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Top 10 Wildlife Safaris in Uganda You Shouldn’t Miss

Top 10 Wildlife Safaris in Uganda You Shouldn’t Miss with mutanda tours

Uganda, also referred to as the Pearl of Africa, is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and one of the world’s most biodiverse nations. Uganda provides unparalleled safari experiences, from the jaw-dropping roar of Murchison Falls to the quiet gaze of a mountain gorilla in Bwindi. Regardless of your interests—adventure, photography, or the outdoors—these are the Top 10 Wildlife Safaris in Uganda You Must See.

1. Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

No Ugandan safari is complete without the iconic gorilla trekking experience. Deep in the lush forests of Bwindi, you’ll hike through misty jungles to come face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas, an unforgettable and humbling experience.

Highlights:

  • Over half of the world’s mountain gorillas live here
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Permits required and guided treks only

2. Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest National Park

Known as the primate capital of the world, Kibale Forest is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees. It’s the best place in East Africa for chimpanzee tracking and one of the richest ecosystems on the continent.

Highlights:

  • Close-up encounters with wild chimps
  • Birdwatching paradise (over 370 species)
  • Option for chimpanzee habituation experiences

3. Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Uganda’s most visited park is perfect for spotting elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards, and hippos. The Ishasha Sector is famous for its unique tree-climbing lions, found only here and in Tanzania’s Lake Manyara.

Highlights:

  • Classic African savannah safari
  • Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel
  • Over 600 bird species

4. Wildlife Safari in Murchison Falls National Park

Uganda’s largest park offers epic landscapes and large animal herds, crowned by the mighty Murchison Falls, where the Nile River squeezes through a 7-meter gorge.

Highlights:

  • Nile River boat cruise to the falls
  • Abundant elephants, giraffes, and crocodiles
  • Excellent for photographers

5. Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The only place in Uganda where you can see wild rhinos, Ziwa offers guided walking safaris to see these massive creatures up close in a secure environment.

Highlights:

  • On-foot rhino tracking
  • Ideal stopover on the way to Murchison Falls
  • Birdwatching and nature walks are available

6. Kidepo Valley National Park Safari

One of Africa’s most remote and least-visited parks, Kidepo offers dramatic scenery and a wild, untouched feel. It’s home to species not found elsewhere in Uganda.

Highlights:

  • Stunning savannah plains and mountains
  • Ostriches, cheetahs, and large buffalo herds
  • Rich cultural experiences with the Karamojong people

7. Lake Mburo National Park Safari

Small but rich in wildlife, Lake Mburo is ideal for walking safaris, boat rides, and cycling safaris. It’s the only park in Uganda with impalas and zebras.

Highlights:

  • Close-up encounters on foot
  • Night game drives for leopard spotting
  • Peaceful lake with hippos and crocodiles

8. Semuliki National Park Safari

Located near the Congo border, Semuliki is a lowland tropical rainforest and a birder’s paradise. It’s also known for its hot springs and rare primates.

Highlights:

  • Unique flora and fauna
  • Sempaya Hot Springs
  • Central African species like flying squirrels and forest elephants

9. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Part of the Virunga Mountains, Mgahinga is another great spot for gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking. It’s less crowded than Bwindi and offers scenic volcanic hikes.

Highlights:

  • Track golden monkeys
  • Hike Mount Gahinga, Muhabura, or Sabinyo
  • Connects with parks in Rwanda and the DRC

10. Budongo Forest Reserve Safari

Located near Murchison Falls, this forest is home to one of Uganda’s largest chimpanzee populations and offers a quieter alternative to Kibale.

Highlights:

  • Affordable chimpanzee tracking
  • Ancient mahogany trees
  • Birdwatching trails and eco-lodges

From the forests of Bwindi to the plains of Kidepo, Uganda offers diverse safari experiences like no other. Whether you’re here for primates, big game, birds, or scenic landscapes, Uganda has it all. Book your next adventure with Mutanda Tours and explore the pearl of the pick.