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Emily Xu
CN
Visited:
October 2026
Reviewed: Oct 30, 2026
Email Emily Xu | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Far More Than Gorillas – A Varied, Rewarding Safari Destination
Uganda was a wonderful surprise as a travel destination—far more varied than I expected. We came mainly for the primates, and gorilla trekking in Bwindi was unforgettable: we were lucky enough to encounter two gorilla families, and the trek was efficient without being exhausting. Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale and the community experience were also meaningful. But what really made Uganda stand out was everything beyond the primates: Queen Elizabeth National Park, with the Kazinga Channel boat cruise, had an astonishing density of hippos, elephants, buffaloes and birds; Ishasha’s tree-climbing lions were a unique bonus. The scenery was lush and green, the weather pleasant, and the lodges comfortable and well located. Our guide’s sharp eyes and professionalism made the wildlife viewing even better. My only regret is not allocating more days—before the trip I didn’t realize how much Uganda offers beyond gorillas, including Murchison Falls, Ziwa’s rhinos, shoebill swamps and Jinja. As a destination, Uganda feels fresh, less crowded and richly rewarding.
Amy Burns
GB
Visited:
October 2026
Reviewed: Oct 23, 2026
Email Amy Burns | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Such an amazing experience, sometimes it didn't feel real. It surpassed all of our expectations.
Visiting Uganda was such an amazing experience—at times, it truly didn't even feel real. It surpassed every expectation my husband and I had. Uganda is a breathtakingly beautiful country filled with warm, lovely, and welcoming people who made us feel at home from the moment we arrived.
The wildlife spotting and national parks were incredible, and one of the biggest surprises was how serene and quiet the game drives were. When we were at Lake Mburo, we only saw one other safari vehicle the entire time. Unlike crowded safari destinations you often see online, it felt like we had the whole park entirely to ourselves. A major highlight there was the guided nature walk—an unbelievable opportunity to walk on foot alongside giraffes, zebras, impala, antelopes, warthogs, buffalo, waterbuck, and a vast array of bird species.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest was simply breathtaking, and gorilla
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trekking was an unforgettable "pinch-me" moment. A quick tip for future travelers: do not underestimate how long or demanding the treks can be! We trekked for over six hours in total, but standing in the presence of the gorillas made every single step worth it.Another absolute must-see is the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The boat cruise was magnificent, bringing us almost within touching distance of hippos, crocodiles, and reptiles, alongside incredible birdlife.
Across Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi, the lodges set against dramatic natural backdrops provided clean, spacious accommodation with stunning views that made every evening special.
We booked our 1-week gorilla and safari itinerary through Kajie Safaris—who were fantastic from start to finish—but our only regret is that we didn't stay longer! Uganda is a world-class travel destination, and if we are lucky enough to return, we will definitely be booking a longer trip.
Practical Hints & Tips for Visiting Uganda
Currency & Payment Options: Uganda operates on a closed currency (Ugandan Schillings / UGX), but right after clearing arrivals/departures at the airport, there is an array of exchange bureaus and ATMs available to get cash. I brought a mix of US Dollars and withdrew Schillings on arrival. I also used a Revolut card to ensure the best exchange rate, both for ATM withdrawals and direct purchases.
Navigating Gorilla Trekking: Do not underestimate how long or physically demanding the treks can be! We trekked for over six hours in total, though every step was completely worth it. At the pre-trek briefing, the local Batwa community performs and circulates a tip box. At the end of the trek, local crafts and souvenirs are available—there is no pressure to buy, but it is worth having local Schillings on hand.
Budgeting for Tipping & Porters: Tipping is an integral part of the experience, so don't underestimate how much cash you'll need. We tipped our main guide at the end of the tour, but as a rough guide, plan around $15 per person per day for additional park rangers and guides.
Hiring a Porter is Essential: For gorilla trekking, hiring a porter was the best $20 each we spent! They carry your daypack and help you navigate the steep, difficult terrain. Our porters did such an incredible job that we tipped them on top of the fee. In total, tips and porter costs for the two of us came to $130 for the trek alone (covering our guide, ranger, and porters). Also factor in that at each hotel/Lodge you will need to tip for porterage and other services therefore try and ensure to have low denominations to hand or tipping can become very expensive!
Gabriella Murgia
IT
Visited:
September 2026
Reviewed: Sep 29, 2026
Email Gabriella Murgia | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Extraordinary country and authentic people, but still facing many major challenges
From the safaris, where we had the opportunity to see incredible wildlife up close, to the beautiful forests and villages, every day brought a new adventure. The beauty of the landscapes and the incredible variety of environments make Uganda a destination that leaves a lasting impression. What struck me most was the authenticity of the experience. Away from mass tourism, I felt that I was truly getting to know the country and its culture.
At the same time, Uganda is a very poor country, and it is clear that many communities would benefit from greater support and investment from their government, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and basic services. Despite the economic difficulties and challenging living conditions, what touched me deeply was seeing
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how warm, welcoming, and genuinely smiling the people are.It was an intense and emotional journey, full of unforgettable moments that I will carry with me for a long time. I highly recommend Uganda to anyone looking for something different, authentic, and deeply meaningful.
Latonya
GB
Visited:
August 2026
Reviewed: Sep 22, 2026
Email Latonya | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Unbelievable Uganda - Just book it!
I’ve been on many safaris in Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa etc however Uganda was by far my favourite. With the exception of rhino’s it has all the other big five with the added bonus of wild mountain gorillas and also chimps. I am a female solo traveller and I found Uganda to be very safe and welcoming. It’s also much better value than other countries. I found Uganda to be very quiet compared to other countries and never saw more than 6 safari jeeps together in a national park. I was very impressed with how ethical everything was, with the animals put first i.e. to see the gorillas you must wear a face mask and you’re limited to an hour with them. I cannot recommend Uganda enough, simply stunning.
Emma Pettitt
IT
Visited:
August 2026
Reviewed: Sep 16, 2026
Email Emma Pettitt | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A lovely surprise
I didn’t have any preconceptions about Uganda - I hadn’t visited sub-Saharan Africa before. I had a vague idea of savannah landscapes, dry and dusty at the end of the dry season, and chaotic cities. While Kampala is indeed chaotic, it’s also fascinating. The countryside I saw was to the west - savannah, yes, but also vast lush, forested areas. Tea planatations, rainforest, rolling hills and mountains. The people were great - always kind and patient, no hassle anywhere. I think this year has see lower numbers of tourists due to the ebola outbreak, so perhaps it was an even better time to visit. I went to Queen Elizabeth NP, Kyaninga and Murchison. All wonderful, I’d go back again and I would recommend anyone to visit.
Annette
AU
Visited:
July 2026
Reviewed: Sep 6, 2026
Email Annette | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Beautiful country with diverse wildlife and friendly people.
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or acknowledge their error. The terrain around the lodge is challenging and not all guests might be capable of navigating it - especially in the rain or darkness (both of which we had at once). We would absolutely recommend Uganda as a tourism destination for its diversity of scenery and wildlife, friendly and accommodating people and spectacular birdwatching opportunities in both forests and on waterways.
Gabriele Socchi
IT
Visited:
August 2026
Reviewed: Aug 31, 2026
Email Gabriele Socchi | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Beauty in the Land of Happy Children
For us, Uganda was above all this: "Beauty in the Land of Happy Children."
An intense, authentic journey, capable of going much beyond a simple safari. The tour operator ECOVIC TOUR & TRAVEL has always worked to allow us to see as many animals as possible: with the lions we were not particularly lucky, but we experienced moments that we will hardly forget, above all the encounter with the mountain gorillas, who came within a few centimeters of us.
Then there are the colors, the faces, the children, the smiles and the daily life of Uganda. Contact with local communities, experience with the Batwa, the small towns they passed through, and the people they met along the way gave the journey a special depth.
It was a challenging itinerary, with many kilometers and dense days, but precisely for this reason it was very rich: from Murchison Falls to the Bwindi Forest, from the savannah to Lake Bunyonyi, each day showed a different
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Uganda.We were also struck by the extraordinary cleanliness everywhere, from facilities to restaurants to public restrooms: a truly commendable attention to the tourist.
We return home with beautiful images, but above all with a feeling: Uganda is beauty, nature, authenticity, and smiles. Beauty in the Land of Happy Children.
Thank you, Vincent, and thank you Ecovic for your help
Don Curry
DE
Visited:
July 2026
Reviewed: Aug 17, 2026
Email Don Curry | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A trip to Uganda: warm-hearted people and wonderful wildlife encounters
A 14-day round trip through Uganda allowed me to visit the country's eight most important national parks. Close encounters with mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, lions, elephants, a shoebill stork, and much more were among the trip's highlights. Although not all roads are paved—especially in the north—traveling was relaxed, with pleasant temperatures and little rain. I was surprised by the warmth and helpfulness of the people I met; here, far removed from mass tourism, you truly feel like a welcome guest. I can unreservedly recommend the tour organized by Myler Africa Safaris.
Amedeo
US
Visited:
June 2026
Reviewed: Aug 3, 2026
Email Amedeo | 65+ years of age | Experience level: first safari
Experiencing the countryside, people and wildlife is beyond imagination.
Experiencing the countryside and the people of Uganda is beyond imagination. Rich in agriculture with stunning panoramic views. Bananas, coffee and tea often grown in volcanic soil.
Lodges unique in every way to enhance the environment. Servers are soft spoken and speak English. Every need was met with kindness and smiles. All meals gourmet. The royal treatment beyond my expectations. All dressed to suit the ambiance of the lodge. The lodges are self contained some with hydro and all with solar power. Local materials are used in construction of the lodges. You will not be disappointed.
My guide was Baluku. Everything noted in other reviews is true. He is the best. I can write a book about how he helped me in every way possible to enjoy my safari adventure. He is senior in the company and knows everyone along the way.
I am 80 years old. I was able to make the hike to see the golden monkeys. I was carried up the mountain to see the gorillas.
Monica Prats
A wonderful destination in green Africa
Uganda has everything you can wish for a wonderful trip that will stay with you forever! Incredibly green landscapes, the nicest, most welcoming people, amazing wildlife. Of course, mountain gorillas, eild chimps and so much more! Plus some of the best gastronomy in Africa. A place I totally recommend :)