Exploring Uganda

Considering a family trip to Uganda but unsure if it’s the right call? Fear not! Uganda boasts a wealth of experiences perfect for families. Here’s the thing, you can visit Uganda all year round, no kidding.

Refer to our guide as your roadmap to exploring Uganda with your family. We will highlight activities, must-see locations, and useful tips to ensure your safe and unforgettable adventure together. 

1. The Source Of River Nile

Image source – Pixabay

Here’s our very own River Nile – the longest river in the world. Ensure you visit its origin on your next trip to Uganda.  Honestly speaking, a visit to the Pearl of Africa is not complete unless you visit the source of the Nile because it is one of the major tourist attractions. 

For a calmer experience, you could explore the source by boat as you witness the iconic bubbles where the Nile’s underground waters begin their journey.

After exploring the Nile and its source, we also have exciting adventures, perfect for families seeking an adrenaline rush. Check out the white water rafting on the Nile, Kayaking, Quad biking, and many other fun adrenaline activities. 

2. Ssese Islands

If you are looking for somewhere to unwind and relax with family, then Ssese Islands in Lake Victoria’s northwestern corner are your best bet.

I know, you’re probably wondering why that is. Well, for starters, Ssese’s archipelago of 84 islands comprises white sandy beaches, clear waters, and tropical forests.

These islands are also home to several primate species such as the colobus and vervet monkeys, sitatunga antelope and several rare birds.

These inhabited islands each have something unique to offer. From the breathtaking landscapes to fun activities like watersports, for all to enjoy, Ssese is the place to be.

You can either relax in one of the lakeside resorts or go hiking up the hills, where hippo-dotted swamps hide between the ridges.

3. The Equator

Source – Pixabay

Truth is, Uganda is blessed in every sense of the word -we’re one of the few countries where the equator crosses. Did you know the Equator is located just 72 km from Kampala? That’s right! 

You can visit the equator on your way towards some of the many tourist sites in Uganda ie Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Queen Elizabeth National Park. Both parks are along the Kampala – Masaka Highway in Kayabwe, Mpigi district.

Furthermore, you can conduct a water swirl experiment while at the Equator to see if the direction changes. This experiment is solely dependent on which side of the equator you pour the water. However, the Coriolis effect has minimal influence on such small scales.

4. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Source: Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch

Here’s another great place to spend time with family – the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is located approximately 176 km north of Kampala, on the Gulu highway in Nakasongola district, and is home to the only wild rhinos in Uganda. 

Your family gets to enjoy some alone time with these gentle giants. Isn’t that experience worth the trip? I know it is. Oh, and by the way, we only have 22 southern white rhinos left. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to track rhinos.  

The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is off the road towards Murchison Falls. You could even combine both these safaris to save time and money.

5. The Wildlife Education Center- Entebbe Zoo

Source: The Queen of Buganda at the Uganda Wildlife Education Conservation Centre (UWEC)

Did you know that the Uganda Wildlife Education Center was listed as the best zoo in East and Central Africa? Oh yes! It sure is with excellent google reviews. This zoo harbours most of the wild animals especially those that were rescued from animal traffickers and poachers.

Due to its proximity to Entebbe town, this is the perfect place to visit if you want to see our African animals but are short on funds. 

Guaranteed, a visit to the Entebbe Zoo will give you a close-up encounter with several animals. And if you prefer to see the lions, white rhinos, leopards, zebras, and many other animals, that can be arranged by the guides. 

6. Ndere Centre 

Source: UgandaBudgetSafaris

Fun fact – Ndere Centre is the only place amongst the various Uganda tourist spots where you can see and explore the performance of the best cultural groups like the Ndere Group, which by the way, is a flute troupe.

While here, you’ll enjoy the best of more than 56 tribes as they perform songs, dances, light comedies, etc. Isn’t this a wonderful time well spent with family? 

You’ll also get insights into our rich culture and traditions. Then there are art exhibits where you meet artists and enjoy traditional African food. 

7. Kazinga Channel

Source: QueenElizabethNationalParkUganda

The Kazinga Channel is a 32-kilometre-long freshwater channel that links Lake Edward to its smaller neighbour, Lake George. The lakes were named after Queen Victoria’s son, King Edward VII, and his successor, King George V. The channel is a key feature of Queen Elizabeth National Park and a popular area for wildlife tourism.

The Kazinga Channel is home to various animals and birds. Did you know that the Kazinga Channel has one of the world’s largest concentrations of hippos (around 2,000) and countless Nile crocodiles?

Yep! Furthermore, expect to see elephants, buffaloes, and over 100 species of water birds, including the African Skimmer. Wouldn’t your family love this experience? I know they would.

8. Entebbe Botanical Gardens

Source: visitentebbe

Entebbe Botanical Gardens was established in 1898 and is located on the shores of Lake Victoria. Fun fact- I watched my kids play at the shores on our last visit and it was so fun.

This stunning Uganda tourist spot is an expanse of lush greenery and is divided into zones i.e. the rainforest, tropical, subtropical, temperate, house plants and trees native to our ecosystems.

We saw more than 300 exotic and medicinal plant species not to mention the exotic birds like the Palm-nut vulture, and the Whilst Bat Hawk. Oh, and did I mention they also have the Vervet monkeys, Red-tailed monkeys, etc?

Bottom Line

That’s but a taste of what Uganda has to offer. So whether you’re planning a family vacation or a solo trip, Uganda is the place to be. 

Have you visited any of our Uganda attraction sites? What was your experience? Feel free to share your experience in the comment section. 

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