Travel advice for a wildlife safari in Uganda

Travel advice for a wildlife safari in Uganda

Known as the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda is one of Africa’s rich and best safari destinations, offering diverse attractions ranging from lush rainforests and majestic mountains to sprawling savannas and pristine lakes. The country’s most famous wildlife encounters include gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park, and game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison falls National park to mention but a few.

Most popular safaris

3 day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari

5 Days Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari

3 day Rwanda Gorilla tracking safari

3 day Gorilla habituation experience safari

3 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari (Luxury)

4 Days Ultimate Fly-in Gorilla Experience (Mid-Range)

3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari To Bwindi (Luxury)

9 Days Ugandan Experience! Game, Chimps, and Gorillas (Luxury)

Where to go on a safari in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a home to almost half of the world’s remaining population of the critically endangered mountain gorillas. The park harbours about 20 gorilla families and 2 habituated gorilla experience families distributed in four sectors namely Rushaga, Ruhoma, Nkuringo and Ruhija.  It is also a home to other wildlife that is to say chimpanzees, olive baboons, I’hoest monkeys and many others, with more than 350 bird species. The park offers a number of interesting activities that tourists can engage in during their safari. Anyone wishing to embark on a gorilla trekking safari in this park must secure a gorilla permit from Uganda Wildlife Authority. You can as well enquire from us about this in details.

Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga National park happens to be one of the few parks in the world that harbour mountain gorillas, but the only gorilla family open for the trekking adventure is Nyakagezi.

 It is also blessed with unique features like the three Virunga volcanoes which cut into Uganda, Rwanda and Congo, that is mount muhavura, mount Gahinga and mountain sabinyo  

Among other attractions that tourists can find in this park include; golden monkeys, white and black colobus monkeys, vevet and blue monkeys, about 115 bird species has been recorded and the Batwa indigenous people who give a very great cultural experience when they visit the park.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is undoubtly Uganda’s most popular tourist destination. The park’s diverse ecosystems, make it the ideal habitat for over 95 mammals and over 600 bird species. The park boasts of over 20 carnivores such as the lions, leopards, spotted hyenas and many more, usually spotted during the game drives.

The Panoramic views of the kazinga channel often lined with Hippos, elephants, buffalos is one of the park’s beautiful spots. Taking a launch trip on the channel allows you to spot rich aquatic life like crocodiles. Several animal normally quench their thirst from the channel banks, you may have a chance to spot them while on a game drive.

Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Fall National Park lies at the northern end of the Albertine rift valley, where the weeping Bunyoro escarpment tumbles into vast, palm-dotted savanna. It is Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. It is notably blessed with over 144 mammals, 556 bird species, 51 reptiles and 51 Amphibians.

During the game drives, you may spot animals like lions, elephants, cape buffaloes, waterbucks and many others. Taking a launch trip on the Murchison falls is one of the great relaxations and you may have a chance to see fantastic wildlife along the banks and those animals that move down to quench the thirst.

Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is the closet of all national parks to the Capital city and Entebbe International Airport. The park is home to 350 bird species as well as Zebras, Impalas, elands, buffaloes and many others. All these may be spotted on a game drive with in the park.

Semuliki National Park

Semuliki National Park lies in the remote western part of the Rwenzori mountain ranges west of Uganda. It is renowned for its two twin Sempaya hotsprings referred to as female and male, which can be visited in the Park and it is where you can carryout the egg-boiling experiment. The park is also a primate paradise with a variety of primate species that is to say blue monkeys, Olive baboons, Chimpanzees, red tailed monkeys and many more, protecting up to 144 bird species.

Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park is the furthest national park from the capital city and Entebbe International Airport positioned in the North Eastern part of Uganda. The park has a health population of the big five on the exception of Rhinos, most of the species found here are not found elsewhere in Ugandan Parks. Some of the species include; side-stripped jackals, cheetahs, caracals, Ostriches, greater and lesser kudus to mention but a few.

Mountain Rwenzori National Park

Mountain Rwenzori National Park is famous for mountaineering, trekking, hiking and climbing excursions or safaris. It also provides great opportunities to seeing nature at its finest.

Mountain Elgon National Park

Mountain Elgon National Park gives you a chance to hike and enjoy the great vegetation zones along the way.

Here’s a comprehensive guide with essential travel advice for your wildlife safari in Uganda.

Research and Planning:

Research the different national parks and wildlife reserves in Uganda to determine which ones align with your interests and preferences. Plan your itinerary in advance, considering factors such as travel time between destinations, accommodation options, and the activities you want to experience. Book accommodations and activities well ahead of time, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure availability and avoid disappointment.

Choosing a good Tour Operator:

Select a trusted and experienced tour operator with a proven track record in organizing wildlife safaris in Uganda.

Look for operators that prioritize safety, sustainability, and responsible tourism practices, including support for local communities and conservation efforts.

Read reviews and testimonials from past travelers to gauge the quality of service and customer satisfaction.

Health and Safety Precautions:

Consult with a healthcare professional before traveling to Uganda to receive necessary vaccinations and medications.

Follow safety guidelines provided by tour guides and park authorities, particularly during wildlife encounters and outdoor activities.

Packing Essentials:

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors suitable for outdoor activities and safari drives.

Bring sturdy hiking boots or walking shoes for trekking expeditions and comfortable clothing for long hours spent in vehicles.

Don’t forget essential items such as binoculars, camera gear, a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.

Respecting Wildlife and Environment:

Adhere to park regulations and guidelines to minimize your impact on the environment and wildlife.

Maintain a respectful distance from animals and refrain from making loud noises or sudden movements that could disturb them.

Dispose of waste responsibly and avoid leaving any trace of your presence in natural areas.