Uganda

Uganda, often called the “Pearl of Africa,” is a captivating safari destination offering an unparalleled blend of primate encounters, classic savanna wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. While East Africa is renowned for its safaris, Uganda stands out for its unique combination of experiences, making it a truly unforgettable choice for adventurers.

Why Choose Uganda for Your Safari?

• Primate Capital of the World: Uganda is arguably the best place in Africa for primate tracking.
  • Mountain Gorillas: It’s home to approximately half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, primarily found in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National¹ Park. Trekking through the dense forests to spend an hour with these magnificent creatures is a deeply moving and transformative experience. The success rate for finding habituated gorilla families is very high.
  • Chimpanzees: Kibale National Park is widely recognized as the best destination for chimpanzee trekking, boasting Africa’s largest chimpanzee population. You can witness their intelligent behaviors, complex social interactions, and even opt for a full-day habituation experience. Other locations for chimpanzee trekking include Budongo Forest (Murchison Falls National Park) and Kyambura Gorge (Queen Elizabeth National Park).
  • Golden Monkeys: In Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, you can also track the vibrant golden monkeys.
• Diverse Wildlife Beyond Primates: While famous for its primates, Uganda also offers excellent opportunities for classic savanna safaris.
  • The Big Five: While not as easily seen as in some other safari countries, Uganda is home to the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino). Rhinos can be tracked on foot at Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch.
  • Tree-Climbing Lions: Queen Elizabeth National Park, particularly the Ishasha sector, is famous for its unique tree-climbing lions, a rare spectacle where lions lounge in the branches of fig and acacia trees.
  • Abundant Herbivores: You’ll find plentiful elephants, buffalo, hippos, and various antelope species, including the endemic Uganda kob.
• Birdwatcher’s Paradise: With over 1,080 recorded bird species, Uganda is a prime birding destination. Notable sightings include the prehistoric shoebill stork, often found in wetlands like those along the Nile.
• Stunning Landscapes: Uganda’s scenery is incredibly diverse, from rolling hills and vast savannas to lush rainforests and dramatic escarpments. It’s also home to the source of the Nile River, Lake Victoria (Africa’s largest lake), and parts of the Rwenzori Mountains (“Mountains of the Moon”).
• Variety of Activities: Safaris in Uganda offer a balanced mix of activities, including game drives, boat safaris, guided nature walks, hiking, and cultural encounters with local communities.

Top Safari Destinations in Uganda:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: The premier destination for mountain gorilla trekking. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Kibale National Park: The “Primate Capital,” offering exceptional chimpanzee trekking and a rich diversity of other primate species.
• Queen Elizabeth National Park: Known for its classic game drives, the Kazinga Channel boat cruise (excellent for hippos, crocodiles, and birds), and the unique tree-climbing lions of Ishasha.
• Murchison Falls National Park: Uganda’s largest national park, famous for the powerful Murchison Falls where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge. Activities include game drives, boat cruises to the base of the falls, and chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest.
• Kidepo Valley National Park: A remote and untouched wilderness in the northeastern corner of Uganda, offering exceptional wildlife viewing, including cheetahs and large herds of buffalo, in a stunning semi-arid landscape. It’s often considered one of Africa’s last true wildernesses.
• Lake Mburo National Park: The most accessible national park from Kampala, offering good wildlife viewing (including zebras and impalas) and opportunities for walking safaris, horse riding, and boat trips.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Another site for mountain gorilla trekking and the only place in Uganda where you can also track golden monkeys.

Planning Your Uganda Safari:

• Best Time to Visit: The drier months (June to August and December to February) are generally best for wildlife viewing, especially for primate trekking, as the trails are less muddy and vegetation is thinner. However, the wet seasons offer lush landscapes and can be excellent for birdwatching.
• Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permits: These highly sought-after permits need to be booked well in advance. As of 2024-2025, a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800 per person for foreign non-residents, while the gorilla habituation experience permit is $1,500. Chimpanzee trekking permits also have associated costs.
• Transportation: While self-drive is possible, it’s highly recommended to book with a reputable safari operator for experienced guides and 4×4 vehicles, especially for navigating challenging road conditions in some parks.
• Combine Experiences: Many safari itineraries in Uganda combine gorilla trekking with savanna safaris in other parks, offering a comprehensive wildlife experience.

Uganda offers a safari experience that goes beyond the ordinary, providing intimate encounters with some of the world’s most endangered primates alongside classic African wildlife viewing, all set against a backdrop of incredibly diverse and beautiful scenery.