You can discover more of Uganda when you move beyond the popular parks and into the quieter corners of the country. These hidden gems offer a different pace and a closer look at local life, culture, and nature.
Sipi Falls – Hike through waterfalls and coffee farms on the slopes of Mount Elgon
Sipi Falls sits on the edge of Mount Elgon National Park and offers a series of three waterfalls surrounded by farmland and forest. You can hike with a local guide through village paths, coffee plantations, and forest trails that lead to the best viewpoints. Along the way, you may visit caves tucked behind the water or try your hand at roasting coffee the traditional way. The trails vary in length, and you don’t need special hiking skills to enjoy them.
Amabere Caves – Explore cultural legends and crater lakes near Fort Portal
Near Fort Portal, the Amabere Caves carry deep cultural meaning for the Toro people. The caves themselves are made of limestone and lie behind a curtain of small waterfalls. A local guide will explain the myths tied to the site, often passed down through generations. Not far from the caves are crater lakes surrounded by rolling hills. A short hike connects several of them and gives you sweeping views over tea plantations, forest, and scattered homesteads.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Track wild rhinos on foot with expert rangers
Located between Kampala and Murchison Falls, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the only place in Uganda where you can track rhinos in the wild. With the help of trained rangers, you follow game trails on foot and approach these animals at a safe distance. You’ll learn about rhino behavior, conservation efforts, and the sanctuary’s work to reintroduce them to Uganda. Many travelers stop here for a night on the way north, combining the visit with a nature walk or canoe ride in the nearby wetlands.
Lake Bunyonyi – Paddle across island-dotted waters in Uganda’s highlands
Lake Bunyonyi is one of the deepest lakes in Africa and stands out for its calm, clear waters dotted with small islands. There are no hippos or crocodiles here, so you can swim or take a dugout canoe across the lake. The surrounding hills are terraced and green, making them ideal for short hikes with wide views. Guesthouses along the lake often serve simple local meals and offer a quiet place to relax, especially after gorilla trekking in nearby Bwindi.
Kidepo Valley National Park – Witness wildlife and local life in Uganda’s remote northeast
Kidepo is a long way from the typical safari route, but those who make the trip are rewarded with open landscapes, clear skies, and large numbers of wildlife. Lions often rest on rocky outcrops, and elephants and buffalo roam across the plains. You’ll likely see more animals than vehicles. Nearby communities, including the Ik and Karamojong, welcome visits with local guides who explain their way of life, from homestead layouts to traditional dances.
Each of these places offers a unique experience. Together, they show you sides of Uganda that many travelers miss.
