???????? Uganda: The Primate Paradise
The Pearl of Africa
Uganda is "The Pearl of Africa." It is lush, green, and humid. While it has lions and elephants, the primary reason to come here is to look into the eyes of a Silverback Mountain Gorilla.
It is a physical, emotional, and life-changing destination that requires effort but rewards you with the ultimate connection to nature.
Why Go?
The Gorillas
Home to half of the world's remaining Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Primates
Kibale Forest has the highest density of primates in Africa (13 species), including Chimpanzees.
Diversity
Unlike Rwanda (which is mostly just Gorillas), Uganda offers a full savannah safari experience (Queen Elizabeth/Murchison Falls) alongside the trekking.
Value
Gorilla permits ($800) are significantly cheaper than Rwanda ($1,500).
Where to Go
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
The home of the gorillas. Steep, misty, and magical.
Kibale Forest
The best place for Chimpanzee trekking.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Famous for tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector.
Murchison Falls
Where the Nile explodes through a narrow gorge. Great for boat safaris.
When to Go
Best Trekking
June–Sept and Dec–Feb. These are the dry seasons, making hiking easier.
Wet Season
March–May and Oct–Nov. Permits are easier to get, and lodges are cheaper, but trekking is muddy and slippery.
Best Time to Go: Best: Good:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
Gorilla Trekking
Spending one hour with a habituated gorilla family.
Chimp Habituation
Spending a full day (not just an hour) with chimpanzees in Kibale.
Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Seeing one of the world's largest concentrations of hippos.
The Nile
Hiking to the top of Murchison Falls.
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