Uganda is renowned for its mist-shrouded mountains, dense forests and wide-open savannahs. Five national parks make up the Pearl of Africa: Bwindi Impenetrable, Murchison, Queen Elizabeth and Kidepo Valley National Parks.
National Park: Bwindi Impenetrable
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in the south-west part of Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas. Visitors can trek this ancient forest to observe these majestic creatures in the wild and learn about the conservation efforts undertaken to protect them. Bwindi’s gorillas are the main attraction, but it is also home for more than 350 bird and 120 mammals.
National Park: Murchison Falls
Murchison falls National Park, located in the north-west of Uganda, is Uganda’s oldest and largest conservation area. It covers 3,840 square kilometers. Murchison falls is the main attraction. The River Nile squeezes its way through a 7 metre narrow gorge and then plunges 43 metres in a thunderous roar. This is one of the strongest waterfalls on the planet. Elephants, buffaloes, giraffes and hippos are all found in the park, along with crocodiles and hippos. The best way to see it all is on a Nile cruise.
National Park: Queen Elizabeth
The Ishasha region of the country is home to Queen Elizabeth National Park, which is known for its tree-climbing Lions. You can see lions reclining on fig trees in the park, which is also home to 600 bird species and 95 mammal types. On game drives, visitors can see buffaloes as well as elephants, leopards, and even the elusive Ugandan KOB. Hippos and crocodiles are also found on the Kazinga Channel.
National Park: Kidepo Valley
Uganda’s remote northeastern corner is home to a park that is dramatic, but not very well-known. Kidepo Valley National Park may be isolated but it is home to elephants zebras cheetahs ostriches roan and rare antelope that rely on Kidepo Narus rivers. The park is a special place, as there are few other vehicles. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about the Karamoja people, who are known for their colourful ceremonies and rich traditions.
Climbing the Rwenzori Mountains
There are a number of ways to climb up the Rwenzori Mountains. The 7-day circular trip from the trailhead in Mihunga followed by an ascent to the Bujuku Valley through Nyabitaba, is a good way to acclimatise yourself before reaching the peaks. A traverse through the Scott Elliot Pass and Freshfield Pass is followed by a descent into the Mubuku Valley. Climbers can scale snow peaks, but the scenery is more than enough to reward their efforts.
Explore East Africa
While exploring Uganda’s National Parks offers an incredible diversity of wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty there is much to see outside Uganda’s borders as well. Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda are all neighbouring African countries that offer a rich experience.
Experience the Great Migration in Kenya’s Masai Mara. Or visit a Maasai Community to learn more about their culture.
Rafiki Safaris will also take you to the Serengeti, and the Ngorongoro Crater (both UNESCO World Heritage site) in Tanzania. Both are renowned for the abundance of wildlife and the stunning landscapes.
