Where to see the big five in Uganda

Introduction

Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, is world-renowned for gorilla trekking, but it’s also a fantastic destination for spotting the Big Five – lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of tree-climbing lions or tracking rhinos on foot, Uganda offers diverse safari experiences in some of the most scenic landscapes in East Africa.

Here’s a complete guide on where to see the Big Five in Uganda and how to plan the perfect safari.

1. Lions – The Kings of the Savannah

Uganda is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare phenomenon found in only a few places in Africa.

Queen Elizabeth National Park (Ishasha Sector) – Best place to see tree-climbing lions resting in fig and acacia trees.

Kasenyi Plains, Queen Elizabeth National Park – Great for spotting lions hunting antelopes like Uganda kob.

Murchison Falls National Park – Lions are often seen during early morning game drives in the northern sector.

Read more: [Queen Elizabeth National Park Wildlife Safari] (internal link suggestion)

2. Elephants – Giants of the Wild

Uganda is home to both African Savannah Elephants and the smaller Forest Elephants.

Queen Elizabeth National Park – Over 3,000 elephants, especially around Lake George and the Kazinga Channel.

Murchison Falls National Park – Large herds roam freely across the savannah.

Kidepo Valley National Park – Remote but rewarding for elephant encounters.

3. Leopards – The Elusive Predators

Spotting a leopard requires patience, but Uganda offers excellent opportunities.

Mweya Peninsula (Queen Elizabeth National Park) – Leopards are often spotted on night game drives.

Murchison Falls National Park – Best chances in the northern savannah sector.

Kidepo Valley National Park – A remote wilderness that’s rich in leopard sightings.

4. Rhinos – A Conservation Success Story

Uganda lost its rhinos in the 1980s due to poaching, but thanks to conservation, they’re back!

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Located en route to Murchison Falls, it’s the only place in Uganda where rhinos are found. Visitors enjoy guided rhino tracking on foot, a unique experience.

Read more: [Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda Experience] (internal link suggestion)

5. Buffaloes – The Herd Animals

Buffaloes are the most widespread of the Big Five and are easy to spot.

Queen Elizabeth National Park – Home to thousands of buffaloes, often grazing near elephants.

Murchison Falls National Park – Large herds seen during game drives.

Kidepo Valley National Park – Known for massive herds that sometimes exceed 1,000 buffaloes.

Suggested Safari Route to See All the Big Five

To see the Big Five in Uganda in one trip, here’s the best safari route:

1. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Start with rhino tracking.

2. Murchison Falls National Park – Spot lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes, plus see the famous waterfall.

3. Queen Elizabeth National Park – Experience tree-climbing lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards.

4. Optional: Kidepo Valley National Park – Remote but rewarding for a complete Big Five safari.

Final Thoughts

Uganda isn’t just about gorillas – it’s also a Big Five safari destination where you can experience wild Africa in its purest form. From the dramatic plains of Murchison Falls to the remote wilderness of Kidepo, each park offers something unique.

Tip for Travelers: To maximize your Big Five experience, plan a 7–10 day safari itinerary covering Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls, and Queen Elizabeth National Park.