Top 6 things to do in Uganda when on budget.

Uganda is known as one of Africa's affordable destinations. However, when it comes to some activities which involve national parks where you have to pay some hefty fees, it becomes a challenge for backpackers and budget travelers. Fear not though, that doesn't mean it’s the end of it all. There is a lot you can do in Uganda without having to go see animals or paying daily entrance fees in a National park.

Here are the top six things you can do in Uganda while on a budget.

1- Take a walking tour in Kampala.

When you arrive in a country, the first thing you need to get well versed with is the history of the country, the city and culture. A walking tour will illuminate the everyday way of life. It will also orient you to the surroundings and enable you to be a savvy tourist with insights that’s not apparent when you’re on a tour bus. You’ll also be on your way to exploring independently. Be sure to enjoy Kampala’s night life, one of the most renowned in all of East Africa.

Tourists on  Walking Tour.

2- Take a trip to Sipi Falls.

This is a three day voyage. Sipi Falls is located in Eastern Uganda about 5 hours from Kampala. On your way to Sipi you get to see the great eastern rift valley. The views in this area are very spectacular with lush emerald scenery. There’s some hiking involved which will take you to the waterfalls. Don’t worry we can shape it according to your fitness level. The highest waterfall in Uganda is located here at a height of 100 meters. If you love java, don’t miss out on a coffee tour as the region is known for it. Get to witness how the beans are cared for right until they reach your cup. How does a fresh roasted cup of coffee sound? Other activities includes a sunset walk which is breathtaking and various cultural tours.

Sipi Falls.

3- Do not miss exploring Fortportal's crater lakes.

This is one pf the coolest places you will visit in Uganda and if you really love nature. Fortportal is located in western Uganda , approximately a 5-6 hour drive depending on your transport means. It is full of a beautiful green landscape and a gorgeous backdrop of Mountain Rwenzori and locally famous crater lakes. Walking tours to the lakes are available according to your fitness. You also have an option to cover a bigger area with a motorbike tour. There are some hidden hot springs in the region which are not crowded by tourists and you can reach them with a good hike. There are various campsites and budget accommodation in the vicinity of the crater Lakes. If your pockets are able to support you, make sure to go Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale forest because it is way cheaper than Gorilla trekking.

One of the craters in Fortportal.

Views during the hikes.

4- Choose from the various excursions in Jinja.

Jinja is a popular tourist hot spot. There are a number of activities located in this town found in Eastern Uganda, It takes about a two hour drive but again this depends on traffic. Depending on your time and money, Jinja can be doable in one day. You can make several stops along the way at Sezibwa falls, Mabira forest and can wrap it up with a boat ride on the source of the world's longest river, the Nile. However, it would be nice to spend a couple of days in this town. The highlight would be white water rafting in the Nile River with the best recommended companies. This is a serious adrenaline rush! But that is not all, there are other activities in this area like tubing on the Nile, kayaking on the Nile, horseback riding, quad biking, cycling and bird watching for the bird lovers.

Cruising on the River Nile.

5- Canoeing on Lake Bunyonyi.

Kabale is a beautiful town known as the Switzerland of Uganda. It shouldn’t  be missed! Although it takes about a 7 to 8 hour drive, don't worry about this, all good things are worth the journey. The sacrifice is worth the effort. The most spectacular lake to see here is Lake Bunyonyi and the very many beautifully terraced hills. Lake Bunyonyi is  the freshest Lake in Uganda to swim and it is bilharzia free. Make sure to get on canoe to visit the various islands on this lake. Take some hikes on the hills to get the best views of the islands on this lake, or you can simply take some guided walking tours in around some of the villages. 

If you have time, you can also visit the Batwa tribe living in the hilly areas of this region.

Some of the many islands in Lake Bunyonyi.

6- Taking it easy in Entebbe.

Entebbe is a chill town located on the shores of Lake Victoria. Most people spend some days here when they are about to take a fight back home or when the city gets too crazy and hectic for them. You can go cycling in Entebbe  which is easier because it is less crowded. Don’t forget to soak up in the sun in picturesque beaches and make sure to enjoy some good deep fried tilapia with chips. If you want to explore the world's second biggest lake, here’s your chance with a boat cruise on Lake Victoria.

We do find Mabamba swamp in Lake Victoria which is known for many bird species and one special one known as the shoebill. If you are a birdwatcher, do not miss this little wonder! 

Fishing on Lake Victoria,

Uganda has so much to offer! Drop us a line for more info!