Destination

Uganda National Parks & Safari Destinations

Explore Gorilla Trekking, Wildlife Safaris & Scenic Wonderlands

Welcome to Uganda’s national parks, where savannahs meet rainforests and wildlife encounters go beyond the ordinary. From the legendary mountain gorillas of Bwindi to the wide-open plains of Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda offers a rare blend of adventure, biodiversity, and unforgettable beauty.

Whether you’re planning a gorilla trekking safari, a birdwatching expedition, or a classic big game safari, this guide to Uganda’s top safari destinations is your perfect starting point.

List of Top Uganda National Parks

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Best for: Gorilla trekking in Uganda
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Home to half the world’s mountain gorillas
Trekking permits required – book early!

Murchison Falls National Park

Best for: Big game safaris & Nile cruises
Elephants, lions, giraffes, hippos
Visit the dramatic Murchison Falls (world’s most powerful waterfall)

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Best for: Scenic variety & tree-climbing lions
See leopards, lions, elephants, hippos
Take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel
Excellent birdwatching (600+ species)

Kibale Forest National Park

Best for: Chimpanzee tracking
High success rate of chimp sightings (95%+)
Primate capital of East Africa

Lake Mburo National Park

Best for: Short wildlife safaris from Kampala
Only park in Uganda with zebras & impalas
Cycling safaris, walking safaris & horseback riding

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Best for: Gorillas + Volcano hikes
Home to 1 habituated gorilla family
Climb Mount Sabinyo or Mount Gahinga

Kidepo Valley National Park

Best for: Remote, off-the-beaten-path safaris
True wilderness experience – lions, cheetahs, ostriches
Stunning valley views & untouched savannah

Map: Uganda Safari Parks by Location

Best Time to Visit Uganda for Safari

Uganda is a year-round destination, but dry seasons are best for trekking and game viewing:

SeasonMonthsBest For
Dry SeasonJune – Sept, Dec – FebGorilla trekking, game drives
Rainy SeasonMarch – May, Oct – NovLush landscapes, fewer crowds

 Gorilla permits are limited — book 6–12 months in advance.

Uganda Safari Cost & Park Entry Fees

ParkEntry Fee (Non-resident Adults)
Bwindi / Mgahinga Gorilla$700 (gorilla permit incl. entry)
Murchison Falls$45/day
Queen Elizabeth$40/day
Kibale Forest (Chimp permit)$250
Lake Mburo / Kidepo$40/day

All fees are set by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and are subject to change.

Why Choose Uganda for Your African Safari?

  • Gorilla trekking capital of the world

  • Incredible biodiversity in a compact, accessible country

  • Low crowds compared to Kenya or Tanzania

  • Affordable safari prices

  • Excellent birding, primates, and big game

Getting to Uganda's National Parks

  • Fly into Entebbe International Airport (EBB)

  • Private 4×4 tours are available for all major parks

  • Scheduled domestic flights to Murchison, Kidepo, Bwindi (Kisoro)

Plan Your Uganda Safari with Us

Let’s help you build your perfect safari — from gorilla trekking to wildlife tours to cultural encounters.

 Gorilla permit assistance
 Private 4×4 transport & expert guides
 Custom itineraries for any group size or budget

Get a Free Safari Quote Chat with an Expert on WhatsApp Call: +254-112458884

FAQs – Uganda National Parks & Safaris

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the top destination, with the highest number of gorilla families and trekking options.

Besides gorillas and chimpanzees, Uganda is home to lions, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, leopards, zebras, and over 1,000 bird species.

A mid-range Uganda safari costs between $200–$400 per person per day. Gorilla permits are $700 USD and must be booked in advance.

The dry season (June–Sept, Dec–Feb) is ideal for gorilla trekking and game drives.

Yes. Uganda is considered safe for tourism, especially in national parks. Always book with a licensed operator for added security and support.