Uganda Safari Guide

Discover the Pearl of Africa—Home to Mountain Gorillas and Incredible Wildlife

 

Best Time to Go

All year around

Famous For

Gorilla Tracking

UNESCO

World Heritage Site

Peak Time

June - October

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Why Choose Uganda for Safari?

Uganda safari, known as the “Pearl of Africa,” offers one of the world’s most diverse safari experiences. From the legendary mountain gorillas in Bwindi to the Big Five in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda combines incredible wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences in one unforgettable destination.

 

Unique Highlights: Uganda is one of only three countries where you can see mountain gorillas in the wild, home to over half of the world’s remaining population of these magnificent creatures.

 

Top Safari Destinations

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Offers gorilla trekking experiences and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with incredible biodiversity.

Best for: Gorilla trekking, bird watching, forest walks

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Uganda’s most popular safari destination featuring the Big Five, tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, and the famous Kazinga Channel boat safari.

Best for: Game drives, boat safaris, lion tracking

Murchison Falls National Park

Uganda’s largest national park, home to the world’s most powerful waterfall and excellent game viewing along the Nile River.

Best for: Waterfall viewing, Nile boat trips, big game

Kibale National Park

The primate capital of the world with the highest concentration of primates in East Africa, including chimpanzees.

Best for: Chimpanzee tracking, primate walks

Kidepo Valley National Park

Remote and pristine wilderness in northeastern Uganda, offering unique wildlife species not found elsewhere in Uganda.

Best for: Exclusive wildlife safari and cultural safaris

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Part of the Virunga Mountains, offering gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking with stunning volcanic landscapes.

Best for: Gorilla trekking, volcanic hiking, golden monkeys

Best Time to Visit Uganda

Uganda can be visited year-round due to its equatorial climate, but certain seasons offer better conditions for specific activities.

 

Dry Season (June – September)

Best for: Gorilla trekking, game drives, hiking

Less rainfall, easier road access, better wildlife visibility

Short Dry Season (December – February)

Best for: All activities, peak tourism

Excellent weather, clear skies, optimal conditions

Wet Season (March – May)

Best for: Bird watching, fewer crowds

Lush landscapes, baby animals, lower prices

Short Wet Season (October – November)

Best for: Photography, birding

Green scenery, migratory birds, shoulder season rates

Getting There

Entebbe International Airport (EBB) is Uganda’s main international airport, located 40 km from Kampala. Many international airlines serve Entebbe with connections through major African hubs like Nairobi, Addis Ababa, and Dubai.

Accommodation Options

Uganda safari offers diverse accommodation from luxury lodges and tented camps to mid-range hotels and budget guesthouses. Most safari lodges are strategically located near park entrances for easy access to activities.

 

Things to do in Uganda safari

Gorilla Trekking

The ultimate Uganda experience. Permits cost $800 and allow one hour with a gorilla family. Book well in advance as permits are limited.

Game Drives

Best in Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo. Early morning and late afternoon drives offer the best wildlife viewing.

Boat Safaris

Kazinga Channel and Nile boat trips provide excellent wildlife viewing and bird-watching opportunities.

Chimpanzee Tracking

Available in Kibale Forest and Budongo Forest. Half-day and full-day experiences available.

Cultural Encounters

Visit local communities around parks to learn about traditional lifestyles and conservation efforts.

Bird Watching

Uganda is a birder's paradise with over 1,000 species. Specialized birding safaris available.

Uganda Safari Packages

Duration Recommendations

 

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Frequently Asked Questions about Uganda Safari

What makes Uganda a special safari destination?

Uganda is called the “Pearl of Africa” because it has many animals, beautiful landscapes, and friendly people. It is famous for gorilla trekking.

 

 

Can I see the Big Five in Uganda?

Yes, you can see lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos in parks like Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

 

What is gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking is walking in the forest with a guide to see mountain gorillas in their natural home. It is the most popular activity in Uganda.

 

Do I need a permit for gorilla trekking?

The dry season (June–September and December–February) is the best because roads are easier and animals are easier to see.

 

What should I pack for my safari?

Pack light clothes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, strong shoes, and a camera. If trekking gorillas, bring long pants and gloves.

 

Is Uganda safe for tourists?

Yes, Uganda is generally safe. Tourists are welcomed, but always follow your guide’s advice and respect local culture.

 

How many days do I need for a Uganda safari?

At least 5–10 days is good if you want to see gorillas, chimpanzees, and wildlife parks.

 

Can I combine Uganda with other countries for safari?

Yes, you can easily combine Uganda with Kenya, Tanzania, or Rwanda for more safari adventures.

 

 

What kind of accommodation can I expect?

There are budget camps, mid-range lodges, and luxury safari lodges. You can choose depending on your budget.

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