The Best of Uganda Small Group Tour
Join us for a 14-day journey that reveals the very best of Uganda. This immersive itinerary includes opportunities to spot the Big Five, as well as unforgettable encounters with gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural environment. Along the way, you’ll explore Uganda’s most celebrated national parks, Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, Lake Mburo, and the serene Lake Bunyonyi.
Western Uganda Small Group Tour
Embark on a 10-day journey through Western Uganda and experience the country’s incredible biodiversity and vibrant landscapes. This small group adventure takes you deep into national parks, where you’ll encounter gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitat. As one of our most popular gorilla tours in Uganda, it offers excellent value and a meaningful way to explore the highlights of this remarkable region.
Uganda and Rwanda Combined Tour
Discover Uganda’s highlights on this 12-day journey through its most loved destinations. Experience warm hospitality, savour traditional dishes, and encounter the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas. Venture into Kibale Forest to track playful chimpanzees and enjoy a classic safari across stunning landscapes.
Uganda Family Safari Holiday
Take a safari to Uganda for a remarkable family adventure and explore Lake Mburo National Park. This 7 day / 6 night safari holiday will allow you and your family to build memories that will last forever. With walking safari options and also horseback safaris available for non-riders, this great tour can be extended and tailor-made to your exact requirements. We can also add in one of our gorilla tours in Uganda for all clients aged over 13.
Uganda - The Wild North Tour
Explore the rugged landscapes of North Eastern Uganda and connect with the vibrant Karamojong culture through an immersive experience. Hike Mount Moroto, cycle through welcoming communities, and enjoy a safari in the remote Kidepo Valley National Park. Your journey also includes time in Kampala, where you can soak up the energy of the city, visit the source of the Nile River, and witness the dramatic beauty of Murchison Falls National Park.
Uganda. Wildlife, Culture & Gorilla Tours in the Pearl of Africa
Uganda stands out as one of East Africa’s most captivating destinations. Rich in wildlife, culture, and natural beauty, it offers travellers a chance to experience something truly special. While gorilla tours in Uganda are a major draw, the country’s diversity ensures there’s much more to explore.
Wildlife & Safari Adventures
Uganda is home to several iconic national parks, including Bwindi Impenetrable, Kibale, and Queen Elizabeth. These protected areas provide unforgettable encounters with mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and even tree-climbing lions. With over 1,000 bird species recorded, Uganda is also a paradise for birdwatchers.
Whether you're tracking gorillas through misty forests or spotting elephants on a game drive, every moment brings you closer to nature. Our small group safaris and wildlife tours are designed to offer meaningful connections with the environment. Moreover, travelling with local guides ensures your experience is both insightful and respectful of the ecosystems you visit.
In addition to primates and big game, Uganda’s wildlife includes hippos, crocodiles, antelope, and countless other species. Each park has its own unique character, making it easy to tailor your journey to your interests.
Natural Wonders and Outdoor Activities
Uganda’s landscapes are as varied as they are breathtaking. From the source of the Nile River at Lake Victoria to the dramatic Sipi Falls and the thunderous Murchison Falls, the country offers a wide range of natural attractions. Adventurers can enjoy white-water rafting, hiking, and boat safaris. Meanwhile, those seeking tranquillity will find it in the serene lakes, rivers, and lush highlands.
Thanks to its equatorial location, Uganda enjoys a pleasant climate year-round. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities, whether you're exploring the countryside or relaxing by the water. Additionally, the scenery changes with the seasons, offering fresh perspectives throughout the year.
Culture, Heritage & Local Flavours
Uganda’s cultural heritage reflects both its traditional kingdoms and colonial history. Visitors can explore the vibrant capital, Kampala, where bustling markets and lively streets offer a glimpse into everyday life. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed Kasubi Tombs and performances at the Ndere Cultural Centre, which showcase music, dance, and storytelling.
Architecture and museums across the country reveal Uganda’s layered past. However, it’s the people who truly bring the culture to life. Warm hospitality and a strong sense of community make every interaction memorable.
Food is another essential part of the experience. Ugandan cuisine is hearty and flavourful, with influences from across East Africa. Popular dishes include matooke (steamed green bananas), groundnut stew, rolex (rolled chapatti with eggs), and muchomo (grilled meat). Joining a cooking class or dining at a local restaurant adds a delicious dimension to your journey.
Why Travel With Us?
At Our Local Tour, we specialise in authentic gorilla tours in Uganda and tailor-made safaris that go beyond the ordinary. Our local partners are passionate about sharing their knowledge and ensuring you experience the real Uganda, its wildlife, its people, and its stories.
We believe travel should be personal, purposeful, and positive. That’s why we focus on small group travel and ethical tourism. Our trips are designed to support local communities and protect the natural environment, while offering you a deeper connection to the places you visit.
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural discovery, Uganda has something for everyone. From the misty mountains of Bwindi to the vibrant streets of Kampala, every journey is an opportunity to learn, connect, and grow.
Group and Tailormade Safari Holidays in Uganda
Our Local Travel Experts in Uganda
Since 2010, our local partner in Kampala has been exploring Uganda’s tourism landscape. The founders launched the business to address key challenges in the travel industry: limited professionalism, a narrow range of activities, and a lack of innovation. The team focuses on creating meaningful tours and safaris, guided by five core values: safety, excellence, diversity, sustainability, and professionalism. Each experience is designed to be unique and enriching.
They offer cultural journeys, off-the-beaten-path adventures, and Uganda’s renowned gorilla and wildlife safaris. Their goal is to help guests connect more deeply with the places they visit and leave with lasting memories.
PLACES TO VISIT IN UGANDA
Gorilla Tours in Uganda: Conservation, Community, and Connection
Uganda’s commitment to gorilla conservation is both vital and inspiring. The country is home to two types of gorillas: the mountain gorilla and the eastern lowland gorilla. Both species are listed as endangered by the IUCN, with their populations threatened by habitat loss, poaching, and disease. Despite these challenges, Uganda continues to lead efforts to protect these remarkable animals.
Protected Areas and Responsible Tourism
One of the most effective conservation strategies has been the establishment of national parks. Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks now shelter more than half of the world’s mountain gorillas. These parks operate under strict protection guidelines to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the gorillas.
Visitors must obtain permits and be accompanied by trained guides. This approach not only safeguards the gorillas but also enhances the experience for travellers. With many options available, gorilla tours in Uganda are designed to promote responsible tourism while supporting conservation goals.
Additionally, these tours offer more than just wildlife encounters. They provide opportunities to learn about the ecosystems that support gorilla populations and the efforts being made to preserve them. Travellers leave with a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between nature and human activity.
Community Involvement in Conservation
Local communities play a crucial role in Uganda’s gorilla conservation success. Many people living near gorilla habitats actively participate in protecting these animals. Through education and outreach, conservation organisations and the government have helped communities understand the importance of gorilla preservation.
Moreover, alternative sources of income have been introduced to reduce reliance on activities that harm the environment. These include eco-tourism jobs, craft production, and sustainable agriculture. By involving communities directly, conservation efforts have become more effective and long-lasting.
This inclusive approach ensures that gorilla tours in Uganda benefit not only the wildlife but also the people who share the land. Travellers contribute to this positive impact simply by choosing ethical tour operators and engaging respectfully with local cultures.
Combating Poaching and Wildlife Trafficking
Uganda has taken strong steps to combat poaching and illegal wildlife trade. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) manages national parks and reserves, focusing on enforcement and protection. In collaboration with other agencies and international partners, UWA works to dismantle trafficking networks and prosecute offenders.
These efforts have led to significant progress. While challenges remain, the commitment to protecting gorillas and other endangered species continues to grow. Tourists who visit Uganda and support conservation-focused travel help reinforce these initiatives.
Furthermore, awareness campaigns and community patrols have strengthened local resistance to poaching. As a result, gorilla populations have shown signs of recovery in recent years.
Why Choose Gorilla Tours in Uganda?
Travelling to Uganda offers more than just a chance to see gorillas in their natural habitat. It’s an opportunity to support conservation, connect with communities, and experience one of Africa’s most biodiverse countries. Gorilla tours in Uganda are carefully designed to be respectful, educational, and impactful.
At Our Local Tour, we work with experienced local partners who share our values. Our tours prioritise ethical travel, environmental stewardship, and cultural sensitivity. Whether you’re trekking through misty forests or learning about community-led conservation, your journey will be meaningful from start to finish.
Uganda’s story is one of resilience, collaboration, and hope. By choosing to travel here, you become part of that story. Every visit helps protect endangered species, empower local communities, and preserve the natural beauty of the Pearl of Africa.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most celebrated protected areas, located in the southwestern region of the country. Established in 1952, it spans approximately 1,978 square kilometres and was named in honour of Queen Elizabeth II.
The park features a wide range of habitats, including savannah grasslands, tropical forests, wetlands, and crater lakes. This diversity supports over 95 mammal species, such as elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, hippos, and various antelope species. In addition, more than 600 bird species have been recorded here, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Wildlife Highlights and Unique Attractions
Among the park’s most unique attractions is the Ishasha sector, known for its tree-climbing lions. These lions often rest in the branches of fig trees, offering a rare and memorable sight for visitors. Another highlight is the Kyambura Gorge, a lush forested valley that is home to several primate species, including chimpanzees. Exploring this gorge provides a chance to experience Uganda’s rich biodiversity up close.
A major draw for many visitors is the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway linking Lake Edward and Lake George. This channel is teeming with wildlife, particularly hippos and crocodiles. Boat safaris along the Kazinga Channel allow travellers to observe these animals in their natural habitat while also enjoying excellent birdwatching opportunities. The banks of the channel attract a wide variety of bird species, adding to the park’s appeal.
Activities and Accommodation
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a range of activities suitable for all types of travellers. Game drives across the savannah provide opportunities to spot large mammals, while guided nature walks offer a more intimate experience of the landscape. Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge is a favourite among primate enthusiasts. Additionally, community visits allow guests to engage with local cultures and learn about life near the park.
Accommodation options within and around the park include lodges, tented camps, and guesthouses, catering to different budgets and preferences. Staying inside the park enhances the experience, as wildlife sightings often occur right outside your door.
Conservation and Responsible Travel
Despite its beauty and ecological importance, Queen Elizabeth National Park faces several conservation challenges. Habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict continue to threaten the park’s biodiversity. However, ongoing efforts by conservation organisations, local communities, and the Uganda Wildlife Authority aim to protect this valuable ecosystem for future generations.
By visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park, travellers contribute to these conservation efforts. Responsible tourism helps fund protection initiatives and supports the communities living near the park. Whether you're interested in wildlife, landscapes, or cultural experiences, this park offers a rich and rewarding journey through one of Uganda’s most treasured regions.
