Is Uganda good for safaris?

Tips & information for Uganda tour

If you’re asking, “Is Uganda good for safaris?”—you’re not alone. Many travelers overlook this East African gem in favor of its more famous neighbors. But Uganda is where Africa comes alive. With untamed wilderness, rare primates, the Big 5, and vibrant culture, Uganda offers a safari experience like no other.

At Mamaland Safaris, we’ve spent over 15 years guiding guests through Uganda’s lush forests, rolling savannas, and hidden corners. Here’s why Uganda might just be Africa’s best-kept safari secret.

Let’s see below why Uganda is good for safaris

1. Unrivaled Primate Encounters: Gorillas and Beyond

Uganda is one of only three countries in the world where you can trek Mountain Gorillas in the wild. Parks like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offer life-changing gorilla trekking and even habituation experiences, where you spend four hours observing a gorilla group.

But the magic doesn’t end with gorillas. Uganda is also home to 16 primate species, including chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, golden monkeys, and forest-dwelling colobus monkeys—making it a primate lover’s paradise.

2. Classic African Wildlife – The Big 5 and More

Uganda isn’t just about the forests. The open savannas of Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, Kidepo Valley, and Lake Mburo National Parks are home to four of the Big 5: lions, elephants, leopards, and buffaloes. The missing rhino can be tracked on foot at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

One special highlight? The tree-climbing lions of Ishasha—a rare sight seen only here and in one other place in Africa.

3. Birding Paradise: Over 1,025 Species

For birders, Uganda is nothing short of a dream. With over 1,025 bird species, including 18 Albertine Rift endemics, Uganda offers some of Africa’s finest birding spots.

Top ticks include the Shoebill Stork, Great Blue Turaco, and Papyrus Gonolek. Mamaland Safaris’ founder, Tony, is a seasoned ornithologist who helps craft top-quality itineraries for birders of all levels.

4. Breathtaking Scenery and Diverse Ecosystems

Uganda’s natural beauty is incredibly varied. In one trip, you can explore:

The roaring Nile River in Murchison Falls National Park
Misty mountain forests in Bwindi
Zebra-filled savannas of Lake Mburo
Crater lakes and tea plantations near Fort Portal
The remote wilderness of Kidepo Valley, one of Africa’s last untouched safari destinations
Few countries offer such dramatic contrasts within a single itinerary.

5. Responsible Tourism and Cultural Connection

What makes a Ugandan safari even more enriching is its people. From village walks and market visits to cultural encounters with the Batwa and Karamojong, Uganda offers more than wildlife—it offers connection.

At Mamaland Safaris, we proudly support community tourism. Our lodge chain, Woodland Lodges, provides jobs for youth and reformed poachers, contributing to conservation and sustainability.

6. Hassle-Free Safari Planning with Experts

Planning a Uganda safari might feel daunting, but with Mamaland Safaris, you’re in expert hands. Our team, including on-the-ground guides and tour managers, crafts tailor-made safaris based on your interests, time frame, and budget.

Whether you’re looking for a short gorilla trekking tour or a 21-day adventure covering the country’s highlights, we’ve got the experience, flexibility, and insider knowledge to make your dream safari seamless.

7. Is Uganda Safe and Easy to Visit?

Yes! Uganda is a safe, welcoming country with English as the official language, a well-developed tourism infrastructure, and domestic flights to remote parks. Our guests often say that they feel more welcomed and connected here than in more commercial safari destinations.

So, Is Uganda Good for Safaris? Absolutely.

If you’re dreaming of Africa beyond the crowds—where wildlife roams free, primates play in ancient forests, and locals greet you with a smile—Uganda is your answer. It’s authentic, diverse, and unforgettable.

So next time you ask, “Is Uganda good for safaris?”—remember this: Uganda doesn’t just deliver a safari, it delivers the soul of Africa.