From Gorillas to the Big Five Safari In Uganda. When you think of Africa’s most iconic wildlife experiences, gorilla trekking and Big Five safaris likely top the list. But did you know there’s one place where you can experience both in a single journey? Welcome to Uganda – a land of remarkable biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Uganda offers a rare opportunity to combine intimate encounters with endangered mountain gorillas and thrilling sightings of Africa’s Big Five – lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. This seamless blend of jungle trekking and savannah game drives makes Uganda one of the most unique safari destinations in the world.

Begin with the Giants of the Forest: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Nestled in the southwest corner of Uganda lies Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Trekking through the dense, misty forests of Bwindi is more than a safari; it’s a soulful, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The trek can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla families. Once you find them, you’re allowed one magical hour in their presence. Watching these gentle giants interact, feed, and care for their young just a few meters away is unforgettable.

Beyond the gorillas, Bwindi is a haven for over 350 bird species, butterflies, and other primates like the colobus monkey.

The Big Five Safari Experience: Uganda’s Wild Savannahs

After the rainforest adventure, shift gears and landscapes as you head into Uganda’s iconic savannah parks, where classic game drives await. Uganda may not be as commercialized as some other safari destinations, but that’s part of its charm—here, wildlife encounters feel raw and authentic.

Queen Elizabeth National Park: Big Cats and Boat Cruises

From Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth National Park is just a few hours away. This diverse park stretches from the Rwenzori Mountains to Lake Edward and it’s famous for its mix of ecosystems grasslands, wetlands, and crater lakes.

It’s one of the best places in Uganda to see elephants, buffaloes, lions, and if you’re lucky, leopards. The park’s Ishasha sector is renowned for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior only observed in a few places in Africa.

Don’t miss the Kazinga Channel boat cruise, which offers close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife. It’s an ideal way to relax while still immersed in nature.

Murchison Falls National Park: Power and Wildlife

In the north, Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and perhaps most dramatic park. It’s named after the thunderous Murchison Falls, where the Nile River is squeezed through a narrow gorge.

The park offers exceptional game drives with chances to see four of the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards—as well as giraffes and hartebeests. The park’s boat trip to the base of the falls is both scenic and thrilling.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Completing the Big Five

To see rhinos, head to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, located en route to Murchison Falls. This is the only place in Uganda where you can track wild rhinos on foot in a protected environment. The sanctuary plays a critical role in rhino conservation, with plans to reintroduce them to Uganda’s national parks in the future.

With a visit to Ziwa, your quest for the Big Five is complete—lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos, all in one country.

More Than Wildlife: Culture and Scenic Beauty

Uganda isn’t just about animals. The country is rich in culture, with over 60 ethnic groups, and a tapestry of traditions, music, and food. You can visit local markets, dance to traditional drums, or enjoy a taste of Uganda’s staple dish—matoke (steamed green bananas).

Scenic highlights also include Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s deepest lakes, perfect for canoeing and relaxation; and the Rwenzori Mountains, often called the “Mountains of the Moon.”

When to Visit

Uganda can be visited year-round, but the best months are during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. These periods offer better trekking conditions and higher chances of wildlife sightings during game drives.

What You Need To Consider

• Gorilla permits cost USD 800 per person and should be booked in advance.

• A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry.

• Travel with Kamere Tours and Travel, a reputable local tour operator that understands logistics, park regulations, and safety.

• Pack sturdy hiking boots, lightweight rain gear, and long-sleeved clothing for gorilla trekking.

Few countries offer the diversity and depth of experience that Uganda does. From the misty mountain forests of Bwindi to the vast plains of Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls, Uganda delivers an immersive journey that combines thrilling adventure with a deep connection to nature.

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing gorillas in the wild and ticking off Africa’s Big Five on one trip Uganda is where those dreams come true.

Come for the gorillas. Stay for everything else. Uganda will steal your heart.