Uganda Travel Guide: Gorillas, Safari & Hidden Gems

Have you ever dreamed of tracking mountain gorillas through a UNESCO World Heritage rainforest, tasting food wrapped in banana leaves, or watching chimpanzees leap through the treetops? In this episode, host Paula Barnes sits down with Lynett, a Uganda-based travel expert with over 10 years in the tourism industry, to uncover why Uganda — the Pearl of Africa — should be at the top of every traveller's bucket list.From gorilla trekking permits to the best time to visit, solo travel safety tips, and an incredible 8-day itinerary, Lynett shares everything you need to know before booking your trip to Uganda.What You'll Learn in This Episode🍌 Uganda's incredible food culture — 56 ethnic tribes, 10+ carbohydrates on one plate, and dishes you won't find anywhere else on earth🦍 Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest — permits, costs, fitness requirements, and how to book🐒 Chimpanzee tracking — how it differs from gorilla trekking and why Lynett says it's the "more fun" experience📅 Best time to visit Uganda — and why the low season might actually be better for you🗺️ The perfect 8-day Uganda itinerary — Kampala → chimpanzees → Queen Elizabeth National Park → Bwindi🏔️ Hidden gems — crater lakes, Sipi Falls, Mount Rwenzori, Lake Bunyonyi, and snow-capped peaks on the equator🎶 Festivals — Nyege Nyege Music Festival and the cultural Imbalu Festival✈️ Solo travel safety tips — what you need to know before arriving, including drone regulations💆 Wellness & women's group experiences — yoga, meditation, journaling, and cultural immersion in the mountainsHow to Plan Your TripGorilla Trekking Tips:Book permits minimum 4 months in advance (low season) or 6–12 months (high season)Permits cost $800 (high season) or $700 (low season)Minimum age: 15 yearsDo not visit if you have flu, cold, or cough — gorilla DNA is close to oursWear long sleeves, long pants, and waterproof bootsFitness level: comfortable walking 3km on uneven, hilly terrainChimpanzee Tracking Tips:Morning or afternoon sessions availableDuration: 2–3 hoursMore active, energetic experience than gorilla trekkingDrone Warning: Always declare drones before entering Uganda. Clearance is required — and it's strictly enforced, especially in national parks.Connect with Lynett📩 Planning a trip to Uganda? Lynett specialises in customised safari, cultural, and wellness experiences — particularly for women's groups.You can find her on:  YouTubeWebsite InstagramTiKTok Resources MentionedBwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park — UNESCO World Heritage Site, gorilla trekkingMgahinga Gorilla National Park — gorillas and mountain climbingQueen Elizabeth National Park — famous for tree-climbing lions of IshashaKazinga Channel — boat cruise with hippos, crocodiles, and buffaloLake Bunyonyi — wellness retreats, yoga, and scenic mountain viewsMount Rwenzori — snow-capped peaks on the equatorMurchison Falls National Park — dramatic waterfall, giraffes, and big gameNyege Nyege Festival — annual music festival, NovemberSipi Falls & Mount Elgon — Eastern Uganda hidden gemsEnjoyed This Episode?If this episode inspired you to add Uganda to your bucket list, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts — it helps other travellers discover the show. And don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a destination.Send us Fan MailHelp Truly Expat Travel by leaving a review or making a donation Here is the link - https://buymeacoffee.com/trulyexpatTravel with peace of mind: SafetyWingsGet covered in 180+ countries with flexible monthly subscriptions starting at just $45.08. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Find me on:Website: Truly Expat Travel Facebook: Truly ExpatInstagram: Truly Expat Travel TikTok: Truly Expat Travel Running this podcast takes a lot of coffee (and countless hours exploring every destination!). If you found this helpful and want to support more honest, detailed travel guides and itineraries, you can buy me a coffee. No pressure though – I'm just happy you're here and hope you have an incredible adventure! 🙂