Welcome to Uganda — a land of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and heartwarming hospitality. Known as The Pearl of Africa, Uganda is a country where lush green hills roll into vast savannahs, where mountain gorillas roam ancient forests, and where the rhythm of life beats with a rich cultural spirit.
Nestled in East Africa, Uganda is home to Africa’s largest lake, Lake Victoria, and the source of the mighty Nile River. It offers a stunning mix of natural beauty and diverse wildlife, but beyond the landscapes, it’s the people who truly make Uganda unforgettable.
Highlights:
1) Meaningful Wildlife Encounters: Experience close-up interactions with a variety of iconic African animals during game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, with high chances of seeing hippos, buffalo, elephants, and even tree-climbing lions in Ishasha.
2) Immersive Conservation Role: Actively contribute to vital wildlife preservation and community well-being through a volunteering program in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, with options like gorilla health monitoring, conservation education in schools, community health, or livestock health initiatives.
3) Unique Primate Tracking: Embark on an unforgettable gorilla tracking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, spending an hour in the presence of these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
4) Diverse Eco-Exploration: Discover the rich biodiversity of Uganda with visits to various natural landscapes, including the botanical garden near Lake Victoria, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, and game drives in Lake Mburo National Park.
Volunteering in Uganda offers more than just the chance to give back — it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in one of Africa’s most soul-stirring destinations. After days spent supporting local communities and building meaningful connections, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the country’s natural wonders, including a once-in-a-lifetime trek through the misty rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. There, deep within the jungle, you’ll come face-to-face with the majestic silverback gorillas — a humbling and unforgettable encounter with one of the world’s most endangered and awe-inspiring creatures.
You will play an important role in supporting wildlife conservation and local communities. Your participation helps protect endangered species, promote sustainable use of natural resources, and empower local initiatives.
The mountain gorilla conservation program plays an important role in protecting and restoring Uganda’s terrestrial ecosystems while promoting responsible tourism.
No special skills are required, and full training will be provided. All you need is a curiosity for wildlife, a love for nature, and a positive team spirit. Volunteers should be in good health and able to participate in light physical activities such as walking, assisting in conservation tasks, or engaging with local communities.
Volunteers must be 18 years or older to join this program.
Your adventure begins as you arrive in Entebbe, Uganda. Upon landing at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel or guesthouse for an overnight stay. Take some time to settle in and relax, soaking up the warm and friendly African atmosphere.
Depending on your arrival time, there are optional activities to enrich your first day (additional costs may apply):
Botanical Garden near Lake Victoria: Explore a lush garden dating back to 1898, featuring multiple vegetation zones and home to a variety of monkeys and birds. Fun fact – the rainforest here was used as a backdrop in several Tarzan films from the 1940s.
Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC): Formerly the national zoo, this two-hour educational adventure offers behind-the-scenes tours and close-up encounters with lions, elephants, and other fascinating animals.
Entebbe Town Tour: Take a short guided tour of the town to get a feel for the local culture and history.
A volunteer’s stay in Uganda will consist of activities such as:
Volunteers will stay in shared accommodations, including Viavia Guesthouse, Bush Lodge Tents, and Eagles Nest Camp, depending on the location during the program. These lodges provide a safe, welcoming environment where you can rest, relax, and socialize with fellow volunteers after a day of conservation work.
Accommodations include shared sleeping arrangements, clean bathrooms, and dining facilities, with meals provided on a full-board or bed-and-breakfast basis depending on the location. The lodges are strategically placed close to project sites and national parks, offering easy access to wildlife areas, village visits, and optional excursions.
Duration
Project Fees:
13 days
£2,560 per person
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