Wild family adventures in the heart of Africa
Safaris, boat trips and adventure activities - all the perfect ingredients for an incredible Uganda family holiday.
Whilst Uganda is a very child friendly place for a safari holiday, please be aware that the biggest drawcard - Mountain Gorilla Tracking - is only available to children aged 15 years and above. This threshold is taken seriously by the rangers and as you require passport ID to be granted your permit it’s not an easy system to slip through, and anyone trying is highly likely to be caught and not allowed to trek.
Gorillas aside, there are plenty of family activities in Uganda, from game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, to fabulous wildlife cruises in Murchison National Park with a visit to the dramatic Murchison Falls. There is also the Ngamba Chimp Sanctuary and various child friendly activities to enjoy along the Nile, so if your children are into wildlife and adventure, Uganda is the place to come.The people of Uganda are very friendly, and any family travelling around the country will have the holiday of a lifetime.
Active Uganda - Gorillas, Chimps and Big Game
- Entebbe
- Bwindi
- Kisoro
The best of Uganda's Mountain Gorillas, Forest Chimps and Big Game mixed with activities to explore the surrounding area on foot
Uganda Family Holidays, Trips and Tours Ideas
Our Uganda family holidays expert, Ruth, says:
“What makes Uganda so special for families is the sense of shared discovery it creates. Younger children can enjoy gentle game drives, boat safaris along the Nile and time spent spotting monkeys and colourful birds, while older children and teenagers can take part in more active experiences like chimp trekking, guided forest walks and learning about local cultures. The pace can be carefully adjusted, mixing wildlife, scenery and downtime in beautiful lodges. With expert guides who are brilliant at engaging children and keeping things safe and exciting, it becomes a wonderfully balanced adventure that brings the whole family closer to nature.”
Uganda Family Holidays Lodges and Camps
Uganda Family Holidays FAQs
Planning a Uganda family holiday? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
Is Uganda suitable for families with children?
Yes. While gorilla trekking is for ages 15+, families can enjoy safaris, chimp tracking (12+), boat cruises, and cultural visits. National parks like Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls offer exciting wildlife viewing for all ages.
What are the best family-friendly activities in Uganda?
Families love boat trips on the Nile, spotting elephants and hippos, guided bush walks, visiting local villages, and seeing tree-climbing lions in Ishasha. Older children enjoy the adventure of chimpanzee tracking.
Are lodges in Uganda family-friendly?
Many lodges welcome children and offer family suites, child-friendly menus, and flexible activities. Some properties also provide private vehicles, which makes safaris more comfortable for families.
Is Uganda a safe destination for children?
Yes. With a trusted guide and a well-planned itinerary, families can explore comfortably. Lodges in key safari areas are used to welcoming children and offer secure, relaxed environments.
What’s the minimum age for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking?
Children must be 15 or over to trek with gorillas, and 12 or over to trek with chimpanzees. Families with younger children can enjoy safaris, cultural activities, and adventure-based experiences instead.
Speak to a Uganda expert today
and start planning your tailor-made holiday
Alistair