Uganda, popularly known as the Pearl of Africa, is an ultimate travel destination for travellers. With its deep green jungles, vast lakes and rivers, abundant wildlife and breathtaking terrains, Uganda is in all her corners effortlessly beautiful. In Uganda, there is a travel experience for everyone, and the hospitality of her people is unmatched.
Here are some of the top budget tourist attractions with travel experiences that’ll nourish your soul, with minimal expense.
- Lake Victoria
If you really want to experience the heart of Uganda, the story begins with Lake Victoria, which is the birthplace of the Nile River. Not only is it Africa’s largest lake and the world’s largest tropical lake, but Lake Victoria also boasts one of the world’s largest ecosystems. There is so much natural beauty and wildlife to see here – from scenic high hills views to islands, beaches, fishing boats, and various bird and animal species.
Some of the key travel experiences in order to have the best of Lake Victoria include fishing, a sunset boat cruise, birding in Mabamba, beach outings, and island visits.
- Jinja and the Nile River
While you are touring Lake Victoria, you may want to check out Jinja, the colonial town that is positioned at the start of the Nile River. The town is regarded as East Africa’s adrenaline capital and among the most scenic places in Uganda. If you are an adrenaline junky, Jinja is an ideal destination for all the adventure-filled travel experiences to get your blood pumping.
Some of the key travel experiences that everyone should try out while in Jinja include a boat cruise on the Nile River, whitewater rafting, jet boating, bungee jumping, quad biking, horseback riding, kayaking and canoeing, tubing and so much more.
- Mabira Forest
Mabira forest is the largest natural lowland tropical forest in central Uganda and is considered the favorite destination for Eco Tourism. Mabira forest is a favorite destination for Eco Tourist. Mabira is home to 219 butterfly species, 316 bird species and 97 of moths. The forest also has blue duikers, fruit bats, baboons, Bush pigs, the Tree Hyrax, Red Tailed Monkeys, Squirrels, Bushbuck, Grey Cheeked Mangabey, Bush Babies, Leopards (very rare), and various species of snakes.
The key travel experiences in the forest are nature walks, cycling, birding, wildlife viewing, zip lining and hiking at Griffin falls lugazi, cultural encounters or simple relaxation and camping/picnics.
- Itanda Falls
Itanda falls is a steep cascade roaring waterfall on the majestic River Nile with water estimated at 100 meters deep. It is characterized by all the six whitewater rafting levels and rightly known as the Paradise of Kayakers and Rafters. Itanda falls is one of the most spectacular and beautiful hidden treasures of Uganda, that is a must see. The falls are such a magnificent and almost equally scary sight.
The key travel experiences while visiting Itanda falls is whitewater rafting, kayaking, and in the middle of the falls, are islands that make a beautiful relaxation spot along the Nile.
- Sipi Falls
Sipi Falls, the triple waterfall at the foothills of Mt Elgon, is arguably the most beautiful waterfall in Uganda. Besides these 3 powerful falls, the entire landscape is dotted with more than 300 other ‘smaller’ waterfalls. This series of three waterfalls offers spectacular views, both from the top after a hike and from the bottom. And the rainbow that forms as the falls are hit by the morning sun, that’s something everyone should look forward to.
While at Sipi Falls, some of the travel experiences to look forward to are abseiling, hiking, mountain biking, bird watching and so much more
- Sezibwa Falls
The Ssezibwa Falls are a spectacular tourist attraction along the Kampala – Jinja highway. They are as a result of water squeezing through rocks and dropping at great speeds into a large pool. Tourists love the place because of the crystal clear water falling from a steep cliff into the nearby forest. Visiting the place isn’t all about the falls but also the beautiful scenery with lush green forests that act as sanctuaries to birds and small primates. While at the falls, do not forget to visit the local snake cave where people still perform rituals to appease their ancestors.
The top travel experiences at Sezibwa are rock climbing, nature walks and hiking, bird watching, camping, cultural experience and so much more.
- Ssese Islands
A major tourist attraction in Uganda, the Ssese Islands are a group of about 84 islands dotted along the northwestern shores of Lake Victoria. Each island differs in size, shape, and exotic flora and fauna. However, all the islands have white sand beaches, palm trees, flowers, rare plants, rare plants, lush forests and blue waters. These islands are amazing for photography and are perfect atmospheres for relaxation. The Ssese Islands are ideal for honeymooners and anyone in need of some private peace and quiet.
The top travel experience at Ssese Islands include sport fishing, swimming, beach games and cycling, nature walks, wildlife viewing, horseback riding and windsurfing, as well as cultural visits.
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a private sanctuary aimkng at conservation of the endangered rhinos managed by the Rhino Fund Uganda. Located north of Kampala, in Nakasongola, this sanctuary is home to Uganda’s only population of wild rhinos alongside other animals.
The key travel experiences to consider while at the sanctuary are rhino tracking, scenic nature walks, shoebill trek and canoe cruises, and so much more.
- Kazinga Channel
Kazinga Channel is a wide and long channel that links Lake George to Lake Edward. It is located within Queen Elizabeth NP and is the nearest and easy to reach waterbody in the park. Kazinga Channel is undoubtedly one of the natural impressive marvels in Uganda that is worth encountering while on a safaris. It is a habitat to one of the great hippo concentrations in the world hence dubbed the Hippos paradise.
Taking a boat cruise on the scenic Kazinga Channel is a great way to see amazing wildlife and the gorgeous scenery of Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park. With the boat hugging the banks of the channel, youre bound to see a wide range of wildlife like African Cape buffalo, hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, and numerous bird species.
- Fort portal crater lakes.
These crater lakes are many and they vary in size and character. However, all offer such breathtaking views and are a beauty to behold. The crater lakes paint a dramatic landscape and offer one of the best hiking places in the area. The hikes lead you through several crater lakes, villages, tea plantations and waterfalls. In addition to the beautiful scenery of the crater lakes, one is able to catch a glimpse of Mt Rwenzori at a distance on a clear sunny day.
The crater lakes atmosphere is ideal for hiking, long walks, cycling, bird watching, sport fishing and definitely for amazing instagrammable photography.
