Uganda Safaris Tours – Discover the Pearl of Africa; today Uganda Safaris and Tours have opened a new Africa Safaris chapter in world tourism and Uganda, the undiscovered pearl of the African Continent, pure and unaffected by mass tourism; is a favorite hot spot of tourist destinations for Gorilla trekking / Gorilla tourism, safari holidays, wildlife tours, cultural tours, walking & nature safaris, vacation holidays for adventure and Luxury travel packages. Many travelers now seek the charm of a classic Africa safaris Uganda experience or the thrill of an african safari Uganda deep in pristine landscapes.
Top Safari Destinations in Uganda Africa
While planning a Uganda safari, there are quite a great deal of destinations; 10 gazetted national parks to be specific, each with a unique and remarkable feature. Combing the different places will reward you with a wholesome experience of a Uganda tour, offering the best of uganda african safari adventures.
These include the following:
There are several other places to go on Uganda safaris, including cultural sites, mountains, and lakes. The list of things to do in Uganda is just endless for those looking for a truly unforgettable uganda african safari.
The 4 Days Uganda safari to Lake Mburo national park and gorilla trekking in Bwindi gorilla National Park.
6-Day Uganda Wildlife Safari: Chimpanzee Tracking, Wildlife Viewing, and Mountain Gorilla Tour
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We design our Uganda safari packages to suit travelers of all types and age groups as we pay attention to time, safety, budget constraints. We are flexible enough to incorporate last minute changes. We handle private tours, student tours & research groups, small group tours and large group departures of up to 100 pax. We are committed to responsible tourism for sustainable development and we try to achieve this through use of fuel-efficient and well-maintained vehicles, use of eco-friendly safari lodges and camps, and support of conservation organisations like NatureUganda.org. Uganda gorilla trekking safaris and chimpanzee tracking tours are the prime attractions for a uganda african safari and dominantly make up most of our uganda safari packages. These are offered on typical 3-day safari tours and extended holidays including game viewing of different wildlife like African elephants, giraffes, climbing lions and leopards, wild buffaloes, antelopes of different types. Our safari parks and Uganda game reserves are places that one must not miss visiting during a safari in Uganda. For personalized care and attention, smaller groups are ideal for mountain gorillas and wildlife safaris, gorilla trekking, and other safari holidays.
Our strength in organizing memorable uganda safaris tours like gorilla safaris in Uganda lies in our local knowledge of the areas we operate, professionalism, and years of experience in the tourism industry. We excel at organizing custom / tailor-made safaris and Rwanda tours as we work around your needs to come up with the best tailored safari package and holiday trips that fit your time and budget. Apart from our regular safari circuits, we have also introduced walking safaris that can be done as independent activities or combined with other adventures to create a more rewarding experience. Walking safaris in Uganda can be done in Lake Mburo National Park and Nkuringo in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Horseback safaris are also on offer for those visiting Mburo! The Batwa experience in Bwindi – Buhoma and the Batwa cultural trail in Mgahinga offer great opportunities for a walking safari and cultural experience — ideal for africa adventure safaris Uganda enthusiasts.
At African Safari Trails, it is our passion and pleasure to show you the delights of our land and will help you experience Africa through the eyes of a local. From organizing gorilla tours in Uganda, chimpanzee tracking, birding tours, and cultural tours in Rwanda to magical wildlife safaris in Kenya and budget holidays in Tanzania, you will find a uniquely affordable experience that only we can provide. From the moment you board your flight to Entebbe, your guide will be ready and everything will be taken care of; Gorilla & Chimpanzee permits will be booked, accommodation and all activities, so you will just lie back and enjoy a thrilling journey! Let us guide you to a great journey of discovery in East Africa. The above Uganda tours packages featuring gorilla safaris in Bwindi, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, game viewing & boat cruises in safari parks, cultural tours, bird watching, and adventures like rafting, forest walks among other Uganda tourism activities are for your inspiration.
Choose a package that matches your interests and contact us to request a free quote or let us tailor it to your satisfaction. All the offers above have been done several times by past clients with 100% success and satisfaction. Continue browsing our website for more uganda safari packages or send us an inquiry to know which options are available. Sightseeing & Nature Photography Tour. African Safari Trails takes you to some of the best areas for sightseeing with stunning photography opportunities on the African continent. Uganda as a tourism destination has got perhaps the highest concentration of conservation areas in Africa, with ten (10) national parks — three (3) of which contain the remains of explosive volcanoes, which have over the millennia filled with water. Discover more on uganda tours and enjoy a classic Africa safaris Uganda experience.
Uganda has got more than 30 native languages belonging to 5 distinctive groups. It’s a world of enormous diverse cultures all living in cohesion. Uganda has got the friendliest people on the African continent! Book uganda safari tours and manifest this fact on your african safari Uganda. Birding safaris in Uganda — for bird watchers, Uganda birding safaris will provide the ultimate joy of the richest African birding destination. It is rightly called ’Home of the most sought-after birds.’ We can make this a cherished dream come true experience, with close to nature and close interaction with the local people who are claimed to be the friendliest people of the African continent.
3 Days Rwanda gorilla tour from Kigali to Volcanoes with golden monkey tracking and Ibyiwacu
10 Days best of Rwanda Uganda safari holiday with gorilla trekking and wildlife tour
5 days Rwanda primate tour with chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe and mountain gorilla trekking
7 Days Safari in Rwanda, Congo and Uganda for wildlife safari adventure in Africa
Uganda is one of the leading tourism destinations in Africa, boosting over the natural endowment it possesses. Uganda is a landlocked country found in the East African region and it is bordered by Kenya in the east, Rwanda in the southwest, the Democratic Republic of Congo in the west, Tanzania in the south and South Sudan in the north. It has a uniquely diverse topography or landscape which allows the variation in the vegetation cover — a feature that makes it perfect for a uganda african safari.
The Savanna plains in western Uganda are habitats for a lot of wildlife. In the West is where most of the national parks are located due to the wide range of wildlife which flourishes in the plains. Still, in the west, you can find the glacier-covered Mountain of the Moon with a unique succession of vegetation cover due to the increase in altitude. There is also a number of tropical rainforests that are famous for the primate safaris in Uganda, forming a core experience in many uganda safaris Africa travel plans.
Despite the richness of western Uganda in terms of wildlife, the east is also a famous tourism region in Uganda with a high volcanic mountain called Elgon hosting the widest caldera in Uganda. Mount Elgon is famous for the exclusively entertaining mountain hikes and the rich cultural folklore of the Bamasaba people. The northeast region of Uganda is where you can find the interesting Kidepo National Park and the Karamojong hunting ground — an ideal location for those seeking true african adventure safaris Uganda.
There is still a lot more interesting attractions scattered all through the country, like Lake Victoria, Lake Bunyonyi, and the famous River Nile, which is found in Jinja town. Jinja is well known as the famous town in Uganda during the colonial era of East Africa. Jinja town boasts the source of the world’s longest river, the Nile. You can enjoy city life in Kampala; during the day you can see a lot of people and it’s a chance for you to learn about the lifestyle of the local people. However, Kampala nightlife is much more interesting, and the nightclubs in Kampala catch fire at night with a lot of beautiful women, nice African music and a lot of fun. There is a lot to explore and learn about Uganda, and you can only be able to find out when you book for the Ugandan tour during your african safari Uganda experience.
The national parks of Uganda are the pivot point of wildlife safaris in Uganda. The national parks are protected areas managed by the Uganda government under the management organ called the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Uganda has over ten major national parks concentrated mainly in the western region. Other protected areas are scattered around the country, for example, the Karamajong hunting grounds, wild reserves, among others. The national parks in Uganda are strategically located in naturally endowed areas of the country and this has promoted uganda tours and attracted many looking for classic Africa safaris Uganda experiences. All the national parks in Uganda have distinctive uniqueness which differentiates them from each other, making every journey unique for those on safaris in Uganda Africa.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is well known all over the world and, in fact, it is the core reason why most tourists visit Africa. Gorilla trekking safari tours in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park make a highlight on the Uganda safaris tours and form a major experience on any african safari Uganda. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in the southwestern region of Uganda. It is one of the natural features that separate Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Bwindi Forest is found in the border area of Uganda and Congo in a district called Kanungu. Bwindi National Park covers a relatively small area—about 331 sq.km—of primeval forest on the edge of the Albertine Rift Valley. The location of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is responsible for its varying elevation levels. It sits at 1160 meters above sea level in the lowland and rises to 2607 meters at its highest elevation point.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is well known for the large population of the endangered mountain gorilla species it accommodates. The park holds over half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas, making it an essential destination for any uganda african safari or primate-focused traveler. A lot of people mistake the mountain gorillas for the lowland gorillas in the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, mountain gorillas are rare and only found in the highland areas of East Africa, while the lowland species inhabit the lower-altitude tropical zones of central Africa. The mountain gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda—especially in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park—are among the most rewarding and affordable options across East Africa. Bwindi has over 11 groups of mountain gorillas, some of which are even habituated to human encounter, providing exceptional value for those seeking safaris in Uganda Africa.
Biodiversity is the major attraction within this protected area. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to over 120 species of mammals—more than any other national park in Uganda. The mammal population ranges from the smallest creatures to the largest. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest also boasts an impressive diversity of bird species. The park holds over 350 species of birds, some of which are exclusively endemic to the Albertine Rift region. About 23 of these bird species are unique to this area, including the African green broadbill, the white-tailed flycatcher, and the brown-necked parrot, making it a paradise for birders and a key stop on african adventure safaris Uganda.
Another key attraction is the mountain gorillas. Bwindi is most famous for the gorilla families it protects. There are over 11 known families in the park, and recently, a new group was discovered. Gorilla trekking remains the most popular activity in Bwindi and is one of the most rewarding experiences across East Africa. Uganda, specifically Bwindi, has the highest number of mountain gorillas in Africa, making it the best destination for uganda safaris Africa that focus on primate experiences.
Gorilla Trekking: Gorilla safaris in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are the most sought-after experiences for travelers who visit the park annually. The park has over 326 gorillas inhabiting its dense forest, and many of them are ready to be visited. Due to the high demand for trekking permits in Bwindi, at least two gorilla groups are visited daily. Because gorilla trekking permits are competitive, it’s highly recommended to book in advance to avoid last-minute inconvenience. For any african adventure safaris Uganda, securing your trekking permit early is essential.
Bird Watching is another exciting activity within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Bwindi is one of the finest bird-watching destinations in Uganda, with over 300 bird species. Birding can also be done during nature walks while trekking for gorillas. There is so much about Bwindi that can be incorporated into your Ugandan primate safari or gorilla safaris, making it a valuable stop for classic Africa safaris Uganda. Booking locally for your gorilla trekking permit is advised to avoid delays or disappointment when planning your uganda african safari.
Murchison Falls National Park is second among the most visited national parks in Uganda. The park is the largest protected area in Uganda and covers up an area of over 3893sq.km. Murchison falls is found in the Albertine region, northwest of Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. Murchison Falls National Park gets its name from the famous Murchison falls situated on the strong River Nile. Murchison Falls are the strongest falls in Uganda. The falls are formed as a result of heavy water masses surging through a narrow gorge, thus forming pressure down the gorge of about 45m high — a natural wonder perfect for a classic Africa safaris Uganda experience.
Murchison Falls boasts a unique selection of wild animals, including the big five African animals. It is the only national park in Uganda where you can experience the Big Five with rhinos found at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. The other wildlife includes birds, mainly renowned to be of the Albertine region, as well as the prehistoric shoebill stork, which can be spotted in the swamp towards the Albert delta. There are also other unique wild animals like lions, Rothschild’s giraffes, primates like chimpanzees in Kaniyo Pabidi forest of mahogany, hippos, elephants, crocodiles, among others. Murchison Falls National Park has over 76 mammal species, 450 bird species, and over 10 primate species — making it ideal for a true african safari Uganda adventure.
Historically, Murchison Falls was first visited by the famous early Europeans including John Speke and James Grant in the early 1860s. However, it was thoroughly explored by Sir Samuel Baker and his wife Florence Baker, who later named the falls “Murchison” after the geologist of the Geographical Society, Roderick Murchison. The park was later gazetted a national park in 1952 when the British colonial administration introduced the National Parks Act of Uganda, and the area was named Murchison Falls National Park, now a jewel for any uganda safaris Africa experience.
The major attraction in Murchison Falls National Park is the waterfalls itself. Murchison Falls is the strongest waterfalls in Uganda, recently making headlines over proposed developments. The falls are formed as a result of intense water pressure exerted through a narrow gorge by large volumes from the Victoria Nile. The narrow channel (only about 6m wide) creates intense pressure, causing the ground to tremble and forming a misty spray that adds drama to the view — perfect for uganda african safari photos and moments.
River Nile is another star attraction; it bisects the park into southern and northern sectors. Originating in Jinja town, the Nile enters Murchison Falls as the Victoria Nile and stretches to the Albert Delta. From Lake Albert, it continues northward as the Albert Nile. A boat ride along the Nile is a must-do on any safaris in Uganda Africa, offering views of animals like buffaloes, elephants, and hippos as they gather at the banks.
Buligi game tracks offer the best game drive experiences, stretching from the Victoria Nile to the Albert Nile over 120km. These tracks cross the park’s vast savannah grasslands and mix with acacia-dotted woodlands and riverine vegetation. Morning and evening game drives provide exceptional chances to spot wildlife in their natural habitat — a true africa adventure safaris Uganda highlight.
Paara is the central point for most activities in the park, including game drives. Locally meaning “hippo schools,” Paara is accessed by road and ferry crossings. It also hosts a range of lodges and safari hotels, offering the best accommodation services for anyone on african adventure safaris Uganda.
Rabongo and Kaniyo Pabidi forests are home to some of Uganda’s last remaining mahogany trees. Located near the Kanchumbanyobo gate, Kaniyo Pabidi is a top spot for chimpanzee tracking and other primates like monkeys and baboons. Birdlife here is abundant, making it ideal for forest birding and camping, especially near the Jane Goodall Institute. Night nature walks in Kaniyo Pabidi also offer glimpses of nocturnal species like galagos, bush babies, and owls — adding a unique edge to any uganda safaris Africa itinerary.
The park’s diverse ecosystems support rich flora and fauna, with scenic hills, river valleys, escarpments, wetlands, woodlands, and savannah. Over 76 mammal species and more than 500 bird species inhabit the area, making it a destination perfect for african safari Uganda lovers.
Among the most popular animals in Murchison Falls National Park are hippos, buffaloes, elephants, lions, and white rhinos (from nearby Ziwa), which complete the Big Five checklist. Others include giraffes, warthogs, hartebeests, Uganda kob, and Nile crocodiles. Forests like Budongo, Rabongo, and Kaniyo Pabidi are also prime areas for chimpanzee trekking and chimpanzee habituation experiences.
Game drives remain a top activity — especially along the Buligi, Albert, and Queen’s tracks, located north of the Nile. Here, visitors on a uganda african safari can see elephants grazing, buffaloes drinking, and lions and giraffes roaming freely.
The Nile boat cruise is another thrilling experience, split into two: the bottom of the falls cruise and the Albert delta cruise. The former sails 17km from Paara to the base of the falls, offering exceptional views of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and buffaloes. The Albert delta cruise, spanning 28km, is famous for its birdlife, especially the elusive shoebill stork. Along the Nile, expect to spot herons, kingfishers, ducks, and the African fish eagle — a must-see for classic Africa safaris Uganda travelers.
Nature walks are a peaceful complement to game drives, often conducted in Budongo, Rabongo, and Kaniyo Pabidi forests. Here, you can get close to birds, primates, and forest life, offering a deep immersion in the African wild. Budongo’s walks, in particular, provide a tranquil setting with natural sounds and forest scents — ideal for safaris in Uganda Africa explorers.
The Top of the Falls hike is another must-do. Starting at the boat landing at the base of the falls, it ascends to the top via several trails, the most iconic being the Churchill Trail. This route, once taken by Winston Churchill, offers unbeatable photo ops and tranquil picnic spots, perfect for adventurers seeking the raw beauty of a uganda safaris Africa destination.
Chimpanzee trekking in Budongo, Kaniyo Pabidi, and Rabongo forests is one of the most exciting activities in the park. Starting from the Jane Goodall Primate Research Institute, the treks take you deep into the forest in search of habituated chimp communities. Along the way, trekkers observe social behaviors, feeding patterns, and communication — all part of the immersive africa adventure safaris Uganda experience.
Other activities in the park include sport fishing, forest camping, birding, and community walks. Murchison Falls National Park stands as the only place in Uganda where you can experience all Big Five animals in one tour, especially when paired with a visit to the rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary — making it a premier destination for african adventure safaris Uganda and uganda african safari seekers alike.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one other big national park found on the western side of Uganda. Queen Elizabeth national park spans across the wide western savannah plains in the western region of Uganda. Queen Elizabeth national park is a renowned safari destination and the most visited in Uganda. This is due to the uniquely selected wildlife it hosts. Queen Elizabeth national park has the highest population of wildlife due to the extensive ecosystems it holds and it happens to attract many travelers from across the world to come to Uganda Wildlife Tours.
Queen Elizabeth National Park was gazetted in 1954 after the visit of the Queen of England, Queen Elizabeth the second. Before, the park was known as Kazinga national park, however, after the visit of the queen to Uganda, the name of Kazinga national park was changed to Queen Elizabeth National Park in regards to the queen’s visit. Queen Elizabeth national park is one of the largest national parks in Uganda. It covers up an area of about 1978 sq. km and spans three districts of the western region of Uganda including Rubirizi, Rukungiri, and Kasese districts among others.
Queen Elizabeth for many years has proved to be the best visited national park in Uganda. Queen Elizabeth is the most populated protected area in Uganda in terms of wildlife or biodiversity. The visit to Queen Elizabeth national park is a lifetime opportunity to see the big five wild animals of Africa in a natural setting. There are also other attractions in Queen Elizabeth National Park that can catch your interest such as the gorge, caves, and culture among others.
Tree climbing lions mark a highlight to the uganda safaris africa tours done in Queen Elizabeth national park. The lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park are much different from the ones found in other national parks in Uganda and other African national parks. The climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth national park are mainly found in the Ishasha sector of the park which is located in the southern part of Queen Elizabeth national park. The tree-climbing lions will not grant your safety if you climb in the trees within Queen Elizabeth national park’s Ishasha sector. The lions here climb the trees and rest up there after the day’s hunt. The lions also climb into the trees to escape the heat on the ground and to avoid tsetse flies.
Kazinga channel is a glimpse of all the wildlife in Queen Elizabeth national park. The Kazinga channel is a water body connecting Lake Edward in the west to Lake George. The Kazinga channel in Queen Elizabeth national park is a major water source in the area, and it is home to much of the wildlife that the park protects such as buffalo herds, schools of hippos, lion prides, sitatungas, duikers, bushbucks, and crocodiles among others. The famous Kazinga channel boat cruise offers a great opportunity to see many animals as they come to quench their thirst and cool off during the hot season. Kazinga channel is also a birder’s pride as many water birds flock along its edge during the mornings and evenings. Birds such as pelicans, kingfishers, sunbirds, bee-eaters, the African fish eagle, and migratory birds can be spotted, especially in November.
Kyambura gorge is a magical site in Queen Elizabeth national park. It is a strip of lush, verdant tropical rainforest amidst vast savannah plains. Kyambura gorge is home to a very attractive primate species called the chimpanzees, though they are endangered. Kyambura gorge is a magical world in Queen Elizabeth national park, yet it is often missed by tourists going on a uganda african safari to the park. You can add a chimpanzee trekking activity at Kyambura gorge to your itinerary. The gorge harbors a mobile community of funny and fascinating primates, the chimpanzees. Visitors have nicknamed it the “Valley of Comedy” due to the comical behavior of its inhabitants. The gorge is also home to other primates like the black and white colobus monkeys, red colobus monkeys, blue colobus monkeys, and olive baboons. A walk through Kyambura gorge offers a new experience in a new world, filled with forest bird songs and butterflies, making the thick forest a beauty. The Kyambura River, which flows through the gorge, serves as its main drainage.
Katwe Salt Lake is yet another attraction found in Queen Elizabeth National Park. It is one of the crater lakes along the crater trail in the park. Katwe salt lake is a famous site for study tours and cultural tourism. It offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the culture of the Katwe salt mining village. The lake is an explosion crater formed about 10,000 years ago due to a volcanic eruption. Though extinct, it still emits sulfurous gases with a pungent smell. Lake Katwe is a dead lake with no outlets, which makes its water salty. When the sun shines, salt forms pans on the lakebed and a salt crust on the surface which is mined by the local people. Beside the salt lake is an old salt factory built by early Germans; it has since collapsed, but its ruins remain an attraction.
The Equator is a phenomenal feature not just for Queen Elizabeth national park, but also for Uganda as a whole. The Equator in Queen Elizabeth National Park is a first stop for many visitors, even before seeing any animals. The Equator monument at Kikongoro is a popular photo stop to commemorate your african safari uganda adventure. It’s a geographic marvel where you can stand with one foot in the northern and the other in the southern hemisphere. Temperatures and magnetic forces behave uniquely here, adding more interest to this global line that divides the earth in two.
Other attractions in Queen Elizabeth national park include the Busonga fishing village, which offers immersive community walks and insights into African fishing culture. Visitors also explore the bat caves in Maramagambo Forest. Though direct access is now restricted due to a past Marburg outbreak, a safe viewing point has been constructed to allow tourists to witness this natural site safely.
Kibale National Park is famous for the incredible primate safaris tours in Uganda and East Africa at large. It’s actually the best destination for primate safaris in Africa. Kibale National Park is found in the southwestern region of Uganda, covering up districts like Kamwenge, part of Kabarole, and Kibale district itself. Kibale National Park is a relatively large national park covering up a surface area of about 800 sq.km, sitting on an elevation of 1890m above sea level and 1100m above sea level in the Rift Valley floor. Kibale National Park is a part of the vast Kibale Conservation Area which consists of Toro-Semliki National Park, and Katonga Wildlife Reserve, plus the Kibale–Queen Elizabeth Wildlife Corridor — all rich areas that attract lovers of uganda safaris Africa.
Kibale National Park is a large protected area encompassing a wide area of moist evergreen forest with semi-deciduous components. Kibale National Park contains a wide array of landscapes with varying vegetation succeeding each other as the altitude increases. Kibale National Park boasts a great primate population that inhabits the forest, making it a premier location for african adventure safaris Uganda. It is the only assurance for your chimpanzee tours in Uganda. The park protects almost a third of the chimpanzee population in Africa, with over 1,500 individuals roaming in the forest trees. It also protects 12 other species of primates including L’Hoest’s monkeys, red colobus monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and night primates like the pottos and galagos — offering unmatched encounters on your uganda african safari.
Kibale National Park was established in 1932 and later upgraded to a national park in 1993 with the primary aim of protecting the large forested area that had been logged by British colonialists. Kibale National Park stands in the first primate position because it beats all other African countries in terms of primate species and total number of apes. It is widely known as the primate capital of the world due to the large number of chimpanzees it holds, plus other primates that play in the branches of the tall forest trees — making it a true gem for classic Africa safaris Uganda.
The uniqueness of Kibale National Park is distinctive from all other national parks in Uganda; it is the chimpanzee population that defines it. Unlike the savannah grasslands common in other parks, Kibale is predominantly forested — a haven for primates and a major highlight of safaris in Uganda Africa.
Primates: Kibale National Park is famous for its high number of primates. It’s the best destination in Africa in terms of both species diversity and overall population. It is also a refuge for the rare L’Hoest’s monkeys in Uganda and East Africa. Primates are most concentrated in the less disturbed areas of the park, such as Kanyawara. Chimpanzee trekking in the densely forested zones is a staple of africa adventure safaris Uganda. Other primates include black-and-white monkeys, red colobus monkeys, blue colobus monkeys, and night apes like pottos, galagos, and bush babies.
Other mammals that inhabit Kibale’s forest include forest elephants (or bush elephants) that travel from Queen Elizabeth National Park via the wildlife corridor stretching over 180km. Other mammals include red and black duikers, bushbucks, sitatungas, bush pigs, forest hogs, warthogs, African buffaloes, and carnivores like leopards, serval cats, African golden cats, mongooses, two otter species, and occasionally lions from Queen Elizabeth National Park — all contributing to a rich african safari Uganda experience.
Birds are another major attraction. Kibale is often called Uganda’s birders’ paradise, with over 300 bird species making up a prolific avian population. Birding is mainly done in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. Visitors seek out the endangered Nahan’s francolin and the prized ground thrush, only found in two other areas in Uganda. Other bird species include grey-winged robin, yellow-spotted barbet, grey-breasted pitta, speckled tinkerbird, little greenbul, white-thighed hornbill, black-billed turaco, masked apalis, and superb sunbird, among many others.
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is a top destination for birding lovers and a prime site on uganda safaris Africa. Located at the southern fringe of the park within Magombe Swamp, it’s a community initiative supporting local development. Bigodi protects over 120 bird species and offers guided nature walks on boardwalks built by local caretakers.
Explosion craters in the Ndali-Kasenda region are another attraction. Found on the Rift Valley floor, these scenic crater lakes such as Ndali, Lake Nkuruba, Lake Nyamasani, Ntambi, and Lyantonde provide a tranquil setting for hiking and photography. While these craters are located outside the park boundaries, they enhance the scenic beauty and cultural richness of the region.
Other attractions around Kibale National Park include the Amabere ga Nyina Mwiru caves, filled with traditional folklore, the Tooro Kingdom, and Fort Portal town with its tea plantations and rolling landscapes — offering culturally immersive stops on your african adventure safaris Uganda.
Chimpanzee trekking is the most popular activity. Kibale is the best destination in Uganda for this experience, with over 1,500 chimpanzees, some habituated for visitor interaction. Treks begin at the Kanyanchu Visitor Centre at 8 am and last around 3 hours. With a 90% success rate, visitors are almost guaranteed to see habituated chimpanzees and observe their natural behaviors — a must for any uganda african safari itinerary.
Chimpanzee habituation offers a deeper experience. Visitors accompany researchers into the forest to spend more time with chimpanzee groups not fully habituated. This full- or half-day activity begins at 6 am and offers a detailed look into the lives of these intelligent primates — making it one of the most intimate options on safaris in Uganda Africa.
Birding starts at 7 am from Kanyanchu Visitor Centre and continues into Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, home to over 138 bird species. Rare birds such as papyrus gonolek, white-collared oliveback, and white-winged warbler are among the highlights, along with others like yellow-spotted barbet, brown-backed scrub-robin, black bishop, and black-crowned waxbill.
Hiking and nature walks are another draw. The night nature walks in Kibale National Park are particularly popular. As chimpanzees and birds settle into nests, the forest comes alive with nocturnal creatures. Guided by flashlights and accompanied by two rangers, you can spot bush babies, pottos, nightjars, crickets, and more.
Cultural encounters set Kibale apart. Join a local guide on a community walk through Bigodi village and visit Kibale Association for Rural Environment Development (KAFRED). Learn about the Batooro and Bakiga tribes, visit cultural landmarks of the Tooro Kingdom, and explore sites like the palace and Amabere ga Nyina Mwiru — key features of classic Africa safaris Uganda.
Crater lake tours are also offered, showcasing dramatic explosion craters and scenic Rwenzori ranges. Even kids are catered for in Kibale. While adults enjoy chimpanzee trekking, children can participate in nature lessons with specially trained guides — adding a family-friendly touch to your african safari Uganda.
Uganda stands out among African safari destinations because it offers a unique mix of savannah wildlife, dense tropical forests, and exceptional primate encounters. You can go from tracking mountain gorillas in the misty Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to watching lions and elephants in Queen Elizabeth National Park—often within a single itinerary. A Uganda African safari is a truly immersive experience, less crowded and more affordable than neighboring countries, making it ideal for nature lovers and first-time safari-goers alike.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place in two national parks: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is home to over 20 habituated gorilla families, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which hosts one family that frequently moves between Uganda and Rwanda. Bwindi is the more popular of the two, offering four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga. It’s a highlight for anyone doing safaris in Uganda Africa and provides one of the most life-changing wildlife encounters on the planet.
Gorilla trekking is a guided hike through dense forest in search of a habituated gorilla family. The trek can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 6 hours depending on the group’s location. Once found, visitors spend a magical one hour observing the gorillas in their natural habitat. It’s an emotional and humbling experience and a key highlight of any african safari Uganda. Physical fitness is recommended, but porters and walking sticks are available to assist.
The dry seasons—from December to February and June to August—are considered the best times to visit Uganda. During these months, trails are less muddy, vegetation is thinner (making wildlife easier to spot), and gorilla trekking is more comfortable. However, Uganda is a year-round destination, and the wet seasons can offer lush scenery and fewer tourists. For those planning classic Africa safaris Uganda, booking during the dry months is highly recommended.
Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and cost $800 USD for foreign non-residents, $700 USD for residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. These permits allow for one hour with the gorillas and include the services of park rangers and guides. For travelers booking full Africa adventure safaris Uganda packages, reputable tour operators usually handle permit arrangements as part of the itinerary.
Yes, Uganda is a safe and stable safari destination with well-managed parks, experienced guides, and a strong tourism infrastructure. National parks have trained rangers and strict conservation protocols. Travelers are advised to follow the usual safety guidelines, such as avoiding late-night travel in cities and using certified tour operators. A guided uganda safaris Africa experience is both secure and enriching.
Uganda is not just about gorillas—it’s home to the iconic Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, buffalos, and rhinos (in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary). Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks offer excellent game drives, while Kibale is famous for chimpanzee tracking. You’ll also encounter giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, zebras, and over 1,000 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork. A well-planned uganda african safari offers unmatched diversity in wildlife viewing.
Pack light, breathable, and moisture-wicking clothing. Key essentials include:
For african adventure safaris Uganda, also bring sunglasses, a wide-brim hat, a daypack, reusable water bottle, and travel-sized first aid essentials.
Yes, most travelers are required to show proof of yellow fever vaccination to enter Uganda. Other recommended vaccines include hepatitis A & B, typhoid, tetanus, and rabies (especially for long stays). Malaria is present in most parts of Uganda, so taking antimalarial medication and using mosquito repellents is strongly advised for anyone going on safaris in Uganda Africa.
Uganda offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxury safari lodges to mid-range camps and budget guesthouses. Many lodges are located inside or just outside national parks, offering spectacular views, comfortable amenities, and locally inspired cuisine. Eco-lodges and community-run camps are a great way to support conservation while enjoying authentic experiences. Whether you’re on a high-end or budget african safari Uganda, there’s an option for every traveler.
A complete uganda safaris Africa experience typically lasts between 7 to 12 days. This allows time to combine gorilla trekking in Bwindi with game drives in Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, and relaxation on Lake Bunyonyi or the Nile. A shorter 3–5 day trip is possible if focusing only on gorilla trekking. For classic Africa safaris Uganda, a 10-day itinerary strikes the perfect balance between adventure and immersion.
Absolutely. Uganda pairs seamlessly with neighboring countries like Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Many travelers begin with gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga, then cross to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park or fly to the Serengeti or Maasai Mara for big game safaris. Combining destinations enhances your african adventure safaris Uganda experience and lets you explore multiple ecosystems, cultures, and wildlife zones in one trip.
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