Uganda Safaris

When most travelers dream of an African safari, names like Kenya’s Masai Mara or Tanzania’s Serengeti usually come to mind. But if you’re looking for something truly off the beaten path, filled with rare wildlife encounters and jaw-dropping landscapes, Uganda delivers like no other. Known as the Pearl of Africa, Uganda is a treasure trove of adventure, gorilla trekking in misty mountains, boat safaris on the Nile, tree-climbing lions, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

This guide will take you deep into Uganda’s safari experience from the world-famous Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to the sprawling savannahs of Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and the remote wildlands of Kidepo Valley. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, Uganda has a safari for you.

Why Choose a Uganda Safari?

Here’s why Uganda should be on your safari shortlist:

• 🦍 Home to over half of the world’s mountain gorillas

• 🐘 Big Five game viewing without the tourist crowds

• 🌍 Incredible biodiversity from dense rainforest to open plains

• 🚤 Boat safaris are unlike anything else in East Africa

• 💚 Eco-conscious lodges and responsible tourism practices

• 🌄 Adventure and authenticity in every direction

Plus, Uganda combines wildlife with culture, making it one of the most holistic safari destinations in Africa. 

Top Safari Destinations in Uganda

Let’s dive into the parks and reserves that make Uganda one of Africa’s best-kept secrets.

1. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

If there’s one reason people fly across the world to Uganda, it’s gorilla trekking in Bwindi. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. You’ll hike through dense, misty forest with a professional guide and tracker team until boom, there they are. A silverback leading his troop, just feet away.

What to Know:

• You need a gorilla permit: USD 700 per person (subject to change)

• Trekking can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours

• Only 8 visitors per group, per gorilla family

• Best time to go: June, September, and December–February

Luxury Lodges:

• Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp

• Buhoma Lodge

• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

2. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Located between the Rwenzori Mountains and Lake Edward, this park offers diverse habitats, grassland, forest, and wetlands, all packed with animals. It’s home to over 95 mammal species and 600+ bird species!

Highlights:

• Tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha Sector

• Boat safari along the Kazinga Channel spot hippos, elephants, crocs

• Classic game drives in Kasenyi Plains

• Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge

Lodge Recommendations:

• Mweya Safari Lodge

• Katara Lodge

• Kyambura Gorge Lodge

3. Murchison Falls National Park

Where the Nile River explodes through a narrow gorge and plunges 43 meters, you’ll find Uganda’s largest park. Murchison Falls is ideal for those looking to combine big game drives with dramatic scenery.

Wildlife Viewing:

• Lions, elephants, leopards, giraffes, and buffalo (Big Five minus rhino)

• Crocodiles and hippos along the river

• Boat trips to the base of the falls or down to the Nile Delta

• Optional chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest nearby

Top Stays:

• Nile Safari Lodge

• Baker’s Lodge

• Paraa Safari Lodge

4. Kidepo Valley National Park

Tucked away in Uganda’s remote northeast, Kidepo is often called Africa’s last true wilderness. Fewer tourists venture here, but those who do are rewarded with uninterrupted wildlife viewing and sweeping savannah vistas.

Why Visit:

• Excellent lion, cheetah, and elephant sightings

• Authentic cultural experiences with the Karamojong tribes

• Vast open landscapes reminiscent of the Serengeti

Where to Stay:

• Apoka Safari Lodge (luxury in the wild)

• Kidepo Savannah Lodge

5. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Smaller than Bwindi but equally enchanting, Mgahinga is Uganda’s other gorilla park. It’s also the only place in Uganda where you can see golden monkeys and trek through extinct volcanoes.

Perfect for those wanting a less crowded gorilla trekking experience.