Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Over 40 percent of the world’s mountain gorillas call Bwindi home. Gorilla trekking to the 21 gorilla groups in this park is a once in a lifetime experience.
Iconic Mountain Gorillas, 1000+ Bird Species, Africa Big 5, Tropical Glaciers, Rich Biodiversity
Uganda has 10 amazingly diverse national parks, 12 Wildlife Reserves; 5 Community Wildlife Management Areas; and 13 Wildlife Sanctuaries. Some reserves like the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are well-known for their gentle residents – the mountain gorillas. From the misty tropical forest there a number of savanna parks where you get to tick off Africa’s Big 5 – and in Uganda case plus the 13 species of primates and over 1070 bird species.
From the savannah parks to the mountainous Rwenzori Mountains National Park, with its tropical glaciers, there is a lot waiting just for you. So, whether to choose to visit view wildlife, trek across glaciers, fish in the Nile, walk with zebras, and top it with golf – you will not be disappointed.
And more so, Uganda is not a mass-tourism destination. So your environmental footprint remains small, and your experience private and personal.
Uganda’s national parks are special for several reasons, making them unique and attractive destinations for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The parks are often considered less crowded than other African safari destinations. This provides visitors a more intimate and authentic wildlife experience, away from large tourist crowds.
1. Murchison Falls National Park:
– Location: Northern Uganda.
– Highlights: Murchison Falls, the Nile River, diverse wildlife including elephants, giraffes, buffalo, leopards, and lions. Big game sport fishing tours on the Nile River.
2. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:
– Location: Southwestern Uganda.
– Highlights: Home to endangered mountain gorillas, gorilla trekking, lush forests, and diverse bird species.
3. Queen Elizabeth National Park:
– Location: Western Uganda.
– Highlights: Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha sector, Kazinga Channel with hippos and crocodiles, diverse birdlife.
4. Kibale National Park:
– Location: Western Uganda.
– Highlights: Chimpanzee tracking, 13 primate species, bird watching, butterflies, lush tropical rainforest.
5. Rwenzori Mountains National Park:
– Location: Western Uganda.
– Highlights: The “Mountains of the Moon,” glaciers, diverse flora and fauna, birding, and challenging trekking.
6. Semuliki National Park:
– Location: Western Uganda.
– Highlights: Hot springs, diverse bird species, and unique wildlife.
7. Lake Mburo National Park:
– Location: Western Uganda.
– Highlights: Zebras, impalas, and other wildlife, Lake Mburo, boat trips, birdwatching, sport fishing, and guided safari walks.
8. Kidepo Valley National Park:
– Location: Northeastern Uganda.
– Highlights: Remote and rugged landscapes, diverse wildlife, including elephants, cheetahs, and ostriches.
9. Mount Elgon National Park:
– Location: Eastern Uganda.
– Highlights: Mount Elgon, Sipi Falls, one of the world’s largest calderas, diverse ecosystems, and birdwatching.
10. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:
– Location: Southwestern Uganda.
– Highlights: Mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and volcanic landscapes.
These national parks showcase Uganda’s incredible biodiversity, from the iconic mountain gorillas to the diverse landscapes of savannas, rainforests, and mountains. When planning your safari, consider the best time to visit Uganda so you align your interests with the tour.