The varied landscapes and rich biodiversity of Uganda – often referred to as the ‘Pearl of Africa’ – make it one of Africa’s most rewarding wildlife destinations. Whether you’re trekking through dense rainforests to see gorillas, gliding along the Nile in search of hippos, or scanning the savannah for tree-climbing lions, Uganda promises a safari experience filled with wonder and discovery.
Uganda’s most famous residents are its mountain gorillas, found in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Trekking to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat is one of the most sought-after wildlife experiences in the world. Chimpanzees are another highlight, with Kibale National Park offering some of the best tracking opportunities in Africa. Known for their social and playful behaviour, chimps provide a fascinating and often energetic wildlife encounter. Beyond primates, Uganda’s savannah parks are home to iconic species like elephants, lions, leopards and giraffes. Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park are the most popular spots for game drives, where you can also see hippos, crocodiles and antelope species like kob and waterbuck.
The Big Five
Uganda offers the opportunity to see four of the Big Five –lion, elephant, leopard and buffalo – across its savannah parks. Lions, including the rare tree-climbing lions, are a highlight in Queen Elizabeth National Park, particularly in the Ishasha sector. Elephants and buffaloes are common in both Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks. Rhinos are not found in Uganda’s national parks, but the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary near Murchison Falls offers a chance to see these critically endangered animals on foot in a protected environment.
Unique species
Uganda is a haven for unique species, particularly primates. Alongside gorillas and chimpanzees, the country is home to golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and the cheeky red-tailed monkeys. In the savannah regions, Uganda’s Rothschild’s giraffes are a unique highlight. These rare giraffes are found in Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley National Parks. Shoebill storks, one of the world’s most peculiar and sought-after birds, can be seen in wetlands like Mabamba Swamp.
Birds and aquatic life
Uganda boasts an astounding 1,000 recorded species of birds. The Albertine Rift region, which includes Bwindi and Rwenzori Mountains National Park, is particularly rich in endemics, including the handsome francolin and Rwenzori turaco. Wetlands like Mabamba Swamp and lakes like Bunyonyi and Victoria attract a variety of waterbirds, from African jacanas to the iconic shoebill. Uganda’s lakes and rivers are also thriving with aquatic wildlife. Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in Africa, supports tilapia and Nile perch fisheries, while the Nile River, particularly around Murchison Falls, is home to crocodiles, hippos and a variety of fish species.
Endangered wildlife
Uganda’s conservation efforts have been instrumental in protecting endangered species. The mountain gorilla population in Bwindi and Mgahinga has steadily increased thanks to sustainable tourism and anti-poaching measures. The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary plays a critical role in reintroducing white rhinos to Uganda, ensuring their survival for future generations.
Something different
One of Uganda’s most unique wildlife experiences is tracking tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Seeing these majestic cats lounging on fig tree branches is a rare and memorable sight. Another distinctive experience is a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, where you can observe elephants, buffaloes, and hippos congregating at the water’s edge, alongside a stunning array of birdlife. The Nile River also offers boat safaris to the base of Murchison Falls, providing a unique perspective of Uganda’s wildlife.
If these wildlife species of Uganda impress you and you’re dreaming of a holiday we’d love to help. Please do reach out via telephone or email.
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