Three weeks in Uganda: Gorillas, Chimps + the Nile

Explore the Mabamba Wetlands on Lake Victoria, one of East Africa’s most important birding sites, where narrow papyrus channels open into wide marshes rich in wildlife. Glide quietly by canoe through this peaceful ecosystem in search of the elusive shoebill stork, known for its striking appearance and still, patient hunting style.

The wetlands are alive with birdlife, from kingfishers and bee-eaters to African fish eagles, jacanas and papyrus specialists, all set within a landscape of water, reeds and open sky. It is a calm, immersive experience that reveals a very different side of Uganda’s natural world.

The Entebbe Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful escape among towering trees, tropical plants and abundant birdlife. Established in 1898, the gardens are home to more than 300 species of flora, with shaded walking paths winding through the grounds overlooking Lake Victoria. Black-and-white colobus and vervet monkeys are often seen moving through the canopy, while the rainforest section was famously used as a filming location for the original Tarzan film of the 1940s.

On your way from Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park, stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola District for a guided walk to encounter Uganda’s only rhinos. Originally reintroduced in 2000 with just six individuals, the sanctuary now supports a growing population of more than 30 rhinos, marking an important conservation success story.

Embark on an early morning game drive through Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest protected area, where open savannah is home to herds of Uganda kob, buffalo, giraffe, elephant and baboon. Warthog and Jackson’s hartebeest are commonly seen, while lion, hyena and leopard may also appear for those fortunate enough. The park is also rich in birdlife across its vast plains.

Enjoy a private boat cruise along the Nile in Murchison Falls National Park, heading upstream towards the base of the iconic falls, and gliding through calm waters lined with hippos, crocodiles and a rich variety of birdlife, including pied kingfishers along the banks. The cruise culminates with a spectacular view of Murchison Falls, where the mighty river plunges dramatically over the rocks, creating a thunderous roar. After taking in this awe-inspiring sight, begin your gentle return downstream, sipping refreshing drinks and nibbling on snacks as you relax and enjoy the serenity of the river at sunset.

Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest offers one of the best opportunities in Uganda to observe these fascinating primates in the wild, with an impressive 95% sighting success rate. Home to an estimated 1,450 chimpanzees, this lush and biodiverse forest provides a truly immersive experience, where you can witness their complex social interactions up close.

Track endangered mountain gorillas through the dense forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park on one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters. Guided by expert trackers, follow fresh trails through the jungle in search of a habituated gorilla family, watching as silverbacks, mothers and playful young interact just metres away. Time spent with the gorillas is limited to one unforgettable hour, creating an intimate and deeply moving experience in the heart of the forest.

Spend time with the Batwa community and gain a fascinating insight into the traditions of one of Africa’s oldest indigenous peoples. Once forest-dwelling hunter-gatherers, the Batwa lived alongside the wildlife of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, using their deep knowledge of the forest to forage, gather wild honey and identify medicinal plants. Through storytelling, music and dance, discover customs passed down through generations, from ancient survival skills to traditional rituals, offering a rare connection to a culture deeply rooted in Uganda’s forests.

Follow the Ivy River Trail through the ancient rainforest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, tracing a historic path once used by Batwa traders. This rewarding guided hike winds beneath towering trees and dense jungle alive with birdsong, butterflies and playful monkeys moving through the canopy above. Linking the villages of Buhoma and Nteko, the trail offers a deeper connection to Bwindi’s remarkable wildlife, landscapes and cultural history, all at a relaxed and unhurried pace.

Set beside the roaring rapids of the Nile near Jinja, this is one of Uganda’s most exhilarating settings. Spend your days immersed in the sounds of the river, watching for otters, monitor lizards and colourful birdlife along the banks, or embrace the adventurous spirit of the Nile with everything from white-water rafting and kayaking to bungee jumping and horse riding through the surrounding countryside. Slower moments can be spent fishing for mighty Nile perch, drifting across calm stretches of water or exploring nearby villages, offering a fascinating glimpse into local life along the river.