Uganda safaris offer a unique and diverse experience for visitors seeking adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural experience. Uganda Safaris rank among top African safari bucket lists with over 400 endangered apes, over 1000 bird species, 330 mammals and different primate species in the 10 major National Parks .
Why Visit Uganda?
So, why go on a Safari in Uganda? Uganda is a good country for a safari compared to Tanzania and Kenya because it’s not only home to the big five animals, but also home to the mountain Gorillas which are not found any where in Tanzania or Kenya. In addition to the Gorillas, Uganda is home to other great apes like the Chimpanzees and Golden Monkey, adventures like white water rafting and tubing, great mountains like Rwenzori and Elgon, over 1000 bird species and the superb Murchison Falls which is one of the most powerful water falls in the world.
Visitors should also note that Uganda is a less crowded safari destination compared to the neighboring Tanzania and Kenya .
There is a lot to do during a safari in Uganda including exploring the different national parks to encountering endangered mountain gorillas and so much more during activities which provide an unforgettable journey.
Popular Uganda safaris itineraries
Where to go for Uganda safaris
One of the main highlights of a safari in Uganda is visiting its national parks which are 10 in number. These protected areas are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna and the national parks also offer incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
Here are some of the top national parks to visit during a safari in Uganda:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi national park is renowned for its population of endangered mountain gorillas. It is one of the few places in the world where visitors can embark on gorilla trekking expeditions to observe these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.
The national park also has a rich biodiversity with different mammal species, including primates like vervet monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, and various bird species can also be seen around Bwindi national park.
During a tour around Bwindi national park, some of the activities to do include gorilla trekking, gorilla habituation, birding, guided nature walks and hikes and also Batwa community tours.
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi national park is carried out in 4 sectors of the national park which include Buhoma sector, Rushaga sector, Nkuringo sector and also the Ruhija sector.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth national park is located in southwestern Uganda and is among the popular savannah parks of the country.
There is a variety of wildlife species found in Queen Elizabeth national park which is home to over 95 mammal species, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, warthogs, waterbucks, elands, hartebeests and hippos among others.
Visitors can enjoy a number of activities around Queen Elizabeth national park such as game drives in the morning or afternoon, boat safaris along the Kazinga Channel, lion tracking, chimpanzee trekking, community visits and guided nature walks to explore the park’s savannah plains, wetlands, and dense forests.
Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison falls national park is located in northwestern Uganda and is named after the famous Murchison Falls where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge before plunging down about 7 meters into a pool below.
The national park offers excellent game viewing throughout the year and some of the wildlife species in Murchison falls national park includes large populations of elephants, giraffes, buffalos, and antelopes as well as hippos, lions, leopards, warthogs among others.
Boat safaris along the Nile River provide a unique perspective to observe hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species and they go to the bottom of the Murchison falls. Other activities to do around Murchison falls national park include top of the falls viewing, hiking to the top of the falls, game drives and also bird watching.
Kibale national park
Kibale national park is located in western Uganda and is renowned for its population of chimpanzees and is considered one of the best places in Africa.
The national park is also home to a diverse range of other primates including black and white colobus monkeys and L’Hoest monkeys. Kibale national park also has a variety of bird species which can be seen in the forest.
Activities carried out around Kibale national park include chimpanzee trekking and habituation, bird watching, community tours, guided nature walks and hikes.
Kidepo valley national park
Kidepo national park is located in northeastern Uganda and is known for its remote, diverse wildlife and untouched wilderness.
The park is made up of vast savannah plains, rugged mountains, and abundant wildlife. Kidepo national park is home to several wildlife species such as the cheetah, aardwolf, greater kudu, elephants, buffalos, lions, zebras, antelopes among others.
A visit to Kidepo Valley National Park offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience for those seeking adventure and solitude. It also offers a chance to interact with the Karamojong people and many other tribes like the IK.
Activities to do around Kidepo national park include game drives, nature walks, community tours as well as birding.
Lake Mburo national park
Lake Mburo national park is another exciting park to visit in Uganda and is the closest park to visit in the country.
The national park is small in size and has a lot to offer including game drives, guided nature walks, horse rides, boat safaris and also community tours. Different bird species and numerous wildlife species can also be spotted around Lake Mburo national park.
Semuliki National Park
Semuliki national park is located in western Uganda and is known for its hot springs, lush tropical rainforests, and diverse birdlife.
The national park is home to various primate species, including chimpanzees and baboons, as well as forest elephants and buffalo.
Other national parks in Uganda include Rwenzori mountains national park, Mount Elgon national park and Mgahinga national park.
Activities to do during Uganda safaris
In addition to wildlife encounters, Uganda safaris offer a range of activities and experiences that cater to different interests and they include the following:
Gorilla Trekking
Embarking on a gorilla trekking expedition in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience which can be done during a Uganda safari.
Gorilla trekking involves searching for the gorillas in their natural habitat accompanied by experienced guides, visitors hike through the dense forests in search of gorilla families and also spend an hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a truly awe-inspiring encounter. Read more..
Chimpanzee Tracking
Uganda is also known for its chimpanzee tracking opportunities which can be done in Kibale Forest National Park is particularly famous for its large population of habituated chimpanzees. Other destinations in Uganda where chimpanzees can be seen include Kyambura gorge in Queen Elizabeth national park and also the Budongo forest in Murchison falls national park.
Visitors can join guided walks to observe these intelligent primates as they swing through the trees and interact with each other. Read more..
Boat Safaris
Many national parks in Uganda offer boat safaris along lakes, providing a unique perspective to observe wildlife and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings.
From cruising along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park to exploring the Nile River in Murchison Falls National Park, these boat safaris offer a tranquil and immersive experience.
The boat safaris in Uganda can also be done in Lake Mburo national park and also some lakes in Uganda like Lake Victoria and Lake Albert, Lake Kyoga.
Cultural Encounters
Uganda is a culturally diverse country with over 56 different tribes, each with its own traditions, languages, and customs.
Safaris in Uganda often include opportunities to interact with local communities and learn about their way of life.
Visitors can participate in cultural dance performances, visit traditional villages, and engage in activities such as basket weaving or traditional cooking with the locals.
Other activities to do around Uganda include game drives, bird watching, hiking, white water rafting, zip lining, horse riding and so much more. Read more..
Best time to visit Uganda
The best time to go on a safari in Uganda is during the dry seasons, which are from December to January and from June to October.
During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and wildlife is easier to spot as they gather around water sources.
However, Uganda’s equatorial climate means that rain can occur at any time of the year, so it is advisable to come prepared with appropriate clothing and gear. Read more..
How to Get to Uganda for a Safari
Flights to Uganda
All international airlines fly to Entebbe International Airport and the different airlines options include Uganda Airlines, Emirates Airlines, Qatar Airways, KLM, Air Arabia, Turkish Airlines and Rwanda Air among others.
Visitors should note that most airlines to Uganda have an allowance of 20kgs hence a need to think about what one carries into and out of Uganda especially when you need to leave room for souvenirs.
How to get Around Uganda
Once you have arrived in Uganda, you will get around Uganda to the different safari destinations you intend to visit using a safari vehicle provided by your tour operator or safari company. You will have a dedicated English speaking local guide throughout your trip since this will be a private tour. Whether luxury or budget tours, we encourage private trip arrangements when it comes to an African safari.
Buses and internal small flights like Aero link are the other means of transport to help you get to national parks or nearby towns and finally to visit islands you will of course use water transport to especially Ssese Islands and Ngamba.
While in Kampala or Entebbe, taking a public taxi is the commonest way of getting around at an average cost of 2USD for a one way trip. Boda bodas (motorcycles) are the other way to get around at an average cost of 2USD and finally you may take a special Hire Taxis/cabs at average cost of 80USD for a full day.
How Much Does A Uganda Safari Cost in 2024?
The Average cost of a Uganda Safari is 200USD per person per day. Visitors should however note that a Uganda safari cost entirely depends on the activities, the type of accommodation, the number of days and the transport means used during one’s trip.
For example a short 3 day Uganda Gorilla Trekking safari to Bwindi can cost about 1400 USD per person sharing for 2 Persons sleeping in a budget accommodation. This price will slightly go down as the number of people you are travelling with increases.
Constant Uganda safari Costs include the Gorilla Trekking Permit cost at 800USD per person for Foreigners and 700USD Per Person for Foreign residents, Chimpanzee tracking cost at 250USD for Foreigners and 200USD for foreign residents, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo and Kidepo Valley National Parks entrance fees at 40USD per person, Murchison Falls National Park entrance fees at 45USD, Golden Monkey tracking fees at 100USD and Launch cruise fees at 30USD among others.
Other costs may include Car hire fees which start from 100USD to 300USD per day, accommodation costs which starts from as low as 50USD and Rhino tracking costs at 50USD among others.
Where to stay on a Uganda Safari Vacation?
Accommodation options in major national parks and Cities range from Budget to 5 Star lodges and hotels and they are all set to cater for every single need you may have throughout your stay. Accommodation options in National Parks are either lodges, tented camps set in traditional style or the beautiful bandas.
Best places to Stay in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
There are several lodges and camps to stay in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park across all the different sectors which makes it important that you choose your accommodation based on the gorilla group or sector that you are going to track. Below are a few lodges you may book your stay.
- Four Gorillas Lodge(Luxury)
- Kiho Gorilla Lodge(Luxury)
- Nkuringo Gorilla Safari Lodge(Luxury)
- Bweza Gorilla Lodge(Mid-range)
- Rushaga Gorilla Lodge(Mid-range)
- Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge(Mid-range)
- Gorilla Valley Lodge(Budget)
- Gorilla Valley Lodge(Budget)
Best Places to stay in Kibale Forest National Park
- Kibale Primates Lodge(Luxury)
- Chimpundu Lodge(Luxury)
- Rubalika Safari Lodge(Mid-range)
- Turaco Treetops Lodge(Mid-range)
- Isunga Lodge(Mid-range)
- Kibale Forest Camp(Budget)
- Chimpanzee Forest Lodge(Budget)
Best Places to stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Mweya Safari Lodge(Luxury)
- Aardvark Safari Lodge(Mid-range)
- Enganzi Safari Lodge(Mid-range)
- Twin Lakes Safari lodge(Mid-range)
- Pumba Safari Lodge(Budget)
Best Places to Stay in Murchison Falls National Park
- Chobe Safari Lodge(Luxury)
- Nile Safari Lodge(Luxury)
- Paara Safari Lodge(Luxury)
- Pakuba Safari Lodge(Mid-range)
- Ikorom Safari Lodge(Budget)
- Parkside Safari Lodge(Budget)
Places to Stay in Lake Bunyonyi
- Bird Nest Lodge(Mid-range)
- Bunyonyi Rock Resort(Mid-range)
- Hawks Eye Lodge(Budget)
Best Places to stay in Lake Mburo National Park
- Mihingo Lodge(Luxury)
- Rwakobo Rock Safari Lodge(Mid-range)
- Mpogo Lodge(Budget)
Best Places to Stay in Kampala and Entebbe
- Lake Victoria Serena Hotel(Luxury)
- Hotel No.5(Luxury)
- Sheraton Hotel(Luxury)
- Onomo Hotel(Mid-range)
- Latitude 0 Degrees(Luxury
- Golden Tulip Canaan Kampala(Mid-range)
- 2 Friends Beach Hotel(Budget)
List of Animals to see on a Uganda Safari
- Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park.
- Golden Monkeys of Mgahinga National Park
- Chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park
- Tree Climbing Lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park Ishasha area
- African Elephants
- Zebras in Lake Mburo National Park.
- Rothschild Giraffe in Murchison Falls National Park
- Cape Buffalo
- Rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Hippos
- Uganda Kob
- Leopard
List of a Uganda Safari Packing List
Travel Documents:
- Passport
- insurance
- flight tickets
- yellow fever vaccines
- safari itinerary
Safari Clothes:
- Khaki Trousers and Shorts (light brown and Olive)
- Jumper
- water proof jacket
- adjustable sleeves
- long flowly skirts
- gloves.
Safari Shoes:
- Light weight hiking shoes
- Jungle boots for mountain gorilla Trekking
- Flip-flops or sandals.
Sun Protection:
- Sunscreen cream
- moisturizers
- glasses
Adventure Gadgets:
- iPhone or mobile phone
- camera
- memory card
- headlamp.
Toiletries:
- wipes
- tampons for women
- teeth accessories
Medical Kit:
- Hand sanitizer
- protective masks
- Bandage
- antiseptic
- anti-diarrhea
- painkillers
- bug repellent
Donations: You may find needy communities especially children. Think of what you can carry for them.
FAQs About Uganda Safaris
What is the best Uganda Safari Experience?
From experience, the best Uganda safari experience should involve visiting multiple top national parks to be able to see variety of wildlife and scenery the country has to offer. So for an ultimate Uganda Safari experience, one should do Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga, Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale forest national park, a game park safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park or Murchison Falls National Park or Kidepo Valley National Park or Lake Mburo National Park.
If you have enough time at hand you can add on Golden monkey tacking, Rinho tracking, Shoebill bird watching, White water rafting or bungee jumping on the Nile in Jinja or stay in Ssese islands on the shores of Lake Victoria. You may also decide to combine a Uganda safari with a safari in Serengeti Tanzania or Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Finally to get a memorable Uganda Safari experience we recommend that you visit Uganda during the dry season months starting from June to September through to December and February because around this time animals are more concentrated around water sources and vegetation is less dense hence giving you much animals viewing opportunities.
What’s Included in a Uganda Safari Package?
A private trip Uganda safari package includes acativities, Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle ideal for game viewing, accommodation, all meals, English speaking local driver/guide and drinking water.
How Many days should i stay on a Uganda Safari?
On average, the number of days to stay on a Uganda Safari range from 6 to 12 days in length depending on the attractions you intend to see. A stay of 6-12 days provides enough time to comfortably visit 3-5 national parks without feeling too rushed but if you have enough time at hand you can stay on a Uganda Safari for up to 25 Days and above.
If you little time at hand, you may opt to 2-5 Days Uganda Safari package though you won’t have much to see as you can only visit 1 or 2 National Parks or do 1 or 2 activities in parks that are close to each other. For example you can opt for a 3 days Gorilla Trekking Tour, 3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking Tour, 2 Days Gorilla Trekking Tour starting in Kigali, 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari, 3 Days Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari , 5 days Gorilla Trekking and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari or 5 Days Gorilla Trekking and Chimpanzee Trekking Safari. Contact us for a tailored Uganda Safari Package
Which Currency is Used in Uganda?
The Uganda Shilling is the official currency used in Uganda and it is abbreviated as UGX. However, according to Bank of Uganda data, US Dollars are also very widely accepted and used for payment at many major shops, restaurants, hotels, and tourism destinations in the major cities as well as national parks. ATMs in Uganda do dispense Ugandan Shillings, but may charge foreign transaction fees, so bringing sufficient cash in US Dollars is advisable.
Do I need a Visa to Visit Uganda?
Yes, most foreign nationals do need a tourist visa in order to enter Uganda, as reported by the government’s Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival at the airport for citizens of over 50 countries including USA, UK, Canada, European Union nations, Australia, and New Zealand. East African citizens receive a free 90-day visa upon arrival. Other nationalities must apply for a Ugandan visa in advance through an embassy.
Is Uganda safe for a Safari Vacation?
Yes, Uganda is generally considered to be safe for tourists to visit according to government foreign travel advisories. Violent crime rates are relatively low in Uganda, especially for visitors who are travelling as part of an organized guided safari tour. However, basic common sense precautions should still be taken when in major cities and when using public transportation according to guidebooks. Tourists should avoid travelling to unstable border regions located in northern Uganda.
How Much do Uganda Safari lodges Cost?
According to reports from the Uganda Tourism Board, Uganda safari lodge prices can vary greatly, ranging from budget accommodation starting at $50-100 per person per night for basic bandas (thatched-roof huts) up to luxury lodges that are $400-800+ per person for lavish suites and villas. Mid-range safari lodges average about $150-300 per person per night for comfortable en-suite rooms with electricity and hot running water. Rates are full board including all meals, activities, and park fees.
What’s the best way to Explore Uganda?
Travel experts overwhelmingly recommend joining a guided small group or private safari tour as being the best and most convenient way to maximize and enrich your wildlife experience in Uganda. A self-drive safari is certainly possible, but hiring a local certified guide will provide more insight and support during your trip. Using public transportation options within Uganda’s national parks is very limited and not recommended.
What’s the cost of Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
According to the most recent fee schedule from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, a permit for one gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park costs $700 USD per person and will be $800 effective 1st July 2024. Due to high demand, these permits often sell out around 6-12 months in advance. Reputable tour companies and operators can secure gorilla trekking permits in advance and include a guided trek as part of pre-arranged safari packages in Uganda. Contact us to secure your Uganda Gorilla Permit
When is Uganda Safaris Low Season?
The rainy months of March-May and again October-November each year are considered to be Uganda’s Safari low season. During the low season, accommodation prices tend to slightly get lower due to the less crowds in the national parks as a result of much raining. Discounted rates around 20-30% off the high season prices be found at many safari lodges during the true low season months
What are the most Romantic Destinations in Uganda?
Top romantic spots in Uganda include Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Lake Mutanda, Sipi Falls, and the various islands in Lake Victoria such as Ssese Islands. A number of Luxury wilderness lodges and camps located throughout Uganda’s national parks also provide intimate, cozy settings for travelers seeking romance.
At Engabi Tours and Travel, we believe that Uganda safaris offer a captivating blend of wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural immersion that you should look out for. if you can’t wait to start planning your Uganda safari vacation, please contact us on WhatsApp at +256757341593(24/7) for your trip planning and information about Uganda Safaris.
There is a lot to do during a safari in Uganda including exploring the different national parks to encountering endangered mountain gorillas and so much more during activities which provide an unforgettable journey.