Uganda Safaris
Discover the Pearl of Africa—where mountain gorillas roam misty forests, lions climb trees, and the mighty Nile thunders through pristine wilderness.
Discover the Pearl of Africa—where mountain gorillas roam misty forests, lions climb trees, and the mighty Nile thunders through pristine wilderness.
Uganda stands apart as Africa's most diverse safari destination. Within its compact borders lie half the world's remaining mountain gorillas, the source of the mighty Nile, snow-capped equatorial mountains, and an extraordinary concentration of primates and birds found nowhere else on Earth. This is authentic Africa—unspoiled, intimate, and endlessly captivating.
Half of the world's endangered mountain gorillas call Uganda home, offering unparalleled trekking experiences.
Witness the rare phenomenon of lions lounging in fig trees in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
More bird species than any country in Africa, paradise for ornithologists and nature lovers alike.
Experience the birthplace of the world's longest river with thrilling water adventures.
Explore an extraordinary collection of protected wilderness areas, each offering unique wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes.
UNESCO World Heritage Site • Southwest Uganda
Ancient rainforest cloaking steep mountain ridges, Bwindi shelters roughly half of the world's mountain gorillas. Trek through mist-shrouded vegetation to encounter these gentle giants in their natural habitat—an experience that ranks among the world's most profound wildlife encounters.
Wildlife Highlights: Mountain gorillas (12 habituated families), forest elephants, 120 mammal species, 350 bird species including 23 Albertine Rift endemics.
Activities: Gorilla trekking, bird watching, forest walks, Batwa cultural experiences, mountain biking.
Luxury Lodges: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Bwindi Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Mahogany Springs.
Most Visited Park • Western Uganda
Uganda's most diverse ecosystem sprawls across savannah, wetlands, lowland forest, and volcanic craters. Famous for tree-climbing lions in Ishasha sector and the prolific wildlife along the Kazinga Channel connecting Lake Edward and Lake George.
Wildlife Highlights: Tree-climbing lions, elephants, buffalo herds, hippos, leopards, 95 mammal species, 600+ bird species.
Activities: Game drives, boat safaris on Kazinga Channel, chimpanzee tracking (Kyambura Gorge), crater lake exploration, lion tracking.
Luxury Lodges: Mweya Safari Lodge, Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Ishasha Wilderness Camp, Katara Lodge.
Uganda's Largest Park • Northern Uganda
The Victoria Nile thunders through a narrow gorge creating the world's most powerful waterfall. This spectacular backdrop hosts Uganda's highest concentration of wildlife—vast herds roaming endless savannah and riverbanks teeming with crocodiles and hippos.
Wildlife Highlights: Lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, leopards, over 450 bird species including the rare shoebill stork.
Activities: Game drives, boat cruises to falls base, top of falls hike, sport fishing, hot air balloon safaris, Budongo Forest chimpanzee tracking.
Luxury Lodges: Paraa Safari Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, Baker's Lodge.
Primate Capital of the World • Western Uganda
The highest primate density on Earth makes Kibale Forest exceptional. Over 1,500 chimpanzees swing through towering rainforest canopy alongside 12 other primate species. Morning chorus of chimpanzee calls echoing through forest is utterly unforgettable.
Wildlife Highlights: Chimpanzees (1,500+), red colobus monkeys, L'Hoest's monkeys, 13 primate species total, 375 bird species, forest elephants.
Activities: Chimpanzee tracking and habituation, forest walks, bird watching, Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, crater lake exploration.
Luxury Lodges: Primate Lodge Kibale, Ndali Lodge, Papaya Lake Lodge, Kyaninga Lodge.
Africa's Best Kept Secret • Far Northeast Uganda
Remote and stunningly beautiful, Kidepo Valley offers Africa's classic safari experience without the crowds. Vast open plains framed by distant mountains host exceptional wildlife populations and dramatic landscapes rivaling any on the continent.
Wildlife Highlights: Lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, buffalo, zebras, over 475 bird species including ostrich and Kori bustard.
Activities: Game drives, guided nature walks, cultural visits to Karamojong communities, mountain hiking, bird watching.
Luxury Lodges: Apoka Safari Lodge, Kidepo Savannah Lodge, Nga'Moru Wilderness Camp.
Beyond the famous parks, Uganda offers hidden gems and unique ecosystems waiting to be explored.
Virunga Volcanoes • Southwest Uganda
Climb volcanic peaks, track golden monkeys, and encounter mountain gorillas where Uganda meets Rwanda and DR Congo. Three magnificent volcanoes create dramatic backdrop.
Mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, volcano hiking
Mountains of the Moon • Western Uganda
Africa's highest mountain range rises to glacier-clad peaks above equator. Multi-day treks through afro-alpine vegetation zones offer mountaineering adventure of lifetime.
Mountain trekking, glaciers, endemic flora
Compact Safari • Central Uganda
Uganda's only park with zebras and impalas. Perfect for short safaris with boat rides, horseback safaris, and walking safaris in acacia woodland surrounding scenic lakes.
Zebras, impalas, eland, boat safaris
Congo Basin Extension • Western Uganda
Lowland tropical rainforest harboring Central African species found nowhere else in East Africa. Hot springs bubble from forest floor creating surreal landscapes.
Unique birds, primates, hot springs
Ancient Volcano • Eastern Uganda
Enormous extinct volcano with world's largest caldera. Caves where elephants mine salt, spectacular waterfalls, and challenging mountain trekking through diverse vegetation zones.
Mountain hiking, caves, waterfalls
Rhino Conservation • Central Uganda
Track endangered white rhinos on foot in this successful breeding program. Essential stop between Kampala and Murchison Falls for completing your Big Five checklist.
White rhino tracking, shoebill storks
Expertly crafted journeys showcasing Uganda's highlights. All itineraries can be customized to your preferences.
Perfect Introduction
From $3,850 per person
View DetailsComprehensive Experience
From $5,450 per person
View DetailsComplete Exploration
From $7,850 per person
CustomizeExplore Uganda's national parks and key safari destinations. Click markers for more information.
Everything you need to know for a seamless and unforgettable journey to the Pearl of Africa.
Dry Seasons (Jun-Sep, Dec-Feb): Optimal for gorilla trekking and game viewing. Trails are less muddy and animals concentrate near water sources.
Wet Seasons (Mar-May, Oct-Nov): Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, migratory birds present. Excellent for bird watching and photography.
Year-Round Safaris: Uganda's equatorial climate makes safaris possible throughout the year.
International Access: Entebbe International Airport (40km from Kampala) receives flights from major hubs worldwide.
Visa Requirements: E-visa available online or visa-on-arrival for most nationalities. Uganda welcomes travelers warmly.
Domestic Flights: Charter flights available to remote parks like Kidepo and Bwindi, saving travel time.
Vaccinations: Yellow fever certificate required. Malaria prophylaxis recommended. Consult travel clinic 6-8 weeks before departure.
Safety: Uganda is politically stable and safe for tourists. Our experienced guides ensure your security throughout.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including medical evacuation strongly recommended.
Clothing: Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers in neutral colors. Sturdy hiking boots for gorilla trekking. Warm layer for early mornings.
Essentials: Binoculars, camera with zoom lens, sunscreen, insect repellent, rain jacket, hat, daypack.
Gorilla Trekking: Gardening gloves, walking stick (provided), gaiters.
Gorilla Permits: $800 per person (Bwindi/Mgahinga). Book 6-12 months in advance through us.
Chimpanzee Permits: $250 per person (Kibale Forest). Available year-round with shorter booking window.
Park Entry: Fees vary by park. All included in our comprehensive safari packages.
Luxury Lodges: High-end properties with exceptional service, gourmet dining, and stunning locations near parks.
Tented Camps: Authentic safari experience with modern comforts. Perfect blend of adventure and luxury.
Eco-Lodges: Sustainable accommodations supporting conservation and local communities.
From the legendary mountain gorillas to the rare shoebill stork, Uganda's biodiversity is simply extraordinary. Encounter Africa's most sought-after species in their pristine natural habitats.
Track habituated gorilla families through ancient rainforest. Spend magical hours observing family dynamics—silverbacks protecting their troops, mothers nursing infants, juveniles playing in trees.
Our closest relatives swing through forest canopy with remarkable intelligence. Watch them use tools, communicate vocally, and display complex social behaviors in Kibale's pristine forests.
Nowhere else on Earth do lions regularly lounge in trees like Ishasha's famous prides. Witness this extraordinary behavior as they escape ground heat and survey prey from elevated vantage points.
Massive herds traverse Uganda's protected areas. Watch these intelligent giants bathe in rivers, care for calves, and move majestically across savannahs in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth.
Endangered subspecies with distinctive irregular spots graze acacia woodlands. Murchison Falls protects Uganda's only wild population of these graceful, towering mammals.
Ancient, prehistoric-looking birds stand motionless in swamps waiting for prey. Spot these rare creatures in Mabamba Swamp or along Nile riverbanks—birders' ultimate prize.
Apex predators bask on riverbanks throughout Uganda's waterways. Some individuals reach massive proportions—witness nature's perfect hunter during boat safaris on Kazinga Channel and Nile River.
Uganda hosts one of Africa's largest hippo populations. These territorial giants emerge from water at dusk to graze—respect their power from safe viewing distances on guided boat cruises.
Your safari directly supports wildlife conservation and empowers local communities. Travel responsibly while creating meaningful impact.
Tourism revenue funds critical conservation programs protecting mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and endangered species. Uganda Wildlife Authority reinvests permit fees directly into anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, and veterinary care.
Every safari contributes to:
Community-based tourism creates sustainable livelihoods while preserving cultural heritage. Revenue-sharing programs ensure communities neighboring national parks benefit directly from wildlife conservation.
Community tourism experiences include:
Immerse yourself in Uganda's wilderness without compromising on comfort. Our carefully selected luxury lodges and exclusive experiences ensure unforgettable moments.
Travel in spacious 4x4 Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs, guaranteed window seats, charging ports, and refreshments. Your expert guide provides personalized attention throughout your journey.
Stay in boutique lodges offering panoramic views, gourmet cuisine, spa facilities, and personalized service. Each property seamlessly blends luxury with environmental sensitivity.
Float silently above Murchison Falls at sunrise. Watch elephants, buffalo herds, and giraffes from aerial perspective before champagne breakfast in the bush.
Savor gourmet meals under African stars. Private bush dinners feature multi-course menus, fine wines, and traditional entertainment—dining elevated to art form in wilderness settings.
Specialized itineraries designed for photographers. Expert guides position vehicles for optimal lighting, extended time with subjects, and access to prime photographic locations.
Maximize safari time with private helicopter transfers between parks. Soar over rainforests and savannahs while dramatically reducing travel time on remote routes.
“Our 10-day Uganda safari exceeded every expectation. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi was profoundly moving—we'll never forget locking eyes with a silverback. The luxury lodges, knowledgeable guides, and seamless organization made this our best African adventure yet.”
“As a wildlife biologist, I've traveled extensively, but Uganda's biodiversity is unmatched. Seeing tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, tracking chimps in Kibale, and encountering shoebills on the Nile—all exceeded my professional expectations. Jetulife's expertise was evident throughout.”
“Uganda offered authentic African safari without tourist crowds. Murchison Falls' raw power, Kidepo's endless plains, and intimate gorilla encounters created memories we'll treasure forever. The commitment to conservation and community made the experience even more meaningful.”
Everything you need to know about planning your Uganda safari adventure.
Moderate fitness is required. Treks last 1-8 hours depending on gorilla location. Terrain includes steep, muddy slopes through dense vegetation. Regular walking or light exercise beforehand helps. Porters assist with bags and provide support. Age limit is 15+ years.
Comprehensive packages include: accommodation, all meals, private 4x4 safari vehicle, professional English-speaking guide, park entrance fees, activity permits (gorilla/chimp), bottled water, and airport transfers. International flights and travel insurance are excluded.
Gorilla permits sell out 6-12 months in advance, especially for peak season (June-September, December-February). We recommend booking 8-10 months ahead to secure permits and preferred lodges. Last-minute bookings (2-3 months) possible during low season with limited availability.
Yes, Uganda is very safe for tourists. The country is politically stable with low crime rates in tourist areas. National parks have armed ranger escorts for gorilla trekking. Our experienced guides prioritize your safety. We maintain 24/7 support throughout your safari.
Yes! Lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo roam multiple parks. White rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary complete the Big Five. Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha are particularly special. Leopards are elusive but spotted regularly. Uganda offers Big Five plus mountain gorillas and chimpanzees!
From mountain gorillas to tree-climbing lions, Uganda awaits. Let our expert team craft your perfect Pearl of Africa experience.