UGANDA
Of course, the rare mountain gorillas are the star attraction in Uganda, however, it's a mistake to think that's all there is to see and do. It's by no means the largest African country but it has some of the most varied terrain. You can't fail to be inspired by the spectacular number of bird species even if you previously had no interest.
Trek Uganda’s Rwenzori foothills, once described as the Mountains of the Moon, these imposing hills are perfect for adventurous, scenic hiking and for the more adventurous climbing one of the 3 main peaks over 5,000 metres.
Queen Elizabeth National Park now provides excellent game viewing opportunities as well as the possibility of seeing rare tree climbing lions. Then it's down for a day’s gorilla tracking through the aptly named Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The day may be a long one, but the moment you find these surprisingly fast, dexterous and expressive individuals will make it all worth it. Watch them crash through the forest, eat, socialise and look after their undeniably cute young, before you tiptoe back to your lodge, pushing leaves aside on your journey home.
And from Silverback to horseback: a riding a safari around Lake Mburo will give you the chance to get up close to zebra, buffalo and more around the edges of four interconnecting lakes. A day’s riding excursion will take you up onto a ridge giving you great views of the lakes and mountains below.
You won't find a more friendly, generous and fun-loving nation in Africa. We rarely recommend people driving everywhere but in Uganda it's the best way to see the stunningly varied scenery and meet the people.