How Good is a Safari in Uganda?

How Good is a Safari in Uganda? – What to Anticipate on Your Expedition

How Good is a Safari in Uganda? — Embarking on a safari in Uganda is an immersive encounter with the breathtaking tapestry of its landscapes. From the moment you touch down at Entebbe International Airport, the allure of Uganda unfolds as you journey westward to the expansive belt of National Parks that adorns its western border.

Nestled at the convergence of the Eastern savannah and Western jungle ecosystems, Uganda offers a diverse terrain, creating an ideal canvas for an array of safaris. Whether opting for classic game drives, navigating golden grasslands on boat safaris in search of Lions or Elephants, or donning hiking boots to traverse the lush rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, the possibilities are as vast as the landscapes themselves.

A remarkable feature near the rainforests is the picturesque terraced agriculture, adorning green hills in myriad shades. The country’s National Parks, with relatively fewer tourists, ensure an intimate wildlife experience. While Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park may not match the game densities of some counterparts, sightings of lions, elephants, or leopards become cherished moments, rarely shared with other vehicles.

For Whom is It?

Uganda stands as the dream destination for those seeking the pinnacle of primate safaris. Kibale Forest National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park teem with chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, de Brazza monkeys, and more. The Mountain Gorillas, carefully protected in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, offer a life-altering Gorilla tracking experience, while bird watchers can revel in the diversity of species, including the elusive Shoebill.

Avid bird watchers may encounter species like the handsome francolin, dwarf honey guide, and purple-breasted sunbird. Uganda’s appeal extends beyond primates and birds, providing an exceptional destination for traditional safaris by vehicle or boat, thanks to its lush habitats and diverse species.

Duration of Your Stay

The length of a typical Uganda safari varies. For those tracking Mountain Gorillas, the journey typically begins at Entebbe International Airport, with an overnight stay on the shores of Lake Victoria before heading to the southwestern National Parks the next morning. We recommend tracking Mountain Gorillas twice, ensuring a comprehensive experience.

After the Gorilla tracking adventure, visitors can return to Entebbe International Airport to continue their safari elsewhere or explore the Ugandan safari circuit, including Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth, and Murchison Falls National Parks. Stays generally range from four to six days, offering a delightful blend of wildlife encounters and scenic exploration.

Ideal Timing for Your Safari

Uganda is a year-round tourism destination, with a temperate climate maintained by its equatorial location and high altitude. The rainy seasons from March to May and November to December can pose logistical challenges, particularly for tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and Kibale Forest National Parks. However, the advantage lies in Uganda’s moderate temperatures throughout the year.

The high season aligns with other East African destinations, from June to October, coinciding with the winter months in the southern hemisphere. This period ensures optimal safari conditions.

Where to Embark on Your Ugandan Safari?

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park:

Bwindi is a premier destination for Mountain Gorilla tracking, housing half of the world’s mountain Gorilla population. Apart from Gorillas, visitors can explore diverse wildlife, including bird species, chimpanzees, and forest elephants. Cultural encounters with the Batwa Pygmies add a unique dimension to the experience.

Murchison Falls National Park:

Renowned for wildlife safaris, Murchison Falls National Park is home to four of the Big Five, with rhinos tracked at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary en-route. The park’s notable feature is the powerful Murchison Falls, where the Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge.

Kibale Forest National Park:

Dubbed the primate capital of the world, Kibale Forest hosts 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, L’hoest monkeys, white and red colobus monkeys, and more. Chimpanzee trekking and visits to the Bigodi wetlands enhance the primate-focused adventure.

Queen Elizabeth National Park:

A quintessential stop on your safari, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers diverse activities such as game drives, boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel, chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura or Kalinzu forest, and visits to crater lakes and salt licks.

Lake Mburo National Park:

Accessible from Kampala, Lake Mburo National Park is home to zebras, eland, buffaloes, impala, giraffes, and more. Walking safaris offer a unique experience, and night safaris may reveal elusive leopards.

Mountain Rwenzori National Park:

A haven for mountain trekking enthusiasts, the Rwenzori Mountains National Park boasts the Margherita peak on Mount Stanley, offering a challenging ascent with a snow-capped reward.

Kidepo Valley National Park:

Nestled in the unexplored northern region of Karamoja, Kidepo Valley National Park stands as Uganda’s top wildlife safari destination. A unique blend of wildlife encounters and cultural immersion awaits in this hidden gem.

Uganda’s other National Parks, including Semuliki National Park and Mount Elgon National Park, present unique and captivating experiences, ensuring every safari enthusiast finds their perfect adventure in this diverse and vibrant destination.