Best Safaris and holiday resorts in Uganda with ratings

Uganda is known as the "Pearl of Africa" due to its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and diverse landscapes. The country offers a variety of safari experiences, from gorilla trekking in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to exploring the savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Below are some of the best safari destinations in Uganda, their top tourist attractions, what visitors can look forward to, the distance from major cities, and their pros and cons. First though, here is a guiding map showing the location of each safari park in Uganda:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of Uganda’s most famous and biodiverse national parks, renowned for its mist-covered forests and as a habitat for the endangered mountain gorillas. Located in the southwestern part of Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rating 10/10

What Visitors Can Look Forward to at Bwindi

Mountain Gorilla Trekking: Bwindi is one of the best places in the world to see mountain gorillas. Visitors can go on guided treks to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. The park is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population.
Biodiversity: Besides gorillas, the park hosts various species of plants, birds, mammals, and insects. It's a haven for bird watchers, with over 350 species of birds, including the rare African green broadbill.
Scenic Hikes: The park is filled with lush, misty forests and steep hills, providing opportunities for stunning hikes through the dense jungle. You can enjoy the unique landscape, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Cultural Experiences: Visitors can also engage with the local Batwa people, who were historically forest dwellers before being displaced from the park. They offer cultural experiences, sharing their traditional knowledge and customs.
Nature Walks: The park has several walking trails that provide a closer look at its diverse ecosystems. The walks vary in difficulty, and some trails lead to scenic viewpoints and waterfalls.

How far from Ugandan major cities?

Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - the park is about 510 km (318 miles) from Kampala, which takes around 8-10 hours by road depending on traffic and road conditions.
Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - Entebbe is around 490 km (305 miles) from the park, which is about 9 hours by road.
Mbarara to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Mbarara is closer, approximately 200 km (124 miles) away, and the drive typically takes 4-5 hours.

Bwindi can also be reached by air via small charter flights from Entebbe or Kisoro, which are convenient but tend to be more expensive.

Overall, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers an unforgettable adventure for wildlife enthusiasts, hikers, and culture seekers.

What are the Pros and Cons of Bwindi National Park?

Pros: Unique and memorable gorilla trekking experience, beautiful rainforests, rich biodiversity.
Cons: Gorilla trekking permits are expensive, trekking can be physically challenging, limited accessibility.

2. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a top destination for safari enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a wide range of activities, from game drives and boat safaris to birdwatching and chimpanzee tracking. Whether you’re interested in spotting wildlife, experiencing the unique tree-climbing lions, or enjoying boat trips along the Kazinga Channel, the park offers diverse and memorable experiences. Its accessibility from major cities like Kampala and Mbarara makes it a great addition to any Uganda travel itinerary.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Located in the western part of the country, it is set between Lake Edward and Lake George, and forms part of the Albertine Rift. Rating 10/10.

What Visitors Can Look Forward to at Queen Elizabeth Park

Wildlife Viewing: Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to a variety of animals, including:
- The Big Four: Elephants, buffaloes, lions, and leopards (though not rhinos).
- Primates: Chimpanzees can be tracked in the Kyambura Gorge, and there are several other monkey species around the park.
- Crocodiles and Hippos: On boat trips along the Kazinga Channel, you’ll see large groups of hippos and crocodiles.
Tree-Climbing Lions: One of the park’s unique features is the tree-climbing lions found in the Ishasha Sector. These lions are famous for climbing and lounging in the branches of large fig trees, a rare behavior among lions. It’s a special experience for visitors to see these majestic creatures in such a unique position.
Boat Safaris on the Kazinga Channel: The Kazinga Channel is a natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. It’s one of the most popular activities in the park, where you can enjoy a boat ride and observe large concentrations of hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, with over 600 species of birds in the park.
Birdwatching: Queen Elizabeth is a birdwatcher's haven, with a diversity of species like the shoebill stork, marabou stork, and African fish eagle. The park’s diverse ecosystems, including savanna, wetlands, and forests, provide a wide range of habitats for birds.
Game Drives: A traditional safari experience is available with game drives in the park’s Kasenyi Plains and the Ishasha Sector. These areas are prime for spotting lions, elephants, buffaloes, and a wide variety of antelope species like kobs, topis, and waterbucks.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge: A trek through the Kyambura Gorge offers a chance to track chimpanzees, providing a unique opportunity to see our closest relatives in their natural habitat. The gorge itself is a scenic spot, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Nature Walks: For a more intimate experience with nature, guided nature walks are available, where you can explore the park’s flora and fauna up close, often encountering smaller wildlife and learning about the park’s ecosystems from expert guides.
Cultural Encounters: The park is surrounded by communities, including the Bakiga, Banyankole, and Batwa people. Visitors can engage with local communities, learning about their traditions, culture, and crafts.

How far from Ugandan major cities?

Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park: The park is approximately 370 km (230 miles) from Kampala, Uganda’s capital. The drive typically takes 6-8 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
Entebbe to Queen Elizabeth National Park: From Entebbe (where the main international airport is located), it’s around 400 km (248 miles), and the drive takes about 7-8 hours.
Mbarara to Queen Elizabeth National Park: Mbarara, a major city in southwestern Uganda, is about 130 km (81 miles) away from the park, and the journey typically takes 2-3 hours by car.

3. Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and oldest national park, located in the northwest part of the country. It is named after Murchison Falls, where the Victoria Nile forces its way through a narrow gap in the rocks, creating a stunning waterfall that drops 43 meters. The park is renowned for its wildlife, scenic beauty, and variety of activities for visitors.

Murchison Falls National Park offers a diverse range of activities, including thrilling boat safaris, game drives, chimpanzee tracking, and scenic hikes to the famous falls.

With its rich biodiversity, including the "Big Four" and abundant bird species, it's a fantastic destination for wildlife lovers and adventurers. Its relatively accessible location from major cities like Kampala and Gulu makes it a prime choice for travelers seeking an exciting Ugandan safari experience. Rating 8.5/10

What Visitors Can Look Forward to at Murchison Park

Murchison Falls (The Falls): The highlight of the park is the iconic Murchison Falls. Visitors can take a boat ride up the Victoria Nile to get a closer view of the falls. The force and power of the water flowing through the narrow gorge are truly breathtaking. There are also various viewpoints around the falls where you can hike and enjoy panoramic views.
Game Drives: The park offers fantastic opportunities for game drives, especially in the Buligi, Nyamsika, and Paraa sectors. Visitors can see the Big Four (elephants, lions, buffaloes, and leopards) as well as a variety of other wildlife like giraffes, antelope, and hippos. The Kaniyo Pabidi area is also popular for its large populations of primates, including chimpanzees.
Boat Safaris on the Nile: A boat safari along the Victoria Nile provides an up-close view of wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, and elephants drinking from the river. It is also an excellent way for birdwatching, with species like the African fish eagle, Kingfishers, and pelicans frequently seen. The boat ride up to the base of Murchison Falls itself is a highlight.
Chimpanzee Tracking: The park is home to a population of chimpanzees that can be tracked in the Kaniyo Pabidi forest. Tracking these primates in the forest provides an exciting and unique experience, as you get to witness their natural behavior in the wild.
Birdwatching: Murchison Falls is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 450 species recorded. Key species include the shoebill stork (often seen in the delta area of the Nile), African fish eagle, and a wide variety of waterfowl, raptors, and forest birds.
Nature Walks: The park offers guided nature walks, where visitors can explore the diverse ecosystems of the park, including its wetlands, savannah, and forested areas. These walks provide an opportunity to see smaller wildlife and learn about the park’s flora and fauna.
Cultural Encounters: Visitors can visit nearby communities and interact with local groups like the Bachiga and Bagungu people, learning about their traditional lifestyles, customs, and crafts.

How far is Murchison from Ugandan major cities?

Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park: The park is approximately 300 km (186 miles) from Kampala, Uganda’s capital. The journey typically takes around 5-6 hours by road, depending on road conditions.

Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park: From Entebbe, which is around 10 km from Kampala, it’s about 320 km (199 miles) to the park, and the drive generally takes 6-7 hours.

Gulu to Murchison Falls National Park: Gulu, a major town in northern Uganda, is much closer to the park. It is about 120 km (75 miles) away, with a driving time of 2-3 hours.

What are the Pros and Cons of Murchison National Park?

Pros: Stunning waterfall, boat safaris, diverse wildlife including big cats and elephants, fewer tourists than in some other parks.
Cons: Long drive from Kampala. Murchison Nation park can be crowded during peak times.

4. Kibale National Park

Kibale National Park is one of Uganda’s most popular and biodiverse parks, located in the western part of the country. It is often referred to as "The Primate Capital of the World" due to its rich diversity of primates, including the famous chimpanzees - Kibale is home to over 1,000 chimpanzees. The park is a lush tropical rainforest and offers a variety of unique experiences for visitors.

Visitors have a chance to track chimpanzees, observe a variety of other primate species, and enjoy birdwatching in the lush rainforest, making Kibale a must-visit for nature lovers. Its accessibility from Fort Portal makes it convenient for travelers, while its unique ecosystem and cultural experiences provide a memorable and diverse adventure. Whether you're tracking chimpanzees, hiking through the rainforest, or exploring the nearby wetland, Kibale promises an unforgettable wildlife experience. Rating 9/10

What Visitors Can Look Forward to at Kibale National Park

Lots to look forward to at Kibale including the following:

Chimpanzee Tracking: Kibale is best known for its chimpanzee tracking experiences. The park is home to over 1,400 chimpanzees, and tracking them in the wild is one of the most popular activities. Guided treks allow visitors to observe these fascinating primates up close in their natural habitat, watching them interact and forage for food.
Primate Watching: Beyond chimpanzees, Kibale is home to 12 species of primates, including red colobus monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and l'Hoest's monkeys. The park is a haven for primate lovers and offers exceptional opportunities to see a wide range of species.
Birdwatching: Kibale is also a great destination for birdwatching. The park is home to over 350 bird species, including the African green broadbill, yellow-spotted nicator, and bubbling cisticola, making it a perfect place for bird enthusiasts.
Nature Walks: The park offers guided nature walks, where visitors can explore the rainforest, spot various wildlife, and learn about the plants and animals that call the forest home. The walks offer a more intimate way of experiencing the park’s ecosystem.
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary: Located just outside the park, the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is a great spot for a nature walk and birdwatching. It's home to a variety of birds, primates, and plant species, including the rare papyrus gonolek. Visitors can take guided walks through the wetland to learn about its biodiversity.
Community Visits: Kibale is surrounded by local communities that offer cultural experiences. Visitors can engage with the Bakiga, Banyankole, and Batoro people, learning about their traditional lifestyles, crafts, and farming practices. The community visits offer an insight into the lives of the people living near the park.
Cave Exploration: Kibale is home to a number of caves, such as the Ndali-Kasenda Crater Lake area, where visitors can explore the volcanic landscape and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding crater lakes.

How far is Kibale from Ugandan major cities?

Kampala to Kibale National Park: Kibale is about 320 km (199 miles) from Kampala, Uganda's capital. The drive takes approximately 6-7 hours by road, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Entebbe to Kibale National Park: Entebbe, which is near Kampala, is about 350 km (217 miles) away, and the journey takes around 7-8 hours by car.
Fort Portal to Kibale National Park: The nearest town to the park is Fort Portal, which is about 30 km (19 miles) from the park entrance. The drive from Fort Portal to Kibale takes around 30-45 minutes.

What are the Pros and Cons of Kibale National Park?

Pros:

Excellent chimpanzee trekking experience, beautiful forest landscapes, rich birdlife.

Cons:

Chimpanzee trekking permits can be pricey, trekking can be strenuous for some visitors.

5. Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is a compact yet beautiful wildlife park located in the western part of Uganda, not far from the capital, Kampala. It’s often considered one of the best parks for those looking for a safari experience that is closer to major cities, offering a rich variety of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and activities for visitors to enjoy.

Lake Mburo National Park is a great destination for visitors looking for a diverse wildlife experience in a relatively small park. The chance to see animals like zebras, giraffes, and impalas, enjoy boat safaris, go birdwatching, and experience cultural encounters makes it an exciting and accessible destination.

Its proximity to Kampala and Mbarara makes it an ideal option for those looking for a quick getaway into nature without venturing too far from Uganda’s major cities. Whether you're on a game drive, taking a boat trip, or simply enjoying the stunning views, Lake Mburo offers a serene and rewarding safari experience.

So, Lake Mburo can be summarised as follows - it's smaller, less crowded park with a variety of animals, including zebras, impalas, and giraffes, as can also be explored by means of boat safaris on Lake Mburo. Rating: 7.5/10

What Visitors Can Look Forward to at Mburo National Park

Wildlife Viewing: Lake Mburo is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, impalas, buffaloes, topis, and waterbucks. It’s one of the few places in Uganda where you can spot giraffes and hyenas. Though not home to the "Big Five," the park offers excellent opportunities to see wildlife in a more intimate setting due to its relatively small size.
Boat Safaris on Lake Mburo: The Lake Mburo boat safari is one of the park’s highlights. The boat ride gives visitors the opportunity to observe wildlife from a different perspective, including hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species that thrive around the lake, such as African fish eagles, kingfishers, and pelicans.
Birdwatching: Lake Mburo is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 350 species of birds recorded in the park. These include the white-winged warbler, papyrus yellow warbler, and great white pelican. The diversity of habitats, including wetlands, forests, and savanna, makes it an excellent place for birdwatching.
Game Drives: The park offers guided game drives, where you can spot various herbivores such as zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. The Rwonyo area is particularly rich in wildlife, and the park is one of the few in Uganda where you can do a walking safari with an armed ranger to explore its landscapes up close.
Nature Walks: Lake Mburo offers guided nature walks, which are a unique way to explore the park’s flora and fauna. You can walk along the shores of the lake or through the savanna with a trained guide, who will help you learn about the plants, animals, and ecosystems.
Cultural Experiences: Visitors to Lake Mburo can explore nearby communities and experience the traditions of the Bahima and Batoro people. Engaging with these local groups offers a glimpse into Uganda's rural life and customs, including their pastoral lifestyles and craft traditions.
Sunset Views: The park offers spectacular sunset views, especially over Lake Mburo, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting to end your day. The lake, combined with the park’s landscapes, creates a beautiful natural backdrop.

How far is Lake Mburo Park from Ugandan major cities?

Kampala to Lake Mburo National Park: Lake Mburo is located about 240 km (149 miles) southwest of Kampala, Uganda's capital. The drive typically takes 4-5 hours, depending on road conditions.
Entebbe to Lake Mburo National Park: From Entebbe, which is located about 40 km from Kampala, Lake Mburo is about 260 km (161 miles) away. The drive usually takes 5-6 hours by car.
Mbarara to Lake Mburo National Park: Lake Mburo is relatively close to Mbarara, about 60 km (37 miles) away, and the journey takes around 1-1.5 hours.

What are the Pros and Cons of Mburo National Park?

Pros: Close to Kampala, great for short safaris, peaceful, variety of activities including boat and walking safaris.
Cons: Smaller park with fewer big predators, can be crowded during peak times

6. Semliki Wildlife Reserve

Semliki Wildlife Reserve is an excellent destination for those looking to explore Uganda’s lesser-known wildlife areas. With its lush forests, wetland areas, rich birdlife, and geothermal features like the Sempaya Hot Springs, it offers a unique experience for nature lovers, adventurers, and cultural enthusiasts.

The park sits on the border of the Semliki River, which flows into Lake Albert, and is part of the larger Semliki Ecosystem that includes the Semliki Valley. The reserve is known for its mix of tropical rainforest, savanna, and wetlands, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

Its proximity to Fort Portal makes it easily accessible from western Uganda, and its relatively low tourist traffic provides a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience. Whether you're taking a boat ride, exploring the forest, or visiting the hot springs, Semliki offers a memorable and diverse adventure. Rating: 7/10

What Visitors Can Look Forward to at Semlik Reserve Park

Wildlife Viewing:
- Savanna and Forest Wildlife: The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including buffaloes, elephants, defassa waterbucks, and kobs. Visitors can also spot primates such as monkeys and chimpanzees on the forested edges of the reserve.
- Birdlife: Semliki is a birdwatching paradise, especially for those interested in forest and wetland species. The reserve hosts over 300 bird species, including rare species like the piping hornbill, yellow-footed hornbill, and white-cheeked turaco. It is particularly known for its birdlife in the forested and wetland areas.
Nature Walks and Forest Exploration:
- Guided Nature Walks: The reserve offers guided nature walks through its lush rainforests, where you can spot various species of flora and fauna. Walking through the forest provides a more intimate experience with the reserve’s ecosystems and is perfect for those interested in plant life and smaller wildlife.
Hot Springs:
- Sempaya Hot Springs: One of the unique features of the Semliki Wildlife Reserve is the Sempaya Hot Springs, located in the reserve’s heart. These natural hot springs are a fascinating sight, where hot water emerges from deep within the earth, creating a distinctive geothermal landscape. Visitors can walk to the springs and experience the bubbling waters surrounded by tropical vegetation.
Boat Safaris and the Semliki River: The Semliki River provides excellent opportunities for boat safaris, where visitors can observe aquatic life such as hippos and crocodiles. The river also has a variety of bird species that thrive along its shores, making it a good spot for birdwatching as well.
Cultural Experiences: The communities around Semliki Wildlife Reserve are home to ethnic groups like the Bakonjo, Batoro, and Bunyoro people. Visiting these communities can offer insights into the local culture, traditions, and livelihoods. Visitors can engage with local people, experience their customs, and learn about the history of the region.

How far is Semlik Reserve from Ugandan major cities?

Kampala to Semliki Wildlife Reserve: Semliki is located in the western part of Uganda, and it’s about 370 km (230 miles) from Kampala, the capital. The drive typically takes around 6-7 hours by road, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Entebbe to Semliki Wildlife Reserve: From Entebbe, the reserve is about 400 km (249 miles) away. The journey generally takes 7-8 hours by car.
Fort Portal to Semliki Wildlife Reserve: The reserve is relatively close to Fort Portal, about 55 km (34 miles) away. The drive from Fort Portal takes around 1-1.5 hours by car, making Fort Portal a good base for exploring the reserve.

What are the Pros and Cons of Semlik Park National Park?

Pros: Quiet, less crowded, unique ecosystems, great for birdwatching and nature walks.
Cons: Difficult to access, fewer safari activities and wildlife compared to other parks.

7. Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Rwenzori Mountains National Park is one of Uganda's most iconic and breathtaking natural attractions. Located in the western part of the country, it is part of the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon, and it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park offers stunning views, diverse ecosystems, and a range of activities for nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure enthusiasts.

This National Park offers a unique and exhilarating experience for visitors, especially those interested in hiking and trekking in one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Africa. The park’s dramatic landscapes, from glaciers to rainforests, combined with its biodiversity and cultural experiences, make it a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers.

Whether you're trekking to the glaciers, observing wildlife, or soaking in the views of the snow-capped peaks, Rwenzori Mountains National Park promises a memorable adventure. Its proximity to Fort Portal makes it easily accessible, and it's an excellent addition to any Ugandan itinerary. Rating: 8/10

What Visitors Can Look Forward to at Rwenzori Park

Mountain Hiking and Trekking:
- The main highlight of visiting Rwenzori Mountains National Park is hiking to its peaks. The Rwenzori Mountains are home to some of the highest peaks in Africa, with Mount Stanley (5,109 meters) being the highest in Uganda.
- There are several trekking routes, ranging from easier day hikes to challenging multi-day treks. The Rwenzori Mountain Trek takes visitors through lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and glaciers, offering an incredible variety of landscapes.
- Margherita Peak, the third-highest peak on the continent, is the main goal for most serious trekkers, but it requires several days of hiking and is a more demanding journey.
Unique Flora and Fauna:
- The park is home to a unique ecosystem, including rainforests, alpine meadows, and glaciers, which support diverse plant and animal life.
- You can see rare plants like the giant lobelias, groundsel, and mosses, which thrive in the high-altitude environment.
- Wildlife includes animals such as elephants, buffaloes, blue monkeys, Rwenzori colobus monkeys, and various species of birds. The chimpanzees and baboons in the park add to the appeal for primate lovers.
Birdwatching:
- Rwenzori Mountains National Park is home to a range of bird species, including grey crowned cranes, mountain buzzards, and Rwenzori turacos. With over 200 species of birds, the park offers great opportunities for birdwatching, especially in the lower altitudes and forested areas.
Cultural Experiences:
- The park is situated near the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and visitors can interact with local communities such as the Bakonzo people. These communities have a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can engage in activities like traditional dance, crafts, and learning about the local farming practices.
Scenic Views and Photography:
- The park is known for its stunning scenic views, with waterfalls, lakes, and snow-capped peaks. Whether you're hiking through the forest or reaching the glaciers, the park offers some of the most beautiful landscapes in Uganda, perfect for photography.
- The Bujuku Lake and Lake Kitandara are particularly scenic and are often visited during treks.
Glaciers and Snow-Capped Peaks:
- Unlike many other parts of Uganda, the higher elevations of the Rwenzori Mountains are covered in glaciers and permanent snow. These features make the park one of the few places in Africa where you can experience alpine terrain, ice, and snow. Trekking to the glacier zones is one of the park's major draws for adventure tourists.

How far is Rwenzori Park from major Ugandan cities?

Kampala to Rwenzori Mountains National Park: The park is located about 380 km (236 miles) from Kampala, Uganda’s capital. The journey typically takes around 6-7 hours by road, depending on road conditions.
Entebbe to Rwenzori Mountains National Park: Entebbe, which is about 40 km from Kampala, is approximately 410 km (255 miles) away from the park, and the drive takes around 7-8 hours by car.
Fort Portal to Rwenzori Mountains National Park: Fort Portal, a major town near the park, is located about 50 km (31 miles) from the park. The drive typically takes 1-1.5 hours.

What are the Pros and Cons of Rwenzori National Park?

Pros: Ideal for adventure and trekking enthusiasts, beautiful mountain scenery, unique flora and fauna.
Cons: Physically demanding, not a traditional safari, limited wildlife.

8. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a unique and important wildlife conservation area located in the central region of Uganda. It is the only place in Uganda where you can see endangered white rhinos in the wild, as rhinos were previously extinct in the country. The sanctuary, situated in the Nakasongola District, focuses on the rehabilitation and conservation of rhinos, and it is also home to a variety of other wildlife species. It’s an ideal stop for visitors interested in wildlife conservation and for those wanting to see rhinos up close.

Here, you have the opportunity to track rhinos on foot - a rare and exciting activity, and the sanctuary’s diverse habitats and wildlife make it a fascinating destination for nature lovers. Its accessibility from major cities like Kampala and its proximity to other national parks, like Murchison Falls, make it an excellent addition to any Ugandan safari itinerary.

Whether you're interested in rhino tracking, birdwatching, or learning about conservation efforts, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary promises a memorable and impactful visit. Rating 7.5/10

What Visitors Can Look Forward to at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Rhino Tracking:
- The main attraction of the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is rhino tracking. Visitors can take guided walks through the sanctuary with experienced rangers to track and observe the rhinos in their natural habitat. This is a unique opportunity to see white rhinos up close, which are being carefully monitored and conserved.
- The sanctuary is home to a growing population of rhinos, which are part of the reintroduction program. The rhinos are free to roam in their natural environment, and the sanctuary aims to eventually reintroduce them to Uganda’s national parks.
Wildlife Viewing:
- Apart from rhinos, the sanctuary also provides opportunities to see other wildlife, including antelopes, zebras, giraffes, waterbucks, and a variety of birds. The sanctuary is set within a savannah and wetlands environment, making it a diverse habitat for wildlife.
- The area is also home to a large population of bird species, including African fish eagles, hornbills, and buzzards, making it a good destination for birdwatchers.
Birdwatching:
- With over 300 bird species recorded in the sanctuary, birdwatching is a significant activity here. The wetland areas and savannah provide habitat for various bird species, including both migratory and resident species. It’s an excellent location for birding enthusiasts to enjoy sightings of rare and diverse birdlife.
Nature Walks:
- The sanctuary offers nature walks around the area. These walks give visitors the chance to explore the sanctuary’s landscapes and learn about the park's flora and fauna. The walks are led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the natural history and conservation efforts at the sanctuary.
Community Engagement:
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary works closely with the local communities around the area, and visitors can learn about the conservation efforts, community projects, and how the sanctuary has helped support local livelihoods. Visitors can also purchase crafts and souvenirs from local artisans, contributing to the local economy.
Accommodation and Amenities:
- The sanctuary has its own eco-lodge, which provides comfortable accommodations for visitors. The lodge offers a chance to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings in between wildlife activities. There are also camping options for those who prefer a more rustic experience.
Conservation Education:
- Visitors can learn about the sanctuary's mission and its role in rhino conservation, which includes breeding, monitoring, and ensuring the long-term survival of rhinos in Uganda. The sanctuary is part of a larger regional effort to restore rhino populations in Africa.

How far is Ziwa from Ugandan major cities?

Kampala to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is located about 170 km (106 miles) north of Kampala, the capital. The drive typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by road, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Entebbe to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: From Entebbe, the sanctuary is about 180 km (112 miles) away. The drive usually takes around 3 hours by car.
Murchison Falls National Park to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: The sanctuary is conveniently located about 70 km (43 miles) south of Murchison Falls National Park, making it an excellent stop for visitors traveling between the two locations. The drive typically takes 1-1.5 hours.

What are the Pros and Cons of Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary?

Pros: Close encounter with rhinos, unique experience, conservation-focused.
Cons: Limited wildlife compared to larger national parks, smaller park.

Final Thoughts

Uganda is a safari destination that offers a variety of experiences, from gorilla trekking in Bwindi to classic savannah safaris in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls. The country is perfect for those who want to experience Africa’s wildlife in a less commercialized environment compared to some other safari destinations. The best safari in Uganda depends on your interests:

For gorilla and chimpanzee trekking: Bwindi and Kibale.
For classic game safaris: Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls.
For adventure trekking: Rwenzori Mountains.
For a short safari or family-friendly trip: Lake Mburo and Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

Each destination offers something unique, whether it's the rare chance to see mountain gorillas or the tranquil beauty of less-visited parks.

Wishing you an amazing experience in Uganda!