"The safari circuit through western Uganda is arguably the most exciting in Africa, and certainly the most biodiverse. Sharing ecological affiliations with the West African rainforest and East African savannah, this best-of-both-worlds circuit staggers with its variety, which encompasses gorilla- and chimpanzee-tracking, game drives in search of elephants and tree-climbing lions, and boat trips along scenic waterways alive with hippos, crocodiles and birds. ”
- Philip Briggs
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PLAN MY JOURNEYUganda
Uganda harbours a remarkable diversity of wildlife. Where else, over the space of a few days, could one hike to within a few metres of gorillas and chimpanzees, navigate tropical waterways bustling with hippo and elephant, explore open plains grazed by thousands of antelope and attendant prides of well-fed lions, and tick a host of iconic birds ranging from the flamboyant great blue turaco to the uniquely peculiar shoebill?
The country’s western safari circuit incorporates six very different national parks.
Starting in the north, Murchison Falls is bisected by a wildlife-rich equatorial stretch of the Nile River and the sensational waterfall for which it is named.
Further south, Kibale offers superb chimpanzee-tracking, as well as the opportunity to see a host of other forest primates and birds, and access to a field of gorgeous crater lakes.
The steamy Albertine Rift west of Kibale is home to Semliki National Park, which harbours a wealth of Central African lowland rainforest mammals and birds unrecorded, while Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve is now perhaps the country’s most reliable site for the bizarre shoebill.
Queen Elizabeth is Uganda’s most biodiverse national park, a kind of Africa-in-microcosm whose highlights include boat trips on Kazinga Channel, and the game drives in search of the legendary tree-climbing lions of Ishasha.
Bwindi is the best place to track mountain gorillas, while nearby Mgahinga is most alluring for its scenic location below the (climbable) volcanic peaks of the Virungas.
The more low-key Lake Mburo protects a tract of acacia savannah that harbours many species more widely associated with the plains of Tanzania.
Although the tourist action is focussed on the west, eastern Uganda boasts a couple of major attractions, notably white-water rafting on Grade Five rapids along the Nile, and the remote savanna of Kidepo Valley National Park.
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
DRIER PERIOD
A brief drier interlude before the more intense long rains arrive in March.
Its location so close to the equator means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Uganda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on both temperature as well as rainfall. The majority of the regions in Uganda sit at fairly high altitudes, which moderates the temperatures, especially in the case of Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks where it can be really quite cool.
Although rainfall is possible through the year in most locations, there are main two wet seasons in Uganda. The first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November. There are some exceptions to this, such as Kidepo Valley National Park which has just one wet season.
The best time for a safari in Uganda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
DRIER PERIOD
A brief drier interlude before the more intense long rains arrive in March.
Its location so close to the equator means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Uganda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on both temperature as well as rainfall. The majority of the regions in Uganda sit at fairly high altitudes, which moderates the temperatures, especially in the case of Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks where it can be really quite cool.
Although rainfall is possible through the year in most locations, there are main two wet seasons in Uganda. The first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November. There are some exceptions to this, such as Kidepo Valley National Park which has just one wet season.
The best time for a safari in Uganda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
WET SEASON
The exact start and end of the rains are always a little uncertain, but generally, this period is the wettest time of the year.
Its location so close to the equator means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Uganda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on both temperature as well as rainfall. The majority of the regions in Uganda sit at fairly high altitudes, which moderates the temperatures, especially in the case of Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks where it can be really quite cool.
Although rainfall is possible through the year in most locations, there are main two wet seasons in Uganda. The first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November. There are some exceptions to this, such as Kidepo Valley National Park which has just one wet season.
The best time for a safari in Uganda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
WET SEASON
The exact start and end of the rains are always a little uncertain, but generally, this period is the wettest time of the year.
Its location so close to the equator means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Uganda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on both temperature as well as rainfall. The majority of the regions in Uganda sit at fairly high altitudes, which moderates the temperatures, especially in the case of Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks where it can be really quite cool.
Although rainfall is possible through the year in most locations, there are main two wet seasons in Uganda. The first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November. There are some exceptions to this, such as Kidepo Valley National Park which has just one wet season.
The best time for a safari in Uganda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
WET SEASON
The exact start and end of the rains are always a little uncertain, but generally, this period is the wettest time of the year.
Its location so close to the equator means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Uganda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on both temperature as well as rainfall. The majority of the regions in Uganda sit at fairly high altitudes, which moderates the temperatures, especially in the case of Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks where it can be really quite cool.
Although rainfall is possible through the year in most locations, there are main two wet seasons in Uganda. The first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November. There are some exceptions to this, such as Kidepo Valley National Park which has just one wet season.
The best time for a safari in Uganda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
DRIER PERIOD
A brief drier interlude before the more intense long rains arrive in March.
Its location so close to the equator means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Uganda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on both temperature as well as rainfall. The majority of the regions in Uganda sit at fairly high altitudes, which moderates the temperatures, especially in the case of Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks where it can be really quite cool.
Although rainfall is possible through the year in most locations, there are main two wet seasons in Uganda. The first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November. There are some exceptions to this, such as Kidepo Valley National Park which has just one wet season.
The best time for a safari in Uganda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
DRIER PERIOD
A brief drier interlude before the more intense long rains arrive in March.
Its location so close to the equator means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Uganda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on both temperature as well as rainfall. The majority of the regions in Uganda sit at fairly high altitudes, which moderates the temperatures, especially in the case of Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks where it can be really quite cool.
Although rainfall is possible through the year in most locations, there are main two wet seasons in Uganda. The first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November. There are some exceptions to this, such as Kidepo Valley National Park which has just one wet season.
The best time for a safari in Uganda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
DRIER PERIOD
A brief drier interlude before the more intense long rains arrive in March.
Its location so close to the equator means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Uganda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on both temperature as well as rainfall. The majority of the regions in Uganda sit at fairly high altitudes, which moderates the temperatures, especially in the case of Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks where it can be really quite cool.
Although rainfall is possible through the year in most locations, there are main two wet seasons in Uganda. The first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November. There are some exceptions to this, such as Kidepo Valley National Park which has just one wet season.
The best time for a safari in Uganda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
WET SEASON
The exact start and end of the rains are always a little uncertain, but generally, rainfall can be expected at any time during this period.
Its location so close to the equator means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Uganda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on both temperature as well as rainfall. The majority of the regions in Uganda sit at fairly high altitudes, which moderates the temperatures, especially in the case of Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks where it can be really quite cool.
Although rainfall is possible through the year in most locations, there are main two wet seasons in Uganda. The first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November. There are some exceptions to this, such as Kidepo Valley National Park which has just one wet season.
The best time for a safari in Uganda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
WET SEASON
The exact start and end of the rains are always a little uncertain, but generally, rainfall can be expected at any time during this period.
Its location so close to the equator means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Uganda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on both temperature as well as rainfall. The majority of the regions in Uganda sit at fairly high altitudes, which moderates the temperatures, especially in the case of Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks where it can be really quite cool.
Although rainfall is possible through the year in most locations, there are main two wet seasons in Uganda. The first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November. There are some exceptions to this, such as Kidepo Valley National Park which has just one wet season.
The best time for a safari in Uganda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
WET SEASON
The exact start and end of the rains are always a little uncertain, but generally, rainfall can be expected at any time during this period.
Its location so close to the equator means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Uganda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on both temperature as well as rainfall. The majority of the regions in Uganda sit at fairly high altitudes, which moderates the temperatures, especially in the case of Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks where it can be really quite cool.
Although rainfall is possible through the year in most locations, there are main two wet seasons in Uganda. The first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November. There are some exceptions to this, such as Kidepo Valley National Park which has just one wet season.
The best time for a safari in Uganda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
DRIER PERIOD
A brief drier interlude before the more intense long rains arrive in March.
Its location so close to the equator means that temperatures throughout the year are very consistent, the variable in play is often altitude, which varies greatly across Uganda, this, therefore, has a corresponding effect on both temperature as well as rainfall. The majority of the regions in Uganda sit at fairly high altitudes, which moderates the temperatures, especially in the case of Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks where it can be really quite cool.
Although rainfall is possible through the year in most locations, there are main two wet seasons in Uganda. The first takes place between March and May, the second between September and November. There are some exceptions to this, such as Kidepo Valley National Park which has just one wet season.
The best time for a safari in Uganda is very much defined by the type of experience you are seeking. Many parks are good all year round, although you will find that one’s chances of a good sighting improve during the drier months of the year. Trekking Gorillas or Chimpanzee is not as influenced by the weather, although there is no doubt that the trekking is easier and more enjoyable during the drier times of the year.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Uganda’s most important tourist hub, Bwindi protects a landscape of steep hills and swampy valleys in one of Africa’s largest and most ancient montane rainforests. It has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its biodiversity. Bwindi is the best place in Uganda to see mountain gorillas.
Read MoreJinja & Bujagali Falls
Jinja & Bujagali Falls
Extolled by geographers as the Source of the Nile, Jinja now doubles as the adrenalin capital of East Africa, with activities ranging from white-water rafting and kayaking to bungee jumps and horseback safaris.
Read MoreKampala & Entebbe
Kampala & Entebbe
Situated 40km apart on the Lake Victoria hinterland, Kampala is a bustling modern capital with limited appeal to tourists, while the altogether more attractive port of Entebbe is the site of Uganda’s only international airport.
Read MoreKibale National Park
Kibale National Park
Perfect for chimpanzee-tracking, it's said that this large tract of rainforest has the greatest primate diversity in East Africa. There are guided walks through the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary to spot birds, and the volcanically-formed hills outside the park offer many beautiful crater lakes.
Read MoreKidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo Valley National Park
Uganda’s most remote and third-largest national park vies for the title as the country’s most alluring safari destination. Dense populations of elephant, buffalo and lion inhabit the circuit through the Narus Valley, yet the rugged scenery and lack of tourists create a real wilderness atmosphere.
Read MoreLake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park
A popular and convenient place to break up the long drive between Kampala/Entebbe and Bwindi, this low-key national park protects a tract of acacia woodland that harbours several antelope and bird species with a limited distribution elsewhere in Uganda.
Read MoreMgahinga National Park
Mgahinga National Park
Protecting the Ugandan portion of the Virunga Mountains, this small but exceptionally scenic national park offers daily gorilla-tracking excursion, and a host of other rewarding but challenging activities.
Read MoreMurchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park
Uganda’s largest national park supports plentiful elephant and buffalo, substantial numbers of lion, and the world's largest surviving population of Rothschild's giraffe. Game drives are rewarding, but the show-stealer is the launch trip upriver to the base of East Africa’s mightiest waterfall.
Read MoreQueen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Uganda’s premier safari destination, QENP has a remarkable and biodiverse variety of terrestrial and freshwater habitats. Highlights include the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, the chimpanzees of Kyambura Gorge, and the herds of buffalo and elephant seen from boat trips on the Kazinga Channel.
Read MoreSemliki Valley
Semliki Valley
The spectacular Semliki Valley has a truly magnificent location hemmed in by the towering Albertine Rift escarpment to the east, the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains to the south, and the vast Lake Albert to the north. It incorporates two of Uganda’s most rewarding and little-visited protected areas.
Read MoreExplore our itineraries
A Uganda Adventure
One of our more comprehensive Uganda itineraries, this 10 night trip takes in rapids, lakes, mountains and more!
Wilderness & Water
This 10 night trip covers some of Uganda's more remote safari parks as well as Kibale and Bwindi for a chimp and gorilla treks
Frontier Uganda
This comprehensive 12 night itinerary covers some of Uganda's most incredible parks, experiences and activities.
Explore our sample itineraries for a little inspiration
ITINERARIESWhat People Say
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
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We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
