Elevate Destinations

Experts in socially responsible luxury travel. We design travel experiences that support conservation and local communities without skimping on comfort.

Uganda

Eco-Luxury Safaris and Tours

Gorillas are just part of the story

Uganda is a land that beckons to be explored, from volcanic mountains veiled in mist, to the sun-drenched savannah, to the magnificent heights of the snow-capped peaks.

The astounding diversity of wildlife will captivate you, especially when you find yourself in the proximity of gorillas in their mountainous habitat or chimpanzees in their forest dwelling. With thriving ecotourism and one of the highest biodiversity ratings of any reserve in the world, Queen Elizabeth National Park makes for an exceptional eco-luxury safari for families. You can also find respectful wildlife viewings in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park.

What makes a trip to Uganda so unique is the chance to learn about the heritage and stories of the local communities firsthand. Participate in a Batwa cultural experience in the Buniga Forest, and meet with local people to learn about the Ugandan way of life.

We focus on sustainable tourism that contributes positively to Uganda’s environment and local economies and team up with local partners who share our views on responsible travel.

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Sample Itineraries

Inspiration for your custom adventure

What our travelers are saying

  • “For the second time in my life, I found inspiration whilst visiting Africa. The last time, it was Kenya, this time it was Uganda and Rwanda. Both times it was extraordinary and led to unimaginable personal growth; where I can connect with how strength works with gentleness in urban, rural, and wild places. I will endeavor to continually express the gratitude I feel going forward, like the 400 elephants I inexplicably stumbled upon striding across the savannah at sundown, they will forever be on repeat in my mind and in my heart.”

    –Stephanie Brownell, Rwanda

  • “It was just an amazing adventure offering an experience unequalled and something that cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. I’d recommend Elevate for the personal service, the wonderful itinerary, and their intimate knowledge of each lodge and conservancy.”

    –Lisa Warren, Kenya

  • A family stands in front of a safari vehicle, smiling and holding drinks, with dry grass and trees in the background.

    “Your selection of our 3 camps was excellent. Saw a multitude of wildlife and the guides and staff at the camps were enjoyable to be around and well qualified and accommodating. Always love the Sundowners. We can never get enough of seeing the wildlife of Africa. ”

    –Gene Hardy, Botswana

  • A group of eight people stand in a row outdoors, silhouetted against a sunset sky, with grass visible in the foreground.

    “It was truly our trip of a lifetime! Couldn't have been better!! The only downside of the trip was the 19 hour air travel from Cape Town to Detroit and then the recovery time! Wonderful trip!!! ”

    –Ken Green, South Africa

  • Two people riding camels in a desert landscape with clear blue sky and sandy hills in the background.

    “Our Morocco trip was the best one I have ever taken. Dominique and her team did an exceptional job with the hotels, drivers, and our guides. The Riads, Kasbah and glamping we experienced were amazing!”

    –Jay Pollit, Morocco

  • Six people in outdoor clothing and hats stand in a row on a dirt path beside a rhinoceros in Kenya, with trees and bushes in the background under a blue sky with clouds.

    “Lana, Emily, and the Elevate team provided extraordinary service from the planning through the execution. Every question or concern was answered promptly with great attention to detail. The trip firmly placed Kenya in our hearts and souls.”

    –The Patterson Family, Kenya

  • A giraffe leans its head through a large window into a dining room in Kenya, eating from the table as a smiling family of four enjoys their meal and watches the animal.

    “It felt like Kenya and the perfectly curated trip encouraged true connection with our kids—no screens, no distractions, just a deeper understanding of the world and of nature. At every turn of our trip, my husband and I witnessed our young children absorb their new surroundings and were in awe as we saw them become young travelers themselves. ”

    –The Baird/Ryan Family, Kenya

  • Rwanda: Two people wearing masks and outdoor gear take a selfie in a lush, green forest with a group of gorillas sitting on the ground in the background.

    “Thanks for planning such an amazing journey for us! Visiting chimps, gorillas, and monkeys was thrilling. The chimpanzee experience was fantastic—we were able to watch a baby and family playing on the ground for quite some time. Overall one of our best trips yet!”

    –Ben Kahrl and Connie Mao, Rwanda

  • A group of zebras graze near an acacia tree in the grassy savanna of Kenya, with a dirt road curving through the landscape and distant mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

    “An adventure of a lifetime. The highlights were the people and the animals. Elevate Destinations made all connections seamless. Itinerary design was catered to all of our interests and abilities. All accommodations were diverse but wonderful.”

    –Bonnie Cauffman, Kenya

  • South Africa: A vibrant garden with clusters of red and yellow flowers in the foreground, green and orange bushes in the middle, and a mountain under a blue sky with few clouds in the background.

    “The safaris were the best! Each camp was wonderful, the guides were excellent and all exceeded my expectations! Every guide we had was excellent! Being in such close contact with nature is really a spiritual experience — very grounding and helps one put things in perspective.”

    –Judy Szor, South Africa

  • Kenya: A giraffe with a distinct pattern stands among tall grass and green bushes in Kenya, with flat-topped trees and mountains in the background under a clear sky.

    “It not only fulfilled a dream of mine to go on a safari in Africa, but it exceeded any expectations I ever had of the experience. Elevate designed the perfect trip for a first time safari. ”

    –Cindy Watson, Kenya

  • Tanzania: A group of impalas stands alert in tall grass, surrounded by green trees in a savanna landscape.

    “It was a great experience for our daughter. You clearly alerted the staff that we were traveling with a kid that was special needs and it showed. They were outstanding, really sensitive, caring, open, accepting, and engaging with her. She had a great time. Thank you for all you did to make that happen. I know I'll be asking again to do a trip with her. I loved it.”

    –Kahrl Family, Tanzania

Your Questions Answered

What to know about Uganda

What language is spoken in Uganda?

English and Swahili are the official languages of Uganda, with English being the more widely used of the two. Luganda is the second most common language in everyday life. Uganda is incredibly diverse, with over 70 languages spoken nationwide, including 41 indigenous languages. During your safari, you will encounter multiple languages; however, traveling with a guide ensures smooth communication. Our guides are proficient in English and several local languages, which helps you connect with the people and culture, even if you are not familiar with the native languages.

What does a typical Uganda itinerary look like?

A typical Uganda itinerary includes at least two top wildlife safari destinations, cultural experiences, and the unforgettable adventure of gorilla trekking. Most travelers visit highlights like Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, combining game drives, boat cruises, chimpanzee tracking, and gorilla trekking for a well-rounded safari. If time allows, adding Kidepo National Park in the north brings even more wildlife diversity and authentic cultural encounters. This Epic Wildlife and Gorilla Trekking Safari covers some of the best wildlife destinations in Uganda and offers unique camps deep in the wilderness and a fantastic lodge that supports community development for the gorilla trekking portion of your trip.

Will we go gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Yes, gorilla trekking in Ugandais a must-do experience, with the best times for trekking being during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. Early March is a quieter shoulder season, but you risk some rain. Permits are required and should be booked well in advance, as they are limited and in high demand during peak months. Note that the minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years, which is strictly enforced by park authorities. Secure your permit and accommodation early, as the best lodges fill up quickly, and Gorilla Trekking permits are limited. For an even richer wildlife experience, consider combining gorilla trekking with chimpanzee trekking. Ask your knowledgeable Travel Advisor, who can help to arrange these treks for you

Why should I choose Elevate Destinations as my Uganda travel guide?

Choosing Elevate Destinations as your Uganda travel guide means benefiting from our deep knowledge, extensive experience, and trusted in-country contacts, ensuring you receive expert support before, during, and after your trip. Our passion for wildlife and commitment to crafting personalized itineraries guarantee you’ll experience Uganda’s highlights in a way that matches your interests, all while enjoying seamless travel and exceptional service.

What are the best things to do in Uganda?

The best things to do in Uganda include gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, wildlife safaris in top parks like Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Park, and chimp trekking in Kibale Forest. You can also enjoy a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, experience Uganda’s vibrant culture through local language, dance, and food, and go birdwatching for over 500 species, including the rare Saddle-billed Stork. Don’t miss stargazing in the African sky on clear nights, which offer some of the best views of the Southern constellations!

Where are the best places to visit in Uganda?

The best places to visit in Uganda include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for world-renowned gorilla trekking, Murchison Falls National Park for dramatic waterfalls and classic safaris, and Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions and boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel. Kibale Forest National Park is a top destination for chimpanzee trekking and primate encounters, while Kidepo Valley National Park offers remote, wild landscapes and abundant wildlife. Other must-see destinations are the Rwenzori Mountains for incredible trekking, Semliki Wildlife Reserve for unique biodiversity (like the endangered saddle-billed stork), and Kyambura Reserve for chimp trekking.

Do Americans need a visa for Uganda?

Yes, Americans need a visa to visit Uganda, and you must apply online for an e-visa before traveling; visas are not available on arrival. If you plan to visit Kenya or Rwanda as well, consider applying for the East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows multiple entries to Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya for up to 90 days; be sure to apply through the portal of your first country of entry-if your trip starts in Uganda, use the Uganda e-visa portal.
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