Uganda, affectionately known as the “Pearl of Africa,” offers one of the most diverse and rewarding safari experiences on the continent. From the lush, misty rainforests harboring endangered mountain gorillas to the sun-drenched savannahs teeming with big game, Uganda is a land of unmatched natural beauty and wildlife. In this comprehensive guide, we take you through everything you need to know to plan the best safari in Uganda, including top destinations, wildlife highlights, travel seasons, and practical tips for an unforgettable journey.
About Uganda
Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa, celebrated for its incredible biodiversity, warm hospitality, and scenic landscapes. Often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda is home to savanna rainforests, snow-capped mountains, the vast Lake Victoria, and the source of the Nile River – the longest river in the world. Uganda is home to over 10 national parks, including the world-renowned Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas live. With a rich cultural heritage spanning over 50 ethnic groups and a growing tourism sector focused on wildlife, adventure, and ecotourism, Uganda offers a uniquely immersive African experience for every traveler.
Why Choose Uganda for Safari?
Uganda is a virgin hidden gem in East Africa that has recently gained international recognition for its authentic safari experiences. Unlike the often-crowded parks of Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda provides a quieter, more intimate wildlife experience that blends traditional game drives and boat cruises with unique primate encounters. The rich biodiversity ensures that many tourists interests are taken care of while on holiday in Uganda. Whether you are a bird lover, animal enthusiasts or a water dare devil, the country has a lot of options for your unique adventures.
The Tree Climbing Lions in Queen Elizabeth Park
Here are a few reasons why Uganda should be your next safari destination:
- Gorilla Trekking: Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Home to 21 gorilla families, Bwindi forest is host to over 459 of the 1,065 remaining mountain gorillas in the world. This means that there is no better place in the world to go mountain gorilla trekking than Uganda.
- Diverse Ecosystems: From tropical rainforests and alpine mountains to vast savannahs and freshwater lakes. The Kidepo area is particularly popular for nature and animal lovers. If you are more into water games and adventure Jinja, the adventure capital of East Africa will be more than thrilling for you. There is a safari perfect for every visitor in Uganda.
- Big Five and Beyond: Uganda offers sightings of the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) along with over 1,000 bird species and 345 mammal species. A visit to Queen Elizabeth National park or Murchison Falls National park will bring you up close with the big five. Moreover you get the chance to spot the very rare tree climbing lions in Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Cultural Richness: Experience the warmth and hospitality of over 50 ethnic groups. Uganda is a rendezvous of cultural practices and traditions. A quick visit to the Kasubi tombs will immerse you into the wealth of the culture and practices of the Baganda people. But that is not it, you will be met with unique yet very friendly practices almost every part of the country you choose to visit in Uganda.
- Adventure Opportunities: Combine your safari with white-water rafting, hiking, or cultural tours. Whatever your adventure desires Uganda has an adventure sport for you from bungee jumping, to horse riding by the Nile, Ziplining or even water surfing games on the Nile.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park
Best Safari in Uganda – Top Safari Destinations in Uganda
Uganda is home to over 10 game parks with numerous attractions and activities. Lets look at some of the best destinations and what to expect.
1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bwindi is famous for its mountain gorilla population. Trekking through the dense, ancient rainforest to sit among a gorilla family is a life-changing experience.
- Highlights: Mountain gorilla trekking, birdwatching, forest walks
- Gorilla Permits: Required; book in advance through Uganda Car Hire or the Uganda Wildlife Authority
2. Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth is Uganda’s most visited park and offers a classic African safari experience.
- Highlights: Game drives, tree-climbing lions, Kazinga Channel boat cruise and chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge.
- Wildlife: The park is famous for the big 5. Expect to spot Lions, elephants, hippos, buffaloes, leopards, crocodiles, and over 600 bird species.
3. Murchison Falls National Park
The largest park in Uganda, Murchison Falls is named after the powerful waterfall where the Nile River explodes through a narrow gorge.
- Highlights: Boat safaris to the falls, game drives, hiking to the top of the falls and birdwatching.
- Wildlife: Giraffes, elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, and chimpanzees in Budongo Forest.
4. Kibale National Park
Often called the primate capital of the world, Kibale is best known for chimpanzee trekking. A Chimp trekking permit will be needed at a fee of $250. You can book through us or directly with Wildlife Authority.
- Highlights: Chimpanzee tracking, birdwatching, crater lakes exploration, nature walks
- Wildlife: 13 species of primates, including red colobus and L’Hoest’s monkeys
5. Kidepo Valley National Park
Remote and rugged, Kidepo offers one of the most pristine safari experiences in Africa.
- Highlights: Spectacular scenery, cultural encounters with the Karamojong people, exclusive wildlife viewing
- Wildlife: Cheetahs, ostriches, lions, zebras, and large herds of buffalo
6. Lake Mburo National Park
This is the closest national park to Kampala and ideal for short safaris. Its also one of the few locations you can have night game drives in Uganda. Located just 230Km south west of Kampala, you can even do a single day safari to lake Mburo if you do not have much time.
- Highlights: Horseback safaris, walking safaris, boat trips on Lake Mburo
- Wildlife: Zebras, impalas, elands, hippos, crocodiles, and over 300 bird species.
White Water Rafting on The Nile
Unique Safari Activities in Uganda
Besides the traditional game drives, Uganda offers several unique safari activities. Here are some of the activities that you will not find a match anywhere in Africa. These are uniquely Ugandan:
- Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga.
- Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale, Kyambura Gorge, and Budongo Forest.
- Boat Cruises on the Nile and Kazinga Channel.
- Birdwatching Safaris in Murchison, Queen Elizabeth and Semuliki Parks.
- Cultural Experiences with Local Tribes.
- Walking and Horseback Safaris.
Best Time to Have The Best Safari in Uganda
Uganda’s equatorial climate allows for safaris year-round, but some seasons offer better conditions for specific activities.
- Dry Seasons (June to September & December to February): Best for gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing. Roads are more accessible.
- Wet Seasons (March to May & October to November): Lush scenery, fewer tourists, and discounted rates, but some roads may be muddy.
To self drive or car with a driver in Uganda
Safari Options: Self-Drive vs. Guided Tours
If you are traveling by road, the most popular and affordable way, you will need to get car rental for your safari in Uganda. You will have the option to rent a car with a driver for your safari or go on a self drive safari. Whether you should go self driving or hire a driver depends on a number of factors and has several advantages and disadvantages.
Self-Drive Safaris
Self-drive safaris are gaining popularity in Uganda thanks to improved infrastructure and accessibility.
- Pros: Flexibility, cost-effective, adventurous.
- Cons: Requires good planning, proper insurance and local navigation skills.
Guided Safaris
Perfect for first-time visitors or those wanting an in-depth experience.
- Pros: Expert local guides, ease of travel, organized permits and logistics.
- Cons: Typically more expensive than self-drive options often costing over $20 per day.
Best Safari in Uganda – Hotels and Lodges
Where to Stay
Uganda offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites. Your budget and destination will have a say on where you choose to stay. Consider talking to your travel or car rental agency for specific accommodation options for your specific destinations. Many tour agencies have special arrangements with lodges often offering you discounts. If you plan to rent a car with a driver, many companies also have arrangements with lodges to offer drivers free or discounted meals and accommodation. Talk to them and see what offers they may have.
Here are some of the most commonly preferred tourist lodges in Uganda.
Luxury Lodges
- Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (Bwindi)
- Nile Safari Lodge (Murchison)
- Kyambura Gorge Lodge (Queen Elizabeth)
- Apoka Safari Lodge (Kidepo)
- Kyaninga Lodge (Kibale)
- Hotel Paradise on the Moon (Jinja)
Mid-Range Options
- Primate Lodge (Kibale)
- Engagi Lodge (Bwindi)
- Pakuba Safari Lodge (Murchison)
- The Haven Eco River Lodge (Jinja)
- Kidepo Savannah Lodge (Kidepo)
- Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge (Queen Elizabeth)
Budget-Friendly
- Red Chilli Rest Camp (Murchison)
- Simba Safari Camp (Queen Elizabeth)
- UWA Campsites (various parks)
- Studio 62 Guest House (Jinja)
Wildlife to Expect on your Best Safari in Uganda
Uganda’s rich biodiversity is unparalleled. Here’s a list of wildlife commonly seen on safaris in Uganda:
- Big Five: Lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos (in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary)
- Primates: Mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, baboons, variety of monkeys
- Birds: Over 1,000 species including the elusive shoebill stork
- Others: Giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, warthogs, hyenas, and numerous antelope and cat species
Travel Tips for Best Safari in Uganda
- Book gorilla and chimp permits in advance (especially in peak season). Gorilla permits can be limited and once sold out you will not be allowed to spot the primates. Many guests book several months in advance to ensure availability on their preferred day. Talk to us to day if you would like to book your primate permits.
- Pack light and neutral-colored clothing suitable for both warm days and cool nights. Appropriate clothing is a must if you are to have a great safari. Have a pair of jeans if you plan to visit the forest parks and light clothes for your game drives and boat cruises. A pair of books should also be on your packing list.
- Bring a good camera, binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a rain jacket.
- Carry cash, especially in rural areas; ATMs are not always available. Uganda is a cash economy so you may not get service in remote places if you have no cash!
- Use reputable tour operators or car rental companies for a safer experience.
- Respect the wildlife and local communities.
Conclusion: Is Uganda Worth It?
Absolutely. Uganda offers a safari experience that is as wild as it is wonderful. Whether you want to lock eyes with a silverback gorilla in the jungle, cruise past hippos on the Nile, or witness a lioness stalking her prey on the savannah, Uganda delivers on every front.
It’s less commercial, more intimate, and filled with adventure. So, if you’re looking for a safari that goes beyond the ordinary and immerses you in nature and culture, Uganda is calling.
Ready to plan your Ugandan safari? Reach out to us today and book your permits early. To get in touch simply call or WhatsApp us on +256702525877. You may also email us at ask@ugandacarhire.club. Our reservations team will be glad to assist you.
