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Southwestern Uganda

A lush region of clear lakes, thickly forested islands and misted mountains, the southwest offers a taste of the best of Uganda. Whether you're on world-class treks along the western Rift Valley or preferring the placid escapism of Lake Bunyonyi's numerous islands, this gorgeous and diverse area should not be missed. Terraced hills and farmland cover much of the region. But it's also Uganda’s top wildlife-watching destination and one of the best places in the world to spot primates. A visit with the mountain gorillas on the steep slopes of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park ranks as one of Africa's top experiences. You can also go chimp trekking in Kibale Forest National Park, home to the greatest variety of primates on the planet. There are safari opportunities too, from famous tree-climbing lions that steal the show at Queen Elizabeth National Park, to its herds of giraffes, hippos and buffaloes.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Southwestern Uganda

Home to almost half the world’s surviving mountain gorillas, the World Heritage–listed Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of East Africa’s most…
Igongo Cultural Centre

Southwestern Uganda

Located 12km from Mbarara on the road to Kampala, this cultural village features the best museum displays in Uganda. Set on the grounds of a former palace…
Queen Elizabeth National Park

Southwestern Uganda

This fabulous national park is on nearly all itineraries, and while you'll never be far from other safari groups, you're guaranteed to see a large range…
Kibale Forest National Park

Southwestern Uganda

The 795-sq-km Kibale National Park is a lush tropical rainforest, believed to have the highest density of primates in Africa. It's most famous for being…
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Southwestern Uganda

The smallest of Uganda’s national parks (34 sq km), Mgahinga punches well above its weight. Tropical rainforest cloaks three dramatic extinct volcanoes…
Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Southwestern Uganda

The legendary, mist-covered Rwenzori Mountains were named a World Heritage Site by Unesco in 1994 because of both their beauty and biodiversity. It’s the…
Kihingami Wetlands Sanctuary

Southwestern Uganda

This eco-tourism site, set up with the help of Fort Portal’s Kabarole Tours, preserves an attractive 13-sq-km valley that otherwise would have been…
Salt Mine

Southwestern Uganda

The interesting village of Katwe on the north shore of Lake Edward, 4km west of Main gate (Kabatoro gate), is famous for its salt industry. Salt mining on…