Don’t miss the chance for exhilarating glamping safaris in Uganda! They offer the ideal combination of plush comfort and hairy adventure in some of East Africa’s most dazzling wildlife locations.
These journeys combine the comfort of contemporary tents or lodges alongside landscapes of unblemished savannas, rainforests and lakes. Most locations are in immediate proximity to parks such as Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls.
Guests are often treated to elephant, hippo, and chimp sightings right from the lodge! Their glamping setups have floor beds, private bathroom facilities, and food prepared using fresh local produce.
As you travel through Uganda, it is impossible not to notice just how fertile and beautiful the country is. This really opens up possibilities to participate in outdoor activities such as guided walks and game drives!
Our central section will explain exactly where to go, what to expect, and how to have the best possible trip.
Top Uganda Glamping Destinations
What makes Uganda unique is the combination of its wild lands and the palpable sense of vibrant local culture. Glamping here gives you the best access to Uganda’s abundant wilderness beauty, without sacrificing comfort and convenience. Some of the best campsites around Kampala provide an abundance of options, each with unique advantages.
At Wildwaters Lodge on the Nile, you’re treated to tents raised above the river on rocky islands. From the impressive sound of rushing water to amazing views of the forest and its wildlife, this glamping experience is one you’ll never forget.
The Haven Eco River Lodge is located on a tranquil bend of the world-famous Nile. The Haven is a glamping paradise well known for its eco-friendly cabins and amazing birdwatching.
Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort offers luxury tents where you can soak in the peacefulness of Lake Bunyonyi. Explore this one of Uganda’s best-kept secrets filled with tropical green mountains and mystical misty mornings.
Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge is located alongside Queen Elizabeth National Park. Imagine waking up to the sounds of hippos and elephants outside your tent!
Paraa Safari Lodge, perched on the banks of the Nile river inside Murchison Falls National Park, allows views of elephants, giraffes, and hippos from your room balcony.
Buhoma Lodge in Bwindi Buhoma is an excellent choice for first-timers who would like to go gorilla trekking.
At each of these sites, you’ll be able to choose between guided nature walks, boat rides, and wildlife drives. In Bwindi, gorilla trekking is the main attraction, for sure.
From tracking lions in their natural habitat to taking unforgettable boat trips on the Kazinga Channel, Queen Elizabeth’s reputation by far precedes itself. Murchison Falls National Park is home to both river cruises and treks to the top of the falls.
All are within a few hours’ drive from Uganda’s capital Kampala. Drives are between three and eight hours depending on the destination, and roads are paved nearly all the way except for the final stretch in some cases.
Most of the lovely lodges will organise a pick-up and drop-off, making it a hassle-free trip for visitors. Glamping here usually entails relaxing in luxurious eco-lodges. This eco-friendly option reduces your environmental impact and immerses you in the wild side of Uganda.
Why Uganda for Glamping?
Uganda fuses untamed wilderness and luxury safari comfort like no place else in East Africa. The country is known as the Pearl of Africa for its exquisite beauty and abundance of wildlife. Home to half the world’s mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is also home to Uganda’s chimpanzee capital, Kibale.
Famed for its tree-climbing lions and elephants, Queen Elizabeth National Park is our first stop. These creatures lure people from all over creation, and glamping allows you to hang out nearby while enjoying some serious comforts.
The diverse landscapes here really do make it the perfect setting for glamping. Sprawling open savannah landscapes in Murchison Falls, ethereal, rolling hills around Lake Bunyonyi, and dense rainforests create a unique ambience on each journey.
The Ishasha sector, for example, has open grassland and wild fig trees that provide perfect spots for lions to lounge in. Glamping sites take advantage of these incredible views. They have luxurious glamping-style safari tents either on raised decks or as rooftop tents that are perched above the water with views of the hills.
Uganda’s weather can be unpredictable, with rain sometimes occurring unexpectedly even during the dry months. Glamping means you’re protected from the elements and chilly evenings, allowing you to unwind after an exciting day exploring.
The best part is that many sites have both ground tent and rooftop glamping setups available. Then you pick and choose what works best for your needs and budget. So whether you’re looking to do something low-key or extravagant, the choice is up to you!
Travelers have the opportunity to take nature walks, guided boat rides, and guided animal treks. With a strong emphasis on low-impact travel, many of the glamping operators ensure that you can be confident your visit leaves the lightest of marks.
These trips can be self-catered, customized to the itinerary you set, or planned specifically for your group. That allows you the ultimate freedom and choice in how you choose to explore.
What is Ugandan Glamping?
Come glamping in Uganda and experience the perfect mix of adventure and comfort that travelers are raving about. Step into the wild and enjoy the lap of luxury! At its most basic level, glamping is the combination of “glamorous” and “camping.” You experience all the joy of glamping while savoring the comforts you’ve come to require from a 5-star establishment.
In Uganda, experience the comfort of sleeping in a glamorous tent, complete with a king-sized bed. Indulge in the comforts of clean linens, running water, and electricity! Some locations even come with exclusive decks or outdoor showers. Some of the more unique features include waking up to the calls of birds or the breathtaking views of the savanna.
Accommodations here are no different. From basic white canvas tents with comfy interiors to luxury lodges that are more boutique retreat than tent, there’s something for everyone! Each glamping site along Lake Victoria’s shores pitches white canvas tents, equipped with large, open windows. It’s the perfect place to watch the sun rise over the water!
Some others, especially closer to game parks, establish private campsites deep within the bush. Yet you get benefits such as Wi-Fi, locally-sourced meals, and daily housekeeping. What makes Ugandan glamping special is not just the comfort, but how it immerses you in the wild.
Since most locations are adjacent to wildlife corridors, it’s not unusual to see a giraffe or listen to hippos from your tent as you settle in for the night. Activities vary from traditional safari game drives to guided nature walks and birding. Some hosts even assist with planning boat trips on Lake Mburo, as well as family-friendly tours with babysitters.
The dry season, December to February and June to August, is ideal for clear skies and smoother travel.
Plan Your Dream Glamping Safari
Uganda glamping safaris take travelers deep into the wild, with all the convenience of home. Guests sleep in spacious safari tents that range from rustic chic to fully outfitted with sumptuous linen, dark timber, and leather furniture. Look for glamping tents that come with ensuite bathrooms, hot bucket shower facilities or even some with observation decks for game viewing.
Other camps relocate every few days, allowing travelers to experience several parks and varying landscapes. The rest remain in place, allowing ample time to relax or participate in informative guided bush walks and engage with surrounding communities. Glamping can be as simple or luxurious as your budget allows, from a more simple glamping setup to a fancy, high-end camp with pools and communal lounges.
Packing appropriately is just the beginning. Pack light clothing for hot days and a warm jacket for cool nights. Don’t leave home without a hat, sunscreen, bug spray and comfortable walking shoes!
Camera, binoculars, reusable water bottle, etc. Most camps will supply toiletries, so double check before packing your own.
Once you’ve decided on a glamping safari experience, it’s time to select the perfect camp to match your preferred trip style. Active travelers will prefer a mobile camp or one that includes bush walks, while couples often opt for romantic, secluded locations.
Book your accommodation in advance, particularly if you’re going gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga. Gorilla tracking permits are strictly controlled and can sell out quickly, lock these in before buying your plane tickets.
Weather plays a large role in determining what the best time to visit is. Uganda’s dry seasons, running from June to September and December to February, mean clear trails and more easily seen wildlife.
While game drives and wine tastings may fill your days, be sure to balance high-energy days with some downtime. Add in some cultural excursions and relax with a few days poolside.
Or, simply enjoy the sounds of nature each morning from the deck of your tent and create memories of a lifetime!
Smooth Sailing: Uganda Travel Tips
Visitors arriving in Uganda for a glamping safari will be greeted by an environment that is as vibrant as it is hospitable. As long as you plan accordingly, arrival goes pretty seamlessly.
Getting There
Most visitors require a visa, which can be obtained online in advance of travel.
Getting There and Around
Entebbe International Airport is your primary entry point, with local taxis and rideshares available to usher you right into the adventure.
Getting Around
Getting around is fairly simple if you learn a little patience. Local buses travel along major routes, but renting a car provides the flexibility to explore farther afield!
Self-guided safaris are the norm here and perfectly safe with a bit of common sense. The long drive across Uganda is over 1,400 km, nearly as far as driving from Washington, DC to Florida. Prepare yourself for a serious shot of adrenaline!
Glamping Etiquette
While glamping sites in Uganda maintain an easy-going vibe, they do possess a few house rules. Environmental consideration is paramount, no disruptive noise, sort your trash, and turn off your lights when you’re not using them.
Staff will frequently greet you with a warm cup of chai, a Ugandan staple, and it’s customary to accept. It’s amazing how small courtesies can improve a situation! A friendly greeting with a smile and learning a few words of Luganda or Swahili will take you far.
When traveling into communities, consider modest dress a virtue, and always ask permission before taking someone’s picture.
Safety and Health
Your safety and health are of paramount importance. Travelers are strongly urged to take along antidiarrheal pills and antibiotics. Vaccinations against yellow fever are mandatory, and antimalarials are recommended.
Having trusted travel insurance makes for a stress-free trip. Certain parks have bumpy roads, small cars do the best at these, particularly close to drop-offs.
Wildlife comes right up to your doorstep! You may have a lion rub up against your tire, and hippos may walk past your tent. Heed the guides’ advice at all times.
The star attraction, gorilla trekking, requires a bit of fitness too since the trek can take more than five hours.
Unforgettable Glamping Adventures
Uganda’s glamping safaris, with their stunning landscapes and mindful luxury, are the perfect example of this equality. Glampers are spoiled for choice, whether they’re looking for a luxury tent with a full bathroom and private deck or a treehouse with panoramic vistas. Most have national parks on one side, or like Lake Bunyonyi, surrounded by them.
The sounds of bird calls and distant hippo grunts make for an incredible ambiance. Below is a basic comparison of popular glamping choices in Uganda:
| Type | Key Features | Typical Price/Night (USD) |
| Luxury Tent | En suite bath, private deck | $200–$400 |
| Treehouse | Elevated views, rustic interiors | $180–$350 |
| Lakeside Yurt | Near water, communal firepit | $120–$250 |
| Eco-Lodge Cabin | Solar power, local design | $150–$300 |
With the addition of guided tours, every stay becomes an enriching experience. Whether it’s learning about mating rituals from local guides, or understanding the habits of elephants or the calls of rare African wild dogs.
For those seeking cultural ties, some camps offer visits to the Bakiga or Batwa communities, where days can be spent learning traditional cooking or crafts. Evenings usually bring easy-going campfires, sharing tales over s’mores with fellow adventurers, or soaking up the stars in skies untouched by urban glow.
Many sites promote eco-friendly practices, like solar lighting or compost toilets, and encourage guests to support local artisans or take part in reforestation. Every season creates the adventure.
The long dry season of June to October, and December to February, provide the clearest trails for gorilla trekking and chimpanzee walking. In comparison, the wet season lures adventurers seeking tranquility and rejuvenation of nature’s explosion of greenery, including emerald green rolling hills and fewer crowds.
Uganda’s glamping safaris perfectly blend wildness and homey ease, all immersed in some of Africa’s most classic sceneries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is glamping in Uganda?
What is glamping in Uganda? Glamping in Uganda is all about experiencing premium wilderness camping. You receive luxe canvas tents or wildlife safari lodges, actual beds, en suite loos, and 4-star views, to call a couple of. It’s pretty much camping with all the comforts you would enjoy in a hotel.
Are glamping safaris in Uganda safe?
Are glamping safaris in Uganda safe? They employ well trained guides, use well secured accommodations, and have stringent safety protocols. Follow staff directions at all times and exercise good judgment around wildlife.
What wildlife can I see on a Uganda glamping safari?
From mountain gorillas, lions, elephants, and hippos, to hundreds of bird species, Uganda is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. From incredible natural diversity to Uganda’s national parks, every safari experience is one to remember.
Where are the best glamping destinations in Uganda?
Where is glamping best in Uganda. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Queen Elizabeth National Park. Murchison Falls National Park. These glamping spots provide stunning views of the savannah, mountains, and up-close wildlife encounters.
Do I need a permit for gorilla trekking while glamping?
Do I require a gorilla trekking permit while glamping? Yes, if you wish to see mountain gorillas, you require a gorilla trekking permit. Make sure to book far in advance, as permits are very limited and sell out quickly.
What should I pack for a glamping safari in Uganda?
What should I pack for a glamping safari in Uganda? Pack plenty of layers to accommodate cool nights, as well as a rain jacket to prepare for sudden showers.
When is the best time to go glamping in Uganda?
Consider visiting Uganda in the dry seasons, which run from December to February and June to September. Roads are improved, and wildlife more abundant and easier to spot.
