Independent Travel to Uganda: A 12-Day Guide

We offer you a unique 12-day tour of East Africa! You will travel a long distance, see picturesque landscapes, stunning sunrises, the beauty of untouched nature, the unique African culture, go rafting on the Nile, meet elephants in the savannah, and experience the amazing atmosphere of Uganda, the pearl of Africa!

What you’ll need on your trip

• comfortable shoes and clothing
• photo and / or video camera
• pocket flashlight
• first aid kit
• sunscreen and mosquito repellents
• power outlet adapter
• personal hygiene products
• The currency is in US dollars (please note that you may not be able to use banknotes issued before 2003).

How to get

It is better to plan a vacation a few months in advance, namely to decide on the dates in advance and go to the search for air tickets. If you want to go on this unforgettable journey on New Year holidays, you should not postpone the purchase of tickets for a long time. The average flight duration is 15 hours, including a transfer in Istanbul.

Day 1: Flying to Entebbe

The entire day will be taken by the flight to Entebbe. On the plane, you can occupy yourself by watching movies, reading books, communicating with fellow passengers, or try to rest and sleep, as the journey will be quite busy.

Day 2: Travel to Kampala

After a successful landing, we go to the airport building for passport control, pay $50 and get a visa if we haven’t done it in advance. For your information, it was at Entebbe Airport in 1976 that Israeli special forces freed more than 100 hostages held by Palestinian terrorists.

You can come to your senses, gather your thoughts, and prepare for the journey to the capital of Uganda, Kampala, at a cafe where you can enjoy African tea made with milk. Now, we have about 35 kilometers to travel to our destination.

Where to stay

You can stay overnight in Kampala in budget-friendly hostels:

• ICU Guesthouse
• Gorilla African Guest House
• International Youth Hostel Uganda

It is better to book a hotel in advance, especially if you are traveling during the high tourist season. It is also a good idea to check if the hotel offers airport transfers. If the hotel you have chosen does not offer this service, you can easily reach your destination by taxi. It is important to negotiate with taxi drivers. This can result in a 20-50% discount on the advertised price.

Rent a car

In Kampala, you can rent a car for easy transportation. The following companies offer car rental services:

“CITY CARS”, which has been operating since 1992. Phone: 041 268611, 0772 412001 E-mail: citycars@bushnet.net, value@citycars.co.ug.

“SAFARI EYE”: Tel: +256 414 576584, Mobile: +256 702 400804, E-mail: info@safarieye.co.ug

When ordering services, don’t forget to negotiate. You can get a significant discount. It’s also worth considering that traffic in Uganda is one-way, and all cars are right-hand drive. If you’re unsure about driving on your own, you can book a car rental with a driver-guide from the companies mentioned above. Trust me, it’s a convenient option.

Transport in Uganda

You can also use other means of transportation to get around Uganda. The most popular option is the matatu, which is a minibus that can accommodate up to 8-10 people. However, be prepared for the fact that the actual number of passengers can easily reach up to 20. If you feel uncomfortable in the cramped space, it is advisable to take the front seat next to the driver.

If you plan to visit neighboring cities or countries, you can use buses. Additionally, local motorcycle owners, known as “boda-boda” in Uganda, offer their services at a reasonable price. This is an excellent alternative to taxis for short distances.

In areas far from the center, bike taxis are very popular. They are a great way to get to a store or other place on a budget.

Kampala Tourist Attractions

So, when the transportation issue is resolved, and you’ve already settled in and taken a short break in your hotel room, it’s time to explore the surroundings. Depending on your mood and available time, we have a few suggestions for attractions to visit in Kampala.

Uganda Museum

We recommend that you visit the Uganda Museum, which was founded in 1908. Here, you can see an interesting exhibition featuring exhibits from the fields of culture, archaeology, ethnography, science, and music. A distinctive feature of this museum is its exhibition of traditional musical instruments. Tourists can not only view them but also try playing them themselves. The Uganda Museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Its address is Street Kira Road, Plot No. 5

Baha’i House of Worship

The largest temple in Africa, which was completed in 1962. There are 9 doors in total. This is no coincidence. Each door symbolizes a specific religion of revelation. It is important to note that all mobile, audio, and video devices must be turned off before entering the temple. If you choose to use public transportation, you can take a taxi from the old Kampala Park or the Watoto Church to the Baha’i House of Worship. You need to get off at the Kanana gas station.

Gaddafi National Mosque

You can also visit the largest mosque in Uganda – Gaddafi National Mosque. Its construction was completed on March 19, 2008. For an additional fee, you will have a unique opportunity, which many locals do not even know about, to climb to the top of the minaret. From there, you can enjoy a stunning view of the center of Kampala. Address: Plot 23/25, Old Kampala Road.

Namugongo Martyrs Shrine

It can be visited in the village of Namugongo, Wakiso District, which is 15 km northeast of the center of the Ugandan capital. This Roman Catholic church was built on the site of the execution of two martyrs, Saint Charles Luanga and Saint Kizito, who were burned alive. In June 1886, King Mwanga of Buganda ordered the burning of more than twenty-two young men for refusing to renounce Christianity.

Nommo Gallery Art Gallery

Here you can see the national collection of paintings and other works of art by Ugandan and international artists. Address: Plot 4, Victoria avenue Nakasero, next to State Lodge Victoria Ave Kampala. The gallery is open on weekdays from 09:00 to 17:00, and on weekends from 09:00 to 15:00.

National Theatre

The National Theatre is Uganda’s leading cultural centre. It patronises theatre and music groups. It also looks after the National Dance Company of Uganda, which performs both in the country and abroad. Plot 2/4/6 Dewinton Road, National Thearter De winton St, Kampala P.O.BOX 3187.

Forest park resort

Forest park resort is a great place to spend time and relax after a long flight. It is a popular vacation spot in Uganda, located near Kampala. The resort offers a range of activities and amenities to ensure a pleasant stay for couples, friends, and families. Forest park resort often hosts various shows, concerts, and entertainment events. The resort is open daily, from Monday to Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., and from Friday to Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Ndere Centre

Here you can enjoy a great show, national music, songs, dances, and a delicious dinner in the open air. The performance will appeal to both adults and children. Address: Plot 4505 Butukirwa, P. O. Box 11353, Kampala.

St. Paul’s Cathedral (Namirembe Kathedrale)

Namirembe Kathedrale, also known as St. Paul’s Cathedral, is the oldest cathedral in Uganda. Address: Namirembe Hill Side Road, Kampala.

Rubaga Kathedrale

One of the leading religious and tourist attractions in Kampala. This religious center stands on Lubaga Hill and attracts not only pilgrims but also tourists, as it offers stunning views of the city. Address: Mutesa Road, Kampala

Lubiri Palace

The official residence of the king, which was built in 1885 by order of King Mwanga. You will not be able to enter the residence itself, but experienced guides will be happy to give you a tour (about 40 minutes) and tell you many interesting historical facts. Please note that local guides will try to sell you artworks at an inflated price after the tour. It is up to you to decide whether to buy them or not. Address: Mengo, Kampala.

Independence monument

It symbolizes Uganda’s independence. You can see it in the city center.

Botanical Garden

If you have the desire and strength, you can go to the Botanical Garden on the shore of Lake Victoria. It was here that the very first Tarzan movie was filmed in 1947. In the Botanical Garden, you can see several species of monkeys, including green monkeys and colobus monkeys.

Night clubs

Those who enjoy noisy parties can go to the local nightclub in the evening. The most popular clubs in Kampala are Silk and Ange Noir,and you can also visit the Rouge Club in the city center. If you prefer bars, we recommend you to visit them: The Junction Bar (Kiwatule Road), Fas Fas (Bukoto, Ntinda street), Mish Mash (28 Acacia Avenue), Planet Sports (Tirupati Mazima Mall, Gaba Road). Gamblers can spend an evening at Casino Simba (Garden city, Yusuf Lule road, Kampala 64-84).

Day 3: Transfer to Jinju

To get to one of the most interesting and attractive cities for active tourists, you will have to travel about 80 km. It is best to start your journey early in the morning to make the most of your time in Jinja. This city offers its visitors rafting on the Nile, quad biking, horseback riding, hiking in the surrounding area, relaxing on Lake Victoria, gorilla safaris, a vibrant nightlife, and many other exciting activities.

It’s up to you to decide how you want to spend your time in Jinja, but trust us, this day will be remembered for a long time. We have prepared various options for you to choose from, so you can plan your activities in advance.

We recommend staying at Nile River Explorers, which is a popular choice among tourists. The campsite is located 8 kilometers from the city, on the banks of the Nile River. It offers a variety of accommodation options, including free transportation from Kampala (for those who do not own a car), hot showers, free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, affordable and delicious food, and a charming bar where you can enjoy a beautiful sunset and a refreshing beer. You can book your accommodation through the website of raftafrica.com.

Another interesting option for a stopover is the uniquely located Wildwaters Lodge (Kalagala Falls, Jinja, Uganda). Here, you are guaranteed good food, friendly staff, and beautiful views. It’s a stunning place to stay!

Nile River Explorers is one of the most popular companies in Uganda that organizes rafting on the Nile. You will spend several unforgettable hours, experience an adrenaline rush, childlike delight, and many other emotions! Between the rapids, you will have the opportunity to relax, swim, and observe numerous birds.

If extreme is not for you, then you can just have an exciting day, walking around the park, watching animals and marvelous birds, or go on a day trip on Lake Victoria in a comfortable house on the water. Yes, yes and such services are provided by this company.

Nile River Explorers also offer tourists activities that are just as active as rafting or kayaking. You can enjoy services such as mountain biking, horseback riding, ATVs, fishing, and more. Prices are competitive.

What else can you do in Jinja? Are you ready to take an exciting bungee jump from the bridge (44 m)? You can book the adventure here: adrift.ug. Children under the age of 13 are not allowed to take the jump. Mini golf enthusiasts can find it at Main Gate, Bujagali Falls.

How about getting to know the mountain gorillas, which are listed in the international Red Book, because there are no more than 700 of them left in the world? In Jinja, you have a unique opportunity to participate in a gorilla trekking. To visit the Bwindi National Park and see the largest and rarest primates, you will have to pay for a permit and a guide.

Here are a few companies that organize such exciting tours:

• Insight Safari Holidays (safarigorilla.com)
• Wild Whispers Africa (wildwhispersafrica.com)
• Travel Hemispheres Ltd (travelhemispheres.com)
• Kori Safaris (korisafaris.com)

You’ve probably already realized that you’ll need to prepare thoroughly for your trip, plan everything, and pay for the necessary services, or you might miss out on the most exciting parts.

Day 4: Trip to Murchison Falls

Today, you will have the opportunity to see exotic animals such as crocodiles, hippos, buffaloes, giraffes, antelopes, and many others, as you will be traveling to the Murchison Falls National Park. Additionally, you will have the chance to visit the famous and awe-inspiring Murchison Falls on the Nile River. It is important to arrive in the morning to participate in a safari through the national park, witness the animals coming to drink, and take a thrilling cruise along the Nile River.

You can stay at the Paraa Safari Lodge, which is located in the Murchison Falls National Park. Each room is a true oasis of style and tranquility. Here, you can book boat rides on the Nile, fishing trips, safari tours, and other guided excursions. If you want to immerse yourself in nature, consider staying at the Red Chilli Rest Camp.

Visiting Murchison Falls National Park and missing out on the opportunity to participate in a morning safari through the national park is a waste of a trip to Uganda. During the safari, you will see 76 species of wildlife and 450 species of extraordinary birds. Please note that the safari takes place on the opposite bank of the Nile River from the entrance to the park, but there is a ferry available.

After the safari, you can return to the hotel, have lunch, and take a short break, as we will continue with an unforgettable cruise to the Devil’s Cauldron, which is the base of the Murchison Falls. However, don’t assume that this is the end of your day’s adventures. Who said it would be easy and uneventful? You will embark on a one-and-a-half-hour climb to the top of the waterfall. Only from the highest point can you truly appreciate the power, beauty, and uniqueness of this place, witnessing the Nile’s struggle to break through the mighty cliffs. Now you can return to your hotel or campsite with a sense of complete satisfaction.

Day 5: Transfer to Fort Portal

We will leave this day as a reserve, in case you did not manage to see everything, or missed the safari in the park. After lunch, we move to Fort Portal (350km) – a city named after Gerald Portal, where you can feel the exoticism and color of East Africa.

In Fort Portal, you can stay for one night at the Kalya Courts Hotel or the Fort Motel. There are also options for staying in mini-hotels, such as Rwenzori View Guest House, Dutchess, and Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse.

If you still have the strength and desire to walk after a long journey, you can head to the city center to see the statue of its founder, buy souvenirs, and spend the evening in local bars. Fort Portal is the starting point for excursions to various national parks, such as the Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Kibale National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park, so we will only stay here for the night.

Day 6: Visit Semlik National Park

Early in the morning, you will travel through some of the most impressive mountains in the world, the Rwenzori Mountains. Our goal is to reach Semliki National Park, which is sure to impress with its unique bird species, mammals, rare monkey species, and many other fauna. You can also visit the hot geysers.

In the evening, we recommend going to Lake Nkuruba. Here you can stay in the camping hotel “Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve”. For those who do not have their own tent, accommodation in gangs (lodges) will be offered. Be prepared for the fact that there is no electricity here, but they will bring you a kerosene lamp. 

Day 7: Crater Lake, walks, and free time

You can relax on the shore and even swim in the crater lake. If you wish, you can go trekking in the forest and enjoy the local scenery. We will stay at the campsite overnight.

Day 8: Trekking to Mahoma Falls and transfer to Kasese

Today you have to trek to the Mahoma waterfall. The road, although short, is treacherous, it will be very easy to get lost. We recommend using the services of a guide. On the way you will see banana plantations. If you have taken treats for local children or brought with you office supplies, then on the way you will have the opportunity in local villages to give gifts to the addressees. African children will be satisfied.

When you get to the waterfall, you can cool off under it. You can also have a picnic and relax. Despite the busy day, it’s too early to think about fatigue, as you have a 90km drive to Cascais ahead.

You can stay at the White House Hotel, the Virina Garden Hotel, or the Hotel Margherita. The choice is yours.

Day 9: Safari at Queen Elizabeth Park

In the morning, you can head towards the Queen Elizabeth National Park (Queen Elizabeth National Park) to participate in a new adventure – a safari. In the park, you can meet 95 species of mammals, except for rhinoceroses, and over 600 species of birds. Unfortunately, even in Uganda, rhinoceroses are rare. The crown jewel of the park is the most loyal bird – the crowned crane. And this is due to the fact that only this bird remains faithful to its spouse even after his death.

Once upon a time, this place was visited by the Queen of Great Britain, Elizabeth II, and the park was named after her. Naturally, she came to see the animals and admire the beauty of the local birds. She was very pleased with her visit, and it’s no wonder, as there is plenty to see! The park has designated trails, and it’s important to stay on them, as you may be fined if you deviate.

When the feeling of indescribable delight subsides, you can go to the Chambura forest, where you will engage in a real search… no, not for a treasure… but for a chimpanzee. Now you can return to the hotel. The maximum program for today has been completed.

Day 10: A tour of the Kazinga Canal and walks in the forest

Today, you will once again see the unique beauty of nature, animals in their natural habitat, and birds that are not afraid of humans and fly very close to them, which means that you will have dozens or even hundreds of unique photos to share.

All of this can be seen by taking a ride on one of the double-decker boats that depart several times a day from the Kazinga Canal. This canal connects Lake Edward and Lake George. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the Mweya Information Center. You can find it by following the signs when you enter the park through the central gate of Kabatoro.

Near the shore, you will see whole families of hippos. The males are lounging around, unconcerned, feeling completely comfortable. Why wouldn’t they be? There are almost two dozen females for every male. That’s how big their families are. In Uganda, you can try hippos for dinner, but these places are not accessible to ordinary tourists.

If you haven’t had enough of the day’s activities, you can head to the Maramagambo Forest, an ideal spot for hiking. Here, you’ll encounter a variety of birdlife and rare animals. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to witness pythons hunting bats. It’s a refreshing change of pace. You can spend the night at the Mweya Hostel.

Day 11: Tree-climbing Lions and Swamps in Ishasha

Have you ever seen a tree-climbing lion and a топи (a rare species of antelope) in person? Well, today is your chance, as we’re heading to Ishasha. You can easily identify male tree-climbing lions by their black mane. If you see one, run for your life. After leaving the park, we’ll head to the city of Mbarara. Here, you can indulge in the delicious milk. Be cautious on the roads, as there are plenty of reckless drivers.

Day 12: Take photos at the equator, buy souvenirs, and return to Kampala

It’s the final day, which means it’s time to return to Kampala, but we won’t be sad because there’s a lot of interesting things to see along the way. It’s essential to make a stop in Masaka, as it’s located on the Equator. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture this significant moment. Here, you can also purchase memorable souvenirs that will remind you of your unique, vibrant, and eventful vacation. Now, it’s time to head to the airport.