Best Uganda Safari Routes – From Savannah to Rainforest
Uganda boasts a magnificent array of landscapes and wildlife, making it one of the most captivating safari destinations in East Africa. From sweeping savannahs teeming with wildlife to lush rainforests sheltering rare primates, Uganda offers a variety of unique safari routes that cater to diverse interests. This article explores some of the best safari routes in Uganda, guiding you through what to expect, the wildlife you will encounter, and tips for planning your adventure.
Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks
Situated in the western part of Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park spans 1,978 square kilometres. It is one of the most biodiverse areas in Africa, offering a wide range of habitats, including savannah, wetlands, and tropical forests. Expect to see elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and over 600 species of birds. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, particularly in the Ishasha sector. Game drives, boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel (where you’ll see hippos and birds), and nature walks lead to rich wildlife sightings.
Start your journey from Entebbe, travelling to Queen Elizabeth National Park via the scenic Fort Portal region. The drive typically takes about 6-7 hours. Alternatively, you can drive from Entebbe Airport to Queen Elizabeth National Park via Kampala-Masaka-Mbarara-Kasese road. This takes between 5 and 7 hours.
Murchison Falls National Park
Located in the northwestern part of Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park is the largest national park in the country, covering about 3,893 square kilometres. The park derives its name from the dramatic waterfall on the Nile River. Home to a wide variety, including elephants, giraffes, lions, and several antelope species. It is also a great spot for birdwatching, with over 450 species to observe. Game drives, boat cruises to the base of Murchison Falls, and hiking adventures to the top of the falls are available. The views of the Nile River from the top of the Falls are breathtaking and provide great photo opportunities.
From Queen Elizabeth National Park, drive for about 5 hours to reach Murchison Falls National Park. You can also opt for a guided tour that includes transportation.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Parks
Renowned for its mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site covering 331 square kilometres. The park is home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, offering unforgettable trekking experiences.
The main attraction is with habituated gorilla families available for trekking. This unforgettable experience brings visitors face-to-face with these magnificent creatures. The park is home to 120 mammal species, 220 butterfly species, and over 350 bird species, making it a haven for biodiversity. Interact with local Batwa communities for a unique insight into their ancient traditions.
Accessing Bwindi can be done through either the northern or southern gates. It is about a 2-4 hour drive from Queen Elizabeth National Park to the southern gate of Bwindi.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Adjacent to Bwindi, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is much smaller, covering only 33 square kilometres. Despite its size, Mgahinga is rich in wildlife and offers excellent opportunities for gorilla tracking as well as seeing golden monkeys. Mgahinga offers opportunities similar to those in Bwindi, with the chance to see both mountain gorillas and the rare golden monkeys. The park is part of the Virunga Massif and offers various hiking trails, including those to the peak of Mt. Sabinyo. The park is situated near the Batwa community, providing insights into their unique culture and lifestyle.
After visiting Bwindi, you can easily reach Mgahinga by driving for about 1-2 hours, depending on the specific entrances you choose.
Kidepo Valley National Park
Located in the northeastern corner of Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park covers 1,442 square kilometres. This remote park offers stunning plains and rugged beauty, making it a hidden gem for safari enthusiasts. Kidepo is known for its large herds of elephants and buffalo, as well as for the rare cheetah and various antelope. It is also famous for its breathtaking landscapes, including the snowy peaks of the Mount Morungole range. The area is home to the Karamojong people, who maintain a rich cultural heritage and offer unique interactions for visitors.
Kidepo is about an 8-10 hour drive from either Entebbe or Kampala, making it more challenging to reach but worth the effort for those seeking solitude and pristine wilderness.
Lake Mburo National Park
Close to Kampala, Lake Mburo National Park is the smallest of Uganda’s national parks but is nonetheless rich in wildlife and unique vegetation. Covering 370 square kilometres, it features savannah, wetlands, and forest. This park is known for its populations of zebras, elands, impalas, and the elusive African giant rats. Lake Mburo itself is a magnet for birdwatchers, with over 300 species recorded. Walking safaris, boat rides on Lake Mburo, and game drives offer diverse opportunities to explore the park. Its location makes it an ideal stopover between Kampala and the more prominent national parks in the west.
From Kampala, you can drive to Lake Mburo in about 3-4 hours, making it a convenient start or end point for your Ugandan safari.
Best Time to Visit Uganda for a Safari
The best time to go on a safari in Uganda generally falls during the dry seasons (June to September and December to February). These months provide the perfect conditions for wildlife spotting as animals congregate around water sources. However, for gorilla trekking specifically, the dry months enhance the chances of easier trekking conditions.
Conclusion
Uganda safari routes truly offer something for every type of traveller. From the classic savannah experiences of Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks to the incredible primate encounters in Bwindi and Mgahinga, and the unique ecosystems of Kidepo and Lake Mburo, Uganda is a destination that promises unforgettable adventures.
Whether you’re gazing at the majestic gorillas, embarking on a game drive through the savannah, or immersing yourself in local cultures, a safari in Uganda will offer cherished memories and a profound appreciation for this remarkable country. As you plan your adventure, consider the diverse routes available, and let Uganda’s stunning environments and rich wildlife lead you on a journey of discovery.
