Nicknamed ‘The Pearl of Africa’, this charming country attracts visitors from all over the world. Scour the landscapes searching for exotic wildlife. Climb the wild, rugged mountains to behold spectacular views of the untouched valleys below, and journey through thick forests tracking rare mountain gorillas. A tour to Uganda is nothing short of an adventure. Here’s our pick of the best national parks in Uganda.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the best in Uganda for wildlife viewing. Home to elephants, hippos, leopards, chimpanzees and 95 other species of mammal, in particular, their famous tree-climbing lions. It’s also a paradise for birdwatchers with over 500 species of birds taking to the skies. But, aside from wildlife, Queen Elizabeth National Park has one of the most spectacular landscapes in Uganda. Volcanic craters, expansive lakes, swaying savannahs and encroaching rolling hills. Explore the land by jeep and the water by boat.
Mount Elgon National Park
Mount Elgon National Park is one of the most unique places in Uganda. Aside from the lush vegetation, stunning waterfalls, plunging cliffs and deep gorges, this national park sits on an extinct volcano – making for incredible hiking. As well as the unique flora and fauna, the park is also home to a selection of volcano craters containing hot springs, and caves adorned with ancient paintings.
Did you know?
One quarter of Uganda’s surface is made up of rivers and lakes!
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is often the star attraction of a tour to Uganda – as here is where you’ll find the elusive mountain gorilla. Journeying through endless forests and dense overgrowth, searching for bands of gorillas frolicking in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. Being the richest ecosystem in Africa, there couldn’t be a better setting for viewing wildlife. These misty mountains are also home to a huge herd of elephants, another 120 species of mammal, 27 species of reptiles, 220 species of butterflies and over 340 species of birds.
Rwenzori Mountains National Park
The Rwenzori Mountains National Park has one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in Africa. Thanks to its raw, natural beauty, the park became a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular hiking spots in Africa. Trek through mystical lakes, past stunning waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, domineering glaciers and through the fairytale valley of nine lakes. The unique splattering of flora along the way and the many endangered species lurking in the trees and dense vegetation, make this national park truly captivating.
Kibale National Park
The home of one of the most stunning tropical forests in Uganda, Kibale National Park is a haven for wildlife lovers, especially if you want to see some chimpanzees. The beautiful forests-clad hills and valleys make the perfect setting for primates to swing and play in the branches. Witnessing a diverse selection of primates in their natural habitats makes Kibale National Park an excellent choice for a safari drive.
Murchison Falls National Park
With the addition of the raging river Nile running through its centre, Murchison Falls National Park is one of the best locations in Uganda for a safari. Being the largest and oldest national park in Uganda, it is always on the must-see list. Spend the days gazing after elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, crocodiles, hippos and Cape buffalo going about their daily lives. One of the highlights is the never-ceasing rainbow arching over the narrow gorge where the Nile squeezes through a gap in the rocks.
Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park is an excellent day-trip from Kampala. The wildlife here is spectacular, with frequent sightings of leopards, crocodiles, zebras, hyenas, hippos, impalas and over 350 species of birds. However, Lake Mburo isn’t just about the animals. The landscape is simply breathtaking. The national park is home to five lakes, the most impressive being Lake Mburo – providing the perfect setting for a relaxing boat ride. The park is also an excellent spot for horseriding.
Kidepo Valley National Park
One of the most remote national parks in Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park is an untouched beauty worth the long journey. Lying on the border of South Sudan, the rugged landscape is made of swaying savannah and sprawling plains, enclosed by rolling hills. The 470 species of birds and 77 species of mammal make Kidepo Valley a wildlife lover’s dream. Most notably are the zebra, buffalo, elephants, giraffes and lions.
