The question “Where can I see the Big Five in Uganda?” is frequently asked by safari goers. Uganda, known as the “Pearl of Africa” is a diverse and captivating safari destination that offers an incredible array of wildlife encounters. While the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros, and leopard) are not all found in a single national park in Uganda, you can spot individual members of the Big Five in different regions across the country. In this article, you will learn about the best places to see the Big Five in Uganda.
Murchison Falls National Park
Situated in the northwestern part of Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park offers excellent opportunities to see elephants, buffaloes, and lions. The park is bisected by the Nile River, and a boat safari along the river allows you to spot hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species. The vast open plains of the park are home to large herds of elephants and buffaloes, while the lion population is steadily recovering.
Along the way to Murchison Falls National Park, travelers get a chance to see the rhinoceros at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. This makes Murchison Falls National Park a prime destination for Big Five safaris in Uganda.
The Big Five in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Located in western Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to various wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards. The park’s diverse ecosystems, such as open savannahs, wetlands, and dense forests, provide ideal habitats for these iconic species. The Ishasha sector of the park is particularly famous for its tree-climbing lions. Uganda big five safaris to Queen Elizabeth National Park only guarantee seeing 4 of the big five. This is because the park does not have rhinos. Rhinos in Uganda can only be found in the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
The big five in Kidepo Valley National Park.
Considered one of Africa’s last wilderness areas, Kidepo Valley National Park is located in northeastern Uganda near the border with South Sudan. This remote and rugged park is known for its untouched wilderness and abundant wildlife. While it may be more challenging to spot all members of the Big Five here, Kidepo Valley National Park offers excellent opportunities to see elephants, buffaloes, and lions in a unique and less crowded setting.
Other animals to be seen in Kidepo Valley National Park include; cheetahs, zebras, antelope, waterbucks, Uganda kobs, and many more. Additionally,
Kidepo Valley National Park is famous for being home to ostriches in Uganda.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
It is important to note that the rhinoceros, which completes the Big Five, is not found in the wild in Uganda. However, rhinos can be seen at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a privately owned reserve located en route to Murchison Falls National Park. This sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation and breeding of rhinos and offers guided walking safaris to observe these magnificent creatures up close.
Lake Mburo National Park.
Located in the southwestern part of Uganda – Kiruhura district, Lake Mburo National Park is home to two of the big five animals. They are leopards and buffaloes. A visit to Lake Mburo National Park will introduce you to many other wildlife species. The park is home to many grazers such as buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, Uganda kobs, waterbucks, antelopes, and many more.
Additionally, Lake Mburo National Park is a birder’s haven. The park is home to many bird species. Some of the birds in Lake Mburo National Park include; the grey-crowned crested crane, malachite kingfisher, bare-faced go-away bird, hammer kop, and many more.
More so, the park is a good destination for guided nature walks. A guided nature walk in Lake Mburo National Park will take you through different trails. Here, you will spot some animals including two of the big five animals. You will also immerse yourself in the life of Banyankole. The Banyankole are known for being herdsmen rearing long horned cows.
Other than the big five, what other animals can be seen in Uganda?
In addition to the Big Five, Uganda is home to other remarkable wildlife, including chimpanzees, gorillas, giraffes, zebras, and a wide range of bird species.
Exploring the national parks and protected areas of Uganda will provide you with an unforgettable safari experience and a chance to witness the incredible biodiversity that this beautiful country has to offer.
What is the best time to see the big five in Uganda?
The best time of year to visit Uganda to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros, and leopard) is during the dry seasons. Uganda experiences two dry seasons, which are generally considered the peak safari periods. These include;
December to February (Late Dry Season): This period usually offers excellent game viewing opportunities. The vegetation is relatively sparse, making it easier to spot wildlife, including the Big Five. The animals tend to congregate around water sources, making it a great time for wildlife encounters.
June to September (Mid Dry Season): This is another favorable time to visit Uganda. The weather is generally dry, and wildlife is more concentrated around waterholes and rivers. The grass is shorter, enhancing visibility and increasing the likelihood of spotting the Big Five. During the dry seasons, the animals are more predictable in their movements, and you are more likely to witness predator-prey interactions. Moreover, birdwatching during this time can be exceptional, as migratory bird species are present in the park.
Note: It is important to note that Uganda can be visited year-round, and wildlife can also be seen during other seasons. However, the wet seasons (March to May and October to November) can bring heavy rainfall, resulting in thicker vegetation and more challenging game-viewing conditions. When planning your visit to Uganda, it is advisable to check the weather patterns for the specific year and consult with local tour operators for up-to-date information on wildlife sightings. They can provide valuable insights and help tailor your safari experience to maximize your chances of encountering the Big Five.
Taking a Uganda big five safari or trip is an amazing experience. It allows you to encounter the giants of the jungle. Learning about the defense mechanisms, hunting techniques, and feeding habits is a moment turned into memory. Talk to a Safari Expert now and create a signature of memories.
