This central African country, sometimes called “the pearl of Africa”, is located in western Kenya and southern Tanzania among other neighbors. The richness of its fauna is therefore not to be demonstrated. This is also one of the key elements of why hiking in Uganda. However, there are others that we also suggest you discover in this article.
Along the shores of the great lakes of Uganda
The country is full of large lakes, the most famous of which is Lake Victoria where the Nile rises. It is possible to take a cruise to reach the Murchinson Falls from a height of nearly 45m. In addition, many species of animals live around the lake: hippos, crocodiles, birds…
Other lakes dot the country and also offer great possibilities:
- Bunyonyi: literally the lake of small birds with its many islands
- Edward: part of Queen Elisabeth National Park, it is also home to many animals: chimpanzees, crocodiles, felines …
- George: included in the same park as Lake Edourd, it is the bird species that make it special
- Mburo: included in the park of the same name, it is home to hippos and crocodiles, while it is possible to observe zebras and other baboons in the park.
Immerse yourself in Ugandan national parks
In the part above, we are talking about a few national parks that are home to the main lakes. But there isn’t necessarily a big lake in every park. If you like greenery, it is therefore also possible to hike in Uganda in the following parks:
- Bwindi: classified by UNESCO, it is one of the great natural reserves in the world, the start of which is the mountain gorilla
- Mgahinga: another park also famous for its gorillas, since it aims to protect them
- Kibale: to observe chimpanzees
- Kidepo Valley: this semi-arid area is home to many large mammals: Lions, elephants, cheetahs, …
Hiking in the Rwenzori massif
These mountains are home to Mount Stanley, the third highest peak in Africa with its 5109m. So it is a good place for trekking. All the more so, given that these slopes are home to endemic flora and fauna which is still as rich as possible.
Appreciate the calm of the country
Uganda has acquired a certain stability since the 2000s which makes it possible to take full advantage of the kindness of the local population. In addition, the country, if it opens more and more or tourism, is much less popular than its neighbors, Tanzania or Kenya. If the animals are perhaps less present, you can observe them in peace. Finally, as the country is aware that nature is one of its assets, it tries to promote sustainable tourism.
And discover the Ugandan flora and fauna, of course!
We have already talked about it a lot in the previous paragraphs because nature is omnipresent in the country. You have probably already understood that Uganda is one of the most interesting countries to discover the richness of African animals. It is also one of the countries where the famous “Big Five” coexist.
Convinced of why hiking in Uganda?
Do not forget to check your visas, vaccines and others … You can consult our list to not forget anything!
