Uganda is a paradise for safari enthusiasts, offering some of the most remarkable game-viewing experiences in Africa. Known as the “Pearl of Africa,” this country boasts diverse ecosystems, from expansive savannas to dense rainforests, that are teeming with wildlife. Uganda’s national parks provide visitors with an authentic African safari experience, whether it’s encountering the “Big Five” or tracking gorillas through misty mountain forests. In this guide, we’ll explore the top five national parks for game viewing in Uganda, detailing the unique wildlife and activities in each, alongside accommodation options for an unforgettable safari.

For a seamless adventure, book with Exclusive Gorilla Journeys, a premier Ugandan tour company offering custom safari packages with knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and well-planned itineraries to help you make the most of your safari.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Overview of Queen Elizabeth National Park
Spanning nearly 2,000 square kilometers, Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most famous and visited parks, situated in the southwestern region. This park is defined by its stunning landscapes, which include sprawling savannas, lush forests, and wetlands that house an astonishing variety of wildlife. Bordering Lake Edward and Lake George, the park provides scenic backdrops for game viewing, making it a popular destination for safari lovers.

Wildlife You Can Spot in Queen Elizabeth
Queen Elizabeth National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering the chance to see some of Africa’s most iconic animals. This includes large herds of elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, and various antelope species like Uganda kobs and topis. The Ishasha sector, in particular, is famous for its unique tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior not commonly seen in other regions. The park is also home to over 600 species of birds, making it a popular destination for bird watchers. From the pink-backed pelican to the African fish eagle, Queen Elizabeth is a birder’s paradise.

Popular Game Drives and Activities
Game drives are the highlight of any visit to Queen Elizabeth. Morning and evening drives through the park offer excellent chances to spot big game and smaller animals alike. The Kazinga Channel boat cruise is another must-do activity, offering up-close views of hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birds along the water’s edge. For a unique experience, night game drives are available, allowing guests to spot nocturnal animals like hyenas and leopards. Exclusive Gorilla Journeys provides expert-guided tours throughout the park, ensuring that visitors have the best possible wildlife sightings.

Accommodations Near Queen Elizabeth
Whether you’re looking for luxury lodges with breathtaking views or mid-range lodges for comfort, Queen Elizabeth has a variety of options. Mweya Safari Lodge, Kyambura Gorge Lodge, and Elephant Plains Lodge offer fantastic stays for guests looking to immerse themselves in nature. Exclusive Gorilla Journeys can arrange your lodging, ensuring you have a comfortable and scenic place to unwind after a day on safari.

Murchison Falls National Park

Introduction to Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest national park, covers an expansive area of about 3,800 square kilometers in northwestern Uganda. The park is named after the magnificent Murchison Falls, where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge, plunging 43 meters with a thunderous roar. Known for its exceptional biodiversity, this park is perfect for travelers seeking both adventure and wildlife sightings.

Iconic Wildlife in Murchison Falls
Murchison Falls National Park is a hotspot for the “Big Five” and features some of Africa’s most impressive wildlife. Herds of elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and lions roam freely, while the Nile River teems with hippos and Nile crocodiles. The park’s Delta area is one of the best places in Uganda to spot the elusive shoebill stork, a rare bird species that attracts bird enthusiasts from around the world.

Boat Safaris and Game Drives
Both boat safaris and game drives are highlights of Murchison Falls. The boat cruise to the base of the falls provides thrilling views of animals along the riverbanks, while game drives take visitors through vast savannas teeming with wildlife. Morning and afternoon game drives provide chances to see lions hunting and elephants grazing. Exclusive Gorilla Journeys offers expertly guided game drives and river cruises, providing in-depth knowledge about the park’s ecology and history.

Accommodation Options at Murchison Falls
Guests at Murchison Falls National Park can enjoy a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges like Paraa Safari Lodge and Nile Safari Lodge to affordable yet comfortable options like Fort Murchison Lodge. Exclusive Gorilla Journeys will help you find the ideal accommodation for your stay, tailored to your preferences and budget.

Kidepo Valley National Park

Overview of Kidepo Valley National Park
Located in Uganda’s remote northeastern region, Kidepo Valley National Park offers an unmatched wilderness experience. Surrounded by rugged mountains and valleys, this isolated park spans over 1,400 square kilometers. Known for its vast, open landscapes, Kidepo offers a safari experience reminiscent of Kenya’s savannas, but with far fewer crowds.

Wildlife Highlights of Kidepo Valley
Kidepo Valley is home to diverse wildlife, including large herds of buffalo, elephants, lions, and the rare cheetah, making it a fantastic destination for big-game viewing. The park is also home to some unique species not found in other parts of Uganda, such as the greater and lesser kudu, aardwolf, and mountain reedbuck. Birders can spot nearly 500 bird species, including the Karamoja apalis, found only in Kidepo.

Game Viewing Activities in Kidepo
Game drives in Kidepo offer a unique sense of solitude, with spectacular views of animals against the backdrop of rugged mountains. The Narus Valley is a prime location for spotting wildlife, particularly during the dry season when animals congregate around the Narus River. Exclusive Gorilla Journeys organizes customized tours to Kidepo, helping travelers enjoy this untouched wilderness with the guidance of experienced local guides.

Accommodations in Kidepo Valley
While Kidepo’s remote location limits accommodation options, a few lodges and camps cater to safari-goers. Apoka Safari Lodge offers luxurious amenities and panoramic views, while Kidepo Savannah Lodge provides more budget-friendly, yet comfortable accommodations. Exclusive Gorilla Journeys ensures a well-planned stay with bookings at the best lodges to suit your comfort and travel style.

Lake Mburo National Park

Introduction to Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park, though Uganda’s smallest savanna park, is a unique game-viewing destination located close to Kampala. Covering about 370 square kilometers, it is ideal for shorter safaris and is the only Ugandan park where visitors can enjoy horseback safaris, making it popular among travelers looking for a unique experience.

Wildlife and Birds in Lake Mburo
The park’s rolling hills and acacia woodlands support a variety of wildlife, including zebras, impalas, elands, leopards, and hippos. The park is also a birder’s delight, with over 300 bird species, including the African finfoot and the white-winged warbler. Its proximity to Kampala and diverse ecosystem make it a rewarding destination for both game viewers and bird enthusiasts.

Safari Activities in Lake Mburo
In addition to traditional game drives, Lake Mburo offers horseback safaris and guided nature walks. Visitors can take a boat cruise on Lake Mburo to see hippos, crocodiles, and numerous water birds. Exclusive Gorilla Journeys can organize horseback safaris for guests looking to explore the park in a more intimate and adventurous way.

Recommended Lodges at Lake Mburo
Lake Mburo offers a range of lodges to suit all types of travelers. Mihingo Lodge provides luxury accommodations with views over the park, while Rwakobo Rock offers mid-range options with rustic charm. Exclusive Gorilla Journeys arranges stays at the best lodges to make your experience comfortable and memorable.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Introducing Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southwestern Uganda, known for its rich biodiversity and as a habitat for more than half of the world’s mountain gorillas. While gorilla trekking is the main attraction here, Bwindi also offers unique game-viewing opportunities, with dense forest landscapes unlike any other safari park in Uganda.

Gorillas and Other Wildlife in Bwindi
Bwindi is home to an estimated 450 mountain gorillas, as well as several other wildlife species, such as forest elephants, bushbucks, and numerous monkey species. The park is also a hot spot for bird watchers, with over 350 bird species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics. Exclusive Gorilla Journeys specializes in gorilla trekking expeditions, helping guests secure permits and guiding them through this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Game Viewing and Trekking Activities
Aside from gorilla trekking, Bwindi offers guided nature walks, community visits, and birding tours. For an immersive experience, Exclusive Gorilla Journeys provides access to experienced trackers and personalized trekking itineraries, making each journey unique and memorable.

Where to Stay Near Bwindi
For accommodation, travelers can choose from luxury lodges like Buhoma Lodge and Mahogany Springs, or mid-range options like Gorilla Mist Camp. Exclusive Gorilla Journeys arranges accommodation that suits both your style and budget, ensuring a comfortable base to recharge after trekking.

Why Choose Exclusive Gorilla Journeys for Your Safari Adventure

Planning a safari in Uganda can be a daunting task, but Exclusive Gorilla Journeys makes the process simple and enjoyable. With experienced guides, custom itineraries, and a dedication to sustainable tourism, the company provides unforgettable safari experiences tailored to each traveler. Whether it’s witnessing a pride of lions in Queen Elizabeth or trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi, Exclusive Gorilla Journeys ensures a well-organized, enriching, and memorable adventure. Start planning your safari today by reaching out to Exclusive Gorilla Journeys, and experience the wonders of Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes.