Planning the perfect Uganda itinerary is never an easy task, because this is one of the most diverse countries in East Africa, and there’s a lot to try and fit in.
Any first time Uganda itinerary needs to include all the best things that the country is known for, and that means you’ll be delving into rich cultures, exploring national parks and witnessing its diverse wildlife.
You’ll also be cruising along the Nile River and then saving some time to relax on the shores of Lake Victoria, at Uganda’s serene lakeside resorts.
There’s a lot to fit in, and we promise to use all of the knowledge and experience we have gained from our several weeks of travel in Uganda to help you plan the perfect trip.
To inspire your East African adventure, here’s our guide to crafting the perfect Uganda Itinerary.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Uganda?
Uganda enjoys a tropical climate all year round, with a warmer climate around the Lake Victoria and a more temperate climate in the mountainous regions.
The most popular time to visit is during the dry seasons, between December and February and between June and August when the weather is more conducive for travel, especially for trekking and wildlife safaris. This is peak season though, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
From March to May and from September to November, the weather is more wet due to the rainy seasons, but you’ll beat the crowds, and the scenery is lush and green, making it a lovely time to visit nonetheless.
How To Move Around Uganda?
When planning your Uganda Itinerary, you’ll need to consider the best way to travel around. It’s a diverse country, so to save on time you’ll want to consider domestic flights between distant destinations or take buses to cover shorter distances.
You can take a flight or a bus from Kampala to Murchison Falls, for instance, or Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The best way to explore Lake Victoria is to take the scenic route, around its picturesque islands.
You can visit Uganda independently, or you can have your tour organized in advance.
Is Uganda Expensive?
It’s usually pretty affordable to explore around here. You can find cozy places to stay and enjoy yummy food every night, all without spending more than 70 bucks per person each day!
But oh, a quick heads up! If you’re dreaming of going on safaris to see all the cool animals, just know that this can make your budget go up quite a bit. Safaris are super fun, but they can be a bit pricey. So, keep an eye on your wallet if you plan to include them in your adventure!
7 Days in Uganda Itinerary
Uganda is a diverse country, and you don’t want to underestimate the distances between the regions when you’re figuring out how to get around and deciding how long you’ve got to explore.
That being said, 7 days is the absolute minimum amount of time you can allocate to experience the top sites of Uganda. You will miss some stuff, but we can definitely work with a one-week Uganda itinerary.
- Day 1: Arrive in Entebbe
- Day 2: Entebbe to Kampala
- Day 3: Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
- Day 5: Travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 6: Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 7: Return to Entebbe
- Day 8: Depart Entebbe
Alright, friends! I’m going to be super honest with you. This journey is going to be a speedy peek at what Uganda has to offer. But, no worries! You’ll still get to experience a bunch of cool places that Uganda is famous for, and you’ll definitely catch the vibe!
So, you’ll notice that I’ve suggested adding a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park. With only one week in Uganda, you gotta make the most of your time, right? You can do this by combining your travel with amazing sightseeing. Imagine spotting lions and elephants while you’re on the move!
We’ve explored Uganda in different ways – on our own, on tours, and even on safari. If you decide to skip the safari, just know that you might miss out on some pretty wild animal encounters.
And, squeezing in everything might mean you won’t have time to chill by Lake Victoria or visit the mountain gorillas because, well, moving around takes time! In my opinion, it’s a big rush, and I really think you should consider the safari option. It lets you see and do so much without the hustle and bustle of moving around too much!
Remember, this is your adventure, so choose what makes you the happiest and have a blast in Uganda!
Day 1: Landing in Entebbe!
We kick off our adventure in Entebbe! Let’s soak in the local vibe, try some tasty Ugandan dishes, and rest up for the exciting days ahead!
Day 2: Journey to Kampala!
(Approx. 1-2 hours, 40 km)
We’ll make our way to Kampala! It’s bursting with cool spots! We’ll visit the Uganda Museum, check out the Kasubi Tombs, and learn lots about Uganda’s rich history!
Day 3: Onward to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park!
(Approx. 9-10 hours, 460 km)
We’ll set off early for Bwindi! It’s a long ride but it’s worth it! This park is home to the majestic mountain gorillas! We’ll rest and maybe explore a bit when we arrive!
Day 4: Meeting Gorillas!
Time to trek and meet the incredible gorillas! We’ll learn tons about them and get to watch them in their natural habitat! It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Day 5: Exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park!
(Approx. 4-5 hours, 160 km)
Next, we’re heading to Queen Elizabeth National Park! This place is famous for its wildlife! We’ll try to spot as many animals as we can on our evening game drive!
Day 6: Watch Thousands of Animals At Queen Elizabeth National Park!
This is one of the most amazing days in the itinerary, as you will have the oportunity to spend the day exploring, with animals sightings and a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel.
Day 7: Journey Back to Entebbe!
(Approx. 6-7 hours, 420 km)
We’re heading back to Entebbe. We’ll catch up on spots we might have missed on Day 1 or just relax and reminisce about our journey.
Day 8: See You Later, Uganda!
The adventure in Uganda comes to an end. It’s time to say goodbye and fly back home or to our next adventure with heaps of unforgettable memories!
And there you go, friends! Our super exciting and jam-packed Uganda itinerary! Feel free to mix things up to suit your tastes! Whether it’s for 7 days, 10 days, or 2 weeks, Uganda is all set to amaze you!
10 Days in Uganda Itinerary
So, the 7-day trip through Uganda we talked about is totally doable if you’re short on time. But, if you can, I’d say aim for at least a 10-day adventure!
By adding those extra 3 days, you can explore more around Kampala and Entebbe. There’s the city of Kampala and the old, charming areas in Entebbe, both brimming with tales and traditions!
You also get the chance to check out more of Uganda’s gems, like Jinja, where the Nile River starts! It’s got old structures that pre-date many of the buildings you see in Kampala. Visiting such places helps us get how Uganda has grown and changed over time.
In these extra days, you might get to see more animals, meet more locals, and just soak in more of the Ugandan vibe. Every bit of this journey is key to really get Uganda’s essence and the amazing mix of nature and culture it offers!
So, if you can stretch your trip a bit, go for it! There’s just so much to learn and enjoy in this beautiful country!
- Day 1: Touch Down in Entebbe!
- Day 2: Explore Kampala!
- Day 3: To Bwindi Impenetrable National Park!
- Day 4: Gorilla Trekking Adventure!
- Day 5: Venture to Queen Elizabeth National Park!
- Day 6: More Explorations in Queen Elizabeth National Park!
- Day 7: Explore Fort Portal and the Crater Lakes!
- Day 8: Adventure in Jinja!
- Day 9: Back to Kampala!
- Day 10: Wave Goodbye to Uganda!
So, this 10-day Uganda adventure is packed with lots of exciting stops, including all the cool places I mentioned before, but we’re gonna dive a bit deeper into Kampala this time around!
The coolest part? We’re adding a whole day to explore Fort Portal and its magical crater lakes, and the stunning Amabere Caves. Trust me, these spots are like nowhere else on Earth—you really don’t wanna miss out!
In Kampala, we’ll explore more local hangouts, meet more awesome locals, and maybe even dance to some groovy Ugandan beats!
Day 1: Arrive in Entebbe!
Welcome to Uganda! Once you land in Entebbe, get cozy in your hotel and take a revitalizing walk by Lake Victoria. If you’re a bird enthusiast, spot the unique bird species that reside by the lake.
Day 2: Explore Kampala!
Travel Time: (Approx. 1-2 hours, 40 km)
In Kampala, dive deep into Uganda’s rich history at the Uganda Museum. Explore the Kasubi Tombs and learn about the Buganda Kingdom. Wander through the vibrant markets, interact with the locals, and relish some local Ugandan delicacies.
Day 3: Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park!
Travel Time: (Approx. 9-10 hours, 460 km)
The journey to Bwindi offers breathtaking views. On reaching, prepare for the next day by resting or engaging with the local community to learn about their customs and way of life.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Bwindi!
Today is the day! Encounter the majestic mountain gorillas. Enjoy a guided walk through the lush forest and experience the diverse ecosystem. It’s a day full of awe and learning about these magnificent creatures.
Day 5: Discover Queen Elizabeth National Park!
Travel Time: (Approx. 4-5 hours, 160 km)
Once at Queen Elizabeth National Park, settle in and embark on an evening game drive. Spot lions, elephants, and various antelope species. End your day with a soothing view of the sunset over the savannah.
Day 6: Explore More of Queen Elizabeth National Park!
Spend your day traversing the park, exploring different habitats. Enjoy a unique boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, where hippos and diverse bird species are the stars of the show. It’s all about wildlife and beautiful sceneries today!
Day 7: Relax in Fort Portal and Visit Crater Lakes!
Travel Time: (Approx. 2-3 hours, 150 km)
Explore the serene town of Fort Portal. Discover the magical crater lakes, delve into the Amabere Caves, and if you fancy, hike to the top of some of the craters for panoramic views of the stunning landscapes.
Day 8: Adrenaline Rush in Jinja!
Travel Time: (Approx. 5-6 hours, 300 km)
In Jinja, the adventure capital of Uganda, visit the source of the Nile, and brace yourself for thrilling activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, or kayaking. Feel the adrenaline and enjoy the vibes of this lively town!
Day 9: Back to Kampala for Last-minute Fun!
Travel Time: (Approx. 1-2 hours, 80 km)
Return to the vibrant city of Kampala. Explore the Ndere Cultural Centre and witness traditional dance and music performances. It’s also a great day for last-minute souvenir shopping to bring back a piece of Uganda with you.
Day 10: Depart from Entebbe!
Wrap up your Ugandan adventure by traveling back to Entebbe. If there’s some spare time, visit the Entebbe Botanical Gardens to witness a variety of plant species. Finally, board your flight back home, carrying a heart full of unforgettable memories and maybe some plans to return!
This adventure-packed itinerary ensures you experience the essence and diversity of Uganda, witnessing its unique wildlife, rich culture, and captivating landscapes!
14 Days in Uganda Itinerary
Two weeks is just the perfect amount of time to really soak in all the wonders Uganda has to offer.
You’ll get to experience all the fabulous places we’ve talked about, and you’ll have some extra time to chill by the beautiful Lake Victoria! It’s like having the best of both worlds – thrilling adventures and some relaxing downtime!
And guess what? We’ll also take an incredible journey up to the North to discover the vibrant city of Gulu! This city is brimming with a mix of traditions and modern vibes! Here, you’ll encounter a blend of rich history and welcoming locals eager to share their stories and culture with you.
- Day 1: Arrive in Entebbe
- Day 2: Entebbe to Kampala
- Day 3: Kampala to Jinja
- Day 4: Jinja to Mbale
- Day 5: Mbale to Kidepo Valley National Park
- Day 6: Explore Kidepo Valley National Park
- Day 7: Kidepo Valley to Murchison Falls National Park
- Day 8: Explore Murchison Falls National Park
- Day 9: Murchison Falls to Fort Portal
- Day 10: Fort Portal to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 11: Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 12: Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Day 13: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
- Day 14: Return to Entebbe and Depart
Murchison Falls is where the majestic Nile River dances through a tight gap and then tumbles down beautifully, located in the larger Murchison Falls National Park. This place is like a giant, colorful painting filled with all sorts of animals like elephants and lions! It’s like a big, natural playground!
It’s a totally different world from cities built by ancient conquerors—it’s all about the beauty of the wild! It’s got endless fields, whispering forests, and the shining river, making it a must-see in Uganda!
So, making your way to Murchison Falls from the city of Kampala might be a bit of a journey, but it’s like being on the road to a treasure chest! When you get there, you’re surrounded by the sounds of the waterfall, the rustling grasslands, and the peaceful forests.
Day 1: Arrive in Entebbe
Welcome to Uganda! Arrive in Entebbe and rest up at your accommodation. If you have some energy, explore nearby attractions like the Entebbe Botanical Gardens and have a nice dinner at a local restaurant
Day 2: Entebbe to Kampala
Drive to Kampala, explore the vibrant city, and taste some local cuisine. Visit the Uganda Museum to learn about Uganda’s cultural heritage and explore the local markets to shop for some souvenirs.
Day 3: Kampala to Jinja
Travel to Jinja to witness the source of the Nile River! Here, you can enjoy a thrilling white-water rafting experience or take a calming boat ride, witnessing the meeting of Lake Victoria and the Nile
Day 4: Jinja to Mbale
Head to Mbale to visit the stunning Sipi Falls and explore the picturesque landscapes around Mount Elgon. You might even hike a bit to catch the beautiful views from the hills
Day 5: Mbale to Kidepo Valley National Park
Travel north to Kidepo Valley National Park. Once there, embark on an evening game drive to see the amazing wildlife, like giraffes, zebras, and maybe even a leopard if you’re luck.
Day 6: Explore Kidepo Valley National Park
Spend the day exploring the park, spotting more wildlife, and learning about the local ecosystems. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the nature and capture lots of photos of the stunning scenery.
Day 7: Kidepo Valley to Murchison Falls National Park
Travel to Murchison Falls National Park and witness the awe-inspiring power of the waterfall. Go on an evening game drive to see elephants, buffalos, and various bird species.
Day 8: Explore Murchison Falls National Park
Delve deeper into the park with a morning game drive and an afternoon boat safari on the Nile, getting up close with hippos and crocodiles. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the beautiful birds overhead!
Day 9: Murchison Falls to Fort Portal
Journey to Fort Portal and explore the mystical Amabere Caves and relax by the serene Crater Lakes. Enjoy a cultural evening with local food and music.
Day 10: Fort Portal to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Off to Queen Elizabeth National Park for tree-climbing lions and a relaxing boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where you’ll see hippos, elephants, and a plethora of birds!
Day 11: Enjoy some time in the Queen Elizabeth National Park
This is an amazing day to make rides through the park and watch tons of animals.
Day 12: Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Head to the dense forests of Bwindi, home to the mountain gorillas. Rest well, as the next day will be filled with adventure and exploration in the lush greenery!
Day 13: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
One of the most amazing activities in Uganda, but also really expensive: Gorilla trekking. You will have the opportunity to watch these amazing animals in their natural habitat.
Day 14: Return to Entebbe and Depart
Travel back to Entebbe, reflecting on the amazing journey and the countless memories made. Catch your flight and say farewell to the beautiful and warm-hearted land of Uganda!
Hope this friendly, detailed itinerary makes your trip to Uganda an unforgettable journey filled with joy, adventure, and lots of learning!
Bottom Line
The key is to give yourself enough time to really soak in the best of Uganda. Sure, you can catch some cool sights in 7 days, but 2 weeks? Now, that’s the golden ticket to exploring all the fun and wonders!
Where you decide to visit and what exciting adventures you choose to embark on depend a lot on the time you have and, of course, your budget. And hey, whether you’re backpacking and counting your shillings or living it up in luxury, Uganda has something awesome for everyone!
Feel free to share your Uganda itinerary ideas and questions below! Whether you’re on the hunt for the best safari spots, or you’re curious about the local food, or if you just want to share your excitement—this is the place to do it! Have a blast exploring and discovering the magic of Uganda!
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I’m a total Africa enthusiast! I’ve been exploring this amazing continent for years and I can’t get enough of its diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and incredible wildlife. From hiking through the savannahs to sampling local cuisine, I’m all about immersing myself in everything Africa has to offer. I’m constantly on the lookout for new and exciting experiences, and I love sharing my passion and knowledge with fellow travel lovers. If you’re looking for an adventure like no other, Africa is the place to be, and I’m here to help you make the most of it!
