Uganda Destination

UGANDA

THE PEARL OF AFRICA

Uganda, known as the β€œPearl of Africa,” is a landlocked country in East Africa celebrated for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cultural heritage.It boasts some of the world’s most famous wildlife experiences, including gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas live, and safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to tree-climbing lions, elephants, buffaloes, and over 600 bird species.

Uganda’s national parks are teeming with wildlife, offering the chance to see African elephants, giraffes, hippos, zebras, and crocodiles in Murchison Falls National Park, while Kidepo Valley National Park is home to cheetahs, leopards, and African wild dogs. Visitors can also spot chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, golden monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and rare species like the endangered African grey parrot in Semuliki National Park.

Other highlights include the majestic Nile crocodiles and hippos along the Nile River, the varied birdlife in Lake Mburo National Park, and the diverse flora and fauna of the Rwenzori Mountains. Beyond wildlife, Uganda is home to over 56 ethnic groups, offering visitors a chance to experience its vibrant culture through music, dance, and traditional cuisine.

With growing opportunities in sectors like agriculture, energy, and tourism, Uganda is not only a top destination for eco-tourism and adventure but also a hub for business and investment in East Africa. Whether you’re seeking thrilling wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, or cultural immersion, Uganda promises an unforgettable experience.

Uganda - Dark Hills Uganda

DISCOVER UGANDA'S MAGIC

WITH DARK HILLS

Discover Uganda's rich cultural heritage

Must-Visit Destinations

LAKE MUTANDA

LAKE MUTANDA

Lake Mutanda, located in southwestern Uganda near the borders with Rwanda, is a tranquil and scenic body of water surrounded by rolling hills and views of the nearby Virunga Volcanoes. It’s an ideal spot for canoeing or bird watching and serves as a peaceful retreat. Many visitors use Lake Mutanda as a base to access nearby Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, both renowned for gorilla trekking. With its serene atmosphere and breathtaking views, Lake Mutanda is a perfect place to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the region.
CHIMP

NGAMBA ISLAND CHIMPANZEE SANCTUARY

Ngamba Island is located on Lake Victoria and is dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of orphaned chimpanzees. The sanctuary is home to over 40 chimpanzees, which are rehabilitated in a natural environment to live as close to the wild as possible. Visitors to Ngamba Island can participate in chimpanzee feeding sessions, learn about conservation efforts, and explore the island’s natural beauty. The island offers an opportunity to witness Uganda’s commitment to preserving its primate populations while also enjoying the serenity of Lake Victoria.
lake victoria - Responsible Travel

LAKE VICTORIA

Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in Africa, spans three countriesβ€”Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. This vast lake offers a variety of water-based activities, such as fishing, boat tours, and island excursions. Visitors can explore Ngamba Island, home to an orphaned chimpanzee sanctuary, or visit Bussi Island, known for its natural beauty. Lake Victoria is also a great place to relax on the beach or learn about the traditional fishing practices of local communities. The lake plays a crucial role in the lives of millions, making it an important cultural and environmental landmark.
hikinh trail

MOUNT SABINYO

Mount Sabinyo is one of the iconic volcanoes in the Virunga Range, located on the border between Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Known for its rugged terrain, Mount Sabinyo offers a challenging but rewarding hike to its summit, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the peaks of Rwanda and the DRC. The mountain’s distinctive features include craggy ridges and deep gorges, making it a popular destination for experienced trekkers and adventurers.
bird in mabira

MABIRA FOREST

Mabira Forest, located near the town of Jinja, is one of Uganda’s largest tropical rainforests. The forest is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including several species of primates such as red-tailed monkeys and baboons. Mabira also boasts over 300 bird species, making it a haven for bird watchers. Visitors can explore the forest through a network of hiking trails and biking paths, or enjoy a more tranquil experience by taking a guided forest walk. The forest is an ideal destination for eco-tourists looking to immerse themselves in Uganda’s natural heritage.
rhino

ZIWA RHINO SANCTUARY

The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, located in northern Uganda, is the only place in the country where visitors can see white rhinos in the wild. The sanctuary is dedicated to the reintroduction of rhinos to Uganda’s protected areas, and visitors can track rhinos on foot with the help of experienced guides. The sanctuary is also an excellent location for bird watching, with over 300 species, including the rare shoebill stork, recorded in the area. A visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary not only provides the opportunity to see rhinos up close but also supports vital conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures.
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SIPI FALLS

Located in the eastern region of Uganda near the foothills of Mountains of the Moon, Sipi Falls is one of the country’s most beautiful natural attractions. The falls consist of three stunning waterfalls cascading down cliffs surrounded by lush green landscapes. Sipi Falls offers excellent opportunities for hiking, with trails leading to different viewpoints. The area is also known for its coffee plantations, and visitors can explore local villages to learn about coffee production and taste freshly brewed coffee. Birdwatching is also a popular activity in the area, with a range of species found throughout the forested landscapes.
birds

JINJA AND THE SOURCE OF THE NILE

Jinja, often called the adventure capital of East Africa, is located at the shores of Lake Victoria and is the site of the Source of the Nile, where the world’s longest river begins its journey to the Mediterranean. Jinja is a hub for white-water rafting on the Nile, as well as other adrenaline activities like bungee jumping, kayaking, and quad biking. The town offers both relaxation and adventure, with boat trips to the Source of the Nile providing an opportunity to experience the river’s historical significance. Jinja is also rich in culture and history, making it a vibrant destination for all types of travelers.
lake bunyonyi

LAKE BUNYONYI

Located in southwestern Uganda near the border with Rwanda, Lake Bunyonyi is one of the most beautiful lakes in the country. Surrounded by terraced hills and dotted with 29 islands, the lake offers a serene setting perfect for canoeing, bird watching, and relaxation. Lake Bunyonyi is known for being one of the deepest lakes in Africa and is a popular destination for those wanting to unwind in nature’s embrace. It also serves as a gateway for travelers heading to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.
rwenzori

MOUNTAIN RWENZORI NATIONAL PARK

Located along the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mount Rwenzori National Park is home to the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers some of Africa’s most challenging treks, with its glacial peaks, dense forests, and alpine meadows. Mount Margherita Peak, the highest point in the range, attracts mountaineers from around the world. The park is also a sanctuary for rare flora and fauna, including giant ground pangolins, endemic birds, and unique alpine plants. It’s a destination for adventurers seeking a more rugged and remote experience.
coffee

Coffee Tours

Uganda is a major coffee producer, and a coffee tour lets visitors learn about the country’s coffee-growing and brewing traditions. Tours in areas like Fort Portal and Kabale offer a behind-the-scenes look at coffee plantations, where you can pick coffee beans, watch them being processed, and sample freshly brewed coffee.

Volcano Treks

Mount Mgahinga and Mount Sabinyo offer trekkers the chance to conquer volcanoes in Uganda’s southwestern corner. These treks lead you through bamboo forests and volcanic craters, and the summits offer panoramic views of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Golden monkeys, which inhabit the volcanic slopes, add a special wildlife element to the treks.
volcanoes
African Traditional cultural - Dark Hills Uganda

Cultural Village Visits

Visiting Ugandan villages provides a unique glimpse into traditional life. In areas like Jinja and Kabale, travelers can learn about farming, cooking, and local crafts through village visits, offering a hands-on experience of Uganda’s culture. Visitors can engage in traditional activities like pottery-making or join in local dances and ceremonies.

Cave Exploration

Explore Uganda’s fascinating caves, such as the Nyero Rock Paintings in Kumi District, where ancient artwork is displayed on cave walls. Sipi Falls and Lake Mburo National Park also feature caves that can be explored by adventurous visitors, revealing hidden underground passages, ancient rock formations, and spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.
cave
cultural dance

Cultural Performances and Festivals

Get yourself in Uganda’s rich cultural heritage by attending local festivals or watching traditional dance and music performances. Festivals like the Nyege Nyege Festival in Jinja celebrate Uganda’s vibrant arts scene, while cultural performances across the country showcase the music, dance, and rituals of Uganda’s many tribes.

Bird Watching

Uganda is a paradise for bird watchers, home to over 1,000 species of birds. Areas like Mabamba Swamp, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Kibale National Park are prime birding destinations. From the rare shoebill stork to colorful kingfishers, Uganda’s diverse ecosystems offer birders a chance to spot both common and rare species in their natural habitat.
shoebill
walking safaris

Walking Safaris

A walking safari in Uganda allows travelers to explore nature on foot, guided by expert rangers. National parks like Kibale National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, and Murchison Falls National Park offer walking safaris where you can get up close to wildlife, learn about animal tracks, and experience the landscape in a more intimate way. Walking safaris offer a deeper understanding of the ecosystem and its inhabitants.

Game Safaris

Uganda’s national parks offer fantastic opportunities for game safaris, where visitors can spot the β€œBig Five” (lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos) and other wildlife in their natural habitats. Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park are popular safari destinations, offering a wide variety of ecosystems, including savannahs, forests, and wetlands, where you can observe animals up close.
lion
lion on the tree

Tree Climbing Lions

One of Uganda’s most unique wildlife experiences is spotting the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha in Queen Elizabeth National Park. These lions have adapted to the environment by climbing trees to escape the heat and avoid insects. Guided safaris offer visitors the rare chance to witness this fascinating behavior, along with other wildlife like elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes.

Waterfalls Hike

Uganda is home to some of Africa’s most scenic waterfalls, and hiking to these natural wonders is a rewarding adventure. Sipi Falls in the Mountains of the Moon offers lush trails that lead to dramatic waterfalls with sweeping views over the surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re trekking to the base of the falls or along mountain ridges, Uganda’s waterfalls provide a refreshing experience amidst stunning scenery.
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Papaya Safari Lodge

Luxury

Papaya Lake Lodge is a beautiful and peaceful place to stay, located in Uganda’s Great Crater Lakes region. It sits between two old volcanoes and next to the clear, blue waters of Lakes Lyantonde and Kifuruka, with amazing views of the Rwenzori Mountains. The lodge has nine comfortable and stylish cottages, a lovely swimming pool, and a restaurant with a terrace where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. It was started by a family who moved from Europe to make a new home in Uganda, and they created the lodge with love, care, and respect for the local culture. Papaya Lake Lodge is a special place where you can enjoy nature, peace, and great service.

Turaco Tree Tops

Mid Range / Luxury

Turaco Treetops is a new, semi-luxury lodge in Kibale Forest that offers a friendly and relaxed place to stay. It’s surrounded by forest and has amazing views of the snowcapped Rwenzori Mountains. It’s a great spot for chimpanzee trekking, enjoying tasty food, reading by the fireplace, playing games, or swimming in the pool. After a fun day, you can enjoy a hot shower and rest in a soft, comfortable bed to get ready for more adventures in the Kibale Forest area. Turaco Treetops is all about feeling at home in nature.

Mihingo Lodge

Mid Range / Luxury

Mihingo Lodge is a beautiful, family-owned lodge in a peaceful and special location next to Lake Mburo National Park. It sits high on a rocky hill, giving amazing views over the wide savannah. The lodge is designed to fit naturally into the environment, offering comfort, privacy, and a deep connection with nature. Guests can relax by the infinity pool while watching animals like zebra, buffalo, impala, and warthogs at the nearby waterhole. Sometimes, you might even see a leopard on a night game drive or spot the small klipspringer antelopes on the rocks. Popular activities include horseback safaris, walking with giraffes, nature walks, boat trips, and game drives with beautiful views. Many visitors say they wish they had stayed longer, as there is so much to enjoy at Mihingo Lodge.

Kigambira Safari Lodge

Mid Range / Luxury

Kigambira Safari Lodge is a luxury eco-lodge located in the southern part of Lake Mburo National Park, the closest national park to Entebbe. Nestled between the tranquil Kigambira Lake and the rolling savannah landscapes, the lodge offers an ideal blend of comfort, nature, and adventure. It features beautifully designed cottages that provide privacy, stunning views, and modern amenities, all built with eco-friendly materials to preserve the natural surroundings. Guests can enjoy activities such as game drives, guided nature walks, birdwatching, and boat trips on the lake. The lodge also offers a swimming pool, wellness center, and a restaurant serving fresh, locally inspired dishes. Whether you’re starting or ending your Ugandan journey, Kigambira Safari Lodge provides a peaceful and luxurious base surrounded by wildlife and nature.

Airport guesthouse

Basic / Mid Range

Located just 5 minutes from the airport, this guesthouse offers a peaceful escape in a quiet residential area surrounded by beautiful gardens. It’s the perfect place to relax, whether you’re looking for a calm spot to unwind after a long flight or a comfortable base to explore the area. In the evening, the garden transforms into an outdoor dining area, where you can enjoy a lovely dinner under the stars. They also provide a convenient shuttle service to and from the airport at any timeβ€”just share your arrival details, and our friendly driver will be ready to greet you.

Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge

Basic / Mid Range

The Bush Lodge is the perfect place to start your safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The lodge is built to blend in with nature, with bandas spaced for privacy and to enhance the safari experience. Located next to the park and along the Kazinga Channel, the lodge has a unique setting where animals freely roam through the camp. At night, you can enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars, with the sounds of hippos and hyenas adding to the adventure. Offering great value for money, The Bush Lodge gives you an authentic safari experience with tasty food, friendly service, and a real connection to nature.

Ndali Lodge

Luxury

Ndali Lodge is a luxury retreat located near Fort Portal, Uganda, with beautiful views of Lake Nyinambuga and the Rwenzori Mountains. The lodge has eight comfortable cottages, each with its own private veranda and bathroom. Guests can enjoy fresh meals made with local ingredients, and the lodge uses solar power and traditional water systems. Ndali Lodge is a great base for exploring nearby places like Kibale Forest National Park, where you can track chimpanzees, and the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. The lodge also has a swimming pool, sauna, and yoga area, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy Uganda’s natural beauty.

Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge

Basic / Mid Range

Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge is located in Mucha, about 10 kilometers from Kisoro Town along Rubuguri Road. It is well positioned for visitors exploring the region, sitting just 25 kilometers from the Rushaga gate of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, 20 kilometers from Mgahinga National Park, and only 13 kilometers from Kisoro Airstrip, making it a convenient and comfortable base for gorilla trekking and other adventures in southwestern Uganda.

Rwakobo Rock

Mid Range / Luxury

Rwakobo Rock is a quiet and relaxing place where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Uganda. It is located in the peaceful Ankole ranchlands, close to Lake Mburo National Park. The cottages are big, comfortable, and spread out on the hill, giving you lots of privacy and great sunset views. The main dining area looks out over large rocks and the edge of the park. Whether you want to relax in a hammock with a cold drink or go exploring in the park, Rwakobo Rock is a great place for everyone to enjoy.

Ziwa rhino and Wildlife Ranch

Basic / Mid Range

Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch is inside the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda, and it’s the only place in the country where you can see wild rhinos up close. The ranch offers simple and comfortable places to stay, including guesthouses, budget rooms, and camping areas. All the rooms have solar power and warm showers. Visitors can enjoy guided walks to see rhinos, birds, and other animals, and even take early morning canoe trips to look for the rare shoebill stork. Staying overnight gives you the chance to do more activities, and every visit helps support rhino protection and wildlife conservation at the sanctuary.

Murchison River Lodge

Mid Range / Luxury

The lodge is set on 30 acres of natural bush, with beautiful views over the River Nile toward Murchison Falls National Park. Wild animals are often seen around the lodge, and in the evenings, our staff will walk with you from the restaurant to your room in case there are hippos on the paths. You might see small bugs or insects in your roomβ€”they are part of nature here and are not dangerous. Please note that we cannot accept credit card payments because the banking fees in Uganda are very high, so we kindly ask you to plan ahead.

Via Via Guesthouse

Basic / Mid Range

Entebbe is likely your first stop when you arrive in Uganda, and ViaVia, right in the heart of the city, is the perfect place to begin your adventure. Relax in comfy hammocks, enjoy the beautiful garden, take a refreshing dip in the pool, and enjoy healthy, delicious food. The campfires are a great place to meet people from around the world, and while we offer great internet, the local birds provide a natural soundtrack, singing to you all day long.

Mutanda Lake Resort

Mid Range / Luxury

Located on a beautiful peninsula by Lake Mutanda, with the stunning Virunga Mountains in the background, the resort offers comfortable rooms and amazing views. It’s the perfect place for gorilla trackers, lake lovers, volcano hikers, birdwatchers, or anyone looking for a peaceful retreat in nature.

Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge

Basic

The Bush Lodge is the perfect place to stay for your safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park. It’s designed to blend with nature, offering privacy while giving you a real safari feel. Located by the park and Kazinga Channel, the lodge is surrounded by wildlife, and you can hear hippos and hyenas at night during dinner under the stars. The lodge gives great value for money, offering an authentic and affordable safari experience with good food, friendly service, and a great outdoor atmosphere.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

BEFORE YOU BOOK A TOUR WITH DARK HILLS UGANDA

Tailored Itineraries – Made Just for You

At Dark Hills Uganda, every tour is carefully crafted to suit your individual preferences. We create personalized itineraries based on your interests, the time you have available, and your travel budget.

When you contact us, please share:

  • Your preferred travel dates
  • The number of people in your group
  • The experiences you are most excited about (for example: gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, cultural visits, or birdwatching)

Once we have this information, we will plan your perfect itinerary and guide you through every step of the process.

Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Permits

Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and are limited in number. They are in very high demand, especially during peak seasons.

We highly recommend that you:

  • Book your tour at least three to six months in advance
  • Let us handle all permit reservations on your behalf

We will take care of all logistics, ensuring that you do not miss out on this unforgettable experience.

Tour Booking and Payments

Once you are happy with your itinerary:

  • We will send you a detailed, transparent quotation
  • A deposit will be required to confirm your booking and to reserve your permits
  • The remaining balance is typically due thirty (30) days before the start of your tour

We accept secure bank transfers and other reliable payment methods. Your travel consultant will guide you through the process and keep you informed at every stage.

Preparing for Your Adventure in Uganda

Visa and Passport Requirements

  • All visitors must have a valid Ugandan entry visa, which can be applied for online through the official government portal: https://visas.immigration.go.ug
  • Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond your arrival date and should have at least two blank pages
  • If you are visiting other countries in East Africa, such as Rwanda or Kenya, you may apply for an East Africa Tourist Visa which allows you to travel across these countries with a single visa

Health Precautions and Vaccinations

Before arriving in Uganda, please consult your doctor about the following:

  • A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into Uganda
  • Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Tetanus
  • We also recommend taking anti-malarial medication, as malaria is present in many parts of Uganda

Please bring a personal medical kit with any essential medications, and do not drink tap waterβ€”bottled or filtered water will be provided throughout your trip.

Packing List Essentials

Here is a list of what we recommend bringing for your trip:

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime and a warm layer for cooler evenings
  • A rain jacket or waterproof poncho, especially during the rainy seasons
  • Long trousers, long-sleeved shirts, and gloves for forest trekking
  • Comfortable hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes
  • Insect repellent, high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses
  • A refillable water bottle, flashlight or headlamp, power bank, and binoculars

We will also send you a customized packing list based on the specific activities in your tour.

During Your Tour with Dark Hills Uganda

Transportation

All travel is done in a private, four-wheel-drive safari vehicle operated by one of our professional, English-speaking driver-guides.

  • Our vehicles are regularly maintained and equipped for comfort and safety
  • We provide bottled drinking water each day
  • Some roads may be rough or unpaved, particularly in national parks, but your guide will make the journey as comfortable as possible

Accommodation

We work only with trusted, high-quality lodges, eco-camps, and boutique hotels across Uganda. All accommodations are personally vetted by our team for safety, cleanliness, service, and atmosphere.

You can choose between:

  • Budget options
  • Mid-range lodges
  • Luxury or high-end safari camps

We will match your preferences and make all arrangements on your behalf.

Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Experience

This is one of the most memorable activities in Uganda and we take it very seriously:

  • Trekking can be physically demanding, so a moderate level of fitness is required
  • You will be guided by professional rangers and trackers at all times
  • Porters are available to assist with carrying your backpack or helping you on steep terrain
  • You must maintain a distance of seven (7) meters from the animals and follow all conservation rules
  • Flash photography is not permitted

Dark Hills Uganda ensures your experience is safe, respectful, and deeply rewarding.

Connectivity, Safety, and Local Culture

Mobile Phones and Internet Access

  • Local SIM cards (MTN or Airtel) are available at the airport or in town for reliable data and local calls
  • Most lodges offer free Wi-Fi, although speed may be limited in remote areas

Your Safety Comes First

  • Dark Hills Uganda is a fully licensed, registered, and insured tour company
  • We monitor travel conditions daily and adjust routes when needed for your safety
  • Your guide is always available to assist, and our main office can be reached twenty-four (24) hours a day during your trip

Cultural Etiquette and Local Interaction

  • Ugandans are warm, welcoming, and very respectful. A friendly greeting is always appreciated.
  • Please dress modestly in rural communities and when visiting religious or cultural sites
  • Always ask for permission before photographing people
  • If you wish to make a donation or gift to a local school or community, please let us knowβ€”we will coordinate it properly

Tipping and Local Contributions

Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a meaningful way to show appreciation for excellent service.

Suggested guidelines:

  • Driver or guide: Ten to twenty United States dollars (USD 10–20) per day per group
  • Trekking porter: Ten to fifteen United States dollars (USD 10–15) per trek
  • Hotel or lodge staff: Five to ten United States dollars (USD 5–10) per day (pooled in a tip box)

Your travel with Dark Hills Uganda also supports conservation efforts, local communities, and responsible tourism initiatives throughout the country.

Why Choose Dark Hills Uganda?
  • Locally owned and operated – We are Ugandans who live and work here, and we know our country inside out
  • Personal attention – From your first email to the end of your tour, you are supported every step of the way
  • Authentic experiences – We take you beyond the ordinary, into the heart of Uganda
  • Passionate, professional guides – Our team is experienced, friendly, and deeply passionate about wildlife and culture
Have Questions or Ready to Start Planning?

We are here to help at every step of your journey from choosing your itinerary to answering your last-minute travel questions.

Email:Β info@darkhillsuganda.com
Phone or WhatsApp:Β +256 771 650 208
Website:Β https://darkhillsuganda.com/

We cannot wait to welcome you to Ugandaβ€”The Pearl of Africaβ€”and show you the beauty, wildlife, and culture that make it one of the most magical destinations in the world.

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