Uganda is famous for the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses—but also offers a variety of other wildlife across its savannah parks like Lake Mburo, Queen Elizabeth, and Murchison Falls National Parks. These parks, with their open grasslands and wetlands, host a range of animals, birds, and insects, making Uganda an incredible destination for wildlife lovers.

The Big Five in Uganda

• Lions: Found in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo Valley National Parks, lions live in prides and are known for their hunting strategies. Tree-climbing lions can be spotted in Queen Elizabeth's Ishasha sector.
• Leopards: Elusive and solitary, they are seen in Murchison Falls, Kidepo, and Bwindi. Leopards are stealthy hunters and often stash their prey in trees.
• Elephants: Found in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi, elephants are social and vital to their ecosystems. They are threatened by poaching and habitat loss.
• Buffaloes: Seen in large herds in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls, buffaloes are strong and social animals.
• Rhinoceroses: Now critically endangered, they are mainly found at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, which focuses on their conservation.

Other Mammals

• Giraffes: Found in Lake Mburo, Queen Elizabeth, and Murchison Falls.
• Warthogs: Common in most parks, recognizable by their tusks and face bumps.
• Hartebeests and Waterbucks: Found in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth.
• Oribis: Small antelopes seen in open grasslands.

Game Viewing in Uganda

Game drives in Uganda offer a chance to explore diverse habitats, from the savannahs of Queen Elizabeth to the dramatic landscapes of Murchison Falls and the remote Kidepo Valley. Visitors can see iconic animals while enjoying breathtaking scenery. Drives are typically done in the early morning or late afternoon to catch wildlife at its most active.

Guidelines for Game Viewing

• Keep a safe distance from animals.
• Follow park rules and drive within designated areas.
• Avoid feeding animals and stay inside vehicles.
• Respect wildlife and other visitors during photography.
• By following these guidelines, visitors contribute to wildlife conservation and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Uganda's parks.