Uganda

Located in the east of Uganda sharing borders with Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya, Lake Victoria (also known as Victoria Nyanza) is the largest lake in Africa, the second largest freshwater lake in the world, and is truly a spectacular natural wonder. Featuring dotted islands, reefs, 200+ fish species and tropical highlands, attractions at Lake Victoria include visits to Mabamba Swamp to see birds such as the Shoebill Stork, trips to the chimpanzee sanctuary on Ngamba (or Chimpanzee) Island and The National Botanical Gardens located in Entebbe on the lake's rainforested shores house an abundance of monkeys, squirrels and birds.

In the northern region of the Albertine Rift Valley, Murchison Falls National Park (also known as Kabarega Falls) can be found where the Nile bursts through a narrow gorge and makes its way to Lake Albert. As Uganda's oldest and largest national park, Murchison Falls is a primary safari destination. Wildlife comprises 4 of the Big 5 - buffalos, lions, elephants and leopards, mainly spotted in the northern part. Other wildlife in the savannah, woodland, riverine forests and along the riverbanks include giraffes, chimpanzees, hippos, crocs, waterbuck and a host of birds. Guided walking, 4x4 and boat safaris are an awesome way to see the park in all its natural splendour.

An epic mist-covered forest spanning 312km2, nestled in south western Uganda, the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is an awesome experience. Home to over 400 mountain gorillas, more than 50% of the world’s population of the remaining mountain gorillas, there are 11 habituated gorilla species in Bwindi and trekking these majestic creatures is a key attraction. While this is clearly the main draw, there are a wide variety of mammals, birds and plants to see - some endemic. Other attractions include Buninga forest walks, the Bkuringo Cultural Centre, the Rubuguri village walk and the Nyundo community eco-trails.

In the west of Uganda, stretched over 795km2, the Kibale National Park is one of Africa's most prolific research sites for chimps and other primates, along with wild pigs and their ecosystems. The tropical rainforest location makes it ideal for chimpanzee tracking and sightings also include L’Hoest’s monkey, red colobus monkeys, black and white colobus, red tailed monkeys, blue monkeys and olive baboons. The park is also home to buffalo, leopards and elephant, golden cats, red and blue duikers and vast species of birds. A wildlife experience not to be missed.

Stretched along the west of the country, spanning the equator with monuments on either side of the road marking the exact point where it crosses latitude 00, Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the most popular tourist sites in Africa. With breathtaking views of Rwenzori Mountains, Kazinga Channel, the large area of the swamp, the beauty of open savannah around Lake George, the beautiful crater lakes, it's easy to see why the park is known as a 'medley of wonders'. View big game, 10 primate species and over 600 birds. Besides the wildlife attraction, the park offers fascinating cultural and historical tours.

Located in a semi-arid area between Uganda's borders with Sudan and Kenya, Kidepo Valley National Park lies in a more secluded spot and as such is regarded as Africa's true wilderness, making it more attractive to many visitors who seek quieter encounters with nature and wildlife. The park lies between lush valleys offering epic views and is home to lions, cheetahs, the African wild dog, leopard, bat-eared foxes and 12 antelope species. It's also a great destination for bird watching. A visit to Kidepo also offers cultural tours to learn more about the two tribes who live on the land.

The capital city of Kampala is located in the southern part of Uganda, very close to the shores of famed Lake Victoria. A buzzing urban delight with a vibrant nightlife, excellent restaurants and shops, the city attracts a swathe of local and international tourists. Other attractions include Lugard Fort on Old Kampala Hill, The Uganda National Mosque and Nommo Art Gallery at Nakasero, the Uganda Museum with its extensive collection of tribal artefacts and Lubiri Palace on Mengo Hill, the former seat of the Buganda Kingdom.