Mountain gorilla trekking is one of Uganda’s most famous wildlife experiences, but it is only one of the many reasons to visit the Pearl of Africa. Travellers wondering what to do apart from gorilla tracking in Uganda can discover chimpanzees in tropical forests, elephants on open savannahs, boat safaris along wildlife-rich waterways, dramatic waterfalls, volcanic mountains, beautiful lakes, and fascinating cultural experiences.

Whether you are planning a short holiday, a family safari, a honeymoon, or an extended East African adventure, Uganda offers activities for different interests, budgets, and fitness levels. You can combine a gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or a relaxing stay beside Lake Bunyonyi.

At Mambo Gorilla Safaris Uganda, we help travellers explore safari possibilities beyond a single wildlife encounter. This guide covers 12 rewarding activities to consider before or after gorilla trekking, including where to go, what to expect, and how to combine experiences into a practical itinerary.

1. Go Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest National Park

If you enjoy primates, chimpanzee tracking is one of the best activities to add to a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda.

Kibale Forest National Park, in western Uganda, is widely known for its rich primate diversity and is a leading destination for observing wild chimpanzees. Unlike mountain gorillas, which spend much of their time on the ground as well as in trees, chimpanzees are highly active and frequently move through the forest canopy.

During a guided chimpanzee trek, you may hear chimpanzees calling before seeing them moving through the trees, feeding, grooming, or interacting with other members of their community. Other primates and forest birds may also be encountered along the way.

What to expect

• A briefing before entering the forest.
• A guided walk through forest trails.
• Opportunities to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
• Possible sightings of other primates and bird species.
• An experience that may involve uneven ground and periods of walking.

Chimpanzee sightings are not guaranteed, and trekking conditions vary. Book through the appropriate authorised arrangements and check current permit availability and requirements before travelling.

Best for: Wildlife lovers, photographers, primate enthusiasts, and travellers who want more than one primate experience.

Planning tip: Kibale is not immediately next to Bwindi. Allow sufficient time for road transfers when combining the two parks.

2. Enjoy a Wildlife Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is an excellent choice for travellers who want to see Uganda’s savannah wildlife after gorilla trekking.

The park contains a variety of habitats, including grasslands, wetlands, woodland, crater lakes, and waterways. This diversity supports numerous wildlife species and birds.

Activities to enjoy

• Morning and afternoon game drives.
• Wildlife photography.
• A boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel.
• Birdwatching in different habitats.
• Exploring the Ishasha sector, known for opportunities to look for tree-climbing lions.

Game drives may offer sightings of elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, warthogs, hippos, and other animals. Lions and leopards are also present, but sightings depend on conditions and luck.

The Kazinga Channel boat cruise is particularly rewarding because it offers a different perspective from a vehicle-based safari. You may see hippos in the water, crocodiles along the banks, elephants near the shoreline, and a variety of waterbirds.

Why include Queen Elizabeth National Park?

Queen Elizabeth National Park adds classic wildlife viewing to a gorilla-focused itinerary. It is especially suitable for travellers who want to combine forest trekking with open landscapes and a water-based wildlife experience.

Explore Mambo’s 3-Day Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari for a possible wildlife extension.

3. Take a Boat Cruise to the Bottom of Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls National Park is one of Uganda’s most rewarding destinations for travellers who enjoy dramatic landscapes and wildlife.

The Victoria Nile flows through the park before forcing its way through a narrow rocky gorge at Murchison Falls. The result is a powerful display of water and spray, followed by a river journey through a wildlife-rich landscape.

What can you do in Murchison Falls National Park?

Take a Nile boat cruise: A scheduled boat trip towards the base of the falls offers views of the riverbanks and opportunities to look for hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and waterbirds.

Visit the top of the falls: Depending on the chosen route and current access arrangements, visitors can explore viewpoints near the falls and experience the force of the river from above.

Enjoy a game drive: The park’s savannah areas provide opportunities to look for giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, lions, and other wildlife.

Go birdwatching: Murchison Falls supports a diverse birdlife, making it appealing to both experienced birders and casual nature lovers.

Murchison Falls is in northern Uganda, so it is best included in a longer safari or planned with appropriate transport arrangements rather than added hurriedly to a short Bwindi trip.

Explore Mambo’s 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari or 4-Day Murchison Falls and Rhino Safari.

4. Visit Lake Bunyonyi for Relaxation and Scenic Views

After an early start and a demanding gorilla trek, some travellers prefer a slower pace. Lake Bunyonyi, in southwestern Uganda, is a popular place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Surrounded by green hills, terraced slopes, and small islands, the lake offers a peaceful contrast to the forest and savannah environments found elsewhere in Uganda.

Things to do at Lake Bunyonyi

• Enjoy scenic views from a lakeside lodge.
• Take a canoe trip with a suitable local guide or operator.
• Explore selected islands on an organised excursion.
• Enjoy birdwatching around the lake.
• Photograph the surrounding hills and changing light.
• Spend time relaxing after a busy safari itinerary.

Lake Bunyonyi is not a substitute for a wildlife game park, but it is a wonderful addition for travellers who appreciate scenery, quiet surroundings, and time to unwind.

If you are visiting Bwindi, ask your safari planner which part of the lake best fits your route. Driving times depend on your gorilla trekking sector and accommodation.

Best for: Couples, honeymooners, families seeking relaxation, and travellers who want a quieter experience between activities.

5. Explore the Batwa Cultural Experience

The Batwa are Indigenous forest people with a deep historical connection to the forests of southwestern Uganda. Community-led Batwa experiences can help visitors learn about aspects of Batwa history, traditional knowledge, cultural practices, and the changes associated with forest conservation and displacement.

Depending on the community and experience offered, a visit may include storytelling, music, demonstrations, forest-related knowledge, and opportunities to learn directly from local guides.

How to make your visit meaningful

• Choose a community-led experience with transparent arrangements.
• Listen respectfully to the people sharing their history.
• Ask permission before taking photographs.
• Avoid treating cultural traditions as performances that every community must provide.
• Find out how visitor payments support participating community members.

Batwa experiences vary by location and provider. Confirm the current programme and meeting point before travelling, particularly if you want to visit communities near Bwindi or Mgahinga.

This activity adds a human and cultural dimension to a wildlife safari, helping travellers understand that Uganda’s natural heritage is connected to the lives and histories of its people.

6. Go Golden Monkey Tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Golden monkey tracking is another rewarding primate activity in southwestern Uganda.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park protects part of the Virunga volcanic landscape and provides habitat for golden monkeys, a distinctive primate associated with the bamboo forests of this region.

A guided tracking experience takes visitors into the forest to look for golden monkeys as they feed, move through bamboo, and interact with one another.

Why choose golden monkey tracking?

• It offers a different experience from mountain gorilla trekking.
• Golden monkeys are active and interesting to observe.
• The park has beautiful volcanic scenery.
• It can be combined with other activities in the Virunga region.

Golden monkey tracking involves walking through natural forest terrain, and the duration can vary depending on where the animals are located.

Travellers should confirm the available activity, permit arrangements, current fees, and physical requirements with the relevant authorities or their tour operator before booking.

If you have time, you can also explore suitable guided nature walks or volcanic hiking opportunities in the park.

7. Hike in the Rwenzori Mountains

For travellers who enjoy mountain scenery and physical adventure, the Rwenzori Mountains offer a striking contrast to Uganda’s tropical forests and savannahs.

Known for their rugged terrain, high-altitude landscapes, unusual vegetation, and mountain scenery, the Rwenzori range offers experiences ranging from shorter guided walks to demanding multi-day expeditions.

Activities to consider

• Guided nature walks in suitable areas.
• Foothill hikes.
• Multi-day mountain trekking.
• Photography of mountain landscapes and vegetation.
• Birdwatching in appropriate habitats.

Longer treks require careful preparation, suitable equipment, appropriate fitness, and a qualified guide. Weather and trail conditions can change, and high-altitude routes are not suitable for everyone.

If your main holiday goal is gorilla trekking, a short nature walk may be easier to combine than a multi-day mountain expedition. Travellers planning a major Rwenzori trek should allocate enough days rather than squeezing it into an already busy itinerary.

Best for: Active travellers, hikers, photographers, and visitors who want a mountain adventure.

8. Discover the Source of the Nile and Adventure Activities in Jinja

Jinja is a popular destination in eastern Uganda, known for the Nile, riverside scenery, and adventure tourism.

If you want to add an active experience to your Uganda safari, Jinja offers a different atmosphere from the forest trails of Bwindi or the wildlife plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Things to do in Jinja

• Visit the Source of the Nile area.
• Take a boat trip with an established operator.
• Try white-water rafting with a reputable adventure company.
• Enjoy kayaking or other suitable water-based activities.
• Explore local markets, cafés, and riverside viewpoints.
• Take photographs of the river and surrounding landscapes.

Adventure activities such as rafting and kayaking have different physical requirements and risk levels. Choose an operator that provides appropriate equipment, safety briefings, and qualified guides.

Jinja is in eastern Uganda, so it usually fits best into an itinerary that includes Kampala, Entebbe, or a broader journey through the country.

9. Go Birdwatching in Uganda

Uganda is a rewarding destination for birdwatchers because its habitats include tropical forests, wetlands, lakes, rivers, mountains, and savannahs.

Birdwatching can be enjoyed as a main activity or added to a wildlife safari without requiring a completely separate holiday.

Where can you go birdwatching?

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Forest birding can complement gorilla trekking, especially for visitors interested in forest species.

Queen Elizabeth National Park: Savannah, wetland, and lakeside habitats provide a variety of birdwatching opportunities.

Murchison Falls National Park: The Nile and surrounding habitats support numerous birds, including sought-after species for specialist birders.

Mabamba wetland: This wetland near Lake Victoria is well known among visitors hoping to see the shoebill. Sightings depend on conditions and are never guaranteed.

Semuliki National Park: Its forest habitats offer opportunities for birders interested in species associated with the Congo Basin region.

A specialist birding guide can help you identify species by sight and sound and choose locations suited to your interests.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority provides information about birdlife and protected areas through its official website.

10. Enjoy Game Drives in Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is a useful option for travellers who want a savannah wildlife experience without planning a visit to Uganda’s more distant parks.

The park contains open grassland, woodland, lakes, and wetland habitats. Wildlife viewing may include zebras, impalas, buffaloes, warthogs, and several antelope species.

Activities in Lake Mburo National Park

• Guided game drives.
• Birdwatching.
• Boat trips on the lake, subject to current arrangements.
• Guided nature walks where permitted.
• Photography of wildlife and landscapes.

Some guided walking experiences may offer a different perspective from traditional vehicle-based game drives. Follow the instructions of your guide and park authorities, especially when wildlife is nearby.

Lake Mburo can work well on a route between Kampala or Entebbe and southwestern Uganda, depending on your schedule and accommodation.

It may be a practical addition for travellers who want to break up a longer road journey while enjoying another wildlife destination.

11. Visit Local Communities and Enjoy Village Walks

A Uganda safari becomes more meaningful when it includes opportunities to learn about the places and communities surrounding the national parks.

Around Bwindi and other safari regions, selected guided community walks may introduce visitors to local livelihoods, farming, crafts, food, music, and everyday life.

The exact activities depend on the community and the programme being offered.

What might a community visit include?

• Walking through a village with a local guide.
• Learning about crops and local farming methods.
• Visiting a craft workshop or local market.
• Discovering traditional food preparation.
• Hearing local stories and learning about community history.
• Supporting community-run businesses and locally made products.

Choose visits that are organised with the community and provide clear information about where visitor fees go. Be respectful of people’s privacy and ask before photographing individuals or entering private spaces.

For travellers who have already experienced gorilla trekking, a village walk can provide a valuable perspective on life around the forest and the relationship between tourism, conservation, and livelihoods.

12. Explore Kampala and Entebbe

If your flight arrives in Entebbe or departs from it, consider spending time in Kampala or Entebbe rather than treating these places only as transport stops.

Things to do in Kampala

• Explore selected cultural and historical sites.
• Visit local markets with appropriate guidance.
• Sample Ugandan food at reputable restaurants.
• Discover craft shops and locally made products.
• Learn about the city’s history through guided sightseeing.

Things to do in Entebbe

• Visit the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre, checking current visitor arrangements.
• Explore the Entebbe Botanical Gardens.
• Enjoy views of Lake Victoria.
• Take a suitable boat excursion with an established operator.
• Relax before an international flight.

These experiences can fit into a short stay before or after a longer safari. Allow enough time for road traffic and airport check-in, especially when connecting to a scheduled flight.

How to Choose the Best Activity Apart from Gorilla Tracking

The best addition depends on your interests, available days, and where your gorilla trek takes place.

If you enjoy…	Consider…	Why it fits
Primates	Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale	Adds another forest wildlife experience
Savannah wildlife	Queen Elizabeth National Park	Game drives and the Kazinga Channel boat cruise
Waterfalls and river scenery	Murchison Falls National Park	Nile boat trips and dramatic landscapes
Relaxation	Lake Bunyonyi	Lakeside views and a slower pace
Cultural learning	Batwa experience or a community walk	Learn from local people and community guides
Active adventure	Rwenzori Mountains or Jinja	Hiking or selected adventure activities
Birdwatching	Bwindi, Mabamba, or Murchison Falls	Different habitats and birdlife
A short wildlife extension	Lake Mburo National Park	Game drives and nature experiences on a suitable route
City sightseeing	Kampala or Entebbe	Culture, food, gardens, and local attractions

Choose activities that complement each other geographically. Uganda’s safari destinations are spread across the country, so adding too many parks can lead to long drives and less time for the experiences you want.

Sample Itineraries: What to Do Apart from Gorilla Tracking in Uganda

Option 1: Three-Day Gorilla and Lake Bunyonyi Extension

Day 1: Travel to the Bwindi area and settle into your accommodation, depending on your arrival route.

Day 2: Participate in your scheduled gorilla trek, following the park briefing and guide instructions.

Day 3: Travel to Lake Bunyonyi for a scenic visit, relaxation, or a suitable guided canoe excursion before continuing your journey.

This option is suitable for travellers who want to add relaxation without extending the trip too much. The exact route and timing depend on your Bwindi trekking sector.

Option 2: Five-Day Gorilla and Queen Elizabeth Safari

Day 1: Travel to the Bwindi area and prepare for your trek.

Day 2: Enjoy your scheduled gorilla trekking experience.

Day 3: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, allowing enough time for the road journey.

Day 4: Enjoy a game drive and a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, subject to the available schedule.

Day 5: Take another suitable wildlife activity or begin your return journey, depending on your flight and route.

This option combines mountain gorillas with savannah wildlife and a water-based safari experience.

Option 3: Seven-Day Gorilla, Chimpanzee, and Wildlife Safari

Day 1: Arrive in Uganda and travel to a suitable overnight stop based on your arrival time.

Day 2: Continue to the Bwindi area.

Day 3: Participate in your scheduled gorilla trek.

Day 4: Transfer towards Queen Elizabeth National Park and enjoy a suitable activity if time permits.

Day 5: Explore the park through a game drive and/or a Kazinga Channel boat cruise.

Day 6: Travel towards Kibale Forest National Park, allowing time for the journey and check-in.

Day 7: Participate in a scheduled chimpanzee tracking experience or adjust the itinerary to suit your departure arrangements.

This is a planning framework rather than a fixed schedule. Depending on your flights, permits, and road conditions, a longer trip may be more comfortable. Confirm the feasibility of every transfer before booking.

Best Time to Enjoy Activities Apart from Gorilla Tracking in Uganda

Many Uganda activities can be enjoyed throughout the year, but conditions vary by destination.

The relatively drier periods, often around June to August and December to February, are commonly favoured for many wildlife-viewing and primate-tracking experiences. However, rainfall patterns can vary, and trails may be wet at any time.

Consider the following:

• Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking: Check permit availability and prepare for potentially muddy, steep forest trails.
• Game drives: Wildlife viewing can be rewarding in different seasons; road and vegetation conditions affect the experience.
• Boat cruises: Confirm departure times, water conditions, and operator arrangements.
• Mountain hiking: Weather, trail conditions, altitude, and fitness are important considerations.
• Birdwatching: The best location depends on the species you hope to see and seasonal movements.
• Cultural experiences: Confirm that your chosen community programme is operating on your travel date.

Rather than selecting dates based on a single activity alone, consider the full route and check current conditions before departure.

What to Pack for a Uganda Safari Beyond Gorilla Trekking

Your packing list depends on the activities you choose, but the following items are useful for many Uganda safari itineraries:

• Lightweight clothing suitable for warm conditions.
• Long trousers and long-sleeved layers for forest walks.
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots.
• A light rain jacket.
• Insect repellent and sunscreen.
• A hat and sunglasses.
• Binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
• A camera and charging equipment.
• Personal medication and basic first-aid supplies.
• Reusable water bottle, where suitable.
• A small daypack.
• Travel documents and copies of bookings.

For mountain hikes or specialist adventure activities, ask your guide or operator for a destination-specific equipment list. Do not assume ordinary safari clothing is sufficient for high-altitude trekking.

Why Book Your Uganda Safari with Mambo Gorilla Safaris Uganda?

Planning several activities across Uganda requires careful coordination. Parks can be far apart, permits may be limited, and road transfers can take longer than expected.

Mambo Gorilla Safaris Uganda helps travellers explore safari options that combine gorilla trekking with other experiences according to their interests, dates, and budget.

When planning your trip, consider:

• Which activities matter most to you.
• How many days you can spend in Uganda.
• Your preferred accommodation level.
• Your fitness and comfort with walking or hiking.
• Whether you want wildlife, primates, culture, scenery, or relaxation.
• Your international arrival and departure arrangements.

Visit Mambo Gorilla Safaris Uganda to explore available safari ideas and discuss an itinerary suited to your travel dates and interests.

Frequently Asked Questions About What to Do Apart from Gorilla Tracking

What is the best activity apart from gorilla tracking in Uganda?

Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, a wildlife safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and a boat cruise in Murchison Falls National Park are excellent choices. The best option depends on your interests and how much time you have.

Can I do chimpanzee tracking after gorilla trekking?

Yes. You can combine the two activities in one Uganda safari, but you must allow enough time for travel between Bwindi and Kibale and arrange the appropriate chimpanzee tracking permit in advance.

What can I do near Bwindi after gorilla trekking?

Depending on your trekking sector and available time, you can consider a Batwa cultural experience, a guided community walk, a visit to Lake Bunyonyi, or a trip to Mgahinga for golden monkey tracking.

Is Uganda worth visiting if I do not want to track gorillas?

Yes. Uganda offers wildlife safaris, chimpanzee tracking, birdwatching, boat cruises, mountain hiking, cultural experiences, lakes, and adventure activities. A safari without gorilla trekking can still be a rewarding holiday.

Can I combine gorilla trekking with a wildlife safari?

Yes. Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, and Murchison Falls National Park offer different wildlife experiences. Select the parks that fit your travel dates and allow sufficient time for transfers.

How many extra days should I allow after gorilla trekking?

One or two extra days can work for a nearby cultural experience or a relaxing lakeside stay. Chimpanzee tracking and a broader wildlife circuit generally require additional time. The ideal duration depends on your route and departure schedule.

Do I need separate permits for other wildlife activities?

Some activities, including gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, and certain guided experiences, have specific permit, ticket, or booking requirements. Confirm the current arrangements and costs for each activity with the relevant authority or your tour operator.

Final Thoughts

There are many rewarding things to do apart from gorilla tracking in Uganda. From chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest and wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park to the Nile boat cruise at Murchison Falls, the scenic shores of Lake Bunyonyi, golden monkey tracking, mountain hiking, and cultural visits, Uganda offers experiences for a wide range of travellers.

The best safari is not necessarily the one that includes the most destinations. It is the one that gives you enough time to enjoy each experience while travelling comfortably and responsibly.

With thoughtful planning, your gorilla trekking holiday can become a broader exploration of Uganda’s wildlife, landscapes, and communities.

Ready to explore more of Uganda? Contact Mambo Gorilla Safaris Uganda through our website to explore safari options beyond gorilla tracking and plan an East African adventure that suits your interests and schedule.

Travel note: Park access, permit availability, activity schedules, fees, and regulations can change. Verify current details with the relevant authorities before booking.