Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa whose diverse landscape encompasses the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains and immense Lake Victoria. Its wildlife is noteworthy for its diversity and abundance. Uganda is one of the world’s foremost safari destinations, hosting more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
So if you are looking for a fantastic safari experience, Uganda should definitely be on your list!
Here are 15 must-see animals that call Uganda home:
1. Gorillas
As mentioned, Uganda is one of the world’s foremost destinations for seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Known for their gentle nature, these amazing animals are a sight to behold and an experience you will never forget. Several habituated gorilla groups can be visited in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks.
The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are both home to several gorilla families that visitors can track. Gorilla trekking is an unforgettable experience and a must-do when in Uganda! Seeing the gorillas may be a bit of a hike, but it is well worth the effort when you finally come face-to-face with these gentle giants. All you need to do is purchase a permit in advance – which can be done through your tour company or directly with the Ugandan Wildlife Authority.
2. Tree-climbing lions
One of the unique things about Ugandan wildlife is that there are lions that live in trees! These big cats are found in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park and are most active during the day when they can be seen lounging in the branches or taking a nap. As with gorilla trekking, you must purchase a permit in advance – which can be done through your tour company or directly with the Ugandan Wildlife Authority.
Lions in Uganda climb trees because of the many tsetse flies in the area – the branches provide a reprieve from these pesky insects. This is also an excellent spot to see elephants, antelope, and other wildlife roaming below the trees. These animals serve as their prey.
While tree-climbing lions are relatively easy to spot, don’t forget that there are also plenty of lions on the ground in Uganda’s national parks. While tree-climbing lions are a must-see, they can be elusive, so it’s essential to have realistic expectations. But if you’re lucky enough to see one, it will be a highlight of your safari!
3. Leopard
The leopard is one of the “big five” animals every safari-goer wants to see. While they are notoriously elusive, if you put in the time and effort, your chances of seeing a leopard are pretty good in Uganda. The best place to see leopards is in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where they can often be seen lounging in trees or stalking their prey. The best time to see a leopard is at dawn or dusk when they are most active.
Seeing a leopard in the wild is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. These powerful and beautiful animals are definitely worth the effort to see!
4. Shoebill stork
The shoebill stork is a large bird easily recognizable by its massive bill. These unique birds can be found in swampy areas near lakes and rivers. The best place to see shoebill storks is in the Murchison Falls National Park, where they can often be seen wading in the water or perched on a tree branch. These birds are relatively easy to spot, but getting a good photo can be challenging – so make sure you have your camera ready!
While they may not be as exciting as some other animals on this list, the shoebill stork is a must-see in Uganda!
5. Chimpanzee
Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, but it’s also an excellent place to see chimpanzees. Chimpanzees are found in several national parks, including Kibale Forest National Park, Kyambura Gorge, and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Kibale Forest National Park is one of the best places in the world to see chimpanzees. It has the highest density of chimpanzees anywhere!
A chimpanzee trek is a bit different than a gorilla trek – instead of hiking through the forest, you will be walking on a network of raised wooden walkways. This allows you to get close to the chimpanzees without disturbing their natural habitat.
Chimpanzee trekking is a fantastic experience – you will be able to see these creatures up close and learn more about their fascinating behavior. It’s a must-do when in Uganda!
6. African Fish Eagle
The African fish eagle is the national bird of Uganda and can be found in several different habitats across the country. These breathtaking birds are most often seen near bodies of water where they hunt for fish. If you want to see an African fish eagle up close, your best bet is to visit one of Uganda’s many lakes, such as Lake Mburo or Lake Victoria.
While the African fish eagle is a relatively common bird, it is still an impressive sight. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for these magnificent creatures while out and about in Uganda. But if you see an African fish eagle, remember to respect their space and not approach them. Do not try to feed them; be sure to dispose of any rubbish properly to prevent them from getting hurt. Having these things in mind will help you preserve their beauty.
7. Rhino
Uganda is home to both black and white rhinos. While the black rhino is more common, the white rhino is the one most people want to see. These massive creatures can weigh up to two tons and are an impressive sight! There are only a few hundred white rhinos left in the world, so seeing one in the wild is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The best place to see a white rhino is in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, located just outside Kampala. This protected area is home to over two dozen rhinos and is the only place in Uganda where you can see these fantastic creatures.
While rhinos are a must-see animal, it’s important to remember that they are endangered. Be sure to respect their space and do not try to approach or feed them. Following these guidelines can help ensure that rhinos will be around for future generations to enjoy.
8. Buffalo
Buffalos are another common animal that can be found in Uganda. These massive creatures are often seen in herds and can weigh up to a ton! While they may seem docile, buffalos can be dangerous if they feel threatened. It’s important to respect their space and never approach or try to feed them.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most fantastic place to view a buffalo. This park has many buffaloes, and it’s simple to notice if you keep your eyes open.
While seeing a buffalo in the wild is a fantastic experience, it’s important to remember that they are wild animals and should be respected. Be sure to follow the guidelines your tour guide and a park ranger set to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
9. Golden Monkeys
Golden monkeys are an endangered species of monkeys that can be found in Uganda. These beautiful creatures are often seen in the wild and are a sight to behold! While they may be small, they are a must-see animal when visiting Uganda. They live in troops and are very social creatures.
The best place to see golden monkeys is in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This park is home to many golden monkeys and is the perfect place to get up close and personal with these fantastic creatures.
Golden monkeys are endangered, so seeing them in the wild is astounding. It’s crucial to remember that they’re threatened when you see them in the wild. Keep a safe distance from them and don’t try to approach or feed them. Following these guidelines may help ensure that golden monkeys survive for future generations.
10. Hippo
Hippos are one of the most dangerous animals in Uganda and should be treated with caution. However, they are also fascinating animals to watch. These massive creatures can often be lounging in rivers or napping on the shore. While they may look lazy, they are very aggressive and should be respected as such.
The best place to see a hippo is in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This park is home to many hippos and offers visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with these creatures. While it’s a fantastic experience, it’s important to remember that hippos are dangerous animals. Be sure to follow the guidelines your tour guide and a park ranger set to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
11. Elephants
Elephants are another common animal that can be found in Uganda. These massive creatures are often seen in herds and can weigh up to six tons! They are very gentle giants and are a joy to watch. While they may seem docile, elephants can be dangerous if they feel threatened. It’s important to respect their space and never approach or try to feed them.
If you are planning to see these creatures in the wild, the best place to go is Queen Elizabeth National Park. This park has many elephants, and it’s simple to notice if you keep your eyes open.
12. Crocodiles
Crocodiles are one of the most dangerous animals in Uganda and should be treated with caution. These massive reptiles can often be seen basking in the sun or lurking in the water, waiting for their next meal. While they may seem docile, crocodiles are very aggressive and should be respected.
The best place to see a crocodile is in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This park is home to many crocodiles and offers visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with these creatures. While it’s a fantastic experience, it’s important to remember that crocodiles are dangerous animals.
13. Gray-crowned crane
The gray-crowned crane is the national bird of Uganda and is a must-see for any bird lover. These beautiful creatures can be found in wetlands and grasslands throughout the country. They are very social birds and often travel in pairs or small groups. These birds are best seen in Murchison Falls National Park.
Murchison Falls National Park is home to a large number of gray-crowned cranes. This park is perfect for seeing these birds in their natural habitat. While they may be shy, they are worth seeking out!
14. Giraffe
Giraffes are among the most iconic African animals and can be found in several different national parks across Uganda. These gentle giants are a sight to behold and make for a fantastic safari experience. While they are usually timid, giraffes can be approached if they don’t feel threatened. Having an up-close and personal encounter with a giraffe is an experience you won’t soon forget!
The best place to see a giraffe is in Murchison Falls National Park. This park is home to many giraffes and offers visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with these creatures. While it’s a fantastic experience, it’s important to remember that giraffes are wild animals. Be sure to follow the guidelines your tour guide and a park ranger set to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
15. Hyena
Hyenas are often considered dangerous animals but are pretty shy and elusive. However, if you’re patient, you may be rewarded with a glimpse of one of these fantastic creatures. While they may not be the most glamorous animal on this list, they are a fascinating species to watch.
Hyenas are found in several different national parks across Uganda. The best place to see a hyena is in Murchison Falls National Park. Hyenas here are often seen scavenging for food or hunting at night. While they may be shy, they are worth seeking out!
Conclusion
Uganda is a landlocked country located in East Africa. It is home to abundant wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, and giraffes. If you’re looking for a fantastic safari experience, Uganda should be at the top of your list! There’s something for everyone with so many different parks and reserves to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!