Uganda

Uganda may be best known for its close-up primate encounters, but there are so many experiences to be had that it deserves consideration as a full-fledged active safari destination in its own right.

There may be no more profound wildlife experience on the planet than getting a chance to trek and spend time with the critically endangered mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. We found the rambunctious chimpanzees of Kibale Forest, our closest relatives, equally captivating.

These two experiences alone are reason enough to visit, but there’s so much more like the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, the prolific birdlife along the Kazinga Channel, hiking in the crater lakes district and feeling the thundering rush of the Nile over Murchison Falls. Along the way you’ll enjoy freshly prepared meals cooked with local ingredients for what is widely regarded as some of the best food in the region.

The most common way to explore Uganda is routing North to South along Uganda’s Western border. Starting on the shores of the Victoria Nile, Murchison Falls National Park is a great place to encounter lions, elephants and hippos. Queen Elizabeth National Park offers the opportunity to join lion researchers tracking and documenting lions inside the park. Conclude your exploration with two unforgettable days of gorilla trekking in Bwindi and you’ll amass memories of a lifetime.

Uganda combines easily with other countries in East Africa like Kenya, Tanzania and/or Rwanda so it’s possible to include places like the Serengeti or Maasai Mara for a grand safari tour.

Pro tip: The more fit you are, the more you are going to enjoy your gorilla trekking experience - you’ll need to be in top hiking shape to get to these magnificent creatures.