The Bird’s Word Blog

Often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda truly lives up to its name. After my recent journey on our Primates and Parrots in Uganda group trip, I can confidently say that this beautiful country offers some of the most unique and diverse experiences I’ve ever encountered—from trekking through dense jungles to meet mountain gorillas to immersing in vibrant local cultures and witnessing an abundance of wildlife. I had a powerful experience in Uganda full of awe, wonder, and connection.

The Gorilla Encounter: A Humbling Experience

A trip to Uganda wouldn’t be complete without trekking to see the mountain gorillas, and the visit to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was undoubtedly a highlight. The trek itself was challenging at times, with steep inclines and thick jungle, but every step brought us closer to one of the planet’s most extraordinary creatures.

Witnessing gorillas in their natural habitat is indescribable. Observing them as they interact, nurture their young, and go about their daily routines felt like entering another world. It was an incredibly moving experience and a stark reminder of both the fragility of our planet and the importance of conservation.

Exploring Uganda’s Diverse Wildlife

While gorillas are the stars of Uganda’s wildlife, there’s so much more to explore. At Murchison Falls National Park, a vast savannah landscape, we encountered elephants, giraffes, kob antelope, hyenas, and more. A boat trip along the Nile offered thrilling close encounters with hippos and crocodiles, all framed by the breathtaking Murchison Falls.

Our wildlife adventure continued with a visit to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos. Established in 2005 as part of a reintroduction project, the sanctuary now boasts a population of 50 rhinos, all under 24/7 protection by park rangers. Walking among these magnificent creatures, guided by armed rangers, was both humbling and inspiring.

We also trekked in Kibale National Park to see the famous chimpanzees. Although much of the time the chimps were high in the trees, we were lucky to witness them descending, allowing for a few close-up encounters—a rare and unforgettable experience.

Queen Elizabeth National Park provided yet another wildlife spectacle. This vast park, a mix of savannah, wetlands, and forests, is a haven for animals. We saw elephants, lions, and hippos, and a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel gave us incredible views of birdlife, including the striking African fish eagle. An elephant herd came to the river to bathe, offering a magical close-up experience. In this park, the harmony between the local communities and the wildlife was palpable, creating a sense of peaceful coexistence that added a deeper dimension to the experience.

Immersing in Uganda’s Rich Culture

Although this trip was primarily focused on wildlife, Uganda’s rich and vibrant culture added depth to my adventure. Everywhere we went, we were greeted with warm smiles, lively music, and traditional dance. One of the most memorable cultural encounters was a visit to a women’s cooperative. The women demonstrated the coffee-making process and shared how they weave intricate baskets, which we had the opportunity to purchase directly from the artisans. The cooperative supports a local school for girls, adding a meaningful, community-driven element to the visit. Watching—and later joining in—traditional dances was a joyful experience, filled with energy and connection.

Why You May Want to Go to Uganda

Uganda is a place that captures your heart and soul. It offers a rare blend of adventure, serenity, and cultural richness all in one destination. From the unforgettable encounters with wildlife to the warmth of its people, every moment in Uganda feels like a discovery. This was my seventh trip to Africa, but my first to Uganda—and it exceeded all of my expectations. If you’re looking for an adventure that combines breathtaking nature, deep cultural connections, and transformative experiences, Uganda is waiting for you. See our current suggested itineraries for further inspiration.

If you have questions or would like to find out more about my adventure into Uganda, I invite you to schedule a call or send an email to learn more about planning your own trip.