Northern Uganda

Northern Uganda is one of those regions that really stays with you. It feels open, expansive, and full of depth—both in the landscapes and in the people who call it home.

From the power and beauty of Murchison Falls National Park to the amazing energy of towns like Gulu, this part of Uganda has a very different rhythm from the rest of the country. It’s quieter in some ways, more spacious, and honestly, very grounding.

This page brings together the places we’ve explored in northern Uganda, along with guides and experiences to help you plan your own trip.

Murchison Falls, uganda - the world's strongest waterfall

Every place has its own story. Here are a few of our favorites.

Where to Explore in Northern Uganda

Lush greenery and river view in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda.

Murchison Falls

Uganda’s largest national park and home to the world’s strongest waterfall, plus unforgettable safari drives.

A hairstylist working on a customer's hair in a salon in Gulu, Uganda, showcasing African beauty and culture.

Gulu (Coming Soon)

A lively and evolving city with deep roots, great food, and a growing creative scene.

Two rhinoceroses in Uganda's lush wilderness, showcasing African wildlife.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (Coming Soon)

The only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos in the wild as part of conservation efforts.

Two zebras in Uganda, showcasing their distinct black and white stripes in a natural setting.

Kidepo Valley National Park (Coming Soon)

Remote, breathtaking, and one of the most unforgettable safari destinations in East Africa.

Planning a trip to Northern Uganda?

Northern Uganda is definitely a region where distances are bigger and travel takes a bit more time—but that’s also part of what makes it feel so special.

A few things we’ve learned:

  • It works well to start from Kampala and head north toward Murchison Falls or Gulu
  • Try to combine safari time with cultural stops if you can—it gives a fuller picture of the region
  • Don’t rush it. The drives are long, but the landscapes along the way are part of the experience
  • If you’re heading all the way to Kidepo, give it the time it deserves – it’s worth it

NORTHERN UGANDA TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES

Browse Lodging

Find a place to stay

Fun Things to Do

Find things to do in Northern Uganda

Get Packing Checklist

Figure out what to pack

Stay Connected

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Whether you’re dreaming, planning, or already packing your bags,
I hope these guides help you experience Uganda with confidence—and wonder.

Every journey starts somewhere.

Here are a few more corners of Uganda to discover.

Aerial view of Kampala showcasing its iconic mosque amidst the urban landscape.

Central Uganda

Bustling Kampala, Entebbe, the source of the Nile, and so much more.

Explore Central Uganda →

Vibrant shot of powerful rapids in the Nile River, Uganda, capturing natural beauty.

Eastern Uganda

Home to Mount Elgon, Sipi Falls, Jinja, and the place we call home.

Explore Eastern Uganda →

A mountain gorilla relaxing among lush greenery in its natural jungle environment.

Western Uganda

Gorillas, crater lakes, tea plantations, and some of Uganda’s most stunning scenery.

Explore Western Uganda →

A Little About Me

I’m Emily — a wife, mom of three, and travel-loving storyteller sharing our family’s adventures from Uganda and beyond.

After returning to Uganda with my family, we’ve been exploring East Africa together and navigating everything from international flights with kids to weekend road trips and everyday life abroad. Here, I share practical travel tips, honest experiences, and the places that have become part of our family’s story.

Thanks for coming along on the journey.

Meet Our Family →

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