Top National Parks to Visit in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – The Gorilla Trekking Capital

Gorilla trekking in Uganda doesn’t get more exciting than in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Located in the southwest, this UNESCO World Heritage Site houses nearly half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

• Over 120 mammal species, including chimpanzees and forest elephants
• Experience intimate gorilla tracking tours
• Excellent for birding and hiking

Best time to visit: June–September and December–February

Murchison Falls National Park – Uganda’s Oldest and Largest Park

Safari in Murchison Falls National Park offers a mix of big game, river adventures, and stunning landscapes. It’s the largest and oldest national park in Uganda, located in the northwestern region.

• Spot lions, giraffes, buffaloes, elephants on game drives
• Enjoy a boat safari on the Victoria Nile
• Marvel at the powerful Murchison Falls

Best time to visit: December–February and June–September

Queen Elizabeth National Park – Diverse Wildlife in a Scenic Landscape

Wildlife safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park introduces you to tree-climbing lions, crater lakes, and hundreds of bird species. Located in western Uganda, it’s the most visited park in the country.

• See the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha
• Take a scenic Kazinga Channel boat cruise
• Over 600 bird species recorded

Best time to visit: January–February and June–July

Kibale National Park – Primate Paradise

Chimpanzee tracking in Uganda reaches its peak in Kibale National Park. Known for its large primate population, it’s a must-visit for those who love nature and wildlife.

• Track wild chimpanzees in the forest
• 13 primate species, including red colobus and L’Hoest’s monkeys
• Guided nature walks and birding tours available

Best time to visit: March–May and September–November

Kidepo Valley National Park – Uganda’s Hidden Gem

Remote safari experience in Uganda awaits at Kidepo Valley National Park. Located in the northeast, it offers one of Africa’s most untouched wilderness landscapes.

• Rare animals like cheetahs and bat-eared foxes
• Dramatic landscapes and mountain backdrops
• Low visitor numbers for authentic safari adventures

Best time to visit: September–March

Lake Mburo National Park – A Compact Wildlife Haven

Perfect for short trips, safari near Kampala is easily done in Lake Mburo National Park. Despite its size, it’s full of exciting wildlife and scenic views.

• See zebras, hippos, and impalas
• Try bicycle safaris and guided walking tours
• Peaceful boat rides on Lake Mburo

Best time to visit: Year-round (dry seasons are best for game viewing)

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Gorilla Trekking and Volcano Hiking

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga offers a quieter, equally rewarding alternative to Bwindi. Nestled in the Virunga Mountains, it also features volcano climbing and golden monkey tracking.

• Track the easy-to-spot Nyakagezi gorilla family
• Hike Mounts Sabinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura
• Meet the indigenous Batwa pygmies

Best time to visit: June–August and December–February

Planning Your Uganda Safari

When visiting the top national parks in Uganda, consider booking in advance, especially for gorilla and chimpanzee permits. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) manages all major parks and provides up-to-date permit and fee information.

Whether you’re after thrilling big game safaris or peaceful birdwatching tours, Uganda’s parks offer it all.