Guide to Luxury Holidays in Uganda
Uganda may be small in size, but with a diverse landscape that encompasses snow-capped mountains and sprawling savannahs, it packs in more natural wonders than you might expect. When coupled with superb wildlife watching, welcoming locals, and idyllic island retreats, luxury Uganda holidays should be on everyone's bucket list.
Home to Africa's tallest mountain range (the Rwenzoris), its largest lake (Lake Victoria), and the source of the Nile, Uganda instantly impresses in both magnitude and magnificence. For many, Uganda's biggest draw is the chance to see rare animals in their natural habitat, like chiefly mountain gorillas, cackling hyenas, languorous hippos, and the famous Big Five (lions, rhinos, elephants, buffalo, and leopards).
The World Heritage-listed Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to almost half the world's surviving mountain gorillas alongside 120 other species of mammal. Murchison Falls National Park is equally plentiful in fauna, with Rothschild giraffes, Ugandan kobs (antelope), chimpanzees and crocodiles running free.
Kidepo Valley National Park is also known for playing host to animals that can't be found anywhere else in Uganda. Uganda's biggest city, Kampala, isn't lacking in rural charm either. Surrounded by farmland on the banks of Lake Victoria, it's one of East Africa's most appealing urban sprawls. The hustle and bustle of the city centre is invigorating, and you'll find that its stately historical attractions are offset by vibrant fairs and colourful street art, all of which add to its dynamism.
Sunny most of the year with a warm tropical climate, Uganda enjoys average annual temperatures of 26 degrees. For trekking and wildlife viewing, aim to visit towards the end of the dry season - January to February and June to August.
Between March-May and September-November, Uganda experiences more rain, but you'll find that securing gorilla permits are much easier during these periods of the year.
You'll need a visa to enter Uganda. You can apply for an 'e-visa' online or visit the Ugandan High Commission in London. Immigration officers usually allow travellers to stay between 2 weeks and 3 months on arrival. Visit GOV.UK for more information.
Ugandan cuisine is all about delicious carbs, and most meals are accompanied by matoke (cooked plantains), posho (made from white cornflour, similar to polenta), rice, or potatoes. Stews and sauces are typically used to flavour dishes and are drawn from Middle Eastern and Asian influences.
One of Uganda's more unique specialities is rolex, an omelette with onion and vegetables rolled up in a chapati. Ugandans are also keen beer drinkers, with Nile and Bell being the most popular brews. Waragi, a local millet-based alcohol, will add hairs to your chest.
