Uganda is an amazing landlocked country in east Africa, it is also known as the pearl of Africa boasting many natural resources stretching from the sprouting hills rolling in the countryside, banana and tea plantations, small as the country might seem you will be surprised by how much you can see, the big five of the wilderness( African buffaloes, African elephants, lions, leopards, Lions, Rhinos) these are found in some of Uganda’s ecosystems, the country has 10 national parks, they are situated mostly along the floor of the Albertine rift valley and the western rift valley, Uganda plus a warm welcoming country right from its people in the town areas to the villages neighboring the national conservation areas, where to see the big five Includes
1. Murchison Falls National Park – Lions, Elephants, Buffaloes & Leopards
Best for: Lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards (no rhinos).Lions The park has a healthy population, including the famous tree-climbing lions in the southern sector. Elephants & Buffaloes Commonly seen on game drives in the Buligi Circuit and near the Nile. Leopards More elusive but occasionally spotted on night drives. Murchison Falls A stunning backdrop for wildlife viewing.
Missing Big Five Member ; Rhinos (not present here).
2. Queen Elizabeth National Park – Lions, Leopards, Elephants & Buffaloes
Queen Elizabeth National Park in the western part of Uganda, is a beautiful biodiverse ecosystem comprised of different ecosystems, from the many crater lakes, valleys and gorges, forest, and savannah, the park is famous for tree climbing lions to the south of the Ishasha sector, along the Kasenyi plains except to see the big four of the wilderness, what to see include lions, leopards, Elephants, Buffaloes, and many other species, these are seen on guided nature walks and game drives in the national park through the trails on extended safari land cruisers. The park is the second largest park after the Murchison Falls National Park.
3. Kidepo Valley National Park – Lions, Leopards, Elephants & Buffaloes
Kidepo Valley National Park this is one of the finest places to experience the trueness of the African wilderness, it is situated in the far northern part of Uganda a stand-alone national park surrounded by many hills and mountains along the border of Uganda and South Sudan. It is known for unique species restricted to the area, through the outcrops of the rocky kopjes and short savannah grasses dotted with shrubs and trees you will see animals, notable species seen here include lions, leopards, Elephants, Buffaloes, zebras, waterbucks, Jackson hartebeests, elands, most of these animals settle within the Narus valley because of its consistent animal supply in the year.
4. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – The Only Place to See Rhinos in Uganda
Best for, Southern White Rhinos (the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos Guided Rhino Trekking On-foot encounters with these magnificent creatures.Conservation Success Story Rhinos were reintroduced here after being extinct in Uganda for decades. Since rhinos are only found here, many travelers combine a visit with Murchison Falls (just a 2-hour drive away).
Where Can You See All Big Five in Uganda?
While no single Ugandan park has all five, you can see four (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo) in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, or Kidepo Valley and then add Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to complete the Big Five experience.
Best Itinerary for Big Five in Uganda
1. Murchison Falls N (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards)
2. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (rhinos) – Stop en route to/from Murchison.
3. Queen Elizabeth NP (more lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes)
Final Thoughts
Uganda may not be the classic Big Five destination like the Serengeti or Kruger, but it offers a unique mix of gorilla trekking, chimpanzee encounters, and classic safari experiences. By visiting Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Kidepo, and Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, you can check off the Big Five while enjoying Uganda’s stunning landscapes and fewer crowds.
Get in touch with our expert travel consultants today and inquire about or book a tour, lodge or car securely online. Send email to info@ugandatouristguide.com or you can talk directly to us through +256 392911059 or +1 (818) 2906623 (USA)
