mix of traditions, dances, and cuisines.
- "Oli otya" - How are you?
- "Webale n'amaani" - Thank you very much
- "Nkwagala" - I love you
- "Buli kimu" - Everything is okay
- "Tukole musana" - Let's work together
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Uganda Museum to learn about the country's rich history. Enjoy a traditional Ugandan breakfast at a local café nearby.
Head to Makerere University for a stroll around the beautiful campus and admire the architecture. After that, visit the bustling Owino Market for a taste of local life.
Relax at a local restaurant and enjoy some Ugandan dishes like matoke and Rolex. You can also check out live music performances that often take place in the city.
Begin your day with a thrilling white-water rafting experience on the Nile River. Enjoy the scenic views and adrenaline rush as you navigate the rapids.
After rafting, take a leisurely cruise on the Nile to spot wildlife and appreciate the stunning landscape. You can also visit the Source of the Nile for some great photo opportunities.
Dine at a riverside restaurant with a view of the Nile. Cap off your day by enjoying a bonfire while sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity with numerous national parks and wildlife reserves.
- Beautiful landscapes including lakes, mountains, and forests.
- Cultural diversity with over 50 ethnic groups, offering unique traditions and cuisines.
- Friendly and welcoming people.
- Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture, tourism, and technology.
- Challenges with infrastructure, particularly in rural areas.
- Political instability and issues related to governance.
- High levels of poverty and unemployment in certain regions.
- Health challenges, including high rates of HIV/AIDS and malaria.
- Limited access to quality education and healthcare services.
Best Activities in Uganda
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Explore Uganda's diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes by going on a safari in national parks such as Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo Valley.
Experience the thrill of navigating the powerful rapids of the Nile River in Jinja, known as one of the best white-water rafting destinations in the world.
Discover the beauty of Uganda's scenery and wildlife by going on hikes and nature walks in places like the Rwenzori Mountains, Mount Elgon, and the Sipi Falls.
Uganda is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 1,000 bird species to be spotted in various habitats including wetlands, savannas, and forests.
Tours
Uncover the best of Uganda with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Uganda
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of lush rainforests and is known for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, providing a unique photo opportunity.
Known for its diverse landscapes including savanna, crater lakes, and the dramatic Rwenzori Mountains, offering various picturesque views for photography.
Famous for its powerful waterfall and the Nile River, providing great opportunities for capturing the beauty of the falls and the wildlife along the riverbanks.
Food in Uganda
Uganda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Matoke is a popular dish made from steamed green bananas, often mashed and served with a rich stew of meat and vegetables. One can easily find this dish in local market stalls and restaurants across Uganda.
Must-Try!
Ugali, a type of maize porridge, is a staple food in Uganda. It is often served alongside stews and grilled meats, and can be found at most local eateries.
A unique Ugandan street food, Rolex is a chapati (flatbread) rolled around an omelet, sometimes filled with vegetables and meat. It's a popular grab-and-go snack sold by street vendors and in local markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Uganda better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Kampala, Owino Market is one of the largest markets in Uganda and offers a vibrant street food scene. Here, visitors can sample a variety of local dishes, fresh fruits, and snacks amidst the bustling atmosphere.
Kabale Market in southwestern Uganda is renowned for its fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, and grains. The market also features an array of street food stalls offering flavorful local delicacies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Uganda, it is important to show respect for elders by using appropriate titles and gestures, such as bowing or kneeling to greet them.
Greetings are an important aspect of Ugandan culture. It is customary to greet people with enthusiasm and take time to inquire about their well-being before engaging in other conversations.
Gift giving is a common practice in Uganda and it is considered polite to present gifts when visiting someone's home or as a token of appreciation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Uganda with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Uganda
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Uganda, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill, but it is still common to leave a small additional tip for the server. Tipping for other services, such as tour guides or taxi drivers, is also appreciated.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Uganda, and credit/debit cards are not widely accepted, especially outside of major cities. It's important to carry enough cash for transactions. Mobile money services, such as M-Pesa, are also commonly used for payments and transfers.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Uganda.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time for viewing wildlife, gorilla trekking, and general touring. Expect warm temperatures and clear skies.
Lush green landscapes, good for birdwatching and lower accommodation prices. Expect occasional rain and muddy roads.
Great for birdwatching and general touring. Expect dusty conditions and warm temperatures.
Uganda at Night
Hiking in Uganda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Known for its stunning glacial peaks and diverse ecosystems, the Rwenzori Mountains offer various hiking trails ranging from beginner to expert levels, including the famous Margherita Peak.
This park features several trails through beautiful landscapes, including the scenic Crater Lake region, providing opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting.
With its ancient volcanic formations, Mount Elgon provides a variety of hiking trails, including the Sasa Trail leading to the summit, which offers spectacular views and unique flora.
Ideal for nature walks and short hikes, Lake Mburo boasts beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife, allowing adventurers to explore on foot while appreciating the scenery.
Famous for its chimpanzee tracking, Kibale also offers hiking opportunities through lush rainforests, with trails that allow visitors to experience the rich biodiversity.
The park features several walking trails that lead to stunning views of the Murchison Falls, offering a unique perspective of this powerful waterfall and its surrounding wildlife.
Known for its hot springs and diverse habitats, Semuliki provides various hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the rich biodiversity and unique attractions of the area.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Uganda through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Uganda by plane.
The main airport serving Uganda, located in Entebbe, near the capital city Kampala.
Located in Nairobi, Kenya, this is the busiest airport in East Africa and serves as a major international hub.
Located in Kigali, Rwanda, this airport is a key gateway to East Africa.
Located in Zanzibar, Tanzania, this airport connects to several international destinations.
The key airport serving Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and provides international flights across Africa and beyond.
Located in Casablanca, Morocco, it serves as a hub for flights between Africa and Europe.
Located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, this airport is a major hub for international travel in Africa.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Uganda, primarily found in the Central region around Kampala.
A major group that includes various tribes such as the Basoga, Bakiga, and Banyankore, spread across different regions.
An ethnic group mainly located in the northern parts of Uganda.
A pastoralist group residing in the northeastern part of Uganda.
Primarily found in the northern region of Uganda, known for their agricultural practices.
Residents of the northern region, known for their rich cultural heritage.
A group that has connections with Rwanda, found mainly in the southwestern region.
Related to the Karamoja group but specifically identified with a distinct culture and lifestyle.
An ethnic group from the eastern region, known for their agricultural contributions.
The Soul of Uganda
Discover the essence of Uganda through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Uganda, played at both professional and community levels. The national team, known as the Cranes, has a passionate following.
Gaining popularity in recent years, rugby has a strong following with both men's and women's teams competing in regional and international tournaments.
Cricket is growing in popularity, with Uganda having a national team that competes in various international competitions.
Track and field events are popular, especially long-distance running, with several athletes having gained international recognition.
Basketball is rapidly gaining popularity in urban areas and schools, with local leagues and a national team participating in international competitions.
A popular sport particularly among women and girls, netball has a strong local league and a national team.
Both beach and indoor volleyball are enjoyed, with national teams competing regionally.
Boxing has a rich history in Uganda and has produced several renowned boxers over the years.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat is prominent in Ugandan cuisine, many restaurants and markets offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, often featuring plantains, lentils, and a variety of vegetables. Choices include dishes like matoke, vegetable stews, and bean-based meals.
Gluten-free options are available at some restaurants, typically in the form of rice-based dishes, grilled meats, and naturally gluten-free local specialties. It's advisable for individuals with gluten intolerance to communicate their dietary needs clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Uganda with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Uganda.