Sunset view of Mabamba Swamp from a little wooden fishing boat, Entebbe, Uganda, Africa

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Eastern Uganda

Thanks to an intoxicating blend of adrenaline adventures and superb scenery, eastern Uganda is a must on any East African journey. Here the mighty Nile begins its epic journey north. White-water rafting the Nile River is the main draw for adventurers seeking a wild ride, but there's also the subtler, sweatier pleasure of trekking through Mt Elgon National Park or relaxing with a visit to stunning Sipi Falls. The regional capital of Jinja offers a charming and friendly base on the shores of Lake Victoria where travellers can spend a few days or more enjoying the chilled atmosphere and top-notch outdoor activities.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Eastern Uganda
Located 23km southeast of Entebbe in Lake Victoria, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, or 'Chimp Island', is home to over 40 orphaned or rescued…
Mt Elgon National Park
Eastern Uganda
Spread out over the slopes of a massive extinct volcano, Mt Elgon National Park is a good place to spot various primates and lots of birds, including the…
Source of the Nile River
Jinja
The birthplace of the mighty Nile river (or one of them anyway…), here the water spills out of Lake Victoria on its journey to the Mediterranean flowing…
Nabugoye Synagogue
Eastern Uganda
An unexpected find in this neck of the woods, the synagogue is a simple, yet appealing, rustic red-brick building (with plans to revamp). The Jewish…
Mpanga Forest Reserve
Eastern Uganda
About 35km out of Kampala, the 453-hectare Mpanga Forest Reserve is a decent option if you want to escape the chaos of Kampala for a day or two. It's best…
Source of the Nile Gardens
Jinja
On the western bank of the river you'll find the pleasant Source of the Nile Gardens and Speke Monument – a pillar commemorating where the British…
Makanaga Wetlands
Eastern Uganda
Makanaga Wetlands (part of the larger Mabamba Wetland System) is a good place to spot shoebills. It's roughly a 60km drive from Entebbe, accessed via…
Nyero Rock Paintings
Eastern Uganda
Uganda's oldest rock-art site, with six panels painted on the granite outcrop of Moru Ikara. Figures include concentric circles, zebra, canoes and people…

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Plan with a local

Go Beyond

Eastern Uganda and beyond

Beyond Eastern Uganda

Jinja

Beyond Eastern Uganda

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