Growing up I always thought about what Africa looked like, and like every other person, I mistook this diverse continent for a desert country. It was embarrassing enough to hold such a misconception until I found countries like Uganda one day.
When I visited the country 2 years ago, I understood why Winston Churchill named it the ‘Pearl of Africa.’ Uganda is an incredibly diverse country, be it in terms of landscape or inhabitants. The lush green landscape, misty mountains, diverse animals and friendly people are enough to smite you.
So, if you are already inspired to plan a trip, check out these places that you cannot miss.
1. Hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains
Standing tall along the border of the Congo River, the Rwenzori Mountains are called the “mountains of the moon.” It houses the tallest in Uganda and 3rd tallest mountain in Africa, the snow-capped Mount Stanley. Apart from that, Mount Nyiragongo and Kilimanjaro are also located there to amp up your hiking.
These are some of the tallest mountains that cannot be covered in a short hiking session. Therefore, you can find options for short day to multi-day hiking sessions starting from Kilembe. However, reaching the summit called Margherita Peak takes a challenging trek of 8 to 9 days. It is completely up to you and your staying duration in Uganda to choose a type of hiking.
2. Tour to the Queen Elizabeth National Park
People who are adventurous enough to indulge in the wilderness must find the Queen Elizabeth National Park exciting. The national park is an excellent place to visit the climbing lions and giant African elephants. The best part is that the lions are collared so hiring a tracker will help you find the lions easily.
This way, your efforts in the safari will not go into veins. If your adventurous self is still not satisfied, you can take a boat trip on the Kazinga Channel. It is a place full of animals like hippos, buffalos, elephants, crocodiles and birds from several subspecies.
3. Going for a safari in the Murchison Falls
The Murchison Falls National Park can serve you the most exciting safari tour in Uganda. Visiting there made me feel like entering the ‘African Jungle Book.’ The national park is named after the Murchison waterfall which gives a stunning, picturesque view.
In addition, the stunning green landscape is the home of numerous wildlife such as hippos, elephants, crocodiles, lions, and birds. On top of that, the Rothchild’s giraffes are another greatest attraction as it is only found in this park and in the far north of Uganda.
4. Seeing rhinos in the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
When you are in Uganda, it is impossible to go out of wildlife and nature. So, here is another must-have on your to-do list. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is near the Murchison Falls National Park which you cannot miss out on. It is the home of the stunning white rhinos of Africa.
You can just stay in the accommodations in the sanctuary and enjoy waking up on a misty morning to observe the rhinos. With such a breath-taking moment in front, you will forget to notice when the time flies.
5. Visiting the crater lakes
Visiting a place of volcanoes and craters, it is a pity to not keep crater lakes on the list. You cannot miss out on the joy to see the stunning reflection of a sunset in the lake water at the top of the mountains.
Lake Nyamirima is one of the well-known hiking points and Lake Nyabikere has an isolated hippo habitat. But on top of everything, Lake Nkuruba is popular as the most beautiful lake for serving the most breathtaking views.
Happy wandering!
So, these are the top 5 best things to do in Uganda. However, only 5 is not enough in my opinion for such a beautiful country. Therefore, you can also find some other excellent Uganda tourist attractions that can add up to your trip.
Happy wandering!
