Are you planning visit Uganda’s most beautiful national parks and other popular destinations Whether you’re opting for a self-drive adventure or hiring a driver, it’s essential to know some key facts about the attractions you’ll be visiting. Putting these in mind will enhance your experience and deepen your appreciation of the diverse landscapes and wildlife Uganda has to offer.
Be sure to prepare for an unforgettable adventure that’s sure to leave you with lifelong memories. Below are quick, fascinating facts about the top national parks and other popular destinations that you should consider on your self-drive road trip to Uganda.
Murchison Falls National Park
Did you know that at Murchison Falls, the mighty Nile squeezes through an 8-meter-wide gorge, creating one of the most spectacular waterfall views in Africa?
Another amazing feature of the park is the Uhuru Falls, formed in 1962 due to flooding caused by heavy rains. The Honeymoon Track on the southern sector of the park offers scenic wildlife viewing, perfect for a romantic or peaceful nature walk.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Did you know that the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is home to 18 rhinos, all of the southern white rhino species? These rhinos were reintroduced in 2003, and since then, their population has steadily increased.
The Northern white rhino, once found in Uganda, became extinct in the 1980s. Visiting this sanctuary provides a rare opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Semuliki National Park
Semuliki is home to the only true lowland forest in East Africa, which survived the last ice age. Over 14 million years, subterranean forces have shaped the region, creating a fascinating landscape.
It is also the easternmost extension of the great Ituri Forest, making it a unique biodiverse area. With 400 bird species recorded, Semuliki is a birdwatcher’s haven, offering a chance to observe some of the most vibrant avian species.
Rwenzori Mountains National Park
Did you know that the Rwenzori Mountains, famously known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” were first mapped by explorer Henry Stanley in 1888? The highest point in the range, Mount Stanley’s Margherita Peak, stands at 5,109 meters above sea level.
This park offers a truly rugged adventure, perfect for those who enjoy high-altitude treks through awe-inspiring landscapes.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
If you’re headed to Queen Elizabeth National Park, be sure to stop by Ishasha, known worldwide for its tree-climbing lions. Another major highlight of the park is the Kazinga Channel, a 32-kilometer-long natural waterway linking Lake Edward and Lake George.
Don’t miss out on the Kyambura Gorge, also known as the “Valley of Apes,” where you can encounter Uganda’s famous chimpanzees.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Did you know that Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Uganda’s smallest national park, covering only 33.7 square kilometers? It is home to the golden monkey, a species of Old-World monkey found only in the highland bamboo forests of the Virunga Volcanoes.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience, Mgahinga should be at the top of your list.
Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo Valley is one of Uganda’s most remote national parks, but it is worth the journey. Did you know that the Kidepo and Naris rivers dry up during the dry season, leaving behind pools of water where wildlife gathers?
The park was named by CNN as the best park in Africa in 2012 due to its spectacular landscapes and giant buffalo herds. With over 2,000 buffaloes in a single herd, Kidepo offers one of the best buffalo safari experiences in Africa.
Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve
Pian Upe is the largest wildlife reserve in Uganda after Murchison Falls National Park. It is home to the largest population of Roan antelope in the country and boasts fascinating cave drawings depicting giraffes and other animals. This lesser-known reserve offers a peaceful and authentic safari experience.
Kibale National Park
Kibale is known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” and for good reason. The park is home to 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees, Uganda Mangabeys, and l’Hoest monkeys.
Did you know that Kibale contains 351 tree species, some of which are over 200 years old and rise to over 55 meters? It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and those interested in primate tracking.
Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park is home to Uganda’s largest population of Common Impala and Zebras. In July 2015, 15 Giraffes were introduced to the park from Murchison Falls, adding even more wildlife to this park. It’s an excellent spot for game drives and birdwatching.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Did you know that Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was gazetted as a national park in 1991 and later declared a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site in 1994? The Mubare Gorilla group was the first to become available for tourism in 1993.
The park is located on a series of ridges and valleys and is the source of five major rivers that flow into Lake Edward. If you’re eager to track the endangered mountain gorillas, Bwindi is the ultimate destination.
Mount Elgon National Park
Mount Elgon’s caldera is one of the largest intact volcanic calderas in the world. The mountain is the source of several rivers, including the Suam River, which drains into Lake Turkana.
Hiking to Mount Elgon’s highest peak, Wagagai, is a three-day adventure that takes you through some of Uganda’s most spectacular scenery.
