Our adventure began with a Uganda Airlines flight from Johannesburg to Entebbe — our first journey to Uganda. The excitement was real; we had long dreamed of exploring “The Pearl of Africa,” and the time had finally come.
Preparation was key. An earlier visit to the travel clinic ensured we were up to date with Yellow Fever vaccinations—essential for entry into Uganda—and we also started our malaria prophylaxis.
Malaria occurs in Uganda and while it should be said that not everyone reacts well to the prophylaxis, there are a few proven precautions: wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts, long trousers and enclosed shoes (mosquitoes can bite through tight clothing). Apply mosquito repellent containing picaridin, DEET or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and take special care during peak mosquito biting hours – which includes early morning. Use the mosquito net above your bed: lodges usually do turn-down in the evening and ensure mosquito nets surround the bed.
As for the rest of the paperwork, Uganda requires an e-visa prior to arrival which we had already ticked off the list. And while we were used to packing for safaris, primate trekking introduced new requirements: N95 masks, gaiters, gloves, and sturdy hiking boots were all essential additions – all covered in our pre-departure info pack.
We overnighted in Entebbe and then boarded a scheduled charter flight to meet our guide and vehicle for the drive to Buhoma, set by the famed Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Along the way, we passed tea plantations and vibrant roadside villages—colourful, bustling, and full of life.
A pre-briefing reminded us of protocols and what to expect on our gorilla trek. We made the wise decision to hire porters: not only were they invaluable on the steep, slippery terrain, but this also supports the local community directly. The hike is challenging but suddenly a tracker whispered, “You’re close—I can smell them.” Moments later, masks on, we found ourselves face to face with a family of mountain gorillas. Calm, powerful, and utterly mesmerising. A playful baby wandered around while the silverback looked on. It’s difficult to describe the emotional impact of such proximity to these gentle giants. Photos simply can’t do the moment justice.
We recommend a minimum three-night stay in Buhoma. Beyond gorilla trekking, there are guided forest walks, visits to local communities including the Batwa cultural experience, and social enterprises which offer deeper engagement with the region.
From Bwindi, we drove for about three hours to the Queen Elizabeth National Park where our arrival in the park was welcomed by a leopard lounging in a fig tree—a thrilling introduction to the area. As well as a boat cruise on the park’s famous Kazinga Channel, we enjoyed bush breakfasts, game drives and sundowners as well as drama: we watched as a hyena chased down and caught an antelope—raw, unscripted nature playing out before our eyes.
Onwards to Kibale Forest and chimpanzee trekking. The two-hour journey took us to our lodge where we checked in and ventured into the forest for our trek. The air reverberated with the calls of chimpanzees: some swung effortlessly through the treetops while others moved quickly at ground level. The pace was brisk and the terrain challenging, but the experience was utterly immersive. A close encounter brought us within just a metre of a chimpanzee, screeching as it asserted its dominance— it was an electrifying moment that will stay with us forever.
It was a long but scenic drive of between five and six hours to Murchison Falls National Park where we boarded a private boat and enjoyed a three-hour cruise, exploring the River Nile to the base of the Murchison Falls. Here, the river narrows dramatically, squeezing through a narrow gorge before plunging 40 metres (120 feet) into a foaming abyss. Along the riverbanks, we spotted hippo, basking crocodiles, elephants, buffalo, and colourful bee-eaters nesting in the cliffs.
Our final destination was the eastern reaches of the Nile, near Jinja. We stayed on an island only accessible by boat, surrounded by foaming rapids—hypnotic, exhilarating, and soothing all at once. Activities ranged from white-water rafting, birdwatching and cultural visits, to peaceful riverside walks; we also did a boat trip to the source of the Nile with a great guide and spectacular birdlife.
On journey came to an end with an overnight back in Entebbe but Uganda had something special to end off with: an excursion to Mabamba Swamp on the shores of Lake Victoria and one of the best places in Africa to spot the elusive Shoebill stork – a ‘mega tick’ for any birder. Even for non-birders, the outing was unforgettable— calm waters, a peaceful atmosphere, and abundant birdlife made it a perfect finale with beautiful water lilies adding colour and serenity to the scene – and we even saw two Shoebills!
Why Uganda?
If Uganda isn’t on your travel list yet, it should be. The country’s natural landscapes range from mountain rainforests to savannas, wetlands, crater lakes, and the mighty River Nile which results in a rich biodiversity. Home to 11% of the world’s bird species, Uganda is also one of the best places in the world to see primates. Expect comfortable to luxury accommodation, expert guiding, immersive cultural encounters, and true hospitality. From immigration officials and security staff to police officers and local villagers, you’re met with genuine warmth, friendly waves and welcoming smiles. This heartfelt hospitality is a defining part of what makes Uganda so memorable.
