The Top 10 Unique Places To Visit In Uganda While On Safari

Places To Visit In Uganda

Known as the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda is home to a wealth of interesting and unusual travel locations. It is the ideal location for safari aficionados because of its breathtaking animals, vibrant culture, and varied terrain. Here are the Top 10 Unusual Safari Destinations in Uganda.

Uganda offers unforgettable safari experiences with unique destinations like Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to mountain gorillas, and Murchison Falls National Park, famous for its thundering falls. Queen Elizabeth National Park is renowned for tree-climbing lions, while Kibale National Park is perfect for chimpanzee trekking. Lake Mburo National Park offers boat safaris, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park provides a serene gorilla trekking experience. Explore the remote beauty of Kidepo Valley, hike the stunning Rwenzori Mountains, visit Semliki National Park’s hot springs, and unwind at the picturesque Lake Bunyonyi, an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.

Detailed 10 Places To Visit In Uganda

1. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

• Why Visit? Famous for its mountain gorilla trekking experiences, Bwindi is one of the best places in the world to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
• Experience: Hike through dense jungle and witness the awe-inspiring moment of encountering a gorilla family. A truly life-changing safari experience!

2. Murchison Falls National Park

• Why Visit? Murchison Falls is where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge before plummeting 43 meters, creating a thunderous waterfall. The park is rich in wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and a wide variety of bird species.
• Experience: Enjoy boat cruises along the Nile to the base of the falls, where you can witness hippos, crocodiles, and a diversity of birdlife. Game drives offer great opportunities to spot the “big five.”

3. Queen Elizabeth National Park

• Why Visit? Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most popular safari destinations. Its diverse ecosystems, from savannahs to wetlands, make it a haven for wildlife. It’s also home to the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha.
• Experience: Explore the park on game drives, boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel, and nature walks. The incredible wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, and chimps, is just the beginning.

4. Kibale National Park

• Why Visit? Known as the “primate capital of the world,” Kibale is the place to visit for chimpanzee trekking. With over 1,400 chimpanzees, this park offers unparalleled opportunities to observe these intelligent creatures up close.
• Experience: Trek through the rainforest to find chimps and other primates like baboons, red-tailed monkeys, and colobus monkeys. Don’t miss a guided walk to discover the park’s diverse flora and fauna.

5. Lake Mburo National Park

• Why Visit? Lake Mburo is a compact and diverse park offering the rare chance to spot wildlife in both woodland and savannah environments. It’s home to zebras, impalas, and buffaloes, with beautiful lake views.
• Experience: Take a boat cruise on Lake Mburo, known for its hippos and birds. You can also go horseback riding or on a walking safari, adding a unique twist to your African safari.

6. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

• Why Visit? Located in the Virunga Mountains, Mgahinga offers a quieter alternative for gorilla trekking compared to Bwindi. It’s also home to a range of fascinating wildlife and a hub for mountain gorilla conservation.
• Experience: Trek through lush bamboo forests to spot the endangered gorillas. You can also explore the volcanic landscapes, spot golden monkeys, or hike the dramatic Mount Gahinga.

7. Kidepo Valley National Park

• Why Visit? One of Uganda’s most remote and untouched parks, Kidepo offers an authentic African safari experience with breathtaking views, vast open savannas, and abundant wildlife. It is often described as Uganda’s Serengeti.
• Experience: Game drives in Kidepo provide incredible opportunities to see herds of elephants, lions, cheetahs, and buffalo. Enjoy the park’s solitude and pristine wilderness for an off-the-beaten-path safari.

8. Rwenzori Mountains National Park

• Why Visit? Known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” the Rwenzori Mountains offer a challenging and rewarding experience for hikers and nature lovers. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site with diverse ecosystems ranging from savannah to glaciers.
• Experience: Trek to the snow-capped peaks, passing through bamboo forests and alpine meadows. The park also offers incredible birdwatching opportunities and is a haven for nature enthusiasts.

9. Semliki National Park

• Why Visit? Semliki is Uganda’s hidden gem, boasting tropical rainforests, hot springs, and a rich diversity of wildlife. It’s less explored, making it an excellent destination for travelers seeking a more exclusive experience.
• Experience: Visit the Sempaya hot springs, enjoy birdwatching, or go on game drives to spot elephants, buffaloes, and primates. The park’s rare species of butterflies and birds make it a nature lover’s paradise.

10. Lake Bunyonyi

• Why Visit? Often dubbed the “Switzerland of Africa,” Lake Bunyonyi is a serene, picturesque destination, perfect for relaxation after an adventurous safari. Surrounded by terraced hills, it’s one of the safest lakes for swimming in Uganda.
• Experience: Cruise across the lake to explore its numerous islands, visit local villages, and enjoy activities like canoeing, fishing, or hiking. It’s a perfect mix of adventure and tranquility.