Kikooko Africa Safaris | Taking A Uganda Safari Tour to Northern Uganda

Taking A Uganda Safari Tour to Northern Uganda

Uganda’s Northern Region is a fascinating and historically significant area that is often overlooked by visitors to the country. 

From the ancient kingdoms that once ruled the region, to the more recent conflicts and struggles for independence, Northern Uganda has a rich and complex history. 

Today we are exploring the region’s fascinating past and highlighting some of its most significant landmarks and attractions, including the town of Gulu. 

Whether you’re a history buff, culture lover, or simply looking to explore a lesser-known part of Uganda, the Northern Region is definitely worth a visit.

National Park in Northern Region

Kidepo Valley National Park is the only national park located in the Northern Region of Uganda. It is often referred to as the “true African wilderness” due to its remote location and untouched natural beauty. 

The park is known for its stunning landscape, including rugged mountains, vast savannas, and lush valleys. 

It is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including several species that cannot be found anywhere else in Uganda, such as the cheetah and the bat-eared fox. 

Kidepo Valley National Park offers visitors a truly unique and unforgettable Uganda safari experience that is unlike anything else in the country.

Best Things To Do in Northern Region

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Uganda’s Northern Region for tourists on a Uganda safari tour. Some of the top activities to consider include:

  • Game drives in Kidepo Valley National Park: This is one of the best ways to experience the unique wildlife in the park. You can embark on a game drive with an experienced guide to see animals like lions, leopards, elephants, zebras, and giraffes in their natural habitat.
  • Visiting Karamojong Manyattas: A Manyatta is a traditional homestead for the Karamojong people. You can visit and learn about the unique culture and way of life of the Karamojong people, including their cattle herding practices and traditional dances.
  • Hiking Mount Morungole: This mountain is located on the border of Uganda and South Sudan, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a challenging hike, but well worth it for the breathtaking scenery and the sense of accomplishment.
  • Birdwatching in Kidepo Valley National Park: The park is home to over 475 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. You can spot species like the Kori bustard, the Abyssinian roller, and the ostrich.
  • Cultural tours in Gulu town: Gulu town is the largest town in Northern Uganda and has a rich cultural heritage. You can visit local markets, museums, and historical sites to learn about the region’s history and culture.

These are just a few of the many exciting things to do in Uganda’s Northern Region.

Learn About Uganda’s Other Regions

Curious to learn more about traveling to Uganda’s other regions? We put together similar guides for the rest of the regions. See each of the articles below:

Create Your Own Uganda Safari Tour in Uganda’s Northern Region

If you’re looking to experience the beauty and history of Uganda’s Northern Region, then let Kikooko Africa Safaris help plan your dream safari tour. 

Our customizable itineraries can be tailored to your specific interests and preferences, and we’ll make sure you have an unforgettable experience exploring this unique part of Uganda. 

Contact us today to start planning your trip!

Kikooko Africa Safaris | What You Need To Know About Uganda Safari Tours in Eastern Uganda

What You Need To Know About Uganda Safari Tours in Eastern Uganda

Welcome to Eastern Uganda, an often-overlooked region that offers a wealth of natural and cultural wonders. 

From the adrenaline-pumping activities in Jinja to the tranquil beauty of Sipi Falls and the majestic Mount Elgon, Eastern Uganda has something for everyone. 

The region is also known for producing some of the world’s top long-distance runners, with the training grounds for Olympic medalists nearby. 

Let’s dive into what you need to know about safari tours in Eastern Uganda, including the best places to visit, the most thrilling activities, and the cultural experiences that await. 

Must Visit Places in Eastern Uganda

The less-explored Eastern Uganda has some of Uganda’s most compelling natural resources, including:

  • Mount Elgon National Park: This park is located on the border between Uganda and Kenya and is home to the towering Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano. Visitors can hike to the summit, explore the caves, and observe a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, hyenas, and over 300 species of birds.
  • Jinja: While not a national park, Jinja is a popular destination for adventure activities and is often called the adventure capital of East Africa. Visitors can enjoy white-water rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, and more.

Best Things To Do in Eastern Uganda

Here are five of the best things to do on a Uganda safari tour to Eastern Uganda:

  • White Water Rafting in Jinja: Jinja is known as the adventure capital of East Africa, and for good reason. A trip to Jinja is incomplete without a white water rafting experience on the Nile River.
  • Hiking and Coffee Tasting at Sipi Falls: Sipi Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the foothills of Mount Elgon. Visitors can take a guided hike to the top of the falls, and also enjoy a coffee plantation tour and tasting.
  • Cultural Experiences: Eastern Uganda is home to several ethnic groups with unique cultures, such as the Bagisu people who are known for their male circumcision ceremony. Visitors can experience local traditions and customs by visiting cultural villages and attending cultural events.
  • Nature Walks and Wildlife Viewing in Mount Elgon National Park: Mount Elgon National Park offers several beautiful hiking trails through stunning landscapes. Visitors can also observe a variety of wildlife, including primates, antelopes, and over 300 species of birds.
  • Exploring Jinja Town: Jinja is a lively town with a bustling market, historic buildings, and several cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the town on foot or by bicycle, and take in the vibrant local atmosphere.

These are just a few examples of the many amazing experiences that await visitors on a Uganda safari tour to Eastern Uganda.

Learn About Uganda’s Other Regions

Curious to learn more about traveling to Uganda’s other regions? We put together similar guides for the rest of the regions. See each of the articles below:

Create Your Own Uganda Safari Tour in Eastern Uganda

If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable Uganda safari tour, Eastern Uganda is a must-visit destination. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and thrilling adventure activities, there’s something for everyone in this region. 

At Kikooko Africa Safaris, we specialize in creating custom itineraries that cater to your specific interests and preferences. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, adventure seeker, or culture lover, we can help you plan the trip of a lifetime. 

Contact us today to start planning your Uganda safari tour to Eastern Uganda!

Kikooko Africa Safaris | All About Uganda Safari Tours in Western Uganda

All About Uganda Safari Tours in Western Uganda

Western Uganda is a nature lover’s paradise. 

Home to some of the country’s most spectacular national parks and wildlife reserves, this region is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a Uganda safari tour. 

With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural experiences, the Western Region offers an unforgettable adventure for visitors of all ages and interests. 

Today we’re taking a closer look at some of the highlights of Western Uganda’s Western and exploring why it should be at the top of your list for your next Uganda safari tour.

National Parks in Western Region

Here are the most prominent national parks in Western Uganda.

  • Kibale National Park: Known for its diverse primate population, Kibale National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in chimpanzee trekking. The park is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees, as well as a variety of other primates, including the red colobus monkey, L’Hoest’s monkey, and the black and white colobus monkey.
  • Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is famous for its population of endangered mountain gorillas. Visitors can go on guided gorilla treks to see these magnificent animals up close in their natural habitat. The park is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including forest elephants, chimpanzees, and several species of antelope.
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park: Located in the southwest of Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is known for its diverse wildlife and stunning scenery. Visitors can spot a variety of animals on game drives, including lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo. The park is also home to over 600 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.
  • Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda. The park is home to a small population of mountain gorillas, as well as several other primate species, including golden monkeys.
  • Murchison Falls National Park: Located in the northwestern part of Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park is known for its breathtaking waterfalls and diverse wildlife. Visitors can spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and hippos on game drives, as well as take a boat cruise to the base of the falls for a close-up view.

These national parks are just a few of the many amazing destinations that Western Uganda has to offer. 

Best Things To Do in Western Region

Here are 5 of the best things to do in Western Uganda:

  • Mountain Gorilla Tracking: A visit to the Western Region of Uganda is not complete without going gorilla trekking in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
  • Game Drives: Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park are both great destinations for game drives. Visitors can spot elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalo, and a variety of other wildlife while enjoying the stunning scenery of the national parks.
  • Tracking Chimpanzees: Kibale National Park is one of the best places in the world for chimpanzee trekking. Visitors can observe these intelligent animals swinging through the trees and interacting with each other in their natural habitat.
  • Boat Cruise: A boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park is a fantastic way to view wildlife and take in the stunning scenery of the national parks.
  • Cultural Experiences: Western Uganda is also known for its rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore traditional villages, meet with local people, and learn about the customs and traditions of the Bakiga, Batwa, and other ethnic groups in the region.

These are just a few of the many amazing experiences that Western Uganda has to offer. 

Learn About Uganda’s Other Regions

Curious to learn more about traveling to Uganda’s other regions? We put together similar guides for the rest of the regions. See each of the articles below:

Create Your Own Uganda Safari Tour in Uganda’s Western Region

If you’re looking to experience the best of Western Uganda and create unforgettable memories, Kikooko Africa Safaris can help you plan the perfect Uganda safari tour. 

With our expert knowledge of the region and our ability to customize itineraries to your specific interests, we can help you create a trip of a lifetime. 

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today to start planning your Western Uganda adventure!

Kikooko Africa Safaris | Can You Do A Uganda Safari Tour in Central Uganda?

Can You Do A Uganda Safari Tour in Central Uganda?

If you’ve just landed in Uganda, you have been welcomed to Central Uganda! Though many travelers think of Western Uganda as the main place to go, the Central Region should definitely be on your list of destinations to explore. 

This region is home to some of Uganda’s most popular and bustling cities, including Entebbe and Kampala, as well as some of the country’s most impressive wildlife conservation efforts, such as the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

In this blog, we will take you on a journey through Central Uganda and highlight some of the top tourist destinations. We will provide you with insider information and tips to help you make the most of your safari tour experience in Uganda, including where to stay, what to see, and what to expect. 

Whether you are a first-time visitor to Uganda or a seasoned traveler, our blog will provide you with all the information you need to decide whether a Uganda safari tour in the Central Region is the right choice for you.

Parks and Monuments in Central Uganda

Here are just a few of the interesting sites and places you’ll find while you’re enjoying Central Uganda.

  • Kasubi Tombs: Located in Kampala, the Kasubi Tombs are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that serves as the burial grounds for the Kings of Buganda. This site is an important cultural landmark in Uganda and is a must-visit destination for those interested in learning more about Uganda’s history and culture.
  • Ssese Islands: A group of 84 islands located on Lake Victoria, the Ssese Islands are a popular destination for those looking to relax and unwind. Visitors can enjoy beach activities, fishing, and nature walks on the islands.
  • Uganda Martyrs Shrine: Located in Namugongo, just outside Kampala, the Uganda Martyrs Shrine is a Catholic pilgrimage site that commemorates the 22 Ugandan Christians who were martyred for their faith in the late 19th century. The shrine is a popular destination for visitors who want to learn more about Uganda’s religious history and culture.

Each of these destinations offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors to Uganda.

Best Things To Do in Central Uganda

Here are some of the best things to do in Central Uganda:

  1. Visit the Uganda Museum: Located in Kampala, the Uganda Museum is the oldest and largest museum in the country. It houses a collection of ethnographic, natural history, and musical instruments exhibits, providing a glimpse into Uganda’s rich cultural heritage.
  2. Tour the Kasubi Tombs: The Kasubi Tombs, located in Kampala, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serve as the burial grounds for the Kings of Buganda. The site is an important cultural landmark in Uganda and offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about the country’s history and traditions.
  3. Explore Kampala: Uganda’s capital city, Kampala, is a bustling metropolis that offers a range of cultural and entertainment activities. Visitors can explore the city’s many markets, museums, and historical landmarks, as well as enjoy its lively nightlife scene.
  4. Visit the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a wildlife conservation area located in Nakasongola, Central Uganda. It is the only place in Uganda where visitors can see rhinoceroses in their natural habitat. Visitors can enjoy guided walks and bird-watching tours in the sanctuary.
  5. Go birdwatching in Mabamba Swamp: Located on the shores of Lake Victoria, Mabamba Swamp is a wetland area that offers some of the best birdwatching opportunities in Uganda. Visitors can spot a range of bird species, including the rare shoebill stork.
  6. Relax on the Ssese Islands: A group of 84 islands located on Lake Victoria, the Ssese Islands offer visitors the opportunity to relax and unwind. Visitors can enjoy beach activities, fishing, and nature walks on the islands.

These are just a few of the many activities and attractions that Central Uganda has to offer. Whether you’re interested in culture, history, nature, or simply relaxing, there is something for everyone in this vibrant region of Uganda.

Learn About Uganda’s Other Regions

Curious to learn more about traveling to Uganda’s other regions? We put together similar guides for the rest of the regions. See each of the articles below:

Create Your Own Uganda Safari Tour in Uganda’s Central Region

Central Uganda is a vibrant and diverse region with plenty to offer visitors. 

From exploring the country’s rich cultural heritage at the Kasubi Tombs and Uganda Museum to spotting rhinoceroses in their natural habitat at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, there is no shortage of activities and attractions to enjoy in Central Uganda. 

If you’re planning a Uganda safari tour, consider exploring Central Uganda with Kikooko Africa Safaris. Our team of experienced and knowledgeable guides can help you create a completely customizable itinerary that suits your interests and preferences, ensuring that you have the trip of a lifetime. 

Contact us today to start planning your dream Uganda safari tour!

Kikooko Africa Safaris | The best months for a beautiful Uganda safari

The best months for a beautiful Uganda safari

When you’re planning a Uganda safari tour, one of the first decisions you have to make is when you’ll be packing your bags. That’s probably why you’re searching for the best month for a beautiful Uganda safari!

Why is timing so important? In addition to planning your own schedule – maybe you’ve got to keep in mind the kids’ school vacations or your own work holidays – picking the best month for a Uganda safari can affect the cost of a Uganda safari and what kinds of amazing wildlife you see while you’re here in the Pearl of Africa.

Below, we’re sharing when the major rainy seasons are in Uganda, the best months for a Uganda safari tour, and how you can make the most of Uganda no matter what time of year you’re available to travel.

Rainy and Dry Seasons in Uganda

Uganda has two rainy seasons per year: one from March to May and the other from September to December.

Uganda’s northern region, which forms one quarter of the country and contains regions like Kidepo National Park, lies outside of the tropical belt that most of Uganda finds itself in. Because of that, this area has just one rainy season from March till October.

The majority of Uganda has a relatively humid climate zone. Rather than the changing seasons, its topography, winds, lakes, and rivers that can make a difference in the rainfall patterns.

Uganda Safaris By Month

Below we are breaking down the best months for a Uganda safari in terms of average high temperatures, average low temperatures, and average rainfall.

Uganda Safari in January

January is the dry season in Uganda, with the average high temperature around 29 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit) and the average low temperature around 19 degrees Celsius (66 degrees Fahrenheit). 

January is the least rainy month. It rains about 46mm (1.8″) of precipitation.

Uganda Safari in February

February is part of Uganda’s dry season, with the average high temperature around 29 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit) and the average low temperature around 19 degrees Celsius (66 degrees Fahrenheit). 

The average rainfall in Uganda in February is about 61mm (2.4”).

Uganda Safari in March

March is the beginning of the rainy season in Uganda, with the average high temperature around 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees Fahrenheit) and the average low temperature around 17 degrees Celsius (63 degrees Fahrenheit). 

 

The average rainfall in Uganda in March is about 130mm (5.1”).

Uganda Safari in April & May

April and May are in the rainy season in Uganda, with the average high temperature around 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit) and the average low temperature around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit). 

The average rainfall in Uganda in April is 175mm (6.9”). The average rainfall in May is 147mm (5.8”).

Uganda Safari in June, July & August

June, July, and August are the peak of the dry season, with the average high temperature around 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit) and the average low temperature around 14 degrees Celsius (57 degrees Fahrenheit). Rain is almost non-existent during these months, making them the best time to visit for a safari.

The average rainfall in June is 74mm (2.9”). In Uganda, the average July rainfall is 46mm (1.8”). Closing out the summer dry season, the average August rainfall is 86mm (3.4”).

Uganda Safari in September & October

September and October are the end of the dry season, with the average high temperature around 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit) and the average low temperature around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit). Rain is more frequent during these months, but it’s still generally light and sporadic.

On average, it rains 91mm (3.6”) in September and 97mm (3.8”) in October.

Uganda Safari in November & December

November and December are part of the rainy season, with the average high temperature around 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees Fahrenheit) and the average low temperature around 17 degrees Celsius (63 degrees Fahrenheit). Rain is more frequent during these months, but it’s still generally light and sporadic.

On average, it rains 122mm (4.8”) in November and 99mm (3.9”) in December.

Best Time To Safari in Uganda

If you are looking to do a short safari tour in Uganda and want the best weather, come in January, February, June, and July.

If you’re looking to do a Uganda safari in August or September, know you’ll have very good weather with a slightly higher chance of rain.

Planning Your Next Uganda Safari Tour

Overall, Uganda is a great destination for a safari at any time of year. The weather is generally warm and pleasant, with the rainy season bringing light, sporadic rain and the dry season offering clear, sunny skies.

One of our favorite ways to explore? Our 21-day You & Uganda tour, which will introduce you to all of the best parts of our country. In addition to a Uganda safari tour, you’ll have opportunities to meet and interact with local people, learn to cook, and even sample the local beer!

We understand you have your own schedules and budgets to work within. When you’re ready to get a boutique safari tour made to your specifications, please reach out to the expert team at Kikooko Africa Safaris. As Ugandan locals with an international support team, it’s been our pleasure to provide safari tours to visitors like you since 2013!

Kikooko Africa Safaris | 5 Day Trips To Take From Entebbe

5 Day Trips To Take From Entebbe

Whether you’re in town for a quick business trip or you booked yourself a little bit of leisure time after your safari, there are plenty of ways to spend an extra day in Entebbe. Known for being the home to Uganda’s international airport, there is plenty more to do than just fly in and out.

Entebbe is located 40 kilometers from Uganda’s capital, Kampala, and there are lots of short trips that can easily fit within a day.

As the main entry point to Uganda and the country’s principal international airport, it’s understandable that many tourists arrive in Entebbe eager to explore the rest of what Uganda has to offer. In our humble opinions, though, Entebbe is as good a place to start or end your time in Uganda as any. From its place in Wakiso district, Entebbe is surrounded by Lake Victoria, meaning it’s not only a great jump-off point for day trips, but there are also a huge number of local activities, like exploring the lake or spending an afternoon at the beach. 

The town has many rewarding opportunities for tourists planning to spend a day or two. Though housing Entebbe International Airport may make Entebbe sound large, it’s actually got a small town feel and is very walkable.

To help you make the most of your time in Entebbe town, we’re sharing a bit more about our lovely city and five easy-to-take day trips you can plan. 

A Brief History of Entebbe

The town of Entebbe is essential in Uganda’s history, especially during the colonial period. The city was once Uganda’s capital city before the country’s independence, after which the role was transferred to Kampala. 

Owing to this, Entebbe retains an old-world charm and boasts some relatively well-organized colonial-style accommodations. Even before then, Entebbe was initially where local Baganda Chiefs would meet to resolve legal cases. The word Entebbe originates from the Luganda word “e tebbe” meaning to sit on a chair (and with weather like this, sitting out on the patio is unbeatable!). 

Entebbe’s historically explored attraction is the Ssese Archipelago, a collection of 84 Islands/Islets in Lake Victoria. 

The town has much to offer, considering its size. It is still home to Uganda’s official statehouse, the only international airport, one of the UN’s largest logistics bases worldwide, and notable government offices.

Top 5 Day Trips From Entebbe

Entebbe Day Trip #1: Ssese Islands

Ssese Islands is a collection of 84 islands commonly referred to as the Ssese Archipelago. You can access the Islands through a ferry service that will transfer you from Entebbe or go for a short boat ride. 

The best way to enjoy this Entebbe day trip is to spend time touring the islands before relaxing at a beachfront hotel to unwind at the end of the day. Some islands offer terrific views of crocodiles and hippos. 

In contrast, others provide an assortment of miniature paradises with sandy beaches, unique bird species, thick vegetation and monkeys hopping from tree to tree. You’ll also find some islands with rural settlements with hospitable Bassese people whose homes may be open to visitation. 

A day trip to the archipelago makes for a day well spent.

From Entebbe to Ssese Islands: 3hrs 30min 

Entebbe Day Trip #2: Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

The Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is located within the Ssese Archipelago within Lake Victoria. The island is an amazing place to visit chimpanzees. While most chimpanzees in Africa tend to be in their natural habitats, 95 acres of this landare dedicated to preserving chimpanzees. 

Over 50 chimpanzees living on the Island were rescued from poachers and illegal traders. You can explore Ngamba Island during your day trip from Entebbe and even go birding if you are interested. The Island also harbors over 120 different bird species. 

Time from Entebbe to Ngamba Island: 45min

Entebbe Day Trip #3: Mabamba Swamp Birding

Located on the banks of Lake Victoria, Mabamba Swamp is an extensive marshland that is home to 300 species of birds, including the notable Shoebill stork (famed for its unique beak). You can access this swamp by taking a boat trip from Entebbe or by road from Kampala city or Entebbe. 

Be sure to book a tour to help you in spotting the different bird species. The best way to make good of your day excursion is by taking a boat through the narrow water channel that curves through the swamp. 

Most birding excursions to the Mabamba swamp begin at 8 am and take two and a half hours to complete. Make sure to put on a long-sleeved shirt, long trousers, and a hat to protect you from the sun. 

Another exciting thing to see in the swamp is the swamp antelopes (sitatunga) which live within the marsh. You might want to carry some water and a snack since you will probably be traveling by a small traditional boat.

Time from Entebbe to Mabamba Swamp: 57 min

Entebbe Day Trip #4: Source of the Nile

This trip will take you most of the day, so to beat traffic and be able to go to the source of the Nile and return in one day, you need to set off from Entebbe latest at 6.30 am. The source of the Nile is one of the major tourist attractions in Uganda. 

The Nile River is the longest river in Africa and has historically been considered the longest globally. One of the stopovers along the journey from Entebbe to Jinja is in the Mabira forest, where you can take an hour or two of a guided walk and enjoy the rich greenery, red-tailed monkeys, hundreds of butterflies and take in nature. 

Get back on the road and on to the Source of the Nile. Be sure to get on that boat that starts from Lake Victoria and leads you to the place where the river encounters the lake and starts its sojourn into the sea. 

And if you like adventure, be sure to pair this trip to Jinja and the Source of the Nile with some whitewater rafting!

Time from Entebbe to Jinja: 2hrs 35min.

Entebbe Day Trip #5: Uganda Wildlife Education Center

Uganda Wildlife Education Center, also known as UWEC Zoo, is where you can see most of Uganda’s wildlife without going to any of the famous national parks. Instead, the wild animals here live in a semi-natural environment. 

Some of the wild animals you will see here include the chimpanzee, giraffes, lions, leopards, peacocks, among others. In addition, the center offers general wildlife viewing, behind-the-scenes programs, and other exciting activities that will keep you hooked all day long. 

Even better, you do not have to travel a long time to get to this delightful attraction! You can walk to UWEC if you are staying in Entebbe. 

Time from Entebbe to UWEC: 7 min. 

Planning Your Stay in Entebbe

If you’re looking for a guest house in Entebbe, we hope you’ll consider checking out our partner Gorilla Neighbour Guest House.

Whether you’re planning a short stay in Entebbe town or a much longer trip through Uganda, our trip planning experts at Kikooko Africa Safaris would be more than happy to help. To plan your perfect Ugandan getaway, we encourage you to get in touch today.

the african lion

Where to see the Big 5 in Uganda

When travelers search for where to find the Big 5, they are often pleasantly surprised to find out it’s possible in Uganda.

There are some countries that are well known internationally for their safaris that show-off the Big 5, like South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania. In fact, there are 13 countries in total that make seeing the Big 5 Possible. Including those 3 we just mentioned, you also have Angola, Botswana, Zambia, Ethiopia, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Malawi, the Democratic Republic of Congo…

And Uganda!

Often referred to as the Pearl of Africa, Uganda is vibrantly rich in nature and landscape. The East African country possesses a perfect blend of fauna and flora to keep tourists in high praise whenever they are done with their trips. 

So why would you come to Uganda to try and see the Big 5? Because this is where the Big 5 isn’t just an amazing goal – it’s the start of a beautiful wildlife adventure.

Uganda, which is also known to have the most significant number of mountain gorillas in the world, also nurtures other unique species worth exploring for the country’s visitors. The country has ten national parks, 13 wildlife reserves, 345 mammal species, 1,020 bird species (half the total number in Africa), and 4500 species of vascular plants.

Thanks to its vast range of habitats, the country is regarded as the hotspot for biodiversity. The tiny country offers the perfect escape for those looking to maximize time in the wild. Uganda is one of only three mountain gorilla sanctuaries in the world. You can enjoy the exquisite gorilla tracking activity, and among only thirteen where you can glimpse the Big 5 animals. 

You are most likely to see the Big 5 in predominantly three regions, namely Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kidepo Valley National park.

The animals in Uganda can be grouped into the following categories:

  • Primates: These include mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey, and many others
  • Carnivores: lions, cheetahs, leopards, African wildcats, hyenas, etc
  • Herbivores: Elephants, buffalos, giraffes, rhinos, hippos, zebras, antelope, Ugandan Kob, and others
  • Reptiles: snakes, crocodiles, monitor lizards, chameleons, and others
  • Birds: vultures, African eagle, turacos, and others

Which animals are part of the Big 5?

The ‘Big 5’ concept first came about in the old days when the land’s ancestors used to go hunting. The animals weren’t named ‘The Big 5’ due to their size, but rather because they were the hardest to catch and posed the gravest danger to the hunter. Hunting down any of the Big 5 earned a hunter a reputation in the African society as a brave hunter, and clan heads often rewarded them with a trophy for their bravery.

Whereas game hunting is now prohibited in most corners of the globe, over a hundred years ago, the then-American president Theodore Roosevelt embarked on an African hunting escapade. He was later quoted saying that the African elephant would never become extinct due to the sheer number he had encountered. Today, however, the Big 5 are among the most endangered species globally, and most African governments have put up strict measures to conserve the dwindling species.

The Big 5, in this case, are the following;

  • The African lion
  • The African leopard
  • The African elephant
  • The Cape buffalo
  • The rhinoceros

Now, though, the Big 5 is known more as a chance to see some of the world’s most incredible creatures in their natural habitats while on an African safari that helps to contribute to their protection.

Wondering where you can see Big 5 animals in Uganda? You came to the right place! 

Where to see the African Lion in Uganda

the african lion

The African lion is the second-largest cat in the world, and whereas it is referred to as the “King of the Jungle,” lions stay in grassy savannas, not dense forests. Lions are social creatures and move together in groups known as prides. Each pride consists of over 30 lions. 

A lion’s roar can be heard from over 5 miles away. Unfortunately, there are estimated to be less than 20,000 lions left globally, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) termed them endangered.

Lions in Uganda can be found in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park. Since they are mainly night hunters, you stand a bigger chance of spotting them during a night game drive (unless you’d like to catch them having a catnap!). Therefore, if you plan to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park and want to do the night game drive, your guide should get a tracking device to locate them.

Where to see the African Leopard in Uganda

African Leopard in UgandaThe most elusive Big 5 animals, leopards, are scarce. Tourists who encounter these in-game drives are pretty fortunate. It’s also why it’s rare to find a tour operator who can give you a 100% guarantee to see every animal on the list. Leopards make habitats of rocky landscapes although they are also very adaptive and have been found in other areas. They love hunting at night and spend most of the day resting in tree branches.

Like lions, your best chance of glimpsing leopards is during night game drives in Kidepo Valley National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Kibale Forest, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Mount Elgon National Park.

Where to see the African Elephant in Uganda

African Elephant in UgandaAnd whereas the African elephant is the biggest of the land animals, it is the most threatened by poachers thanks to its tusks which have a lucrative ivory business. Elephants are inherent to 37 countries on the African continent and are reported to be over 415,000 in the world. But, unfortunately, it is said that about 8% of that number is poached every year. 

The best part of visiting Uganda is that you will have a 90% chance of spotting an elephant in any of the parks you opt to stay in. If you are lucky enough, you will see both the smaller forest elephants and the colossal savannah elephants. 

The best parks to enjoy these massive creatures include Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Where to see the Cape Buffalo in Uganda

Cape Buffalo in UgandaNicknamed the “The Widowmaker,” the Cape buffalo was once considered the hardest to hunt in the Big 5 due to its unpredictable behavior. And unlike the other members of the Big 5, the Cape buffalo will fight off most of its predators. 

Buffalos reportedly kill more humans (poachers) than other animals. There are reportedly 900,000 in population with four different sub-species with the vastest number in protected reserves.

Uganda also, however, has unique reddish small buffalos. In addition, you can encounter buffalos in Uganda in Kidepo Valley National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Murchison Falls National Park.

Where to see Rhinoceros in Uganda

Rhinoceros in Uganda

Rhinos are divided into species; the White Rhino and the Black Rhino. Rhinos live mainly in grasslands and open savannas. They are robust and thick in body size and can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. There are, however, only 29,500 Rhinos left on the globe. As a result, the IUCN listed rhinos as critically endangered. 

Rhinos in Uganda are predominately preserved and rehabilitated at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and is your best opportunity of seeing the Southern White Rhino. You can do this Ugandan rhino tracking experience on your way to or back from the Murchison Falls National Park.

How long to spend in Uganda for a Big 5 Wildlife safari

The time it takes to see the Big 5 varies. It can be done in as little as a few days. You can also stretch out your Ugandan safari tour for a week or two to add in chances to see more animal species, visit with local communities, and track the gorillas. 

To get an African safari trip designed just for you, get in touch with the expert team at Kikooko Africa Safaris today!