Uganda is known as the “Pearl of Africa” for good reason. It offers an incredible mix of lush scenery, rare wildlife, and authentic cultural encounters — all packed into one stunning destination. While it’s famous for gorilla trekking, Uganda also boasts some of East Africa’s best national parks for classic wildlife safaris.
Here are the top five safari parks in Uganda that every nature and wildlife lover should experience.
1. Queen Elizabeth National Park
Located in western Uganda, Queen Elizabeth is the most visited national park in the country. It is renowned for its diverse ecosystems that include savannah, wetlands, crater lakes, and tropical forest.
What to See:
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Lions, including rare tree-climbing lions in Ishasha
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Elephants, buffalo, hippos, and Uganda kob
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Over 600 bird species
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Boat safari on Kazinga Channel for close-up wildlife viewing
Best Time to Visit: June to September, December to February
2. Murchison Falls National Park
Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, Murchison Falls is where the mighty Nile River explodes through a narrow gorge, creating one of the most powerful waterfalls in Africa.
What to See:
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Giraffes, elephants, crocodiles, and leopards
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Nile boat safari to the base of the falls
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The top of the falls hike with stunning views
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Great chimp trekking in Budongo Forest nearby
Best Time to Visit: December to February, June to September
3. Kidepo Valley National Park
Remote, wild, and incredibly scenic, Kidepo is Uganda’s hidden gem and ideal for those who want a truly off-the-beaten-path safari experience. It sits in the semi-arid Karamoja region, bordering South Sudan.
What to See:
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Rare wildlife like cheetahs, ostriches, and bat-eared foxes
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Large herds of buffalo and elephants
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Authentic cultural visits to the Karamojong and IK tribes
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Jaw-dropping savannah landscapes with distant mountain views
Best Time to Visit: September to March (dry season)
4. Lake Mburo National Park
Perfect for short safaris or weekend getaways, Lake Mburo is the closest park to Kampala and offers a unique experience with its open woodlands and five lakes.
What to See:
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Zebras, impalas, elands, hippos, and crocodiles
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Boat cruises on Lake Mburo
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Walking and biking safaris allowed (rare in Uganda)
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Bird watching paradise
Best Time to Visit: June to August, December to February
5. Kibale Forest National Park
Though known for chimpanzee trekking, Kibale is also part of Uganda’s safari circuit due to its incredible biodiversity and proximity to Queen Elizabeth.
What to See:
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Over 1,500 chimpanzees in their natural habitat
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13 species of primates including red colobus and L’Hoest’s monkeys
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Forest elephants and birds in abundance
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Community walks and cultural experiences
Best Time to Visit: December to February, June to July
Uganda offers a rich and rewarding safari experience with fewer crowds and unspoiled wilderness. Whether you’re watching lions lounge in trees or cruising beneath the thunder of Murchison Falls, these national parks deliver unforgettable wildlife encounters.
At AA Safaris & Tours Ltd, we tailor every safari to match your interests and schedule. Let’s make your dream Uganda safari come true.
Ready to Explore Uganda’s Parks?
Contact us now to plan your customized safari across Uganda’s best destinations.