Uganda’s National Parks

Uganda, known as the “Pearl of Africa,” is blessed with incredible biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and diverse ecosystems. The country boasts 10 national parks, each offering unique wildlife encounters and experiences. From tracking endangered mountain gorillas in misty forests to witnessing tree-climbing lions on open savannahs, Uganda blends classic safaris with rare adventures. Its national parks range from lush rainforests and snow-capped mountains to sparkling lakes and vast grasslands, making it a premier destination for nature lovers. Below are highlights of Uganda’s most famous national parks:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi is world-renowned for being home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it one of the best places for gorilla trekking. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in southwestern Uganda, and features dense tropical rainforest, mist-covered hills, and rich biodiversity. Beyond gorillas, Bwindi is also home to chimpanzees, monkeys, forest elephants, and over 350 bird species. Visitors can enjoy guided treks, cultural interactions with the Batwa people, and scenic nature walks. The magical experience of standing just meters away from a gorilla family makes Bwindi an unforgettable highlight of any Ugandan safari.

2. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most popular and diverse safari destination, stretching from Lake Edward to Lake George. Known for its tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector, the park also hosts elephants, buffalo, leopards, and over 600 bird species. Its varied ecosystems—savannah, wetlands, forests, and volcanic crater lakes—support incredible biodiversity. A boat safari on the Kazinga Channel offers close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and countless waterbirds. The park also features chimpanzee tracking in the Kyambura Gorge. With its scenic landscapes and abundance of wildlife, Queen Elizabeth National Park provides a rich safari experience combining classic game viewing and unique adventures.

3. Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls is Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, bisected by the mighty River Nile. Its centerpiece is the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge, plunging 43 meters into a thunderous cascade. The park is rich in wildlife, with elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, and buffalo roaming the savannah. Boat cruises along the Nile reveal pods of hippos, crocodiles, and prolific birdlife, including the rare shoebill stork. Visitors can enjoy game drives, nature walks, and fishing expeditions. Murchison Falls combines breathtaking scenery with unforgettable wildlife encounters, making it one of Uganda’s most spectacular safari destinations.

4. Kibale National Park

Kibale is celebrated as the “Primate Capital of the World,” offering the best chimpanzee tracking experience in East Africa. The park is home to 13 primate species, including red colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and olive baboons. Its lush tropical forest also supports elephants, forest hogs, and nearly 375 bird species. Guided treks allow visitors to spend time with habituated chimpanzee families, watching their playful and intelligent behavior up close. Kibale also connects with Queen Elizabeth National Park, forming a vital wildlife corridor. For primate lovers and birdwatchers, Kibale offers a rich and immersive rainforest adventure unlike any other in Uganda.