Best Safari Parks in Uganda: Top Wildlife Destinations for 2026

Discover the best safari parks in Uganda, from Murchison Falls to Bwindi Forest. Explore Big Five safaris, gorilla trekking, and adventure tours

Introduction to Uganda’s Safari Parks

Welcome to Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” a land of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and unparalleled safari experiences.

Renowned for its biodiversity, Uganda offers some of the best safari parks in East Africa, where you can encounter the Big Five, trek with mountain gorillas, and explore pristine rainforests.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or an adventure seeker, Uganda’s national parks promise unforgettable moments.

In this guide, we explore the best safari parks in Uganda, highlighting their unique attractions, activities, and practical tips to help you plan the ultimate Uganda safari adventure.

Why Choose Uganda for Your Safari?

Uganda stands out as a premier safari destination due to its diverse ecosystems, ranging from savannahs and wetlands to dense forests and volcanic landscapes.

Home to over 1,000 bird species, 10 national parks, and rare wildlife like mountain gorillas and tree-climbing lions, Uganda offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility.

Whether you’re seeking Big Five safaris, gorilla trekking, or cultural experiences, Uganda’s safari parks deliver. Let’s dive into the top Uganda national parks you need to visit.

Top Best Safari Parks in Uganda

Murchison Falls National Park

As Uganda’s largest national park, Murchison Falls National Park is a must-visit for Big Five safaris and dramatic scenery. The park is famous for the Murchison Falls, where the Nile River squeezes through a 7-meter gap, creating the world’s most powerful waterfall.

Highlights:

Home to lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and leopards (Big Five).
Scenic boat cruises along the Nile to the base of the falls.
Chimpanzee tracking in the nearby Budongo Forest.
Over 450 bird species, including the shoebill stork.

Activities:

Game drives (day and night) to spot wildlife.
Boat safaris to see hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds.
Hiking to the top of Murchison Falls for panoramic views.

Accessibility: Located 4–5 hours from Kampala, accessible by road or domestic flights.

Entry Fee: $45 for non-residents (2025 rates).

Accommodation:

Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge.
Midrange: Pakuba Safari Lodge.
Budget: Red Chilli Rest Camp.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Uganda’s most popular park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, is a biodiversity hotspot known for its tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector and the scenic Kazinga Channel.

Highlights:

Diverse wildlife, including lions, elephants, hippos, and leopards.
Over 600 bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Unique tree-climbing lions in Ishasha.
Kazinga Channel boat cruises offer close-up views of hippos and crocodiles.

Activities:

Game drives in the Kasenyi Plains.
Boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel.
Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge.
Community visits to local villages.

Accessibility: 5–6 hours from Kampala by road.

Entry Fee: $45 for non-residents.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge, Kyambura Gorge Lodge.
Midrange: Bush Lodge.
Budget: Pumba Safari Cottages.

Kidepo Valley National Park

Overview: Tucked away in Uganda’s remote northeast, Kidepo Valley National Park is a hidden gem often ranked among Africa’s most scenic parks. Its rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife make it a bucket-list destination.

Highlights:

Home to lions, cheetahs, ostriches, and rare species like aardwolves.
Stunning views of the Kidepo Valley and Narus Valley.
Cultural experiences with the Karamojong and Ik communities.
Fewer crowds for an exclusive safari experience.

Activities:

Game drives to spot lions and cheetahs.
Guided nature walks.
Cultural visits to Karamojong villages.

Accessibility: 10–12 hours by road from Kampala or a 2-hour domestic flight.

Entry Fee: $45 for non-residents.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Apoka Safari Lodge.
Midrange: Kidepo Savannah Lodge.
Budget: UWA Bandas.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is world-famous for mountain gorilla trekking. Its lush rainforest is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

Highlights:

Gorilla trekking to see these majestic primates up close.
Over 350 bird species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics.
Cultural encounters with the Batwa community.
Scenic trails through ancient rainforests.

Activities:

Gorilla trekking (permits required, $700 per person).
Birdwatching and nature walks.
Batwa cultural experiences.

Accessibility: 8–9 hours from Kampala or a short flight to Kihihi or Kisoro.

Entry Fee: $45 for non-residents (gorilla permits separate).

Accommodation:

Luxury: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp.
Midrange: Gorilla Mist Camp.
Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp.

Kibale National Park

Known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” Kibale National Park is a haven for primate lovers, offering chimpanzee tracking and lush tropical forest experiences.

Highlights:

Home to over 1,500 chimpanzees and 12 other primate species, including red colobus monkeys.
Vibrant birdlife with over 370 species.
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for birdwatching and community tours.

Activities:

Chimpanzee tracking (permits: $200 per person).
Guided forest walks.
Birdwatching in Bigodi Wetlands.

Accessibility: 5–6 hours from Kampala by road.

Entry Fee: $45 for non-residents.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge, Primate Lodge.
Midrange: Turaco Treetops.
Budget: Kibale Forest Camp.

Lake Mburo National Park

Overview: The closest national park to Kampala, Lake Mburo is perfect for short safaris and offers unique activities like walking and cycling safaris.

Highlights:

Home to zebras, impalas, and hippos (no lions).
Five scenic lakes, ideal for boat trips.
Ideal for families and budget travelers.

Activities:

Walking safaris with armed guides.
Cycling safaris through the park.
Boat trips on Lake Mburo.

Accessibility: 3–4 hours from Kampala.

Entry Fee: $40 for non-residents.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Mihingo Lodge.
Midrange: Rwakobo Rock.
Budget: Lake Mburo Eagles Nest.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Uganda’s smallest national park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, is a gem in the Virunga Mountains, offering gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking.

Highlights:

Home to mountain gorillas and rare golden monkeys.
Stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes.
Cultural experiences with the Batwa community.

Activities:

Gorilla trekking (permits: $700 per person).
Golden monkey tracking.
Volcano hiking (Mount Gahinga, Muhavura, or Sabinyo).

Accessibility: 9–10 hours from Kampala or a short flight to Kisoro.

Entry Fee: $45 for non-residents.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Mount Gahinga Lodge.
Midrange: Travellers Rest Hotel.
Budget: Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp.

Semuliki National Park

A hidden gem, Semuliki National Park is known for its hot springs, rainforest wildlife, and exceptional birdwatching opportunities.

Highlights:

Sempaya Hot Springs, a unique geothermal attraction.
Over 440 bird species, including Congo Basin endemics.
Home to rare species like the forest elephant and De Brazza’s monkey.

Activities:

Guided walks to the hot springs.
Birdwatching tours.
Nature walks through the rainforest.

Accessibility: 6–7 hours from Kampala.

Entry Fee: $35 for non-residents.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Semliki Safari Lodge.
Midrange: Kirimia Guesthouse.
Budget: UWA Bandas.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park (Optional)

For adventure travelers, Rwenzori Mountains National Park offers a thrilling experience with its snow-capped peaks and challenging treks.

Highlights:

Africa’s third-highest peak, Margherita (5,109m).
Unique alpine flora and fauna.
Glaciers and waterfalls in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Activities:

Multi-day trekking to Margherita Peak.
Nature walks in the foothills.
Birdwatching and photography.

Accessibility: 6–7 hours from Kampala.

Entry Fee: $35 for non-residents.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Equator Snow Lodge.
Midrange: Ruboni Community Camp.
Budget: RMS Campsites.

Comparing Uganda’s Safari Parks by Experience

To help you choose the best park for your interests, here’s a quick comparison:

Experience	Best Parks
Big Five Safaris	Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Kidepo
Gorilla Trekking	Bwindi, Mgahinga
Chimpanzee Tracking	Kibale, Murchison Falls (Budongo Forest)
Birdwatching	Queen Elizabeth, Semuliki, Bwindi
Walking/Cycling Safaris	Lake Mburo
Adventure Trekking	Rwenzori Mountains
Short Safaris	Lake Mburo

Uganda Park Entry Fees and Accessibility

National Park	Entrance Fee (Non-residents)	Distance from Kampala	Highlights
Murchison Falls	$45	4–5 hours	Big Five, waterfall, Nile cruise
Queen Elizabeth	$45	5–6 hours	Tree-climbing lions, Kazinga Channel
Kidepo Valley	$45	10–12 hours	Scenic wilderness, cheetahs
Bwindi Impenetrable	$45	8–9 hours	Gorilla trekking, rainforest
Kibale	$45	5–6 hours	Chimpanzee tracking, primates
Lake Mburo	$40	3–4 hours	Zebras, walking safaris
Mgahinga Gorilla	$45	9–10 hours	Gorillas, golden monkeys, volcanoes
Semuliki	$35	6–7 hours	Hot springs, birdwatching
Rwenzori Mountains	$35	6–7 hours	Snow-capped peaks, trekking

Top Safari Activities in Uganda

Uganda’s safari parks offer a range of activities to suit every traveler:

Game Drives: Spot the Big Five in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo. Night drives are available in select parks.
Boat Safaris: Cruise the Nile (Murchison Falls) or Kazinga Channel (Queen Elizabeth) for hippos, crocodiles, and birds.
Gorilla Trekking: Track mountain gorillas in Bwindi and Mgahinga (permits: $700).
Chimpanzee Tracking: Follow chimpanzees in Kibale or Budongo Forest (permits: $200).
Birdwatching: Over 1,000 bird species await in Queen Elizabeth, Semuliki, and Bwindi.
Walking Safaris: Explore Lake Mburo on foot with an armed guide.
Cycling Safaris: Pedal through Lake Mburo’s trails.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Soar over Murchison Falls or Queen Elizabeth for aerial views.
Cultural Visits: Meet the Karamojong, Batwa, or local communities for authentic cultural experiences.

Best Time to Visit Uganda for Safaris

The best time for a Uganda safari is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. These months offer easier wildlife viewing due to less vegetation and concentrated animals near water sources. Gorilla trekking is possible year-round, though trails can be muddy during the rainy seasons (March–May and October–November). Always pack lightweight rain gear and sturdy hiking boots.

Where to Stay: Safari Lodges in Uganda

Each park offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets:

Murchison Falls: Paraa Safari Lodge (luxury), Pakuba Safari Lodge (midrange), Red Chilli Rest Camp (budget).
Queen Elizabeth: Mweya Safari Lodge (luxury), Bush Lodge (midrange), Pumba Safari Cottages (budget).
Kidepo: Apoka Safari Lodge (luxury), Kidepo Savannah Lodge (midrange), UWA Bandas (budget).
Bwindi: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (luxury), Gorilla Mist Camp (midrange), Buhoma Community Rest Camp (budget).
Kibale: Kyaninga Lodge (luxury), Turaco Treetops (midrange), Kibale Forest Camp (budget).
Lake Mburo: Mihingo Lodge (luxury), Rwakobo Rock (midrange), Lake Mburo Eagles Nest (budget).
Mgahinga: Mount Gahinga Lodge (luxury), Travellers Rest Hotel (midrange), Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp (budget).
Semuliki: Semliki Safari Lodge (luxury), Kirimia Guesthouse (midrange), UWA Bandas (budget).

Practical Travel Information

Getting Around: Hire a 4×4 vehicle for flexibility or book guided safari tours through reputable operators. Domestic flights are available to Kidepo, Bwindi, and Mgahinga.
Permits and Rules: Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking require permits booked through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Follow park rules, such as maintaining distance from wildlife and respecting local communities.
Visa and Health: Most nationalities require a visa (apply online at Uganda Immigration). Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory, and malaria prophylaxis is recommended.

Map of Uganda’s Safari Parks

FAQ: Uganda Safari Parks

Q1: What is the best safari park in Uganda?

A: It depends on your interests. Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth are best for Big Five safaris, Bwindi and Mgahinga for gorilla trekking, and Kibale for chimpanzees.

Q2: Can you see the Big Five in Uganda?

A: Yes, Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo offer opportunities to see lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos (rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary).

Q3: How much is a safari in Uganda?

A: Costs vary. Budget safaris start at $150/day, midrange at $300/day, and luxury safaris at $500+/day. Gorilla permits cost $700.

Q4: Is Uganda good for wildlife safaris?

A: Absolutely! Uganda’s diverse parks offer Big Five safaris, gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, and birdwatching, making it a top wildlife destination.

Q5: When is the best time to visit Uganda for safari?

A: June–September and December–February are ideal for wildlife viewing. Gorilla trekking is possible year-round.

Conclusion

Uganda’s safari parks offer a perfect blend of adventure, wildlife, and cultural experiences. From the roaring Murchison Falls to the misty forests of Bwindi, each park has something unique to offer.

Whether you’re chasing the Big Five, trekking with gorillas, or cycling through zebra-filled plains, Uganda delivers unforgettable safari experiences.

Plan your trip with the Uganda Wildlife Authority for permits and explore our Uganda Safari Packages for tailored tours. Start your journey to the Pearl of Africa today!

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