Why Choose Uganda for Safari
Why You Should Visit Uganda for your African Safari
Uganda, popularly known as the “Pearl of Africa,” ranks among the most visited safari destinations in the world, offering unequalled biodiversity in conjunction with scenic scenery. Unlike other East African Safari destinations that pride themselves on savannahs only, Uganda offers a peculiar blend of the green rainforest, volcanic ranges, and the source of the mighty Nile. The rare geographical diversity found here allows travelers to have both the Big Five and the majestic primates, the silverback gorillas, within one itinerary.
While Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti are world-famous for their sheer scale, Uganda’s appeal lies in its extraordinary diversity within a relatively small area. Bordering Kenya to the east, Congo to the west, Rwanda to the south, and South Sudan to the North, its strategic location is perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Unlike visiting Kenya and Tanzania for the big cats and the wildebeest migration, Uganda offers a striking difference that can be added to one’s safari itinerary. The most recommended reason to visit Uganda is the Gorilla Trekking and Chimpanzee Trekking.
This East African destination is perfect for the big five. Apart from the gorilla and chimp trekking, it’s easy to enjoy sighting other wildlife species such as lions, elephants, leopards, and cheetahs. You can visit Queen Elizabeth for an amazing guided safari and spot some of the best wildlife, such as the tree-climbing lions, herds of elephants moving around, and many others. It’s a perfect destination for birds as well, with different bird species.
Apart from the Gorillas and Big Five, for adventurous travellers, there are more heart-pumping and engaging activities you can undertake in Uganda, including summiting Mount Ruwenzori, doing water rafting in Jinja, and many other activities.
Primate Encounters & Rare Wildlife – Silverback Gorillas and Chimpanzees in Uganda
The highlight of any safari in Uganda is the chance to track gorillas and chimpanzees. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park provides sanctuary to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, while Kibale Forest provides the best viewing of chimpanzees on the continent. Other wildlife in Uganda that can be seen only on rare occasions includes tree-climbing lions, found in the Ishasha region of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Diverse Ecosystems and Adventure Expeditions in Uganda
The geography of Uganda is such that one can experience multiple safaris; that is, one can range from a foggy peak, from Ruwenzori Mountain, to open grasslands filled with elephants and buffalo. Adventurous tourism is available too, and Jinja is a place to experience the best of white-water rafting on the River Nile. The birdwatchers will have a paradise of over 1,000 bird species to look at, including the prehistoric-looking shoebill stork.
Intimate Experiences and Culture Immersions in Uganda
Since Uganda is generally not as crowded as its counterparts, Kenya and Tanzania, there is a greater level of intimacy, exclusivity, and personalised relationships with nature. This extends to the community as well, where guests can interact with groups such as the Batwa people and understand their cultural connection to native forests. In conclusion, Uganda is a more affordable yet equally opulent option for high-end wildlife experiences, making it a must-visit hub for any African lover.
Looking For a Safari in Africa?
Explore our collection of over 70 luxury African safaris. You can also contact us to design a bespoke, tailor-made adventure just for you.
Explore Uganda National Parks
Explore the Best Safari Destinations in Uganda
All across Uganda, there are beautiful and interesting places to visit. This includes all 10 National Parks in Uganda and other popular Uganda Safaris destinations that are worth visiting. Wherever you choose to go, we’ll help you discover what makes that area unique.
Whether you are looking for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park, or spot the Chimpanzees in Kibale National Park, Uganda is an all-round safari destination full of thrilling adventures such as water rafting to hiking and many others.
Uganda Map - Uganda Safari Map
Uganda National Parks Map
Uganda is roughly 241,000 square kilometers (about 93,000 square miles) in total area. Uganda has 10 National Parks, managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), with Bwindi National Park being the most popular park.
Semliki Wildlife Reserve, formerly known as the Toro Game Reserve, is Uganda’s oldest protected area, established...
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most famous and diverse national parks. It’s located...
Situated in southwest Uganda, the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is perhaps best known for its primate...
Which is the Best Time To Visit Uganda for safari
When is the Best Time to Travel to Uganda?
Uganda is located in an equatorial region and receives a lot of rainfall throughout the year. Wth its ecosystem, Uganda favors the Silver Back Gorillas to inhabit their national Parks. Hence, it’s important to know which is the best time to visit Uganda for Safaris. Below is a brief guide to all the seasons in Uganda.
The best season to visit Uganda is during the dry seasons of June to September and December to February. These seasons provide the best environment for gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, as well as wildlife viewing in national parks during the dry season when vegetation is low and roads are accessible.
Uganda Safaris Seasonal Guide
Best Weather Guide to plan your Uganda Safari. We have listed according to months and major destinations in Uganda, also adding the best time to do Gorilla Trekking in Uganda.
| Season | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bwindi | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Fair |
| Kibale | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Fair |
| Queen Elizabeth | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Fair |
| Jinja | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Fair |
| Entebbe | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Fair |
| Kampala | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Fair |
| Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Fair | |
| Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Fair | |
| Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Fair | |
Semuliki | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Fair |
| Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Fair | |
| Mount Kenya | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Fair |
| Lake Nakuru | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Fair |
Low Season
High Season
Peak Season
Low Season
The Wet Seasons: March to May, October to November
Although oftentimes referred to as the time of year best avoided, the wet seasons see Uganda transform into a lush emerald green paradise. During this time, the heavy rains can make dirt roads impassable in the remote areas and the forest floor slippery for those wishing to trek. But from a money-saving perspective, the low season means lower prices at the lodges and trekking permits.
It is also the best time for birdwatching, as the local plants are at peak bloom and the views are absolutely stunning. Provided you do not mind the odd downpour and the resultant squelch, you shall be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views and the rare luxury of having the majority of the wilderness areas at your disposal, without the crowds of the peak tourist season.
High Season
Short Dry Season: December to February
Placed between the two big rainy seasons, the secondary dry season is an ideal choice for travelers looking to balance good weather and low tourist traffic. In addition to this, the routes to chimpanzee and gorilla tracking will be firm and easy to navigate, and the weather will be pleasant and comfortable for hiking.
This is also a perfect time for bird enthusiasts to visit, as the migratory birds from Europe and North Africa flock to the region in large numbers and join the endemic bird population in the lush vegetation. It provides a degree of privacy and exclusivity, as it is not as popular as mid-year tourism.
This provides a perfect setting for travelers who desire a personal and intimate connection with the environment.
Peak Season
The Long Dry Season: June to September
This is considered to be the peak high season for a Uganda Safari, as there will be the most consistent amounts of sunlight and temperate weather to be found anywhere in the country. This specific window has traditionally been considered to be the absolute best time to view general wildlife due to the scarcity of rain causing varied species to be pushed into the permanent rivers and watering holes.
Keep in mind, though, as this is so popular season for international travelers to Uganda, gorilla permits and top-end lodges will be completely booked out well in advance. There will be more crowds in popular parks like Queen Elizabeth or Bwindi, although the tradeoff is the ease of travel and the golden-colored landscape.
This time of year also allows for the most optimal lighting to obtain amazing, professional-grade photographs of the Big Five as well as the majestic mountain gorillas.
Uganda Safari Accommodations
Top Safari Accommodations in Uganda
Safari accommodations in Uganda are vital. You need to plan on places you will stay, especially when you are on your gorilla trekking safari. Safari camps and lodges play a huge role in making sure your experience is top-notch and not compromised at all.
Once you land in Entebbe, Uganda, you will stay in amazing hotels, as well as luxury camps, when you visit parks like Queen Elizabeth National Park, or on a Gorilla Trek in Bwindi.
There are different accommodation levels available in Uganda, ranging from luxurious retreat accommodation within the forests in and around Bwindi to camping sites in community areas.
Luxury Safari Lodges and Resorts in Uganda
These properties offer luxurious amenities such as spas, fine dining, and intimate and spacious cottages. These properties are situated deep within the parks, ensuring easy access to the wildlife. These are quite appropriate for travelers who seek a refined experience in the African wilderness.
Safari Tented Camps and Eco-Lodges in Uganda
Ranging from mid-range to luxury, these permanent and robust tents have en-suite bathrooms and allow guests to have an immersive nature experience while still enjoying modern amenities. These eco-friendly accommodations are best for adventure enthusiasts who wish to be connected to nature.
Uganda Safari Accommodations
Top Safari Accommodations in Uganda
Safari accommodations in Uganda are vital. You need to plan on places you will stay, especially when you are on your gorilla trekking safari. Safari camps and lodges play a huge role in making sure your experience is top-notch and not compromised at all.
Once you land in Entebbe, Uganda, you will stay in amazing hotels, as well as luxury camps, when you visit parks like Queen Elizabeth National Park, or on a Gorilla Trek in Bwindi.
There are different accommodation levels available in Uganda, ranging from luxurious retreat accommodation within the forests in and around Bwindi to camping sites in community areas.
Luxury Safari Lodges and Resorts in Uganda
These properties offer luxurious amenities such as spas, fine dining, and intimate and spacious cottages. These properties are situated deep within the parks, ensuring easy access to the wildlife. These are quite appropriate for travelers who seek a refined experience in the African wilderness.
Safari Tented Camps and Eco-Lodges in Uganda
Ranging from mid-range to luxury, these permanent and robust tents have en-suite bathrooms and allow guests to have an immersive nature experience while still enjoying modern amenities. These eco-friendly accommodations are best for adventure enthusiasts who wish to be connected to nature.
Uganda Safari Packages & Tours
Uganda safari itineraries and ideas To Custom Make
Explore our Uganda Safaris, exploring the region’s wildlife and culture in our Uganda luxury safari packages. Visit the Queen Elizabeth National Park and Bwindi from Entebbe. We also have flying safaris to other major national parks in Uganda.
Our Uganda safari packages typically combine premier gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, and savanna game drives in Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls National Park.
Why travel with Cheetah Safaris
Reasons to Book Your Uganda Safari With Us
Booking your Gorilla Safari with Cheetah Safaris will offer you an expert-guided, 5-Star rated experience in Rwanda and Uganda. As a locally owned safari company has years of experience offering luxury safaris, ensuring that you receive top-notch, premium-quality experiences. From handling all paperwork requirements to ensuring you ride in 4×4 Land Cruisers, we will take care of everything, so you can simply bask in the wonder of these incredible mountain gorilla adventures in Uganda.
Luxury Services and Tailored Itineraries According to Your Needs
Cheetah Safaris specializes in exclusive private safaris tailor-made for individual preferences. With more than 15 years of experience, our team handpicks and pretests every destination to ensure maximum gorilla-viewing and safari adventure opportunities. From private meet and greet services to expertly curated itineraries in all destinations in Uganda, every element has been fine-tuned to deliver a sophisticated and genuinely unforgettable safari.
Local Expertise and Elite Reputation With Excellent Reviews
Being 100% locally owned, Cheetah Safaris has intimate knowledge of East Africa’s best-kept secrets. Their commitment to professional excellence has earned them consistent 5-star reviews and prestigious TripAdvisor Awards. Guests benefit from a reliable team that understands the terrain to perfection; every logistical detail, including private charters and bookings within luxury lodges, meets the highest international standards.
Financial Protection
You are guranteed of a safe, and peace of mind booking process, and as well safari payments. We ensure that your payments are secure and safe.
Sustainable Practices
Keeping in mind our efforts in wildlife, environment and natural resources protections, we are sustainable travel conscious and aware.
Ground Safari Expert
We Know Africa more than any one. We love taking our guests to the less explored destinations. Experiencing the magical touch of African Wild.
Positive Impact
Our Safaris are not only sustainable, but create very positive impacts to so many. We engage in school programmes, that inspires our future leaders.
15 Years of Experience
Cheetah Safaris has a combined of 69 years of safari expertise and practice in Africa. We will take care of your safari from arrival till departure.
Proffessional Guides
We have the best safari guides in East Africa. All our guides are Silver and Gold Guides. Hence you will learn so much with them while on safari.
Looking For a Safari in Africa?
Explore our collection of over 70 luxury African safaris. You can also contact us to design a bespoke, tailor-made adventure just for you.
Safari Tips For a Uganda Safari Holiday
Uganda Travel Guide, what you need to know
As you plan your Uganda Safari with us, there is some important information you need to know before visiting. Our travel guide will help you plan well, know what you need ahead of your trip to Uganda, and have the basic knowledge of what a Uganda safari is.
What Does a Uganda Safari Cost?
To determine the amount you will spend on your safari, a budget from our expert and cost guide is important. A Luxury Uganda Safari can cost between USD 1,500 and up to more than USD 4,000 Per Person sharing Per Day. Get the full guide of our Uganda Safari Cost Guide to help you plan your safari well.
What to Pack For a Uganda Safari
When packing for your Uganda safari holiday, you will need to know that it’s recommended to pack lightly. Pack items that won’t make your safari tiresome. Light packaging helps you move easily from one safari destination to another. We have prepared a comprehensive Uganda Safari Packing list to guide you through.
When to Visit Uganda, the Best Time, and the climate or weather
It’s vital to know when it’s the best time to visit Uganda, as well as understand if your preferred month of visiting is perfect for an amazing wildlife experience. There are months when it’s hot and dry, which are best for gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda, and there are months that is totaly wet and rainy. If you are planning to visit during the wildebeest migration, it’s important to know when the best time is to see the migration, crossings, and combine that with Gorilla Trekking or Chimpanzee Tracking in Uganda.
Documentation for travelling to Uganda
Now that you have managed to plan and book your safari, it’s important to be legal and find out what documents are required to visit Uganda. You will need a valid eVisa, a passport that is more than 6 months old, and it is recommended to have a yellow fever vaccination.
Safety and Health While on Safari in Uganda
This is most important, as you will need to know how safe Uganda is, and also what you need to do when it gets uneasy. Safety is paramount to all of our guests, and we do our best to offer safety measures to all our guests when on game drives in parks, when driving on roads, and in our booked accommodations, or in case of any security threat.
In terms of health, we have made sure we have measures to manage our guests’ health conditions, but we advise our guests to share any of their health conditions so we can know how to handle incase anything happens.
All FAQs About Uganda Safaris
FAQS and Questions and Answers about Uganda
Frequently Asked Questions About our Uganda Safaris. If you have any queries regarding our Uganda safaris and tours, no need to worry, as we have gathered some of our customers’ most frequently asked questions below to help you make your decision on whether Uganda is the place for your safari holiday.
Is Uganda Safe to Visit For Safaris?
It is very Safe to visit Uganda for a luxury safari. According to the Global Index, Uganda ranks top as a safe safari destination in Africa.
Which Are the Best Destinations to visit in Uganda?
The best places to visit in Uganda for your safari holiday include Bwindi National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale National Park, and Mgahinga National Park.
Are Uganda Safaris Expensive?
Uganda safaris can be affordable, averaging between USD 500 Per Person Per Day to 1,800 Per Person Per Day.
How Much is a Gorilla Permit in Uganda?
A Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda costs USD 800 after a recent government review of the fee.
What do I need to Visit Uganda?
To visit Uganda for a safari, you will need a passport that is more than 6 months valid and a valid travel E-visa. We recommend having travel insurance and malaria and yellow fever vaccinations.
Pack For a Purpose
Cheetah Safaris is a serious advocate of sustainable safari practices in Africa. As part of our efforts and initiative, we engage and support schools and children who need knowledge to better their lives. The best gift a child can be given is education, skills, and creativity.
In this case, we request our guests booking with us, to bring an extra back of supplies. This can be in terms of books, sports materials, and any other items that would change the lives of these kids.
- Education
- Sustainable Travel
- Wildlife Conservation
Let us help you customize your trip
Like all of our holidays on this site, this is just an idea. All of our trips are tailor-made, so we’ll always adapt them to suit you.
Talk to an Expert
Browse our Cheetah Safaris Website. We’ll match you with a Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you plan your next safari adventure. To start, submit your Safari Inquiries.
Prepare for your trip
Our Safari experts will be of help in planning your safari from start to end. They will advise you on all that you need to pack and travel documents, too. They will be ready to answer any queries you have.
When you return
We would love to hear from you about your trip with us. Your feedback will help us always work better and try to be the best. You can leave your review on our Reviews Page or TripAdvisor Page.

