Things To Do
in Uganda
Uganda, often called the Pearl of Africa, is a land of lush rainforests, towering volcanic peaks, and the mighty Nile. It offers a remarkable spectrum of experiences from gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga to epic safari landscapes in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls. Its welcoming people, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage make it a destination where adventure and warmth go hand in hand.
With diverse habitats, Uganda rewards visitors with dramatic scenery, abundant wildlife, and a deep sense of connection to nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon landing at Entebbe International Airport, you'll be greeted by the warm Ugandan sun and the friendly faces of your hosts. After checking into your accommodation, take some time to relax and get acclimatized to the local atmosphere. A stroll along the shores of Lake Victoria offers stunning views and a chance to connect with the natural beauty of Uganda.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, savoring Ugandan delicacies like matoke and posho. After eating, visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre to encounter rescued animals and learn about conservation efforts in the country. The interactive exhibits and friendly guides will give you a deeper appreciation for Uganda's wildlife.
As the sun sets, dine at a local eatery where you can taste authentic Ugandan cuisine. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Entebbe as you mingle with locals. Take a peaceful walk along the lake, enjoying the serene sounds of nature.
After breakfast, embark on a short transfer to the bustling capital city of Kampala. Along the way, observe the everyday life of Ugandans in their vibrant communities, with markets overflowing with fresh produce and cheerful chatter. Stop at the historic independence monument to capture some memorable photos.
Lunch at a restaurant in Kampala offers an exciting menu with both local and international dishes. Post-lunch, visit the Uganda Museum to delve into the rich history and culture of Uganda through its extensive exhibits. The museum showcases artifacts that reflect the diverse tribes and traditions of the country.
Head to the vibrant neighborhood of Nakawa for dinner, exploring the variety of street food available. Engage with friendly locals and perhaps try your hand at traditional Ugandan games. Experience lively music and dance performances, immersing yourself in the cultural heartbeat of Kampala.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-120 |
| 🚕Short city taxi ride | $2-5 |
| 🎟️National park entry or safari activity | $20-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning wildlife and scenery
- Friendly people and strong cultural experiences
- Good infrastructure in major towns and parks
- Accessible short-haul flights within East Africa
- Developing road conditions in rural areas
- Seasonal malaria risk and tropical diseases
- Some remote areas require careful planning and permits
- Seasonal rains can disrupt travel plans
- "Oli otya?" - How are you?
- "Webale" - Thank you
- "Webale nnyo" - Thank you very much
- "Nsanyuse okukuwona" - Nice to meet you
- "Togenda kubasaba?" - May I take your photo?
Places to Visit in Uganda
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush rainforest and misty gorges—epic gorilla-trekking landscapes and intimate wildlife moments.
The Nile rages through a narrow gorge, delivering dramatic spray and the iconic Murchison Falls for powerful photo moments.
Terraced hillsides, emerald water and dugout canoes create tranquil, postcard-perfect scenes.
Three-tier waterfall set against dramatic cliffs—great for waterfall photography and canyon views.
Historic royal grounds with traditional architecture and intricate carvings; excellent for architectural photography.
Food in Uganda
Uganda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed plantains served with a rich peanut sauce; a family favorite and widely available in casual eateries.
Must-Try!
A traditional stew wrapped in banana leaves, often featuring chicken, beef, or mushrooms; full-flavored and deeply Ugandan.
Maize meal with stewed beans; a filling staple found in most local homes and eateries.
Street-food classic: an omelette rolled in a chapati; easy to find at market stalls and roadside shacks.
Cornmeal or maize meal served with a spicy peanut sauce or greens; common in rural and urban eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Colorful market with fruits, vegetables, fabrics and street foods like roasted maize and rolex.
Produce-focused market offering fresh fruit, vegetables, spices and traditional snacks.
Various neighborhoods offer quick bites: matooke stalls, roasted maize, and goat skewers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a smile and a handshake; use titles like 'Mzee' for older men or 'Nnyabo' for women when appropriate.
Cover shoulders and knees in rural areas and when visiting religious sites; remove shoes if requested when entering homes or mosques.
Ask before photographing people, especially in villages or ceremonies.
Building rapport matters; small favors and courtesy go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Uganda
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; ride-sharing drivers might expect small tips; guides and porters commonly receive tips. In nicer restaurants, a 5–10% tip is customary.
Cash (UGX) is widely used; many hotels accept cards; mobile money (MTN/Uganda) is ubiquitous for day-to-day payments and tips; ATMs are common in cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect frequent showers and muddy trails; plan for flexible itineraries, rain gear, and this period can offer lush, dramatic scenery.
Often the best for gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing in many parks; sunny days and cooler mornings—dress in layers.
Intermittent showers; easier to travel than the peak long rains but still carry a waterproof layer.
Pleasant weather with lower rainfall; good for safaris, hikes, and beachside days on Lake Victoria.
Uganda at Night
Hiking in Uganda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Spectacular trekking routes through alpine landscapes and glaciered peaks.
A scenic hike with viewpoints overlooking the falls and surrounding valleys.
Rugged slopes, caves, and forest trails suitable for day hikes and multi-day treks.
Charming crater lakes and rolling farmland ideal for easy hikes and photography.
Airports
How to reach Uganda by plane.
Uganda’s main international gateway; located near Entebbe, about 40 km from Kampala; major airlines and connections across Africa and beyond.
Small airstrip serving domestic flights and air ambulance; used for cross-country routes and private charters.
Regional airport serving the far north; used for domestic connections and access to Kidepo and Murchison areas.
Airport near Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi areas; supports domestic light aircraft and regional travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in central Uganda; rich cultural traditions and influence in urban centers.
Northern and western groups known for diverse dialects and traditions.
People in the eastern regions with distinct language and customs.
Luganda is widely used in urban centers and education; serves as a lingua franca.
Communities in the southwest with strong crafts and farming traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Uganda, followed passionately in stadiums and on television.
Growing in popularity, with local clubs and national team participation.
Widespread amateur leagues and a growing following, especially in universities.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Ugandan dishes are plant-based or can be made vegetarian; ask for vegetarian versions of matooke, beans and greens; avoid meat broths in soup and request vegetable stock.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Uganda.