The List of National Parks and Other Destinations in Uganda

Uganda, known as the “Pearl of Africa,” is home to 10 national parks and several other breathtaking destinations that offer diverse landscapes, incredible wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. From gorilla trekking in Bwindi to game drives in Murchison Falls and Kidepo, Uganda is a top-tier safari destination.

Below is a complete list of Uganda’s national parks and other must-visit destinations for travelers seeking adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty.

List of National Parks in Uganda

Safaris, primate trekking, mountain climbing, and birdwatching are just some of the activities that can be enjoyed in Uganda’s ten national parks, each of which offers a different kind of experience.

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – The Gorilla Trekking Capital

• Mountain gorilla hiking is a well-known activity.
  Area: the southwestern region of Uganda
  Why Should You Come? Bwindi is home to about half of the world’s mountain gorillas that are in risk of extinction, and it provides visitors with an unforgettable opportunity to undertake jungle trekking.

2. Murchison Falls National Park – Uganda’s Largest Park

• Murchison Falls, the Big Five safaris, and boat rides on the Nile are some of the most famous attractions in the country.
  Place: in the northwestern part of Uganda
  Why Should You Come? The most expansive national park in Uganda is an ideal location for wildlife safaris, where visitors may look for lions, giraffes, and elephants, as well as appreciate the spectacular waterfall.

3. Queen Elizabeth National Park – Home of the Tree-Climbing Lions

• Ishasha is well-known for its tree-climbing lions, and Kazinga Channel boat safaris are also popular.
  Place: Western Uganda (location)
  Why Should You Come? Over 600 different species of birds may be seen in this park, making it an excellent location for birding, boat safaris, and wildlife drives.

4. Kibale National Park – The Primate Capital of the World

• Well-known for: hiking with chimpanzees
  Place: Western Uganda (location)
  Why Should You Come? Home to more than thirteen different kinds of primates, such as chimpanzees, red colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys, among others.

5. Kidepo Valley National Park – Uganda’s Hidden Gem

• Notable for: a wilderness that is both remote and unspoiled
  Place: in the northeastern part of Uganda
  Why Should You Come? The most real safaris, complete with lions, cheetahs, elephants, and beautiful vistas, can be found and experienced here.

6. Lake Mburo National Park – Uganda’s Smallest Savannah Park

• There are walking safaris, zebra safaris, and horseback safaris that are famous.
  Place: Western Uganda (location)
  Why Should You Come? It is ideal for game drives, boat trips, and one-of-a-kind safaris that involve walking or horseback riding.

7. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Where Gold Meets Silver

• Particularly well-known for its golden monkeys and mountain gorillas
  Area: the southwestern region of Uganda
  Why Should You Come? Mt. Sabyinyo is a peak that offers hiking options in addition to being home to mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.

8. Rwenzori Mountains National Park – The “Mountains of the Moon”

• Well-known for its snow-covered mountains and scenic hiking pathways
  Place: Western Uganda (location)
  Why Should You Come? A paradise for mountaineers, with climbs ranging from easy, one-day treks to the difficult ascent of Margherita Peak, this place is a dream location for mountaineers.

9. Mount Elgon National Park – Home of the World’s Largest Caldera

• Mountain climbing and waterfalls are two of the area’s most well-known attractions.
  Southeast Uganda is the location.
  Why Should You Come? Although it is a less difficult walk than the Rwenzori, it offers just as much rewarding beauty and fauna as the Rwenzori.

10. Semuliki National Park – The True African Jungle

• It is well-known for its hot springs and its diverse bird species.
  Place: Western Uganda (location)
  Why Should You Come? It is the only lowland tropical forest in East Africa, and it is an excellent place to go birdwatching and to explore other cultures.

Other Must-Visit Destinations in Uganda

Besides national parks, Uganda has incredible lakes, rivers, and cultural sites worth exploring.

1. The Source of the Nile – Jinja

• Why Visit? The starting point of the world’s longest river, offering thrilling activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and boat cruises.

2. Ssese Islands – Uganda’s Hidden Tropical Paradise

• Why Visit? Located on Lake Victoria, these islands are perfect for relaxation, beach adventures, and fishing.

3. Lake Bunyonyi – The Switzerland of Africa

• Why Visit? Uganda’s most scenic lake, ideal for canoeing, island hopping, and relaxation.

4. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – The Only Place to See Rhinos in Uganda

• Why Visit? The only place in Uganda to track rhinos on foot before they are reintroduced into the wild.

5. Mabamba Swamp – Home of the Shoebill Stork

• Why Visit? A prime spot to see the rare shoebill stork, a must-visit for bird lovers.

6. Uganda Equator Line – Stand in Two Hemispheres at Once

• Why Visit? A unique spot to straddle both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres and witness water swirling in opposite directions.

Best Places to Visit in Uganda

Whether you are interested in going on a gorilla trekking expedition, going on a large game safari, going on mountain adventures, or having cultural experiences, Uganda has something for everyone.

Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, and Murchison Falls are three of the best options for anyone who are interested in wildlife.
Rwenzori Mountains, Jinja, and Mount Elgon are all places that offer exhilarating experiences for those who are looking for adventure.
Lake Bunyonyi and the Ssese Islands combine to create the ideal setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. For bookings, contact your Uganda Safari Packages Specialist