Where to go for wildlife safaris in Uganda – Uganda safari tours – Wildlife safaris in Uganda – Gorilla and wildlife safaris in Uganda
Where to go for wildlife safaris in Uganda – Uganda Wildlife Safaris Packages are a popular safari activity in Uganda for wildlife viewing in the best Uganda wildlife tours safaris destinations. The Wildlife of Uganda includes the Big Five game which is the Buffaloes, Lions, Rhinos, Elephants, and Leopards.
A wildlife safari in Uganda can be in the 10 national parks or sanctuaries and wildlife reserves.
Uganda Wildlife Safaris are without a doubt one of the most undertaken safari activities for game viewing. Uganda is a unique African tour destination with a mix of the savannah as well as forest wildlife species a reason for many Uganda safaris tours.
With the reintroduction of Rhinos into the country, Uganda is host to the sought-after big five wild animals Buffaloes, Rhinos, Lions, Leopards, and Elephants.
Tracking Rhinos is only possible at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary which is just 170 Km from Kampala-Uganda’s capital.
Tree-climbing lions, primates like chimpanzees and golden monkeys, Mountain gorillas, the numerous Buffaloes, and endemics like the Dik Dik (smallest antelope) make the highlight of any Uganda wildlife safari.
Best Uganda Wildlife Safari Activities/Experiences
where to go for wildlife safari in Uganda; Visiting Africa and experiencing wildlife in Uganda is magical and especially done during Uganda safari game drives and nature walks in Lake Mburo National Park. From dinosaur-like shoebills to the magnificent mountain gorilla, Uganda offers unforgettable wildlife safari experiences. Here are some of the best wildlife safari experiences in Uganda:
- Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking in Uganda in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is often described as one of the most life-changing wildlife experiences in the world. Being face-to-face with a wild gorilla -the top attractions in Uganda, is on many people’s ‘must-do before you die’ list. Whether it’s due to their intimidating size combined with their unexpected gentle grace or their human-like behavior, it’s easy to see why gorilla trekking is such an amazing experience.
- Chimpanzee Trekking
Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda (chimpanzee tracking) in Kibale Forest National Park & Queen Elizabeth National Park & Murchison Falls National Park is another unforgettable Uganda tour. Unlike the majestic mountain gorillas that tend to sit and feed, chimps squabble and socialize, climb up and down trees, feed, and fight, keeping you entertained.
Current estimates for the total wild population of chimpanzees range from 150,000 to 250,000, with Uganda home to about 5,000 individuals. Almost 1,500 are found in Kibale National Park, the most popular place for chimp tracking in the country also known as the primate capital. You can also track chimps in Kyambura Gorge, Kalinzu Forest, Budongo Forest, and the Semliki Valley.
Most of our Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda safari holidays focus on Kibale Forest National Park, which has a very high success rate for sightings.
- Wildlife Game Drives
During Uganda safaris, a game drive in Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park & Kidepo Valley National Park is a highlight of your visit to Uganda’s savannah national parks while on your wildlife safaris. They provide the best way to explore the parks in custom-made safari vehicles, such as safari vans and Land Cruisers, which are comfortable for a Uganda wildlife safari.
- Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Taking a 2-hour boat tour on the Kazinga Channel is a must-do activity when visiting the park. It will give you the chance to view some of the world’s highest concentrations of hippos in Africa, as well as African buffalo, African elephants, and Nile crocodiles on the shoreline.
During majority Uganda wildlife safaris, you’ll also see water birds, including African skimmers, pelicans, white-breasted cormorants, African openbill, saddle-billed stork, glossy ibis, African wattled lapwing, water thick-knee, grey-hooded gull, and white-winged and gull-billed tern. Lake Mburo National Park is another great Uganda safari park where you can enjoy a boat cruise during your Uganda wildlife safari.
- Cruising Along the Nile River to the Bottom of Murchison Falls
Many Uganda wildlife safari tours include this 3-hour boat ride that takes you on the legendary River Nile more relaxed waters as it joins the Lake Albert delta in Murchison Falls National Park. On the banks and in the water, you see many hippos, Nile crocodiles, and, if lucky, the iconic and sought-after shoebill.
Other birds to look for include African darter, goliath and purple heron, woolly-necked and yellow-billed stork, hamerkop, Egyptian goose, African fish eagle, black crake, Senegal thick-knee, spur-winged lapwing, African jacana, malachite, pied, and giant kingfisher.
Upon arriving at the bottom of the falls, you marvel at Murchison Falls, described as the most spectacular event on the Nile along its entire 6,700 km length. The 50-meter-wide river forces itself through a rocky gap less than 8 meters wide before falling 45 meters to what has been termed the “devil’s cauldron” below, forming a plume of spray marked by a thunderous roar and a permanent rainbow. It is a truly unforgettable Uganda wildlife safari experience!
- Birding/Birdwatching
Uganda boasts several fantastic birding sites and an incredible 1,074 species, accounting for 50% of the total number found in Africa and 11% of the species of bird in the world. Uganda birding tours promise to be an unforgettable Uganda wildlife safari adventures popularly done in Queen Elizabeth Park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park.
- Rhino Tracking on Foot in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
You can get up close to Uganda’s only rhinos in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Watching these prehistoric-looking heavyweights on foot is a thrilling Uganda wildlife safari holidays. Proceeds go toward breeding and ultimately reintroducing rhinos into Uganda’s parks, making this a must-visit destination.
- Searching for the Tree-Climbing Lions on a Uganda Tour
To spot tree climbing lions during a Uganda tour, the king of the savannah, is always a treat. But can you imagine seeing the biggest, and possibly clumsiest, of the big cats perched high up in a tree?
In the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, big prides reliably spend their days in ancient fig trees. They look quite comfortable until they want to come down. Let’s say, you won’t confuse any of them with a graceful leopard when you see them on your wildlife tour.
Best Time to Go on a Uganda Wildlife Safari
The best time to embark on a wildlife safari in Uganda is during the Dry seasons, from June to August and December to February. On a Uganda tour wildlife viewing is at its peak, and primate walks in the forest, though inherently wet, often benefit from bright sunshine following heavy rains.
- Uganda Wildlife Safaris in Dry Season (June to August and December to February)
Ideal time for gorilla trekking & chimpanzee tracking due to drier conditions.
Game viewing is ideal because the vegetation in savannah game parks & reserves is less dense, and animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.
Parks remain uncrowded even during the high season (June to September).
Clear skies, less rain, and more sunshine hence so ideal for a Uganda tour.
Gorilla permits need to be booked well in advance.
Community tour expeditions are very popular during the dry season
- Uganda Wildlife Safaris in Wet Season (March to May and September to November)
The savannah reserves are greener, and it’s the low season, leading to lower rates.
Wildlife spotting is still good despite thicker vegetation.
Presence of many newborn animals.
Some roads become challenging, and forest trails can be slippery.
Gorilla permits are non-refundable even if it rains; departures proceed as scheduled.
With over ten national parks, Uganda stands out as one of Africa’s top safari destinations. Each park offers unique experiences, incredible wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
Full List of All National Parks in Uganda
These parks are the premier destinations for wildlife safaris in Uganda, featuring diverse flora, fauna, and unforgettable activities such as gorilla trekking and cultural encounters with local tribes.
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
A Natural World Heritage Site with nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas.
Home to 120 other mammal species, including forest elephants and 11 primate species.
Top birding destination with over 351 species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics and beautiful scenery.
- Kibale Forest National Park
Lush tropical rainforest with high primate diversity and the primate capital of the wild.
Habitat for over 1,500 chimpanzees and 12 other primate species e.g bush babies.
Home to 375 bird species, including the rare Green-breasted pitta.
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
Located in the Great Rift Valley, featuring rolling savannah, rainforests, and crater lakes and beautiful scenery.
Hosts 95 mammal species and 611 bird species.
Highlights include tree-climbing lions and the Kazinga Channel’s hippos and crocodiles.
- Murchison Falls National Park
Uganda’s largest park, known for the dramatic Murchison Falls (the most stunning waterfalls) and beautiful scenery.
Diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and the iconic shoebill.
Popular boat trips to the bottom of the falls.
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Smallest park, home to mountain gorillas and Golden monkeys.
Scenic volcano hikes and cultural experiences with the Batwa pygmies.
Excellent birding with about 184 species.
- Lake Mburo National Park
Closest park to Kampala, known for birding and diverse mammals.
Notable species include Burchell’s zebra, Impala, and Rothschild’s giraffe.
Activities include birding, game drives, nature walks and boat cruises.
- Kidepo Valley National Park
Remote wilderness with 77 mammal species and 475 bird species.
Unique wildlife like cheetahs, bat-eared foxes, and caracals.
Offers a pristine Uganda tour experience with low visitor numbers.
- Semuliki National Park
Ancient lowland tropical rainforest, rich in flora and fauna diversity.
Home to 441 species of birds and rare mammals like the Water chevrotain.
Features East Africa’s only lowland rainforest.
- Rwenzori Mountains National Park
UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning mountain scenery.
Known for snow-capped peaks and unique endemic species.
Popular for hiking and exploring diverse ecosystems.
- Mount Elgon National Park
Named after the extinct volcano, offering hiking and diverse wildlife.
Home to over 300 species of birds and other animals.
Attractions include caves, hot springs, and Sipi Falls.
These parks collectively provide a wide array of activities and breathtaking landscapes, making Uganda an exceptional destination for wildlife safaris.
Here Is the List of Top Uganda Wildlife Safari Game Reserves In Uganda
Besides the Uganda wildlife safari parks, Uganda features savannah game reserves in Uganda and sanctuaries that support a myriad of Uganda wildlife safaris including the Pian Upe game reserve, Matheniko – Bokora game reserve, the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the Toro – Semliki Game Reserve, the Kabwoya game reserve and the Kigezi game reserve.
Uganda is home to the classic wild game including the Big5 land animals namely; the Rhinos, Lions, Leopard, the African Elephant, and the Cape Buffalo. Others include the myriad of antelopes like Impala eland, the greater and lesser Kudu, Jackson’s hartebeest, the Roan Antelope, the Uganda Kobs, Duikers, the pygmy antelope, Defassa waterbuck, and the Bushbuck, giant forest hogs and other animals.
The myriad of their unique wildlife such as populations of Rothschild Giraffes, the side-stripped Jackals, and the spotted Hyenas among others derive remarkable Wildlife safaris in Uganda experience.
These Are the Most Sought After Game Reserves For Your Uganda Wildlife Safari Tours
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the only place in Uganda to see the near-threatened (Southern) White Rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum simum in the wild. The 70 km2 sanctuary is home to 32 White Rhinoceros.
Aside from Rhinos, it is home to at least 40 mammal species and over 300 species of birds including the Shoebills, Giant Kingfisher, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Brown-throated Wattle-eye, Double-toothed Barbet, Black-and-white Casqued Hornbill, Great Blue and Ross’s Turaco.
On your Uganda wildlife safari in Ziwa, you can enjoy thrilling Rhino tracking encounters on foot, Shoebill Trek and Canoe Ride, Bird Watching and Nature walking.
- Budongo Forest
Budongo Forest is a 435 km2 tract of intact, virgin tropical forest on the southern edge of the Murchison Falls National Park. It is the biggest Mahogany forest found in East Africa, offering excellent Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda and birding to further make your wildlife safari in Uganda amazing.
Budongo is astonishingly bio-diverse with 24 species of Uganda mammals, over 366 bird species, 289 species of butterflies and 465 plant types. The forest is home to about 800 Chimpanzees, one of Uganda’s largest populations and monkeys including Red-tailed, Blue, and Black-and-white colobus monkeys. Tree pangolins, elephant-shrew and gigantic hammerhead bats are also residents.
For birders, Budongo is a key destination for birding in Uganda. Indeed, such is its avian wealth that the track nicknamed the ‘Royal Mile, is regarded as one of Africa’s most rewarding birding spots with fantastic species like Nahan’s Partridge, White-thighed Hornbill, Cassin’s Spinetail, Flycatchers, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, Lemon-bellied Crombec, Ituri Batis, Tit Hylia, Forest Robin, Narina Trogon, Hairy-breasted Barbet, Black-billed, Plain, Greenbuls, Chocolate-backed, Blue-breasted and African Dwarf Kingfisher, among other species.
- Kalinzu Forest
Kalinzu Forest is the second-best destination for Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda after Kibale National Park. Kalinzu covers 137 km2 and it is an extension of Queen Elizabeth Park’s Maramagambo Forest. It comprises more than 400 tree species and at least 300 chimpanzees, including a 40-strong community habituated for tourists and a slightly larger one reserved for research.
Besides chimps, there 5 other diurnal primate species you will encounter during your Uganda wildlife tour in Kalinzu Forest Reserve, including Olive baboons, Black and white colobus, Red-tailed monkeys, Blue monkeys, and L’hoest’s monkeys. Other wildlife in Kalinzu includes 378 species of birds, 262 species of butterflies and 97 species of month.
- Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is situated in Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake and is home to around 52 orphaned chimpanzees that have been rescued from elsewhere in Uganda and are being rehabilitated as much as possible on this thickly forested island. Day trips to see the residents are superb. It’s a 45-/90-minute speedboat or motorised canoe ride from Entebbe to get here.
- Mabamba Bay Swamp
The legendary Mabamba Swamp is a large 166 km2 wetland on the shores of Lake Victoria in the west of Kampala and is a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, as well as one of Uganda’s 33 Important Bird Areas. The magical species of this location is the endangered Shoebill, Uganda’s most famous and iconic avian resident, sought after by many wildlife-viewing Uganda safari visitors.
A canoe ride along the narrow channels of the swamp also gives you a chance to other bird species like the sought-after Papyrus Gonolek, regal African Fish Eagle, African Marsh Harrier, Black-winged Kite, Lizard Buzzard, African and Lesser Jacana, African Pygmy Goose, Black Heron, Pied Kingfisher, herons, egrets and waterfowl .