Nile
Often called the source of the Nile, the white Nile begins near the town of Jinja where Lake Victoria meets Bujugali Falls, and flows all the way to the Mediterranean Sea. Loads of adventure seeking backpackers come to the Nile in search of big waves, and hope to get tossed out of the raft on some of the huge class five rapids known as "Total Gunga" and "Itanda" and many, many more. Although travelers and rafters flock to the Nile, there is a current project to dam the source of the Nile, which would make help Ugandans get more electricity, but ruin some of the eco-tourism projects in the area. Go now while it isn't too late.

Research and book your rafting trip on the Nile

Ssese Islands
This off-the-beaten path destination is a gem in Uganda. With more than 84 islands in Lake Victoria, the Ssese Islands remain unspoiled - and a great place that could, in the future, be a big tourist destination. Located just outside the Salisbury channel, the Ssese Islands is a fairly new, laid-back, "come and relax" travel destination, where travelers can peer into the lives of the friendly residents and enjoy looking at the many animals and bird species that dominate the island.

Bwindi National Park
While many people come to raft the Nile, most come to see the last remaining habitats of mountain gorillas. Although there are a few more small groups of gorillas in the Congo and Rwanda, this park is perhaps the best choice. Because more than 50 percent of the last remaining gorillas live in Uganda and due to safety reasons in the bordering countries, this is the best spot to glimpse into their magical world.

Kampala
Once known as a war torn capital and an unsafe destination for anyone, Kampala has remarkably emerged as a bustling energized capital, full of businesses, happy people, sanitation, electricity, water, and, most importantly, commerce. With the exception of Botswana, Uganda - and its capital Kampala - is the fast growing region in most of Africa. Though there is some competition from Malawians, it's said the residents of Kampala are friendly, the city is safe, which is a great feeling, especially if you came from Nairobi.

Questions?
If you want more information about this area you can email the author or check out our Africa Insiders page.