Discover Uganda’s National Parks

Discover Uganda’s National Parks – Explore the Pearl of Africa’s Wild Beauty

Uganda is a land of breathtaking contrasts—lush green forests, snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes, and sweeping savannahs. Nestled in East Africa, this landlocked country is bordered by South Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Uganda is part of the Great Rift Valley, with dramatic landscapes especially along its western and eastern edges.

Dubbed the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda is home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, offers some of the best chimpanzee trekking experiences on the continent, and boasts the source of the iconic River Nile. With 10 diverse national parks, Uganda is a nature lover’s dream.

Here’s a guide to the most captivating national parks in Uganda for your next safari adventure with Trek Africa Expeditions.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – The Ultimate Gorilla Trekking Destination

Tucked in the rugged southwest, bordering the DRC, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places in the world to see mountain gorillas in the wild. Home to more than half of the global mountain gorilla population, Bwindi offers a truly intimate and awe-inspiring trekking experience through dense, ancient rainforest.

Best Time to Visit:

Gorilla trekking is available year-round, but the drier months from June to October and December to March offer the best conditions. Trails are easier to navigate, and sightings are clearer. The rainy seasons (April, May, and November) offer fewer crowds and shorter treks, as gorillas tend to stay closer to the starting points thanks to abundant food.

Kibale Forest National Park – Africa’s Primate Capital

Located in western Uganda, Kibale Forest National Park spans several districts including Kabarole and Kamwenge. Known for having the highest density of primates in Africa, it is home to over 1,500 wild chimpanzees and up to 20 primate species, including red colobus and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will also be captivated by over 375 bird species and diverse butterfly and tree species.

Top Activities:

• Chimpanzee trekking

• Chimpanzee habituation experience

• Guided forest walks

• Birding expeditions

Best Time to Visit:
Dry seasons from June to October and December to March are ideal for trekking. While the wetter months may pose a challenge with slippery trails and thicker vegetation, they often lead to shorter treks due to chimpanzees staying closer to the center of the forest.

Queen Elizabeth National Park – Uganda’s Premier Wildlife Viewing Destination

Set against the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains, Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s second-largest park and one of its most diverse. It connects easily with both Kibale and Bwindi, making it a convenient addition to any itinerary.

Famed for its tree-climbing lions, large herds of elephants, hippos, and a wide range of antelope species, the park also offers boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel, one of the best places to see wildlife up close.

Safari Highlights:

• Big Four sightings (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard)

• Kazinga Channel boat cruises

• Game drives in the Kasenyi and Ishasha sectors

• Birdwatching (over 600 species recorded)

Murchison Falls National Park – Home of the World’s Most Powerful Waterfall

Named after its thundering waterfall, Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s oldest and largest protected area, covering 5,072 square kilometers. Here, the Nile squeezes through a 7-meter gorge, crashing down into the Devil’s Cauldron—a dramatic and unforgettable sight.

The park hosts over 76 mammal species, including giraffes, lions, leopards, and Uganda kob, as well as more than 400 bird species. It’s also an excellent place for boat safaris and chimpanzee tracking in nearby Budongo Forest.

Top Experiences:

• Game drives on the northern bank

• Boat safari to the base of the falls

• Hike to the top of Murchison Falls

• Chimpanzee tracking in Budongo Forest

Rwenzori Mountains National Park – Trekking Uganda’s Snowy Peaks

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rwenzori Mountains National Park offers one of Africa’s most rewarding alpine hiking experiences. The mystical “Mountains of the Moon” soar up to 5,109 meters, with glaciers, waterfalls, and otherworldly vegetation zones waiting to be explored.

Trekkers can encounter rare mammals, colorful birds, and a wide variety of endemic plants as they ascend through bamboo, montane, and alpine landscapes. This park is a must for seasoned hikers and mountain climbers.

Wildlife & Activities:

• Multi-day treks to Margherita Peak

• Scenic trails for shorter hikes

• Rare sightings of forest elephants, chimps, and even leopards

• Birdwatching (217 recorded species)

Other Notable Uganda National Parks Worth Visiting

Uganda is also home to several other outstanding national parks, each with its own unique draw:

• Lake Mburo National Park – Best for zebras, impalas, and cycling safaris

• Kidepo Valley National Park – Uganda’s most remote and wild park, perfect for off-the-beaten-path wildlife experiences

• Mount Elgon National Park – Ideal for hiking and exploring ancient volcanic calderas

• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Home to both gorillas and golden monkeys, plus excellent volcano hikes

• Semuliki National Park – Known for hot springs, birding, and Central African forest species

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Uganda Safari?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we believe in delivering authentic, responsible, and unforgettable safari experiences. Our team is passionate about wildlife conservation, community impact, and eco-friendly travel.

When you book with us, you’ll enjoy:

• Personalized service tailored to your interests

• Expert local guides and comfortable accommodations

• Safety-first approach, with strict post-COVID health protocols

• Sustainable travel practices that respect nature and communities

We follow the golden rule of eco-tourism: “Take only photos, leave only footprints.” Let us help you explore Uganda’s natural wonders the responsible way.