The Best National Parks for Game Drives In Uganda 2026. Uganda, often called the Pearl of Africa, is famous for its lush landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unique wildlife experiences. While the country is globally known for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, it also offers some of East Africa’s most rewarding game drives. As we look ahead to 2026, Uganda’s national parks are more accessible and wildlife-rich than ever, making them ideal for travelers seeking authentic safari adventures without the massive tourist crowds.

The best national parks for game drives in Uganda in 2025/2026, highlighting what makes each one special and what you can expect to see.

1. Murchison Falls National Park

Why it stands out:

Murchison Falls is Uganda’s largest and oldest national park, covering over 3,800 square kilometers. It offers a classic savannah safari experience combined with the stunning Nile River and the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile forces through a narrow gorge with incredible power.

Game drive highlights:

• Big game sightings: Lions, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and leopards.

• Unique species: Rothschild’s giraffes, patas monkeys, and shoebill storks near the delta.

• Best areas for drives: Northern sector (Paraa) offers open savannah and is teeming with wildlife.

Combine a morning game drive with a boat safari to the base of the falls or the Nile delta for bird watching and crocodile/hippo sightings.

2. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Why it stands out:

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most visited safari destination thanks to its variety of habitats, ranging from savannah and wetlands to crater lakes and lush forests. It’s perfect for travelers who want both game drives and other experiences like chimp tracking or boat safaris.

Game drive highlights:

• Tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector (south of the park).

• Big Five sightings (except rhinos): Buffalo, elephants, lions, leopards, and hippos.

• Scenic drives through the Kasenyi plains, known for lion and kob interactions.

Visit in the dry seasons (January–March or June–September) when animals gather near water sources, making them easier to spot.

3. Kidepo Valley National Park

Why it stands out:

Often described as Uganda’s hidden gem, Kidepo Valley is remote, wild, and uncrowded. Located in the far northeastern corner of the country, it borders South Sudan and Kenya and offers breathtaking landscapes of rugged mountains and golden savannah.

Game drive highlights:

• Diverse wildlife: Lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, giraffes, and over 470 bird species.

• Unique species: Found only in Kidepo, such as the bat-eared fox, striped hyena, and caracal.

• Cultural encounters: Visit the nearby Karamojong communities for a blend of culture and conservation.

Due to its remote location, plan at least a 3-day trip to Kidepo, preferably by air from Entebbe or Kampala unless you’re up for an adventurous road trip.

4. Lake Mburo National Park

Why it stands out:

Lake Mburo is the closest savannah park to Kampala (about a 4-hour drive), making it ideal for short or weekend safaris. While smaller in size, it offers intimate wildlife viewing and is the only park in Uganda where you can see zebras and impalas in large numbers.

Game drive highlights:

• Day and night game drives for spotting nocturnal species like bush babies, leopards, and hyenas.

• Walking safaris and horseback safaris offer unique close-up experiences.

• Abundant plains game: Elands, topis, warthogs, and waterbucks.

Combine game drives with a boat ride on Lake Mburo to see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of water birds.

5. Semuliki Wildlife Reserve (Honorable Mention)

Why it stands out:

Although less known, Semuliki offers a wilderness experience ideal for seasoned safari-goers. Located near Fort Portal, it blends savannah and forest habitats, making it a great stopover for travelers exploring western Uganda.

Game drive highlights:

• Unique mammal sightings like waterbucks, bush pigs, and sometimes forest elephants.

• Rich birdlife including rare forest species and savannah dwellers.

• Quiet, off-the-beaten-path safari with few vehicles.

Best Time to Go on Game Drives in Uganda

Uganda is a year-round destination, but for game drives, the dry seasons (June to September and December to February) are ideal. Wildlife tends to congregate around waterholes, and the roads are more accessible during these months.

Best Tips for Game Drives in Uganda

• Use a knowledgeable guide: Uganda Wildlife Authority guides or kamere tours and travel to enhance your chances of spotting elusive animals.

• Start early: Game drives are most rewarding early in the morning (6:30 – 9:30 am) or late in the afternoon.

• Pack binoculars and a good camera: Uganda offers excellent photographic opportunities.

• Respect wildlife and park rules: Maintain distance and avoid off-road driving to protect habitats.

What You Need To Know. 

Game drives in Uganda offer a more exclusive and intimate experience compared to the busier parks of Kenya or Tanzania. Whether you’re watching elephants at sunrise in Murchison Falls or tracking tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth, Uganda’s national parks promise unforgettable wildlife encounters in stunning natural settings. As 2026 approaches, improved roads and infrastructure are making these parks more accessible than ever; so there’s no better time to start planning your Ugandan safari adventure.

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