Things to Do in Uganda in July

It examines the source of the River Nile. Stand where the Nile starts its four-thousand-mile journey. Watch tea-colored water slip quietly from Lake Victoria into the world's longest river. Feel the cool spray from a boat ride on the broad expanse. Hear guides recount the historical searches for this spot.

This journey goes into the mist-wrapped forests of Bwindi. Listen for the snap of branches. Hear the deep grunts of a mountain gorilla family before you see their black fur and intelligent eyes. The physical trek through damp undergrowth is hard. It rewards you with a silent, awe-filled hour in their presence.

Feel the ground tremble. The entire Victoria Nile forces itself through a seven-meter cleft in the rock. It creates a thunderous plume of white foam and a permanent rainbow. On game drives, you will see elephants dusting themselves on the savanna. You will hear the laugh of the African fish eagle over the river.

In a local home kitchen, smell the nutty aroma of toasted simsim paste for groundnut sauce. Feel the sticky texture of steamed matoke bananas as you mash them by hand. The class ends with a tasting. You eat the rich stews and hearty starches that are the backbone of daily Ugandan meals.

This walk goes through the layered history of Uganda's capital. Go from the quiet of the Martyrs' Shrine at Namugongo to the lively cacophony of Owino Market. Vendors call out there. The air is thick with the smell of fresh produce and smoked fish. Touch the bark of ancient trees at the Kabaka's palace. Feel the modern city's energy along busy streets.

This trip moves from the dense rainforest canopy of Kibale. It is alive with the screeching calls of chimpanzees. Then you have a silent encounter with mountain gorillas in Bwindi. The itinerary may include a boat safari. See hippos grunting in muddy waters. Feel the cool breeze across a crater lake.