45 Places to Visit in Uganda, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

Uganda Tourist Places

Murchison Falls, Lake Victoria, Jinja, Start of the Nile River, Ssese Islands, Nyero Rock Paintings, Kasubi Tombs, Ndere Centre, Owino Market, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and many more.

Uganda tourist places, just like the country itself, seem to be gifted by the choicest of nature’s bounties. This is the precise reason why Uganda is referred to as the ‘Pearl of Africa’. Be it its rare primate species, forests that have survived the Ice Age, ancient landmarks, and stupendous landscape, Uganda is certainly a once-in-a-lifetime kind of place. Uganda tourist spots range from national parks that protect the rarest of wildlife species like Queen Elizabeth National Park, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Semliki National Park to cultural and religious sites like the Kasubi Royal Tombs, Martyrs Shrine, Bahai Temple, and the Nyero Rock paintings to name a few.

Uganda’s landscape is unlike anything else that you will experience. It includes the fascinating Equator, the longest river in the world, and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world. All these places to visit in Uganda offer unforgettable experiences like rafting on the Nile, quad biking, boat safaris, and so much more. Add to this the opportunity to interact with some of the most elusive tribes in the world like the Batwa pygmies, Baganda, Bakiga, etc., and experiencing their ancient traditions that are still practiced today. So head over to Uganda on your next vacation to savour the famous African wilderness, warmth, and colours that will leave you with memories for a lifetime.

Here is the list of best places to visit in Uganda:

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01

Lugazi

Located in the Buikwe city in Central Uganda on the Kampala-Jinja Highway, this city is locally referred to as Kawelo. It is an important place culturally and is also a hub for educational institutes, sports, and business houses.

Lugazi is surrounded by the thick Mabira rainforest that has a rugged yet beautiful terrain and is dotted with several tabletop hills and lush valleys.

It is quite fascinating to see Roman architecture in Africa. One such landmark is the Our Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral, one of the best places to visit in Uganda,for its stunning architecture and scenic gardens. Golfing enthusiasts must visit the Mehta Golf Club for a round or two of golf. To remind you of your Ugandan adventure, head over to the Lugazi Central Market for shopping traditional African dresses, crafts, and food.

Enjoy a safari to the Mabira Forest Reserve, one of the few-remaining evergreen rainforests in the area which houses the prehistoric Lophocebus Ugandae, which is an Old World monkey species and almost 300 varieties of birds. Another interesting adventure to enjoy here at Lugazi is leisurely walking through its dense banana and coffee plantations.

The weather here is mostly humid with overcast skies. June to September are the lowest rainfall months, making this the best time to visit to explore the outdoor attractions.

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02

Mityana

This is a compact quintessential African city located in Central Uganda along the Kampala-Fort Portal highway. It is a city buzzing with commercial and administrative activity.

Mityana has an impressive as well as interesting plateau landscape that comprises hills with gentle slopes and vast open U-shaped valleys. This is interspersed with some semi-rural settlements that add a beautiful lushness to the city’s landscape.

Mityana is one of the few Ugandan places that house stunning architectural landmarks. One of the best such places is The Roman Catholic Diocese of Kiyinda-Mityana known for its beautiful and rustic architecture. If you are looking for natural wonders to explore, you can visit the nearby 4000-year-old Lake Wamala to see its several islands and wildlife like Wild pigs, Hippos, Bushbuck, Waterbuck, Guinea fowl, Catfish, Lungfish, etc.

People who love unique social experiments must visit the Social Innovation Academy. You can see upcycled fashion exhibitions and see plastic bottle construction, etc. For an offbeat experience, hear the locals tell their stories at the Mityana Central Market. This is also a great place to try traditional delicacies.

Weather Mityana has a tropical climate and receives rainfall throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the dry months of July and January-February.

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03

Mubende

Located in Central Uganda on the Mubende-Fort Portal Road, Mubende is a busy and vibrant commercial and administrative centre where one of the major activities is agriculture. This city has a rich heritage of being a part of the Buganda kingdom till the 1960s.

Beauty Mubende has a unique landscape that ranges from 1148ft-4320 ft. This is covered in beautiful tropical forests and barren lands alternatively.

One of the most fascinating places here is the Nakayima witch tree, which is a live shrine and is said to house the spirit of a Ndahura, an ancient Bachwezi king. If you are looking for daylong sojourns in the beautiful wilderness, you can enjoy farm tours to see banana, groundnut, cassava, coffee, and tea plantations. For people who want to explore the local way of life, these trails are the best way to meet the locals and enjoy the local foods.

For those who are looking for adventures, must trek to the flat-topped Mubende Hill. This challenging trek will reward you with some of the best panoramic views of the surroundings. Those who love trying new foods, must visit the Mubende Central Market.

Mubende experiences a warm and humid climate throughout the year interspersed with rains. June-September is the driest month to visit when you can enjoy outdoor activities.

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04

Mbarara

Located in western Uganda, Mbarara is the second-largest city in the country. It is an important transport and infrastructure hub. The name ‘Mbarara’ is a twisted version of the word ‘Emburara’ that means tall grass. It is often referred to as the ‘land of milk and honey’ because of the huge numbers of Ankole cattle here.

While the city has more of an urban landscape, the moment you get of its limits, you will be rewarded with stunning natural beauty and a landscape that’s rich in wildlife and offers stupendous experiences.

Mbarara is one of the best Uganda tourist spots when it comes to exploring the country’s unique and beautiful history and heritage. Some of the best places to do so are the Igongo Cultural Center and Eriijukiro Museum to learn about the country and its ancient tribes like the Batooro and Bakiga. Another great place that you would love is the Sanga Cultural Village where the ancient artefacts of the Bahima tribe are stored.

The lush Mbarara is the perfect place to lose yourself in the wilderness. The city houses the largest cattle farm in Uganda where you can take farm safaris and learn about the elusive Ankole cattle, learn to milk them, and try fresh dairy products.

Nature enthusiasts cannot miss visiting Lake Mburo National Park to spot Waterbucks, Impalas, leopards, hyenas, etc. To round off your day and relax, visit the famous Nile Breweries to sample some of the greatest Ugandan wines.

The weather in Mbarara is hot and humid throughout the year. The drier months of December- February, June, and August are the best months to visit.

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05

Kasese

Kasese is the largest city in the Rwenzururu region located north of Lake Victoria in Western Uganda. It is one of the most important copper and cobalt mining centres in the country. The city also has its airport.

Kasese lies close to the almost 3 million-year-old Rwenzori mountain ranges, one of the top places to visit in Uganda, known as the Mountains of the Moon, which is made up of granite and quartzite stones and covered in tropical rainforests and snowy meadows.

Visit the nearby UNESCO heritage Rwenzori Mountains National Park to see Africa’s third highest peak, glaciers, waterfalls, and lakes. Another place that will delight you with its local charms is the Kasese Central Market. The place offers delicious food and shops that sell traditional artworks and mementoes.

Enjoy safaris at the Rwenzori Mountains National Park, one of the top places to visit in Uganda,to spot forest elephants, L’Hoest’s monkeys, Hyrax, etc., and almost 90 species of birds. Those who love to explore unique things can head over to the mines of Kasese Cobalt Company to see the process of cobalt extraction.

Kasese has a tropical climate and experiences heavy rainfall even in the driest months. July and August receive the lowest rainfall and are the best months to visit.

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06

Lira

Located in northern Uganda on the Gulu-Mbale Highway, Lira has always been an important place during and after the Uganda-Tanzania War. It is one of the busiest economic and commercial centers in the country and also has an airport.

Beauty Lira is bestowed with scenic natural beauty comprising thick woods and fertile valleys, plateaus, and plantations. The landscape here is dotted with several flat-topped hills and vast rugged meadow.

Got Ngetta is a fascinating attraction here. It is a solid rock standing at a height of 4,500 ft. that is said to have appeared out of nowhere. Its silhouettes look like faces of beasts and have several caves around them. Enjoy vast expanses of lush wilderness at the Lira Golf course. The place allows tourists to enjoy a round of golf!

If you are a nature lover, Lira has some amazing places and activities for you to enjoy. Some of these include the stunning Karuma waterfall and its surrounding forests that house baboons and a variety of birds and the nearby Budongo forest that has an abundance of African mahogany trees and chimpanzees. Those who want to enjoy a rustic experience must take a village safari to the nearby Masindi Village to enjoy African food and meet the locals.

It is hot all year round at Lira with the weather varying between humid and hot. June-September is the best time to visit due to low rainfall.

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07

Entebbe

Entebbe is located on the Lake Victoria peninsula in Central Uganda. The name of the city translates to ‘the chair’, which is quite apt since this is where the President of Uganda lives and the State House is located.

The city is a quiet and slow-paced place that’s loved for its natural charms. Its landscape comprises lakes, vast expanses of forests, and national parks.

Entebbe has some of the most fascinating attractions in Uganda. These include East Africa’s oldest golf course and pristine beaches, thanks to Lake Victoria. Some of the best beaches to visit include Aero, One Love, Lido etc. One of the best ways to learn about Ugandan culture is to visit the markets here like the ones in Kitoro and Manyago. You can also try tropical fruits and just sit and observe the local way of life.

The city is one of the best birding destinations in Uganda and a haven for nature enthusiasts. The best place to explore the enticing nature and spot species like Vervet monkeys, Hammerkop, Swamp flycatcher, Colobus, etc. is the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Another great place for naturalists is the Uganda Wildlife Education Center where you can see leopards, baboons, pythons, DeBrazza monkeys, etc.

The climate here is mostly muggy and overcast the whole year-round. The best time to visit is between January-September when the rainfall is less.

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08

Mbale

Located in Eastern Uganda, Mbale lies at the foot of Mount Elgon, which is one of the extinct volcanoes here. Mbale is located amidst vast coffee plantations and is a major agricultural trade center.

The beauty of Mbale needs to be seen to be believed. Its picturesque landscape comprises mountains, deep caves, valleys, waterfalls, cliffs, and vast expanses of sheer wilderness.

If you are looking for amazing natural wonders, Mbale is the place to be in. Here you can see the world’s largest calderas at Mount Elgon National Park. Another great place is the Sipi Falls that offer amazing adventures like hikes, abseiling, and views of the scenic Lake Kyoga, Karamoja plains, and Mt. Elgon. Another must-see attraction is the Tororo Rock, the slopes of which house ancient rock paintings and caves.

Mbale offers a glimpse into one of the traditional imbalu ceremonies followed by the Bagisu tribes. You can participate in the tribal dances and share the tribes’ food here. Mbale houses most of the 1000 bird species that live in Uganda. Head to the Kapkwai forest exploration center to see cinnamon-chested bee-eater, Doherty’s bush shrike, etc. Another great adventure here is to see the buzz and entertainment that comes with the extreme sport of bullfighting held at Wanale. You can hear locals singing war songs and betting.

Mbale has the typical tropical Savanna climate that’s muggy and hot throughout the year. The drier months of June-September are the best to visit.

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09

Njeru

Njeru is the largest city of the Buikwe city, located in Central Uganda close to the River Nile. It is visited by travellers for its great homestays that offer traditional African experiences.

Due to its proximity to River Nile, Njeru is quite lush and has miles of green grounds with hills in the background. Some pockets of the city have houses made in traditional African and Indian architecture, making it a beautiful place to visit.

People who want to revel in the natural beauty of Njeru must visit the Bujagali Hydro Plant that harnesses energy from the nearby Bujagali Falls and lies on the Victoria Nile. Another great attraction is the Source of the Nile Bridge, also known as the New Jinja Bridge that connects Eastern and Central Africa to the Indian Ocean in Kenya.

Njeru is loved by adventure enthusiasts for the amazing activities that it offers. You can enjoy horseback safaris, quad biking, and white water rafting at the Nile.

The place has warm and humid weather almost all year round. The best time to visit is between June to September to see all the beautiful attractions.

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10

Gulu

Located in Northern Uganda between the citys of Lamwo, Pader, Omoro, etc. Gulu is the erstwhile homeland of the Acholi ethnic group. Though it was synonymous with unrest till a few years ago, it is now quite a popular place to visit.

Gulu is primarily an agricultural area and has acres of lush farms. The place also has some old settlements where you can see traditional African huts amidst beautiful rugged trails.

Gulu offers a glimpse into the evolution of Uganda over the centuries. One of the best places to do so here is the Taks Centre. This is a great place to see art exhibitions, cultural performances, and enjoy fireside chats with local artists. Gulu houses an incredible landmark in the form of the 1941 St. Joseph’s Cathedral, one of the best Uganda tourist places known for its magnificent architecture. Round of the day with a visit to the Craft Market to pick up traditional Ugandan paintings and crafts.

No trip to Gulu is complete without sampling the traditional African food and world cuisine at cafes like Elephante, Iron Donkey Restaurant, etc. Nature enthusiasts must visit the nearby Albert Nile area to see the elusive leopards, Ugandan Kobs, Warthogs, etc. What tops the charts is a visit to the Baker’s Fort, one of the best places to visit in Uganda to learn about the infamous slave trade practices.

Gulu has overcast and humid weather throughout the year. The best months to visit are June-September to enjoy outdoor activities.

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11

Masaka

Masaka, lying in the Buganda region, is an equatorial city. The city has a history of being a base for the Uganda Army during the Tanzania-Uganda war in the 70s.

This lakeside city has acres of lush plains and thick forests, especially around Lake Nabugabo. These forests have beautiful wildflower patches and several rugged trails that lead one deep into the raw wilderness.

One of the best places to visit here is the nearby Lake Nabugabo, one of the best Uganda tourist places,that was formed from sand and was isolated from Lake Victoria almost 5000 years ago. This is one of the few places to see carnivore plants and rare native Haplochromine cichlids, fish, hippos, sitatunga, grey-crowned cranes, etc.

If you are travelling to Masaka in June, you can’t miss attending the annual Uganda Marathon held in June here each to see some of the local celebrities and enjoy the infectious buzz of the place. Those who love to shop can visit Masaka Central Market, one of the best places to visit in Uganda famous for its indigenous textiles, paintings, jewellery, etc.

Masaka has a tropical climate where the summer months get more rain than the winter months. June to September is the best time to visit to enjoy outdoor activities.

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12

Hoima

Hoima is located in Western Uganda on the Kampala-Hoima Road and was once the capital of the 18th-century Bunyoro-Kitara Empire. The place is important for being a source of oil and gas, the major drivers of the Ugandan economy. It is also an important cultural and heritage center.

Hoima’s proximity to Kabwoya Game Reserve and Lake Albert make its landscape lush and scenic due to the thick tropical rainforest, savannah plains, streams, and the stunning Blue Mountains.

Hoima is an absolute haven for nature enthusiasts. You should not miss visiting the Kabwoya Game Reserve, one of the best Uganda tourist places,to spot primates like Baboons and other species like Cape Buffalos, hippos, Ugandan Kobs, Waterbucks, Bush Duikers, etc. Another great place to explore the natural beauty of the city is the nearby Lake Albert where you can enjoy boating.

Two of the most incredible sites here are the historic Mparo Tombs that are a royal burying site and the Katasiha Fort and Caves that have centuries-old carvings and trenches.

Hoima is one of the few places that give you inroads into the ethnic Ugandan tribes at places like the Bunyoro Palace. You can enjoy a cultural safari here to know about the beliefs, customs, and heritage of this powerful empire. Another great experience that shouldn’t be missed is visiting the Kabwoya Game Reserve where you can enjoy fossil hunting, birding, horseback rides, etc.

Hoima experiences short summers that are overcast and humid. The winter months are muggy and cloudy. The best months to visit are June-October and December since these are low rainfall months.

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13

Kampala

Kampala, located on the East African plateau near Lake Victoria, has been the capital city of Uganda since 1962 and its cultural and educational epicentre. Centuries ago, it was the hunting ground for the Budanga kings and was referred to as the ‘Hill of the Impala’.

Kampala is known as one of the most scenic Uganda tourist places due to its stunning and diverse landscape. The city is nestled between seven hills and its landscape is punctuated by beautiful valleys, slow-moving rivers, and forested plains covered in Elephant grass and evergreen forests of African olive and Natal fig.

Kampala’s beautiful diversity of ethnic tribes and faiths is apparent in the iconic places of worship that it houses. You can not only see one of the seven Baha'i Temples here but also the Gaddafi Mosque, the second largest mosque in Africa. The city is also one of the best Uganda tourist spots to see the remains of its ancient tribes like the UNESCO protected Kasubi Tombs, which are a burial site of Buganda Kings. Another very interesting place is the Uganda Museum known for its collection of musical instruments, fossils, and the in-house cultural village.

People who love shopping and exploring new cultures must visit the Owino market, which is the country’s largest open market. Here you can meet the locals, shop for clothes and local jewellery. 
History enthusiasts cannot miss visiting the Ndere Center to see ethnic tribal dance performances and the infamous torture chambers at the Kabaka’s Palace. After a day of sightseeing, spend some time in solitude listening to the calming hymns at Gurdwara Ramgarhia Sabha.

Kampala has two annual wet seasons with warm and muggy weather. December to February is the best time to visit the city since this period is less rainy.

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14

Kira

Kira is located between Gayaza, Mukono, Kampala, and Lake Victoria and is Uganda’s largest urban center where most of the working-class people live. It is the country’s second most populated city and one of the best places to visit in Uganda.

Kira is a quiet and laid back city dotted with marketplaces, residential colonies, and gardens of medicinal plants and trees.

One of the best places to visit here is the Uganda Martyrs Shrine, one of the best Uganda tourist places,that’s dedicated to 15 martyrs who were burnt alive in 1886 for their refusal to stop following Christianity. Sports enthusiasts must visit the Mandela National Stadium that’s Uganda’s largest stadium. With some luck, you can even run into the famous local football teams.

Those who love trying out indigenous cuisines must visit places like the Marian Gardens, The Address, and Grand Food Tavern, etc. These are some of the best places to try the unique Ugandan dishes like Luwombo, Katogo, Matoke, Kikalayai, Posho, etc.

Kira mostly sees warm and humid weather with overcast skies most of the days. December to February are the best months to visit here.

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15

Mukono

This city is located in central Uganda near the Kampala-Jinja highway and is bordered by Kira and Kalangala. Mukono is visited by travellers to get a quintessential urban African experience of shopping and traditional food.

This is primarily an urban city with pockets of rural settlements. These rural areas are the lushest areas that have dirt trails and traditional African thatched-roof huts. This is where you can meet beautiful people and see their famous colourful ethnic attire.

Mukono is a haven for people who are out to explore the beautiful charms of Uganda. You can explore the Central Market and its local shops that sell traditional African textiles and jewellery. This is also a great place to try the delicious Ugandan street food and drinks. Nature-lovers should visit the Ssezibwa Falls, one of the most scenic Uganda tourist spots. This waterfall is famous for its roaring waters and the surrounding forests that house the rare Vervets, African Cobra, Green Mambas, Red-Tailed monkeys, etc.

Don’t miss to explore the surroundings of the Ssezibwa Falls, one of the top Uganda tourist places,where you can find centuries-old artefacts of the Buganda people including ancient caves and 100-year-old trees. Take a break from the touristy places and head over to the beautiful campus of Uganda Christian University for a leisurely stroll. Don’t miss the ancient Catholic Church on the university grounds.

The weather here is overcast and humid almost throughout the year. The best time to visit Mukono is from June to September to enjoy all the outdoor activities.

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Other Attractions

Also known as Kabalega Falls, this waterfall is known for its spectacularly dramatic beauty and for being one of the most ‘powerful’ waterfalls in the world. This is where the mighty Nile roars and tumbles with great force only to be squeezed into a 30 ft. gorge known as Devil’s Cauldron to crash out again in huge swathes of water.

One of the most amazing experiences here is the Victoria Nile-Murchison Fall boat safari that lets you see Nile crocodiles, hippos, and the Big Five Game animals along the way.

Location: Lolim, Masindi, Uganda.

Timing: Anytime during the dry months of December-February.
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Known locally as Nam Lolwe, this spectacular lake is not only Africa’s largest lake but is also the world’s largest tropical lake, making it one of the top Uganda tourist places. This lake that feeds the Nile is said to be almost 4 lac years old and is loved for its amazing biodiversity and vibrant fishing communities.

It is one of the two spots in Africa where you can see a sunset without even being near the coast. It has three islands like Mfangano, Rusingo, and Ndere that are inhabited by local fishermen and are the source of fossils dating back millions of years. It is bustling with rare wildlife species like the African Clawless Otter, Defassa Waterbuck, Cichlids, Chimpanzees, Sitatunga, etc.

Location: Tanzania and Uganda, bordering Kenya.

Timing: Anytime during the low humidity months of June-August.
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Jinja might be a tiny town, but that doesn’t take away from the spectacular experiences that it offers. Jinja is the source of the Nile, the world’s longest river. It’s an amazing experience taking a boat trip here to see the Nile marker.

That’s not all, Jinja is where you can have an incredible adrenaline rush of rafting in the Nile in rapids up to Grade 5, some as long as 19 kilometres. You can also enjoy kayaking, riverboarding, and see the rare African fish eagles, Open-billed storks, Crested cranes, etc.

Location: Eastern Uganda on the northern shores of Lake Victoria.

Timing: Rafting is best enjoyed during drier months of January-February and June-September.
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One of the best tropical island destinations in the world and amongst the top Uganda tourist places, the Ssese Islands are located on Lake Victoria. This is a group of 84 islands comprising three main island groups, Bugala and Koome Groups, and are inhabited by the ethics Bassese tribes.

These are dotted with palm-shaded beaches, powdery white sands, and native African flora. You will be treated with the views of rare species like hippos, vervet monkeys, sitatunga antelopes, etc., and can enjoy super-fun activities like bungee jumping, birding, bike riding, paddle-boating, sport fishing, and much more.

Location: Northwest of Lake Victoria, Uganda.

Timing: Anytime between June-August and December-February.
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One of the most fascinating places in Uganda, this UNESCO heritage site is in reality an ancient heritage rock shelter with primitive art on its inner walls. One of the top Uganda tourist places, it belongs to the Late Iron Age period i.e. around 1250 CE by the ancestors of Batwa communities of hunters and gatherers who used these caves for praying and offering sacrifices.

The paintings are geometric and consist of concentric circles, conical shapes, etc. done in red pigment and made both with fingers and brushes.

Location: Kumi District, Eastern Uganda.

Timing: Anytime during the dry months of June-October and December-February when it’s easy to climb the rocks.
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One of the most enthralling Uganda tourist places, Kasubi Tombs is an active heritage and religious place that stands as a symbol of spirituality, remembrance, and peace. This was the palace of King Kabaka built in 1882 and became his burial place two years later, which now stands as the main tomb known as Muzibu Azaala Mpanga.

See the thatched-roof houses and their decoration using bark cloth made from fig trees. Don’t miss to see the rustic homes of the widows of the Kabaka kings and the huge farms here.

Location: Masiro Road, Kampala, Uganda.

Timing: Anytime during the dry months of June-October and December-February.
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Image Credit : Mariya Sukhoveyko / Shutterstock.com
This is the only place amongst Uganda tourist spots where you can explore and see the performance of the best cultural group in Uganda i.e. the Ndere Group, which is a flute troupe.

You can see performances like songs, dance, and light comedies, etc. from almost 56 Ugandan tribes to get an insight into the rich culture and traditions of Africa. You can also see art exhibits, meet artists, and enjoy traditional African food here.

Location: Plot 4505, Kira Road, Ntinda-Kisaasi Road, Kampala, Uganda.

Timing: Every day from 6:00 am to 12:00 am.
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Image Credit : DstockIL / Shutterstock.com
This is the largest open-air market in Uganda where you can buy everything from live animals to electronics. Though the place is chaotic, it is extremely vibrant and a must-visit for a quintessential African experience, making it one of the most famous Uganda tourist spots.

This is a great place where you can spend hours rummaging through its narrow lanes where almost 50,000 vendors congregate. You can browse and shop for second-hand clothes, shoes, bags, fresh produce, etc.

Location: Kampala, Uganda.

Timing: Anytime between 6:00 am to 9:00 pm
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This spectacular national park is nestled in rainforests that date back almost 25,000 years and have around 400 plant species. What makes this park amongst the best Uganda tourist placesis that almost half of the world’s mountain gorilla lives here. Besides, it houses Red-tailed monkeys, Chimpanzees, Vervets, Cream-banded swallowtail, side-striped jackal, African civet, etc.

There are almost 348 bird species and 220 species of butterflies here. This is one of the few parks to be accessible only on foot.

Location: Kanungu District, Uganda.

Timing: Best time for gorilla trekking is in the dry months of June-August and December-February.
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This spectacular park has the largest variety of wildlife, more than any other Ugandan parks, making it one of the most fascinating places to visit in Uganda. This savannah reserve includes the vast forest of Maramagambo Forest, wetlands, volcanic craters, and crater lakes.

The park is famous for its black-maned tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector along with a huge range of primates like the Big Five Game, Warthog, African bush elephant, Chimpanzees, etc. It has almost 500 bird species residing in its forests. You can enjoy chimpanzee trekking and boat trips to the Kazinga Channel here.

Location: Fort Portal-Mpondwe Road, Rubirizi, Uganda.

Timing: Anytime during the dry months of January-February and June-July for game viewing.
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These fascinating million-year-old volcanic craters were created by explosions violent enough to create these humongous dents in the earth that resulted in saltwater lakes or lush meadows. You can’t miss getting on what’s called the most scenic drive in Uganda to see dozens of these grass-filled craters, lakes where salt is extracted, views of the iconic Rift Valley, Kazinga Channel, and the Rwenzori Mountain chain.

This 27-kilometer long drive also offers stupendous views of vast savannah plains, huge elephants & buffaloes herds, etc.

Location: Queen Elizabeth National Park, Rubirizi, Uganda.

Timing: Early morning or late evening hours during January-February and June-July.
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This 32-kilometer long channel that connects Lake George with Lake Edward is one of the top sights in Queen Elizabeth Park and one of the best Uganda tourist places, mainly for being a watering hole for a variety of rare African species like the Big Five Game, Sitatunga antelopes, Pink-backed Pelicans, African Shoebill, etc.

Besides, there are a huge number of water-based species like Nile crocodiles, hippos, waterbucks, etc. that are best seen through a boat safari or hiking into their natural habitats.

Location: Queen Elizabeth National Park, Rubirizi, Uganda

Timing: 3-5 pm during the dry months of January-February and June-July.
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The fact that it is the smallest Ugandan National Park, doesn’t take away from the fact that how spectacular it is! It is amongst the most scenic Uganda tourist places that protect almost 300 mountain gorillas, Golden monkeys, bush pigs, side-striped jackals, etc.

Amidst its vast Albertine Rift montane and bamboo forests, it also houses hundreds of bird species like Handsome spurfowl, Regal Sunbird, Strange Weaver, Montane nightjar, etc. One of the most striking features here is the three extinct conical volcanoes in the Virunga range.

Location: Kisoro District, South-western Uganda.

Timing: June-September for Gorilla safaris.
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The beauty of this compact freshwater lake needs to be seen to be believed. The fact that not many people visit here, makes the lake even more elusive and beautiful beyond imagination, making it one of the most scenic Uganda tourist spots.

With the Virunga Mountains looming large over it and punctuated by several small isles, this is the perfect place to relax and savour the famous African sun and wilderness. Don’t miss enjoying canoeing, swimming, birding, mountain biking, and hiking here.

Location: Kisoro District, South-western Uganda.

Timing: Anytime during the dry months of June-September and December-February.
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This sanctuary plays a very important role in safe-breeding rhinos and re-introducing them into the national parks and is the only place where you can see wild rhinos in the whole of Uganda, making it an important Uganda tourist place.

Besides rhinos, you can also see monkeys, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds. While here, you cannot miss on-foot rhino and shoebill trekking, canoe rides, birding, and nature walks to see the beautiful sights and sounds of the African wilderness.

Location: Nakitoma Village, Nakasongola District, Kampala-Gulu Highway.

Timing: Every day from 8:00 am-1:00 pm and 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
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This fascinating phenomenon that has intrigued us from time immemorial can be experienced in Uganda. The imaginary line that divides the earth into two halves can be visited here and it’s surreal to see a sign that marks the location of the equator, making it one of the most fascinating Uganda tourist spots.

This is where you can stand with each leg in different hemispheres of the world!

Location: Kayabwe, Mpigi District, Uganda.

Timing: Can be visited anytime.
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This picturesque garden, established in 1898, is located close to the shores of Lake Victoria. The stunning Uganda tourist spot is an expanse of lush greenery is divided into zones like the rainforest, tropical, subtropical, and temperate, and house plants and trees native to these ecosystems.

You can see more than 300 exotic and medicinal plant species along with exotic bird and mammal species like Vervet monkeys, Red-tailed monkeys, Palm-nut vulture, Whilst Bat Hawk, etc. This is where you can enjoy the Mileage world music festival each year in November.

Location: Berkeley Road, Entebbe, Uganda.

Timing: Every day 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.
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The 1000 kilometer long Rwenzori National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, protects the iconic Mountains of the Moon and their enchanting landscape of moorland, montane and bamboo forests, waterfalls, lakes, glaciers, and acres of everlasting flowers.

The park, one of the top Uganda tourist spots,is home to around 70 mammal species and 217 bird species like Rwenzori turaco, Hyrax, Black and white colobus, etc. People visit from all over the world to summit Margherita peak and enjoy hiking and village walks here.

Location: Bundibugyo, Kasese, Uganda.

Timing: Every day 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.
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This is one of the most revered places to visit in Uganda, this twin-towered cathedral was built as a shrine to 22 Ugandan martyrs who refused to denounce Christianity. These people were hacked to death by Kabaka Mwanga II in 1885.

It also holds the remains of the first African Catholic Bishop and the first Archbishop of Kampala. This hilltop cathedral is a must-include in the itinerary of anyone visiting Uganda for the stunning views of the Kampala city that it offers.

Location: Mutesa Road, Kampala, Uganda.

Timing: The masses are held at 10:00 am and 5:00 pm each day.
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This spectacular national park protects Mt. Elgon, the largest volcanic base in the world and also the oldest and largest East African volcanic mountain. Declared as a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve, this park houses duiker, antelope, forest monkeys, black & white monkeys, leopards, hyenas, Hartlaub’s turaco, etc.

The highlights here are the vast caves where elephants and buffalos come at night to lick the salt off their walls. You can enjoy walking trails, hiking, and cave explorations here.

Location: Mt. Elgon Road, Kitale, Kenya.

Timing: Every day from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
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Named after the ‘Sep’ plant, this scenic waterfall is a cluster of three tall cascades of water tumbling down the lower slopes of Mt. Elgon. They can be reached by a thrilling 7-kilometer long hike that’s dotted with sharply falling and rising gradients, farms, rugged patches, and dwindling ladders.

Adventure enthusiasts must not miss trying abseiling and hiking here. This area is famous for the Bugisu Arabica coffee plantations.

Location: Kapchorwa District, Eastern Uganda.

Timing: Any time of the year.
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This scenic national park, one of the top Uganda tourist spots,houses the only tract of lowland East African forests and Ituri Forest that survived the Ice Age. This park houses ethnic tribes like Bwamba, Bakonjo, Bakutu, and Batwa pygmies.

At the main watering holes i.e. the rivers Semliki and Lamia, you can spot Scaly-tailed flying squirrels, Hippos, Mona monkeys, Duiker, etc. The water of the springs is so hot that you can cook eggs in it.

Location: Bwamba County, Western Uganda

Timing: Dry season of December-February and June-July.
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This waterfall is a beautiful cultural and heritage site where people come to seek blessings for a child, money, and a good harvest. This 7-meter high cascade of water is surrounded by thick greenery that houses several bird species like Vervet, Red-tailed monkeys, African cobra, Horned adder, etc.

You can enjoy activities like village walks, canoeing, primate walks, and rappelling here.

Location: Mukono District, Uganda.

Timing: Can be visited anytime.
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Also known as the ‘Place of many little birds’, this is the second-deepest African lake reaching almost 3,000 ft. in some spots. The lake has 29 islands including the infamous Akampene (Punishment Island) where unmarried pregnant ladies were left to die.

The lake is the home to the exotic De Witte’s clawed frog, Spotted-necked otter, Caridina shrimp, etc. along with almost 200 bird species. You can enjoy swimming, canoeing, horse riding, and village walks here.

Location: Between Kisoro and Kabale Districts, South-western Uganda.

Timing: Dry season of December-February and June-July.
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Also known as Mengo, this is the home of Kabaka, the Buganda King. Built in 1922, the building was initially an army barrack and an underground prison and torture and execution chamber, making it one of the most fascinating Uganda tourist spots.

It is an amazing experience to see the eternal fire and walk through the dark concrete tunnel with damp cells that are separated by moat-like water bodies that were built to prevent the prisoners from escaping.

Location: Lubiri Ring Road, Kampala, Uganda.

Timing: Every day from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
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People Also Ask About Uganda

  1. Which are the best places to visit in Uganda in winters?

    1. Entebbe: December is the best time to visit Entebbe, one of the best places to visit in Uganda,and enjoy a wildlife safari to Murchison Falls, which is amongst the world’s most powerful waterfalls and visit Queen Elizabeth National Park for game viewing.

    2. Kampala: The capital of Uganda is one of the best places to visit in Ugandafor its Christmas celebrations, known as Sekukkulu here, which are a mix of the traditional and the modern. You can enjoy watching carolling, giant Christmas trees, families getting together to cook lavish traditional meals, and ethnic music and dance performances, making it one of the best Uganda tourist places.

    3. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: What can be a better winter activity than enjoying gorilla tracking at this national park, one of the best Uganda tourist places. This is when the crowds are less, which offers you an undulated insight into the world of these elusive creatures. You can enjoy seeing them interacting with their families and thumping the trees.
  2. Which are the best wildlife experiences in Uganda?

    1. Golden monkey safaris: The next best safari experience to gorilla tracking is this super-fun adventure when you trek to see this elusive bright orange primate in its natural habitat at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, one of the top Uganda tourist places. This will take you through thick bamboo forests to reach their habited areas.

    2. Shoebill safari: You need to see this prehistoric bird to believe how exotic it is. Tracking shoebills is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that can be savoured at Lake Albert, one of the best Uganda tourist places,where you can see them in huge flocks.

    3. Spot tree-climbing lions: There is nothing more fascinating than seeing this majestic creature crouching in a tree to find its next prey. Head over to the Ishasha sector at Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of the most-famous Uganda tourist spots,to see them climb into 20 of their favourite trees, making their spotting easy.
  3. Which are the best Wildlife parks to visit in Uganda?

    1. Queen Elizabeth National Park: This is amongst the best Uganda tourist places and wildlife parks for the sheer number of stupendous experiences that it offers ranging from chances to spot tree-climbing lions to primate safaris, game drives, boat cruises, etc.

    2. Mount Rwenzori National Park: One of the best Uganda tourist spots, this park protects the only snow-covered Ugandan mountain and houses elusive wildlife. It is a favourite with adventure enthusiasts who visit this place to enjoy mountain biking, summiting the various peaks, snow trails, etc.

    3. Semliki National Park: A bird watcher’s haven, you can spot almost 400 bird species here along with the Big Five Game animals, making it amongst the top Uganda tourist spots. The highlight here is the Sempaya hot springs, one of the most striking places to visit in Uganda,which are said to have healing properties and Batwa trails where you can get a first-hand experience of this ethnic tribe.
  4. What is the best time to visit Uganda?

    The best time to visit Uganda and to enjoy stupendous wildlife experiences is in the dry seasons i.e. between December and February and June and August. This is when most of the species congregate at the watering holes and can be spotted easily. This is also a great time for birding and hiking and for visiting all the famous Uganda tourist spots.
  5. How to reach Uganda?

    The country’s Entebbe International Airport receives flights from all over the world through major carriers like Qatar Airways, KLM Airlines, Delta Air, Air India, etc. From India, there are no direct flights to Uganda. They stop at places like Abu Dhabi, Addis Ababa, Dubai, etc.
  6. Is Uganda worth visiting?

    Absolutely! Uganda is one of the richest countries in the world when it comes to the variety of wildlife that’s concentrated in spectacular national parks, its ethnic tribes and their colours and culture that include ancient burial and coronation sites, and its iconic physical features and landscape.

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